Preakness Week Events

The second jewel of the Triple Crown has arrived and we’ve got all the events just for you! From the Hot Air Balloons at Turf Valley to the live music of InFieldFest, you’re sure to find a way to celebrate the 138th Preakness! We’ve even created a special Maryland themed dessert for the occasion – our Berger Cookie Trifle!

Special Event to Celebrate Secretariat’s 40th Anniversary
Tuesday, May 14th
6:30PM
The AFI Silver Theater
8633 Colesville Rd.
Silver Spring, MD 20910

A Special Evening with Penny Chenery and Ron Turcotte to benefit the Secretariat Foundation, Secretariat.com and the Maryland Jockey Club, in association with ESPN. They are proud to host a trio of events commemorating the 40th anniversary of Secretariat’s Triple Crown.

Preakness Frog Hop
Wednesday, May 15th
12 Noon – 1 PM
Paterson Park
Pulaski Monument inside the park at Eastern and Linwood Aves
Free and open to all ages!

The spirit of The Preakness horse race comes alive as kids and adults jockey their jumpin’ frogs to the finish line at this 47th annual event. Trophies awarded to the first four finishers with ribbons for all participants.

Only one frog may be entered per jockey. The frog must be at least 4 inches in length from nose to tail (not counting the legs). If you have extra frogs, please bring them so another child may participate.

For additional information, contact mark.burke@baltimorecity.gov  or call 410-396-9392 Click here (PDF File) for rules and registration form.

Celebrity Crab Derby
Thursday, May 16th
12 Noon
Lexington Market
400 W. Lexington, St.
Baltimore, MD 21201

Cheer for your favorite local celebrity as they jockey blue crabs to the finish line! The winner takes home a “purse” of $500 to the charity of their choice.

Power Plant Live Preakness Week
Thursday, May 16th – Saturday May18th

Power Plant Live!, Miller Lite and 98Rock present Miller Lite Nights Race Week.
ALL SHOWS ARE FREE and you must be 21+ to enter.

Thursday, May 16, The Darkness takes the stage at 7pm featuring Middle Class Rut.
Friday, Go Go Gadjet takes the stage at 8pm

Saturday, join us for the Preakness watch and post party. Watch the race on our 20′ Big Screen. Beer and food specials all day.

Preakness Celebration Hot Air Balloon Festival and Launch
Thursday, May 16th – Saturday  May 18th

May 16 & 17, 2013, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Balloon Festival

May 16 & 17, 2013, 6:30 PM Balloon Launch

May 17 & 18, 2013, 6:30 AM Balloon Launch

Enjoy our annual Hot Air Balloon Festival, perfect for young children and those young at heart. There will be family activities, handmade crafts, retail and food vendors, and live entertainment. Balloon related activities will include tethered hot air balloon rides, a walk-through of an inflated hot air balloon, pilot demonstrations, balloon launches and the nightly Balloon Glow at dusk.

On Saturday, May 18th, the Balloon Festival will culminate with the launching of the balloons at 6:30 am.

Admission to the Preakness Celebration Hot Air Balloon Festival is free and open to the public. All parking is at the Howard County Fairgrounds, with a donation of $5 per car. Donations benefit the Elkridge Adult Athletic Association. Balloon rides and flights will be fee-based. Please call Ron Broderick, Balloonmeister, at 410-442-5566, to schedule your balloon flight!

Sunrise at Old Hilltop
Wednesday, May 15th – Saturday May 18th
6 AM – 9 AM
Pimlico Race Course
5201 Park Heights Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21215

Experience sunrise over Old Hilltop at Pimlico. The 20 minute tours run from 6am – 9am, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of Preakness Week. After enjoying sunrise on the Grandstand Apron, you will get an insider’s perspective on racing during an escorted tour of the Preakness Stakes Barn. You never know who you may run into on the backside…trainers, vets, owners, blacksmiths, exercise riders or jockeys. The Barn area is one place you can count on an interesting story! You will have an opportunity to shop for Preakness Souvenirs, stop by the Pimlico Museum and maybe even peek into the jockey’s quarters, then head back outside to watch the horses go through their morning workouts. The tour guides bring with them a wealth of experience and add a personal touch that can’t be beat!

