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Art

Sept. 5-29: The Trawick Prize: Bethesda Contemporary Art Awards

This annual exhibition features pieces by finalists in The Trawick Prize competition, which awards $10,000 to the best in show. It’s open to artists from Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C., working in any media. Among this year’s finalists is James Terrell’s “The Last Supper.” Past exhibitions have included large-scale sculptures, video installations and performance art, as well as paintings, drawings and photography. An opening reception is planned for Sept. 13 at Gallery B. bethesda.org

Sept. 12-Dec. 6: Faces of the Forest: Frontline of Resilience

Rock Creek Conservancy presents this exhibition of large-scale botanical fiber sculptures (pictured) and small drawings by artist Sophia McCrocklin at The Writer’s Center in Bethesda. An opening reception is planned for Sept. 12. A symposium, “If the Forest Could Talk, What Would it Say?,” with the artist and other panelists is scheduled for Oct. 3, and a discussion about the future of Rock Creek Park moderated by U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Dist. 8) is slated for Nov. 25. rockcreekconservancy.org

Oct. 2-23  Synchronicity

In one image by Olney photographer Kim Keller, a model in a picture on the side of a bus appears to nearly kick a bystander in the head. In another, a man wearing a Star Wars stormtrooper helmet casually crosses a city intersection along with tourists in shorts and T-shirts. Keller uses her camera to capture scenes like these that happen at random but seem to communicate something meaningful. Her street photography will be on display in an exhibition at Artists & Makers Studios in Rockville. An opening reception is planned for Oct. 4. artistsandmakersstudios.com

Literature

Sept. 28  F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Festival

Two-time National Book Award winner Jesmyn Ward is the Fitzgerald Award honoree at this annual festival that celebrates F. Scott Fitzgerald and other prominent American authors with readings, author discussions, writing workshops, awards and book signings. Ward, the author of Salvage the Bones and Sing, Unburied, Sing among her four novels, and an English professor at Tulane University in New Orleans, will give a reading at the event. Other highlights include readings and remarks by keynote speaker David Ignatius, author and Washington Post foreign affairs columnist, and special guest Kiese Laymon, author of the novel Long Division and a professor of English and creative writing at Rice University in Houston. Events take place at the Rockville campus of Montgomery College. fitzgeraldfestival.com

Theater

Sept. 11-Oct. 6: Sojourners

Revolving around a love triangle among three young Nigerian immigrants in Texas in the 1970s, this show is the first in playwright Mfoniso Udofia’s projected nine-part multigenerational Ufot Cycle, which will examine the Nigerian American experience through the eyes of the Ufot family. In Sojourners, at Bethesda’s Round House Theatre, the characters must decide whether to return to Nigeria after finishing their education or stay in America and make a life for themselves. roundhousetheatre.org

Sept. 18-Oct. 27: Winnie the Pooh

A.A. Milne’s classic character is joined by Christopher Robin, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit and Owl in this gentle musical for children age 3 and older at Imagination Stage in Bethesda. Set during one busy day in the Hundred Acre Wood, there’s a Heffalump to catch, Eeyore’s tail to find and a misunderstanding between Rabbit and Kanga to sort out. imaginationstage.org

Sept. 27-Oct. 20 Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground

With the presidential election fast approaching, this one-man show at Olney Theatre Center looks back to a time in history, but also speaks to the present. Starring Tony Award winner John Rubinstein (pictured), it’s set in 1962 as President Dwight Eisenhower finds out he’s been ranked toward the bottom of a list of the best presidents in history. From his farm in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, he defends his life and career, pointing out the leadership a president must project and the responsibilities they must shoulder. olneytheatre.org

Oct. 4-Nov. 3: She Persisted

Based on the book by Chelsea Clinton, this time-traveling musical at Adventure Theatre MTC in Glen Echo follows fourth grader Naomi’s field trip to a women’s history museum where she encounters inspirational women—including Harriet Tubman, Virginia Apgar, Ruby Bridges, Sally Ride, Florence Griffith Joyner and Sonia Sotomayor—who overcame barriers and made waves throughout U.S. history. The show is recommended for all ages. adventuretheatre-mtc.org

