The List: September 2024

9/19-22: HIGH ZERO FESTIVAL
For one long weekend, the Baltimore arts scene will reach its DIY zenith with the High Zero Festival of Experimental Improvised Music, which is held at the Theatre Project from September 19 through 22. The fest features more than 20 local, national, and global musicians taking part in what NPR once called “the premier showcase for spontaneous sound.” Instead of an individual set of original songs by each artist—be they up-and-coming or internationally established, as both will be present—the musicians form temporary bands and create improvised new music on the fly. The result is a one-of-a-kind experience full of surprises and a sneak peek into this sonic subculture with deep roots in Baltimore. Now in its 26th year, the renowned festival remains a must-see for music lovers, with well-known local performers like Susan Alcorn, Lafayette Gilchrist, Matmos, and Eze Jackson participating in years past.

9/1-29: POTUS
Kick off election season with this Broadway satire about seven women keeping a president and the world from falling apart. Everyman Theatre, 315 W. Fayette St. Times vary. $5-86. 

TO 9/5: WTMD’S FIRST THURSDAYS
On the first Thursday of every month, 89.7 FM hosts a summer concert featuring local and national acts, with local food and craft vendors. Canton Waterfront Park, 3001 Boston St. Thurs. 5 p.m. 

9/5-29: MACHINAL
This 1928 play tells the tale of a woman who rebels against her husband and society. Fells Point Corner Theatre, 251 S. Ann St. Times and prices vary. 

9/7: CHARLES STREET 12
Run 12 miles along historic Charles Street with a post-race party. The Shops at Kenilworth, 800 Kenilworth Dr. 6 a.m. Free-$134.50. 

9/7: FIRST RESPONDERS SHOWCASE
Meet local First Responders and watch them in action during a controlled collision emergency on the tracks. B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt St. 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free-$28. 

9/7: BALTIMORE BY BALTIMORE
As part of a series of five events, celebrate local creatives with CJay Philip’s “Dance Through Life” performance. Inner Harbor Amphitheater, Pratt and Light Sts. 12-8 p.m. 

9/7: ARTISTS INSPIRED BY PLACE AND THE PAST, CONNECTING TO THE PRESENT
Hear from four artists as they discuss how an artist’s environment inspires their work. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. 2-4 p.m. 

9/7: SHINY FEST
Check out local artists and performers from all genres as they come together for this exciting showcase. Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St. 5 p.m. $22-26. 

TO 9/7: YOUNG BLOOD
Post-graduate Masters of Fine Arts students will present a range of artworks from their thesis projects. Maryland Art Place, 218 W. Saratoga St. Tues.-Sat. 12-4 p.m. 

TO 9/8: THE BODYGUARD
Follow the musical story of pop star Rachel Marron, who, when she becomes the target of a stalker, hires an ex-Secret Service agent. ArtsCentric, 2600 N. Howard St. Times vary. $35-60. 

TO 9/8: SONDHEIM ART PRIZE EXHIBITION
Explore works by the three finalists of this coveted annual award. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. Wed. and Fri.-Sun. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Thurs. 1-8 p.m.

TO 9/8: MARYLAND STATE FAIR
The Timonium fairgrounds host the state’s annual county fair with midway rides, live animals, fair food, and more in Baltimore County. Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Rd., Lutherville-Timonium. Times vary. Free-$15. 

9/8: WINE ON THE WATER
Say cheers to your peers at this waterfront festival featuring some of the best wines in the region and live music performances. Middle Branch Waterfront Park, 3301 Waterview Ave. 12-6 p.m. $35-550.

9/11-12: BIKINI KILL
Feminist punk band Bikini Kill headlines this two-night show with performances from Sweeping Promises on Wednesday and Birthday Girl DC on Thursday. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 7 p.m. $57-102.

9/12: BROMO ART WALK
Embark on a self-guided tour through the Bromo Arts District laden with live performances gallery exhibits, hands-on activities, and more. Bromo Arts District. Locations vary. 5-9 p.m.

9/12: PEARL JAM
These rock legends perform their greatest and latest hits downtown. CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 6 p.m. $723-749. 

9/12: LET’S SCIENCE
Play your way through Science Center exhibits with complimentary tastings from Old Line Spirits. Maryland Science Center, 601 Light St. 7-9 p.m. $29.95. 