Tours are FREE and on a first come, first serve basis. For more information email Diana Harbaugh at dharbaugh@marylandracing.com

Jockey Autograph Session
Friday, May 17, 2013
10 AM – 11 AM
Pimlico Race Course
5201 Park Heights Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21215

Meet your favorite jockey and get their autograph!

Black-Eyed Susan Day
Friday May 17, 2013
9:30 AM

One of Pimlico’s oldest stakes races, the Black-Eyed Susan was first run at Pimlico in 1919. The mile and one-eighth test, for three-year-old fillies is traditionally run the Friday before the Preakness and has long been recognized as the middle jewel of the traditional filly Triple Crown, which also includes the Kentucky Oaks Stakes and the Acorn. Don’t miss any of the fun, including:

• A 13-race program, including the $500,000 Black-Eyed Susan Stakes (G2), the $300,000 Pimlico Special (G3), the $30,000 Pimlico “Battle of the Sexes” Jockey Challenge with eight of the top riders, and the Lady Legends for the Cure IV Race.

• The People’s Pink Party and first ever infield concert featuring Goo Goo Dolls, Rodney Atkins and Rachel Farley.

• Handicapping sessions, celebrity jockey autograph sessions, book signings, and more!!

138th Running of the Preakness Stakes and InFieldFest
Saturday May 18, 2013

One of the nation’s largest, single-day, annual sporting events! Once again Baltimore’s Old Hilltop comes alive with the running of the 138th Preakness Stakes, where the finest three-year old thoroughbreds will compete for $1 million in the middle jewel of the Triple Crown.

The day will feature live performances by international superstar Pitbull and hip-hop duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. Both artists will play extended sets on the Main Stage. Afrojack will open the main stage with electronic dance music.

In addition to the main stage headliners, Preakness InfieldFest will host live music from Chevelle, Florida-Georgia Line and Kristen and the Noise on the Jägermeister Stage along with a variety of other activities, including the return of the popular Beer Garden and bottomless MUG Club. http://www.preakness.com/infield/infieldfest

If you will be celebrating the Preakness with a party at your home, be sure to check out Pinterest for Preakness Playlists, Recipes, Decor & More!

 

St. Patrick’s Day Party Printables

Want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a new way this year?! Charm City Concierge has got you covered. We’ve created festive printables that are perfect for your own shindig! Simply print out what you like and start decorating for a one-a-kind party. From clover garland and cupcake/garnish flags to cup wraps and napkin rings your guests will be green with envy!

Looking for a non-traditional party idea? Why not serve an Irish brunch for all your lucky friends. It’s perfect for a Sunday celebration and you can keep things low-key if your guests celebrated through the weekend.

Start planning your menu by using our Corned Beef Hash and Fried Potato recipe! It’s the perfect way to use leftover corned beef or try a new recipe!

Corned Beef Hash and Fried Potatoes
1lb Corned Beef, cooked and chopped
1 Medium Onion, chopped
2 Lb’s Potatoes, skins removed, sliced thin
4 Bacon Slices, optional
Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper to Taste
Fresh Parsley for Garnish, optional.

Start by heating 4 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep pan and cook potatoes until they start to brown on both sides. Next add in the chopped onion and sauté until they become translucent. Add in the chopped corned beef and continue cooking until it gets crispy. Keep stirring until most of the beef is crispy. About 10 minutes. Taste and add any salt and/or pepper. Corned beef can be very salty so the amount you need to add, if any, will vary. To serve the corned beef hash and fried potatoes simply put the meal on a large platter and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve this family style.

Pair this with some warm Irish Soda Bread and an Irish Cheddar Quiche and you’ve got a great brunch to please everyone. Plus you’ll be free to mingle with your friends instead of stuck in the kitchen!

For more fun and festive Ideas, check out our Pinterest page!

Weekend Happenings in the DMV: 3/8-3/10

The forecast for this weekend is promising sunny 60 degree weather! Here are some great events going on in the DMV for you enjoy your weekend!

Washington, DC Events

Nordic Cool Festival
Kennedy Center
2700 F Street
NW Washington DC 20566
202-467-4600
Time: Events Friday and Saturday 10 am to 9:30 pm; Sunday 10 am to 7:30 pm
Price: Prices vary depending on event

A month-long international festival of theater, dance, music, visual arts, literature, design, cuisine, and film to highlight the diverse cultures of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden as well as the territories of Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Áland Islands.