Oct. 19-Nov. 3: Astro Boy and the God of Comics

The iconic manga character Astro Boy comes to the stage at the Silver Spring Black Box Theatre in this retro-futuristic production presented by Flying V Theatre. Puppets, illustrations and live actors will blend to tell a multimedia story of artist and cartoonist Osamu Tezuka and his creation through 10 “episodes.” The show is recommended for age 13 and older due to possible adult language and references to topics such as death and war. flyingvtheatre.com

Oct. 24-Jan. 5: Disney’s Frozen

Sure, you’ve seen the animated movie a million times. But if you think have an idea of what to expect from Olney Theatre Center’s production of the Disney hit, “let it go.” Starring two women of color including Anna (Alex De Bard), this production directed by Alan Muraoka of Sesame Street aims to please adults as well as kids. The theater’s website says the musical would probably receive a PG rating if it were a film. olneytheatre.org

Nov. 20-Dec. 22: A Hanukkah Carol, or Gelt Trip! The Musical

This world premiere at Round House Theatre in Bethesda puts a Hanukkah spin on A Christmas Carol. Millennial influencer Chava Kanipshin is visited by a series of ghosts who lead her through Hanukkahs past, present and future to reconnect with her spirit of generosity, Jewish identity and supporters in real life, not just online. roundhousetheatre.org

Dec. 6-Jan. 5: ’Twas the Night Before Christmas

Traditionally, not a creature stirs on Christmas Eve, not even a mouse. But that’s not the case in this tribute to the holiday season at Glen Echo’s Adventure Theatre MTC. After Santa missed his house last year, a mouse goes on a wild adventure with an elf and a spunky little girl. The show is appropriate for all ages. adventuretheatre-mtc.org

Dec. 11-March 7  Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood

It’s Little Red Riding Hood but with a Cajun twist in this update of the classic tale at Bethesda’s Imagination Stage. Petite Rouge, a red-robed duck, and her cat set off to bring Grand-mere some gumbo, but they encounter a Big Bad Gator who chases them through New Orleans. Expect Zydeco music and a chorus of swamp dwellers in this show that’s best for age 5 and older. imaginationstage.org

Comedy and Variety

Sept. 10: Mikey Day and Ego Nwodim

The two Saturday Night Live cast members are joined by Los Angeles-based writer and comedian Amy Silverberg at the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center in Rockville for a night of stand-up comedy. Day started at SNL as a writer and went on to become a cast member, playing President Joe Biden in a 2023 Halloween sketch, and cracking up fellow cast member Heidi Gardner as the Butt-Head to guest host Ryan Gosling’s Beavis in a sketch earlier this year. He’s also the host of the show Is It Cake? on Netflix. In addition to SNL, Nwodim, a Baltimore native, has appeared in the movies Players, Spin Me Round and Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile.
montgomerycollege.edu/events

Nov. 7:  Giancarlo Esposito

Known for his roles as terrifying drug kingpin Gus Fring in Breaking Bad and the dangerous Imperial leader Moff Gideon in The Mandalorian, Esposito comes to Rockville’s Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center for a moderated discussion on his nearly five-decade career as a film, television and stage actor, director and producer. He’ll discuss the hurdles people of color face in the industry and how he embraced his racial identity in his acting. montgomerycollege.edu/events

Dec. 4: A Swingin’ Little Christmas! Starring Jane Lynch

If you like your holidays flavored with some mid-century Christmas kitsch, head to The Music Center at Strathmore for a show that’s part cabaret and part comedy. Jane Lynch (center), the Emmy and Golden Globe winner known for her roles in Glee and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, is joined by Kate Flannery (right), from The Office, and Tim Davis (left), vocal arranger from Glee, in a send-up of holiday shows from the 1950s and ’60s. They will be backed by the Tony Guerrero Quintet. strathmore.org