9/12-14: THE RED SHOES. SOUL STORIES
This modern interpretation of the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairytale dives into the complexities of addiction. Theatre Project, 45 W. Preston St. Times vary. $20-25. 

9/12-10/5: CONSTRUCTS CURATED BY CAITLIN GILL
Contemplate the mysteries of existence with a diverse range of artworks that push the boundaries of the everyday. Night Owl Gallery, 1735 Maryland Ave. Thurs.-Fri. 4-8 p.m., Sat. 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. 

9/12-11/2: REGENERATE
Experience the work of multiple artists exploring all things related to energy, be it kinetic, renewable, cosmic, universal, or otherwise. Maryland Art Place, 218 W. Saratoga St. Tues.-Sat. 12-4 p.m. 

9/13: HANS ZIMMER LIVE
This Grammy-winning German composer performs famous scores from over 150 movies across the span of his career. CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 7 p.m. $136-766.

9/13-15: FELLS POINT OYSTER FESTIVAL
Slurp oysters alongside live music and local drinks outside in Fells. Broadway Square. 733 S. Broadway. Times vary. 

TO 9/14: SUMMER ’24
For their 47th year, C. Grimaldis presents its annual summer group showcase of contemporary artists. C. Grimaldis Gallery, 523 N. Charles St. Wed.-Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 

9/14: LOCUST POINT FESTIVAL
Come one, come all to enjoy delicious local food, music, crafts, and community. Latrobe Park, 1599 Latrobe Park Ter. 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

9/14: BRUSH MURAL FEST
Festivals. Celebrate the efforts of local artists beautifying the city with live music, mural unveilings, food trucks, and activities for all ages. Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St. 12-5 p.m.

9/14: BALTIMORE RHYTHM FESTIVAL
Come for the drum, stay for the party, with open mics, soul food, and fun for all ages. 1600 Guilford Ave. 12-6 p.m. 

9/14: TIANQUIZTLI
Stroll through this bright outdoor market of artisans celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 3 p.m. 

9/14: VEGAN BLOCK PARTY
Calling all local vegans. This is the event for you, with vegan food vendors, live music, games, and more fun activities. Center Plaza, 100 N. Charles St. 3-8 p.m. 

9/17: PRATT’S PHONIC PHENOMENON
Spelling bees aren’t just for kids. Participate in the library’s first-ever adult spelling bee. Light refreshments will be provided. Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St. 6:30 p.m.

9/20-22: BALTIMORE COMIC CON
Come dressed as your favorite character to meet your favorite artists, shop collectible merch, and learn more about all things comic books. Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St. Times vary. $35-175.

9/20-10/13: A RAISIN IN THE SUN
Set on Chicago’s South Side, this play by Lorraine Hansberry follows the dynamics of three generations of the Younger family. Spotlighters Theatre, 817 Saint Paul St. Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $10-24.

TO 9/21: EXTENSIONS
View the latest work of local artist Monica Ikegwu, known for her hyper-realistic portraiture of Black subjects. Galerie Myrtis, 2224 N. Charles St. Thurs.-Sat. 2-6 p.m. 

9/21: CHARM CITY LIVE
From the mind of Mayor Brandon M. Scott, this festival celebrates what puts the “charm” in Charm City with live music, a kid’s zone, food trucks, and other local vendors. Market Place and E. Pratt St. 12-8 p.m. 

9/21: BLACK CHERRY PUPPET SLAMWICH
Enjoy entertaining grown-up puppet shorts and musical numbers from talented puppeteers. Current Space, 421 N. Howard St. 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. $12-15. 

9/21: TRASH WHEEL FAN FEST
Come celebrate the city’s trash wheels with themed beverages, crafts, food vendors, and a live DJ. Peabody Heights Brewery, 401 E. 30th St. 6-9 p.m.

TO 9/21: FISH BRAINED
Dive into the beauty and mystery of creatures swimming in our rivers, lakes, and tributaries and discover how their world reflects our own. Waller Gallery, 2420 N. Calvert St. Sat. 1-5 p.m. 

9/22: ABELL STREET FAIR
Head to this colorful community backdrop to dance to live music and browse food trucks, craft vendors, activities, and a silent auction. 3000-3100 blocks of Abell Ave. 12-5 p.m. 