Intersections Arts Festival
Atlas Performing Arts Center
1333 H Street NE
Washington, DC
202.399.7993
Time: Events Friday 10:30am to 10:30pm, Saturday 10:30am to 10:30pm, and Sunday 12pm to 9:30pm
Price: Free- $28

INTERSECTIONS is a unique arts festival presented by the Atlas Performing Arts Center in Washington DC, featuring more than 600 artists in over 100 performances over three weekends. The program includes visual art, film screenings, literary readings and dance, musical and dramatic productions plus 20 free café concerts and 25 special events.

Independent Film Festival
Navy Memorial Heritage Center
701 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC
Time: Friday 10 am- 9:30 pm; Saturday 10:30 am- 9:30 pm; Sunday 10:30 am- 9:30 pm
Price: $12-$25

An award winning event that showcases a variety of feature, short, animation and documentary films by local, national, and international filmmakers. After each session there is a question and answer discussion where you can interact directly with top executives!

Washington National Opera: Manon Lescaut
Kennedy Center
2700 F Street
NW Washington DC 20566
202.467.4600
Time: Friday 7:30 pm
Price: $25-$310

Romantic and beguiling, Manon Lescaut introduces the first tragic heroine in a long list of Puccini favorites.

Adventures in Travel Expo
Washington Convention Center
801 Mt. Vernon Place NW,
Washington, DC
Time: Friday 10 am- 5 pm; Saturday 11 am- 4 pm
Price: $10-$75

If you are interested in activity based leisure travel, this convention was made for you! Learn about a wide variety of travel packages and tours, attend educational seminars, meet travel writers, and participate in hands on activities!

Virginia Events

National Capital Boat Show
Dulles Expo Center
4320 Chantilly Shopping Center
Chantilly, VA 20153
Time: Friday at noon- 8 pm; Saturday 10 am- 7 pm; Sunday at 11 am- 5 pm
Price: $10 for Adults; Kids 16 and under free

Boats, boats and more boats! Dealers from Virginia and Maryland will fill the building with everything from fishing boats to motor yachts. Also enjoy electronics, water sports and safety equipment while on display.

Highland Maple Festival
Throughout Highland County
Main Street
Monterey, VA 24465
Time: Saturday 8:30 am- 5 pm; Sunday 8:30 am- 4 pm
Price: Prices depend upon event

Each year, thousands of visitors are drawn to this unspoiled, rural region of Virginia to celebrate the “opening” of the trees and observe the process of maple syrup-making.

Spring Festival
Ticonderoga Farms
26469 Ticonderoga Rd
Chantilly, VA
Time: 10 am- 5 pm
Price: $11.95

You don’t have to wait any longer to celebrate spring or Easter! Ticonderoga Farms is hosting egg hunts every weekend with candy and toy filled eggs! Everyone can enjoy slides, hayrides, farm animals and even roasting marshmallows!

Maryland Events

Dance Bethesda Open House
Dance Bethesda
8227 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 2A
Bethesda, MD 20814
301.657.1234
Time: Friday 7-10 pm
Price: Free

Dance Bethesda opens their doors for a night of dancing! Learn ballroom, Latin and swing dancing all for free and afterwards dance the night away at Dance Bethesda’s very own dance party!

Murder Mystery Weekend
Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa
4165 Mears Ave
Chesapeake Beach, MD
410.257.5596
Time: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Price: Starting at $725 per couple

Do you think you have what it takes to solve the mystery? Join the fun during this all inclusive weekend, where your package includes a detective welcome gift, 2 night stay and more! Call or contact your concierge to make reservations today!

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Baltimore Inner Harbor
Washington Monument
Baltimore, MD
Time: 2 pm
Price: Starting at $725 per couple

Start your St. Patrick’s Day festivities right with the 58th annual Baltimore parade which flows through the inner harbor. The Parade steps off at 2:00 p.m. at the Washington Monument, and continues to Pratt Street and Market Place. You can also participate in the Shamrock 5k race right before hand at 1:15 at Charles and Franklin streets.

Shamrock Shindig
March 10, 2013
Pierce’s Park at Pier V
11am-2pm
Price: Free admission, $6 Kids Activities, $15 Drink Wristband
*Use CharmCityConcierge as the discount code to receive 20% off!