Music

Sept. 13: BSO Fusion—And I Love Her: The Beatles Reimagined

In this concert at The Music Center at Strathmore, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Steve Hackman, performs a musical tribute to the Fab Four, the women who influenced them and the unforgettable characters they created in their songs. bsomusic.org

Sept. 22: Rosanne Cash

The American roots music icon and daughter of Johnny Cash comes to The Music Center at Strathmore for a concert marking the re-release of her album The Wheel and 30 years of stories and songs. A four-time Grammy Award winner, she’s also an author and the first female composer to win the MacDowell Medal, given to “artists who have made exceptional contributions to American culture.” strathmore.org

Oct. 5: Meshell Ndegeocello

The culmination of Strathmore’s series marking the 100th birthday of writer James Baldwin, this concert at The Music Center at Strathmore features the Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and instrumentalist, joined by her band and guest performers. Inspired by Baldwin’s use of writing to empower others, Ndegeocello utilizes her music, which draws on rock, hip-hop, R&B and spoken word, to engage with and pay tribute to his work. strathmore.org

Oct. 9  Neko Case

The singer-songwriter’s career has stretched over decades and musical genres, drawing from country, folk, indie rock, pop and punk. Known for her clear contralto voice and cryptic lyrics, she has released seven solo studio albums as well as collaborated with indie rock band The New Pornographers and with k.d. lang and Laura Veirs in their group Case/Lang/Veirs. With a career-spanning retrospective album released in 2022 and a memoir due out in January, she visits The Music Center at Strathmore on her tour this fall. strathmore.org

Oct. 12: Tori Kelly

The one-time American Idol contestant and Grammy Award winner stops by The Fillmore Silver Spring on her Purple Skies tour supporting her album TORI., which features pop music inspired by tunes from the late 1990s and early 2000s. In addition to releasing five albums, Kelly’s also known for voicing the elephant Meena in the animated movies Sing and Sing 2. fillmoresilverspring.com

Oct. 18: Judah & the Lion

Formed in 2011, the folk-rock group is made up of Judah Akers and Brian Macdonald, who met while attending college at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. Their concert at The Fillmore Silver Spring is in support of their latest album, The Process, which is based on different stages of grief and was written after Akers faced a tough stretch in his life, including a divorce and the deaths of family members. fillmoresilverspring.com

Nov. 1: Judy Collins and Madeleine Peyroux

Collins (left), a folk legend, will perform her 1967 album Wildflowers in its entirety at The Music Center at Strathmore. Included on the album is her rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now,” for which Collins won a Grammy. Sharing the bill, Peyroux (right), a jazz vocalist, will perform hits from her album Careless Love and other recent releases. strathmore.org

Nov. 9: Tyler Hubbard

One half of the country duo Florida Georgia Line, Hubbard is touring solo after the breakup of the pair in 2022. He swings by The Fillmore Silver Spring to promote his latest album, Strong, which is full of upbeat feel-good music. fillmoresilverspring.com

Nov. 15-16: Dru Hill

Before Sisqo was rapping about thongs, he was singing with Dru Hill, the R&B group from Baltimore that became famous in the 1990s for songs such as “In My Bed,” “Never Make a Promise” and “How Deep Is Your Love.” The group will perform two shows featuring original and newer members at the Bethesda Theater. bethesdatheater.com

Dance

Nov. 30: Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet

An international cast of dancers in lavish costumes stars onstage along with puppets and acrobats in this traditional take on the classic Tchaikovsky ballet at The Music Center at Strathmore. strathmore.org

Dec. 13: BSO: Cirque Nutcracker

Troupe Vertigo blends elements of circus acrobatics, dance and theater in this performance of The Nutcracker backed by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at The Music Center at Strathmore. bsomusic.org