9/22: BMA COMMUNITY DAY: PREOCCUPIED
This event honors Native American culture with live performances, interactive experiences, and art-making activities for the entire family. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. 1-5 p.m. 

9/22: 8TH ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO PATSY CLINE
Gifted local artists come together to pay homage to the First Lady of Country, Patsy Cline, with classic and reimagined versions of her top songs. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 7:30 p.m. $15-28. 

9/25-6/8/2025: LEAVE NO TRACE: JOHN WORK GARRETT IN THE AMERICAN OUTDOORS
Despite a privilege East Coast and European youth, one-time Evergreen resident John Work Garrett was deeply inspired by the great outdoors of the American West. This new exhibition uses archival photography, diary entries, and artifacts to explore its impact on the diplomat. Evergreen Museum & Library, 4545 N. Charles St. Tues.-Sun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free-$5.

9/26: CHARLI XCX & TROYE SIVAN
Pop icons Troye Sivan and Charli XCX unite to bring rave culture to Charm City with special guest Shygirl. CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 6:30 p.m. $63-44+

9/27: BMORE HISTORIC
In this daylong “unconference,” hear from experts about historic preservation and cultural heritage in Baltimore. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hwy. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free-$25.

9/27-28: BURLESQUE & VARIETY FESTIVAL
The second annual event kicks off with a variety show dedicated to the local burlesque scene, followed by a masquerade and dance party the following evening. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 8 p.m. $14-164. 

9/28: PIGTOWN FESTIVAL
For the 22nd year, join the Pigtown community for a day of live music, local eats, craft beer, arts and crafts, and the city’s only pig races. 700 900 blocks of Washington Blvd. 12-7 p.m.

9/28: DEATH OF A GANGSTER
Come clad in your best 1920s garb to solve a mafia murder mystery at the B&O, with upscale food, drinks, and more. B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt St. 6-9:30 p.m. $140-250.

9/28: HERBIE HANCOCK
This funk-jazz icon brings his renowned sound to Mt. Vernon. The Lyric, 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 8 p.m. $85-294. 

9/28-29: AND WE, EACH
This two-act opera explores tumultuous relationship between individuals, societies, and the ultimate collapse of both. Theatre Project, 45 W. Preston St. Sat. 7:30 p.m. and Sun. 4:30 p.m. $30-40.

9/28-29: CHARM CITY CROSS
Watch as amateur and professional cyclocross athletes take to the track. Plus, enjoy bites from food trucks and visit the beer garden. Druid Hill Park, 900 Druid Park Lake Dr. 7:30 a.m. 

TO 9/30: BLACK WOMAN GENIUS
As part of the citywide No Stone Left Unturned. The Elizabeth Talford Scott Initiative, this new exhibition presents a landmark retrospective of works by the late Baltimore artist. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. Thurs.-Sat. 10-5 p.m., Sun. 12-5 p.m. Free-$12. 

TO 10/20: MARYLAND RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
Come dressed in your medieval best for a trip back in time, complete with turkey legs, arts, crafts, and fun in Anne Arundel County. 1821 Crownsville Rd., Annapolis. Times vary. $13-285. 

TO 12/7: WOMEN’S RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS
View international posters about gender-based inequality, violence, and discrimination. Towson University Center for the Arts Gallery, 7700 Osler Dr., Towson. Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 

TO 12/15: HEALING THE BODY, HEALING THE SOUL
Explore medieval European artifacts and how they portray the understanding of health and wellness. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 1-8 p.m. 

TO 12/28: MATERIAL & MEMORIES
Explore works by the late Elizabeth Talford Scott alongside those of African American Quilters of Baltimore. Maryland Center for History and Culture, 610 Park Ave. Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$12. 

TO 12/31: PREOCCUPIED
This BMA initiative centers an array of Indigenous artists, with solo exhibitions of various mediums. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 

TO 1/5/25: THE ART OF PATTERN
Henri Matisse’s prints and paintings are paired with 19th-century Japanese woodcut artists to demonstrate the universal embrace of color and pattern through time. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 

TO 9/1/2025: iWITNESS
Learn about how media impacted the modern American Civil Rights Movement. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. Times vary. Free- $12.

TO 12/31/2025: COLLECTIVE ACTION
Explore the effort to improve organized labor throughout the 21st century through the stories and experiences of working Baltimoreans. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hwy. Wed.- Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.