Irish Eyes will be smiling at the Waterfront Partnership’s 2nd Annual Shamrock Shindig! This event will take place Sunday, March 10th from 11AM to 2PM at Pierce’s Park, located at Pier V. Live music by Barleyjuice, a Celtic band from Philly, food trucks, beer, wine and mixed drinks, Shamrock Alley for kids, strolling leprechaun, stilt walkers, games and more!  Following the event will be 58th Annual St. Patrick’s Day parade which kicks off at 2pm. Admission to the event is FREE, which includes the band and strolling entertainment.

Shamrock Pass for Children – $6 - (each child will receive parade gear including a shamrock derby hat, green beads, Irish button, Irish flag, Irish fun brand bracelet; two crafts, temporary tattoo and cookie decorating).

Unlimited Drink Wristband for Adults 21+ – $15 - (beer, wine and mixed drinks from 11AM to 2PM).

Maryland Home and Garden Show
Maryland State Fairgrounds
2200 York Rd
Timonium, MD
Time: Friday 10am – 6pm; Saturday 10am – 9pm; Sunday 10am-6 pm
Price: Adults: $12 Children (6-12): $3 Children under 6: Free

The Maryland Home & Garden Show is blossoming with indoor and outdoor inspiration—including artful landscaping inspired by cinema classics such as The Great Gatsby.

Heavy Seas Real Ale and BBQ Festival
Heavy Seas Beer
4615 Hollins Ferry Rd
Halethorpe, Maryland 21227
Time: Saturday 12 pm- 4 pm
Price: $49 (21+)

Get hog wild with the legendary KLOBY’S SMOKEHOUSE barbeque, a behind the scenes brewery experience, treats from great area restaurants, and live music!

Sports at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

DC United vs Real Salt Lake, Saturday at 7 pm, RFK Stadium
Washington Wizards vs Charlotte, Saturday at 8 pm, Patriot Center
Georgetown vs Syracuse Men’s Basketball, Saturday at 12 pm, Verizon Center
Jimmy Lange Boxing, Saturday at 7 pm, Patriot Center
Washington Capitals vs New York, Sunday at 12:30 pm, Verizon Center
Maryland vs Virginia Men’s Basketball, Sunday at 6 pm, Comcast Center

Movies Opening this Weekend:

OZ the Great and Powerful
130 minutes
Action |Adventure |Fantasy
A small-time magician arrives in an enchanted land and is forced to decide if he will be a good man or a great one.
Starring James Franco, Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz, and Mila Kunis

Dead Man Down
110 minutes
Action | Crime | Drama | Thriller
In New York City, a crime lord’s right-hand man is seduced by one of his boss’s victims, a woman seeking retribution.
Starring Colin Farrell, Noomi Rapace, Dominic Cooper, and Terrence Howard

Winter Restaurant Weeks

Forget about losing those extra pounds gained over the holidays. Winter restaurant weeks (yes weeks) are coming up soon, with multi-course menu bargains. Restaurant Week provides a wonderful opportunity for visitors along with local residents to dine at some of the most popular restaurants for special prices. See the links below for a full list of participating restaurants. Make sure to make reservations or have your concierge do so on your behalf!

National Harbor Restaurant Week
March 4-17

Frederick Restaurant Week
March 4-12

Weekend Happenings in the DMV 2/22-24

This weekend is full of fun! There are Oscar parties, kid’s shows and Baltimore Winter Wine Week Begins today!

 

Washington, DC Events

Nordic Cool Festival
Kennedy Center
2700 F Street NW
Washington, DC 20566
202-467-4600
Time: Events Friday and Saturday 10 am to 10 pm; Sunday 10 am to 6 pm
Price: Prices vary depending on event

A month-long international festival of theater, dance, music, visual arts, literature, design, cuisine, and film to highlight the diverse cultures of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden as well as the territories of Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Áland Islands.

The Washington Ballet- Tour De Force
Sidney Harman Hall
610 F Street NW
Washington, DC 20004
202-547-1122
Time: Friday 7:30p, Saturday 2:30p & 7:30p, Sunday 1p & 6p
Price: $32-$111.25

With its first Tour-de-Force showcase evening of classical and contemporary works, The Washington Ballet pays tribute to the Presidential inaugural season. Set to the marches of Philip Sousa, the evening’s centerpiece, Balanchine’s exuberantly patriotic Stars and Stripes contains as much pure dance as many full-length ballets.