Film

Sept. 19-Oct. 10: AFI Latin American Film Festival

Set to coincide with National Hispanic Heritage Month, which is observed Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 each year, the festival features movies from Latin American countries as well as Spain and Portugal at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring. Last year’s showcase offered more than 40 films. Some screenings include Q&As with filmmakers and embassy-sponsored receptions. afisilver.afi.com/silver/laff

Oct. 11-24: Noir City: DC

This festival at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring features a curated collection of films noir. This year, the festival presents a series of double features, pairing American and British noirs with thematically linked foreign-language movies. Eddie Muller, a writer, film historian and Turner Classic Movies host, will introduce select screenings. Muller is founder of the Film Noir Foundation, which restores and preserves movies from the genre. Proceeds from the festival go to the foundation. afisilver.afi.com

Dec. 4-22: AFI European Union Film Showcase

You don’t need a passport to see the best films from Europe this season; just head to Silver Spring. The annual AFI European Union Film Showcase, now in its 37th year, features the best movies from across the continent at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center. Last year’s films included Academy Award contenders and U.S. premieres. Select screenings include Q&A sessions with filmmakers. afisilver.afi.com 

The post Montgomery County’s music, art and theater offerings will keep you entertained this fall appeared first on MoCo360.

FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS  

Sept. 7-8 
Bethesda Row Arts Festival  

Original artwork in categories including painting, sculpture, photography, digital art, woodworking, textiles and jewelry is on display and for sale at this outdoor show in downtown Bethesda. A jury of local artists chooses a winner in each discipline and a Best in Show grand prize winner bethesdarowarts.org

Sept. 8 
Salvadoran Independence Festival  

Sept. 15 marks the 203rd anniversary of El Salvador’s independence, and thousands of people are expected to celebrate the occasion at this festival at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds. Musical guests include Zacarias Ferreira, Orquesta Hermanos Flores, Marito Rivera and Grupo Bravo, Orquesta San Vincente, and La Maquina. festivalsalvadoreno.com

Sept. 13-15
Washington Ukrainian Festival 

Experience traditional Ukrainian music, dance, clothing and food at this event on the grounds of the St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Silver Spring, where you’ll also find handmade crafts by folk artisans and activities such as face painting for children. ukrainefestdc.com

Sept. 14
A Day of Belonging 

Veterans, active-duty military personnel, their families, caregivers and community members are invited to participate in art workshops, demonstrations, performances and readings at this event produced by Community Building Art Works and Strathmore. The gathering at The Mansion at Strathmore is open to anyone age 16 and older. strathmore.org

Sept. 21
Parks Ale Trail  

Part festival, part hike, this event includes a walk by Lake Needwood in Rock Creek Regional Park in Rockville as well as beer stations, live music and food trucks. Start at the main festival area, where you can see live bands and grab a bite or a beverage. Kids can play on inflatables. Then hit the 2.5-mile round-trip trail, where you’ll find another beer garden and acoustic musical performances mid-hike at Needwood Mansion. montgomeryparks.org/event/parks-ale-trail

Sept. 28
Polo Classic   

Wear your fanciest topper to Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland’s fifth annual polo event to benefit the nonprofit. In addition to the matches at the Congressional Polo Club in Poolesville, there will be a “divot stomp” and contests for best hat, best dressed and best tailgate. classy.org/event/5th-annual-polo-classic/e575708 

Sept. 28
Rocktobierfest    

Beer and bands are among the highlights of this free German-themed festival in Rockville Town Center. Live performances—rock music and traditional German music and dance—take place on two stages. You also can enjoy drinks from local breweries, food and checking out the crafts for sale. rockvillemd.gov/1952/rocktobierfest

Sept. 29
Wheaton Arts Parade & Festival     

Watch as spectacular floats, dance groups, bands and artists march around the Wheaton triangle to start this festival dedicated to art and community. The event at Marian Fryer Town Plaza also features a visual arts market, live musical performances by local talent and activities for kids such as face painting and balloon art. wheatonartsparade.org