Virginia Events

Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival
Patriot Center
4500 Patriot Circle
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-993-3000
Time: Sunday at 1 pm and 4 pm
Price: $28-$57

Mickey Mouse and friends rock the world with visits by the stars of The Little Mermaid, Toy Story, and Aladdin.

Old Town Alexandria Tasting and Historical Tour
Market Square
310 King Street
King Street and North Fairfax Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
1-800-979-3370
Time: Saturday 1-4:30 pm
Price: $60

DC Metro Food Tours offers unique food tasting and cultural walking tours that bring you to some of the area’s most historic and significant neighborhoods. Learn from highly trained guides about the architecture and history while tasting cuisine.

Maryland Events

Maple Sugar Festival
Brookside Nature Center
1400 Glenallen Ave
Wheaton, MD
301-962-1480
Time:  Sunday 11 am- 4 pm
Price: $5

If you have ever wondered how that delicious tasting syrup came to end up on your pancakes this is for you! Watch the whole maple sugaring process from start to finish. Sample some of the sticky sweet goodness while partaking in maple-themed crafts, food, games, music, and activities sure to please every member of the family!

American Craft Council Baltimore Winter Show
Baltimore Convention Center
1 West Pratt Street
Baltimore, MD
410-649-7000
Time: Friday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm; Saturday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm; Sunday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Price: $16

Hundreds of the country’s best contemporary jewelry, clothing, furniture, and home decor artists gather in one spot to present a spectacular season of fine quality craft.

Sports at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

 

ESPN Friday Night Fights: Lamont Peterson vs Kendall Holt, Friday at 5 pm, DC Armory

Washington Wizards vs Denver, Friday at 7 pm, Verizon Center

Washington Capitals vs New Jersey, Saturday at 12 pm, Verizon Center

George Mason Men’s vs William and Mary, Saturday at 4 pm, Patriot Center

Washington Wizards vs Houston, Saturday at 7 pm, Verizon Center

                                                  Movies Opening this Weekend

Snitch
112 minutes
Action|Drama|Thriller
A father goes undercover for the DEA in order to free his son who was imprisoned after being set up in drug deal.
Starring Dwayne Johnson, Susan Sarandon, Jon Bernthal, and Rafi Gavron

Dark Skies
95 minutes
Horror|Sci-Fi|Thriller
As the Barret family’s peaceful suburban life is rocked by an escalating series of disturbing events, they come to learn that a terrifying and deadly force is after them.
Starring Keri Russell, Josh Hamilton, Dakota Goyo, and J.K. Simmons

 Rolling out the Red Carpet

Its Oscar Party time in Washington! Here are just some of the places around the area that give guests the red carpet treatment on Sunday February 24^th. For more ideas visit our complete Oscar post.

Snuggle With the Stars
US Navy Memorial Burke Theater
701 Pennsylvania Ave
NW Washington DC.
Time: 6 pm
Price: $50-$100
Watching the Oscar’s has never been so comfortable! Watch the Oscar’s at this adult pajama party officially associated with the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. Watch the broadcast on a giant two-story HD screen while sipping soda and munching on gourmet snacks. Wearing pajamas is encouraged, but not required.

Art Soiree’s Live Viewing Night of Oscars
Georgetown Ritz-Carlton
3100 South Street NW
Washington, DC
Time: 7 pm
Price: $40-$90
Enjoy a true Hollywood Glamour experience with an adult black tie affair as the Ritz Carlton pulls out all the stops just for you! Enjoy a Red Carpet complete with all the trimmings including camera’s and interviews.  That’s just the beginning as you watch a live telecast of the 85th Academy Awards on multiple screens. The evening will feature special live performances by St. Charles String Quartet playing songs from the Oscar nominated movies.

And the Winner Is…
The Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Draft house
2903 Columbia Pike
Arlington, VA.
Time: 6:30 pm
Price: $20

Hooray for Hollywood! It’s time to experience the wonder, anticipation, and excitement that is Oscar Night! Don’t sit home alone, get off the couch, and join fellow film fans at the Washington, DC Film Society’s “And The Winner Is…” annual viewing party to watch the 84th Academy Awards broadcast LIVE ON THE BIG SCREEN. There will be a silent auction, contests, food and drinks!

Baltimore Winter Wine Festival

Drink some fantastic wines at some of the Baltimore area’s best restaurants! Restaurants participating in this 10-day dining promotion beginning on February 22nd are offering special menus featuring wine pairings as well as wine dinners, cellar raids, classes, special happy hours and more! This weekend’s featured restaurants can be found below.  

Aldo’s Ristorante Italiano
Little Italy
306 South High Street, 410.727.0700
Featuring
Winter Wine Celebration – visit Aldo’s website for details.

Bistro 300
Hyatt Regency Baltimore
300 Light Street, 410.605.2839
Featuring Three-course wine pairing menu showcasing local delights and distinctive dishes

Charleston
1000 Lancaster Street 410.332.7373
With the tasting menu available in the dining room you can enjoy between three and six courses of Chef Wolf’s French and Low Country cooking of South Carolina inspired cuisine paired with wines.

Chazz: A Bronx Original
1415 Aliceanna Street, 410.522.5511
Featuring Winter Wine Celebration – visit Chazz: A Bronx Original’s website for details.

Cinghiale
822 Lancaster Street, 410.547.8282
Their wine pairing menu features classic Italian recipes with a modern perspective.

Creme Restaurant & Lounge
518 N. Charles Street, 443.869.3382
The three-course wine pairing menu features American cuisine with a Southern influence.

Fleet Street Kitchen
1012 Fleet Street, 410.244.5830
The three-course wine pairing menu features contemporary American seasonally inspired cooking.

La Scala
1012 Eastern Avenue, 410.783.9209
Enjoy a Tuscan flight of Antinori Wines.

Lebanese Taverna Baltimore
719 South President Street, 410.244.5533
Featuring a Tour of Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, these Lebanese wines are paired with light Lebanese appetizers in the lounge and bar.

Pazo
1425 Aliceanna Street, 410.534.7296
Their three-course Winter Wine Pairing Menu features cuisine with the hedonistic soul of the rustic Spanish coast & Italian isles.

Regi’s
1002 Light Street, 410.539.7344
Half-price bottles of wine from Regi’s 100 bottle wine list can be paired with Regi’s “Farm-to-Fork” cuisine.

Talara
615 President Street, 410.528.9883
Featuring Nuevo Latino food and wine pairing specials!

TEN TEN
1010 Fleet Street, 410.244.6867
Featuring a Winter Wine Celebration Prix-Fixe Three-Course Pairing Menu with sustainable seasonal American dishes paired with European and Californian wine.

the point in fells
1738 Thames Street, 410.327.7264
On Saturday, February 23^rd enjoy their feature Bubbles and Babes, where you can sample sparkling wines and fantastic champagne pairings.

Vino Rosina
507 South Exeter Street, 410.528.8600
On Saturday, February 23^rd their Italian flight night features Cortese- Icardi “L’aurora” 2010 Piemonte, It, Valpolicella blend–Brigaldara 2010 Verona, It. Chianti Classico Lucignano Colli Fiorentini 2009 Tuscany.

Waterfront Kitchen
1417 Thames Street, 443.681.5310
Featuring Winter Wine Celebration – visit Waterfront Kitchen’s website for details.

Wit & Wisdom
Harbor East in Four Seasons Baltimore
200 International Drive, 410.576.5800
On Saturday February 23^rd enjoy Wine 101 at Wit & Wisdom, A Tavern by Michael Mina “How to Taste Like a Pro” Join Wit & Wisdom Sommeliers Julie & John as they introduce the concept of tasting wine. Enjoy six tastings paired with Chef Clay Miller’s hors d’oeuvres.

 

 

A Night at the Oscars

Are you like us sitting in this cold dreary east coast weather dreaming of sunshine and celebs? Well, dream no more and bring a piece of California to your home for the 85th Annual Oscars. You may not have the time or budget to have a full on black tie gala, but Charm City Concierge has great some ideas for an ultra adorable, very affordable viewing party. We also have some great events for those that prefer to go out to watch the Oscars!

One of the most important aspects of any party is the food. Here is an easy recipe that is always a huge hit!

Chili Cheese Dip

Ingredients:

2 blocks of cream cheese, left out for a bit to soften
1 can of Chili Con Carne, no beans
Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 300 F
In a 9×13 pan, spread cream cheese evenly over the bottom. Spread the Chili con carne over top. Then add the cheese on top.