Oct. 5
Harvest Festival   

Candle dipping, tin smithing, quilting and yarn spinning are a few of the traditional hands-on activities you can try at this event at the Agricultural History Farm Park in Derwood. You also can paint a pumpkin, make a scarecrow, go on a hayride and enjoy live music and storytelling. Don’t forget to check out the farm equipment demonstrations and say hello to the resident farm animals. montgomeryparks.org/event/harvest-festival

Oct. 5
Taste of Bethesda    

You can sample cuisine from newcomers and old favorites during this annual event in the Woodmont Triangle neighborhood. More than 30 restaurants are expected to participate in the festival, which also features five stages of live entertainment. bethesda.org/bethesda/taste-bethesda

Oct. 13
Oktoberfest    

This fall festival in the Kentlands features Bavarian music and dancing, performances by local bands, and traditional American autumnal activities, such as pumpkin carving and painting, and cider pressing demonstrations. For kids, there’s also face painting, balloon twisting and inflatables, while grown-ups can try beverages from local breweries and cider and mead distilleries. gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/special-events/oktoberfest

Oct. 19
Rockville Antique and Classic Car Show    

There’s sure to be something that will rev your engine at this free event, where you can see all types of automobiles dating from the 1920s to the ’80s and ’90s. The show, which takes place on the grounds of Glenview Mansion at Rockville Civic Center Park, has a car sales area, flea market, live music, and food and drinks for purchase. rockvillemd.gov/667/antique-classic-car-show

MUSIC 

Sept. 13-14 
Will Downing  

Early in his career, the R&B singer was a backing vocalist for artists such as Kool & The Gang, Billy Ocean and Jennifer Holliday. Later, his album All the Man You Need was nominated for a Grammy Award. He’ll stop by the Bethesda Theater for two shows. bethesdatheater.com/shows

Sept. 14
The Sweater Set 

Lifelong friends Maureen Andary and Sara Curtin make up this contemporary folk music duo known for charming harmonies. They’ll perform a free outdoor concert at Good Hope Neighborhood Recreation Center in Silver Spring. Pack a picnic and chairs or blankets, but no alcohol. strathmore.org

Sept. 20
Yo-Yo Ma 

The world-famous cellist joins conductor Jonathon Heyward and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) for this concert at The Music Center at Strathmore. The concert is the classical season opener for the BSO and its largest fundraiser of the season. Expect appearances by special guests, including student musicians. bsomusic.org

Sept. 21 
Musica Viva Kentlands  

Head to the Kentlands Clubhouse lawn for a free outdoor classical music concert by a professional orchestra. The performance is part of an ongoing initiative sponsored by the Kentlands Community Foundation, which aims to bring affordable, high-quality classical music concerts to the community, presented in a relaxed atmosphere for audiences of all ages. kentlands.org

Oct. 4 
Blockbuster Broadway  

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is led by conductor Stuart Chafetz and joined by guest vocalists in this tribute to the Great White Way at The Music Center at Strathmore. Expect songs from Broadway favorites including The Phantom of the Opera, Jersey Boys, Wicked, Annie, The Sound of Music, Cats and The Lion King, just to name a few. bsomusic.org

Oct. 11 
Elle King 

The “Ex’s & Oh’s” singer and four-time Grammy nominee is back on the road. King, whose dad is actor Rob Schneider, stops by The Fillmore Silver Spring on a tour promoting her single “Baby Daddy’s Weekend.” livenation.com/venue/kovzpza6tfla/the-fillmore-silver-spring-events

Oct. 18 
Afro-Cuban All Stars  

If you were around in the late 1990s, you probably remember the Buena Vista Social Club, the name of both an album by a group of aging Cuban musicians and a documentary about them. Bandleader Juan de Marcos González was an instrumental member of that project and has devoted his career to keeping Cuba’s musical heritage alive. With the Grammy-nominated Afro-Cuban All Stars, he’ll bring the sounds and rhythms of Cuban music to The Music Center at Strathmore. strathmore.org