Put into the oven until warm and cheese is melted.

Serve hot with tortilla chips and enjoy!

You can always have a potluck style asking your guests to bring an appetizer to share, this takes some of the stress off of you and it’s also way fewer dishes to clean up!

Speaking of potlucks, a potluck martini party is an awesome idea! Come up with a list of cocktails to try. You provide some vodka or gin, then have everyone else bring different liquors and mixers that you may need like Crème de Menthe or any others that the recipe may call for. This allows you to try many different types of cocktail with out having to break the bank. Your guests will love all the options and deciding which is their favorite!

Check out our Pinterest page for other Oscar inspired invitations, printables, and table and décor ideas!

Not feeling up to being the hostess with the mostess this weekend? Attend one of these parties for all the fun with none of the work!

DC

Snuggle with the Stars –$50, open bar, buffet and Swag bag. 6:00 pm Sunday, 2/24 Come in your Pajamas and enjoy snacks from Whole Foods!

Art Soiree’s 4th Annual Live Viewing of the Oscars –$30, 7:00pm -11:30pm for regular presale admission. The event is Strictly Black tie and will have a red carpet with a photo-op

Commissary DC – 1443 P Street NW Washington DC. 5pm until midnight. Stroll onto the red carpet and sip on one of the “Academy Award” winning cocktails, inspired by the nominated films while munching on Commissary’s famous Truffle Popcorn. Follow the show, with complimentary Oscar ballots, and your favorite stars, as the viewing party will begin with the red carpet and into the main event at 8. Prizes will be awarded for winning ballots.

 DC Film Society’s 21st Annual Party

Doors open at 6:30pm. $20 for non-members and guests of the DC Film Society

You will have the chance to outguess the experts in our “Predict The Winners” contest, participate in trivia contests throughout the evening and bid in our silent auction (cash or check only please) on all kinds of neat items such as film and theatre gift certificates and tickets and movie promotional goodies. There will be autographed film posters and DVDs signed by filmmakers who have been in the DC area for screenings over the last year – some by a few very big names in Hollywood (more details to come). Of course the Arlington Cinema ‘N’ Drafthouse is always well stocked with a broad selection of tasty food and a variety of beverages to satisfy your cinematic appetite.

Purple Pride Party Drink Labels

Hosting the Ultimate Super Bowl Celebration? Here’s a fun and festive way to give you more time with the big game and less time wondering which cup is yours! We have put together an easy template of Purple Pride football helmets, decked out with some of our favorite Ravens players numbers on them. Click here to view and download the template!

Simply attach these little helmets to your guest’s cups, and let the fun begin! Not only will people enjoy picking out their favorite player, but they also won’t have to worry about losing a name-less cup! Plus, their festive nature will make it look like you went the extra mile to pull out all the Ravens Nation stops!

 Here’s what worked well for us:

1. Cut out each helmet individually.

2. Laminate the helmet: (hint: a role of clear packaging tape does the

trick!) we covered the back and the front of the piece of paper.

3. Attach the helmet to the front of a clear tumbler/plastic cup.

Again, we used a strip of packaging tape. One long strip and the helmet was secure in place. Added bonus? The tape helps to keep the ink from running from possible condensation. (note, clear packaging tape blends in well on the outside of a clear plastic cup)

4. Place them out for all of your guests to see. Then sit back, and watch the reactions of your party-goers. (or just stay glued to the TV, either way, these hard hats are sure to keep you in the game!)

Other ideas? Attach the laminated helmets to the tops of tooth picks or cocktail picks. Stick them in the tops of cupcakes, sliders, or maybe even some Old Bay crab cakes!

For a ton of other ideas to make your party memorable – visit our Football Party Pinterest Board!

Torched Brownie S’more – A Treat of Olympic Proportions!

Looking for a classic American way to celebrate the 2012 summer Olympics? Look no further than our all-American Brownie S’more torches. We’ve combined two favorites, brownies and s’mores into one delicious treat!

Ingredients:

1 box of brownies

12 ice cream cones

1 container of chocolate frosting

2 bags of mini marshmallows

Muffin tin

Cookie sheet

Step 1: Prepare brownie mix according to the box.

Step 2: Place ice cream cones in each space on a muffin in. Place muffin tin on a cookie sheet for easier handling.

Step 3: Fill each ice cream cone with the brownie batter. You’ll want to fill the cones until they are just about full.

Step 4: Bake the brownie cones 40-45 minutes or until you can pull a tooth pick out. You’ll want them to be puffed up over the top of the cone. Let cool.

Step 5: Once the brownie cones are completely cool top each brownie with chocolate frosting.

Step 6: Place the mini marshmallows on the frosting so the entire brownie tops are covered.

Step 7: Once all the brownies are covered with marshmallows, put the cones back into the muffin tin and place under the broiler to “torch” the marshmallows to a golden brown. You’ll want to do this in small batches since they will be ooey and gooey and ready to eat! You can place the cones in the refrigerator to allow the chocolate frosting and marshmallows to set if you’ll be serving these treats a little later.

Step 8: ENJOY!!

For more FUN and DELICIOUS ideas, check our Pinterest Summer Olympics Board!

Two Reasons to Party this Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is always a GREAT excuse to have a party, enjoy great food and drinks with friends, but with the Kentucky Derby falling on the 5th we have two reasons to celebrate! With the help from our foodie concierge in the field, we’ve got some great recipe and party ideas for you.

Salsa-a-Thon!  Have your guests make their own favorite salsa and start a Salsa-a-Thon! There will be a great array of salsa for everyone to try and vote which salsa is their favorite! Have each guest bring a container of homemade salsa, a bag of chips and copies of their recipes!

Check out this award worthy recipe:

Peach Salsa Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 – 3 ripe, yet firm peaches, diced (you can leave the skin on or off)
• 1/4 red onion, chopped
• 3 tablespoons mint leaves
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• a pinch of kosher salt
• the juice of 1/2 a lemon
• 1 jalapeno, diced and seeded (optional)

Method

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Salsa is best when it is left to refrigerate a few hours before serving.
3. To make this recipe extra special, serve the salsa with cinnamon sugar pita chips

Here is a great site to check for more tasty and healthy Cinco de Mayo snacks! Including Southwestern Turkey Fajitas!

Margarita Jello Bites

Make your Cinco de Mayo party extra special this year my skipping the traditional fare! Instead of having a standard margarita dazzles your guests with margarita jello bites that you put into limes! Your party guests will be wowed on arrival! This is also a great gift to bring if you’re going to a Cinco de Mayo Party!

Ingredients:
This will make approximately 24 lime “wedge” jello bites…feel free to double the recipe.
- 6-8 limes
- 3 ounces fresh squeezed lime juice
- 1 ounce water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 package Knox unflavored gelatin (2 teaspoons)
- 3 ounces good quality tequila
- 1 ounce Grand Marnier or Cointreau (or Triple Sec if you must)
- sea salt and/or large crystal sugar, for garnish

To get Step by Step instructions on how to make the delicious creations, check out our Pinterest Page!

Here is the site with Step by step instructions that are extremely helpful!

Simple Churros

Running short on time for an authentic Cinco de Mayo Desert? Use our quick trick for Churros- biscuit dough! Cut store-bought biscuit dough and fry them in oil. Once they are golden brown, remove from oil shake with cinnamon and sugar.  Here is one of our favorite recipes to use when you aren’t in a hurry!

With the Kentucky Derby sharing it’s day with Cinco de Mayo, you can also make treats to tie into the fun of the race traditions!

Try our non traditional take on a traditional Kentucky Derby Favorite! Your guests will have as much fun eating them as you’ll have making them!

Mint Julep Gelées

Ingredients

• 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
• 2 cups cold water
• 1/2 cup firmly packed fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup bourbon
• Garnishes: fresh mint sprigs, coarse sparkling sugar

Preparation

Sprinkle gelatin over cold water in a medium saucepan. Let stand 5 minutes. Add mint leaves and sugar. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring often, 3 to 5 minutes or until steaming. Let stand 15 minutes. Remove and discard mint leaves. Stir in bourbon. Pour mixture into a lightly greased 9- x 5-inch loaf pan. Chill 4 hours to 1 week. Cut into squares. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs and coarse sparkling sugar.

Here are just a few photos from a Kentucky Derby Party we coordinated for inspiration!

Take a look at our Cinco de Mayo and Kentucky Derby boards on Pinterest for many more ideas and items!