FILM 

Oct. 25
The Nightmare Before Christmas  

Just in time for Halloween, see a screening of the Disney film by Tim Burton while the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra plays Danny Elfman’s memorable score at The Music Center at Strathmore. The movie follows the misadventures of Halloween Town’s Pumpkin King Jack Skellington as he attempts to take over Christmas. bsomusic.org

ON STAGE

Sept. 13-29 
Red Herring 

Set in 1952, this black comedy at the Arts Barn in Gaithersburg follows the attempts of three couples to overcome the obstacles of love and marriage, while also solving a murder mystery and uncovering a Soviet spy plot. The show is presented in partnership with The Montgomery Playhouse. gaithersburgmd.gov

Sept. 20-29 
Veronica’s Room   

This thriller written by Ira Levin, author of Rosemary’s Baby, is full of twists and turns. A young couple, Susan and Larry, are out on a date when they meet the Mackeys, a sketchy older couple who serve as caretakers at the Brabissant mansion. They convince Susan to pose as the long-dead Veronica Brabissant to console Veronica’s dying sister, but the line between reality and fantasy soon begins to fade in this production by Rockville Little Theatre at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre. rlt-online.org/veronicas-room

Oct. 1 
Better With Age Comedy Special  

Think aging is no laughing matter? This free comedy show presented by Montgomery Parks as part of Active Aging Week will prove you wrong. Comedians will riff on growing older, family, friends, relationships and all the trials and tribulations that go with them. The event at Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Park in Silver Spring is geared toward audiences 55 and older. montgomeryparks.org

UP AND RUNNING

Setting a goal,  trying something new, spending time with friends—people join races for all kinds of reasons. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced marathoner, there’s a run nearby that’s just your speed.  

Sept. 7 
Damascus Freedom 5K 

This family-friendly 3.1-mile race at Damascus Recreational Park commemorates 9/11, honors veterans and first responders, and raises money for organizations that support members of the military and their families. The out-and-back route is a partly paved trail, with a portion on a wooded grassy path. There’s also food, entertainment and a quarter-mile fun run for kids. damascusfreedom5k.com 

Sept. 8 
Parks Half Marathon 

Imagine running through parkland as the sun rises above the trees—along with about 2,000 others. Known for its friendly vibes, it’s a favorite among casual and competitive runners, and is open to participants age 13 and older. The course starts near the Shady Grove Metro station, winds through Rock Creek Park and ends with a Finish Festival on Beach Drive in Kensington. parkshalfmarathon.com 

Sept. 15 
Revenge of the Penguins 

This race gets its name in part from marathoner and author John Bingham, who promoted jogging and walking marathons and was nicknamed “The Penguin” for his slow pace. Choose the 10-mile or 20-mile course; both follow the flat, shady and tree-lined C&O Canal towpath. The race is organized by Marathon Charity Cooperation, a nonprofit that raises money for charities that work to improve the lives and comfort of disadvantaged children and families. mc-coop.org/rotp 

Oct. 12 
Black Hill 10K 

The scenic route snakes through Black Hill Regional Park in Boyds. The race, introduced in 2009, is organized by the Montgomery County Road Runners Club, which offers training programs, group runs and races for participants of all levels. mcrrc.org/calendar-event/black-hill-10k-2024

The post What to do in Montgomery County in September and October appeared first on MoCo360.

A jar of dried habanero peppers, a fall-themed quilt and a multicolor baby’s cardigan made from scrap yarn are just three of the items Gaithersburg’s Karen Johnston entered in the 2023 Montgomery County Agricultural Fair. Johnston, 65, was crowned Homemaker of the Year (HOTY) after entering 157 items in 16 divisions and winning at least one blue ribbon in 14 of them—more than any other participant. This year’s fair is scheduled for Aug. 9-17 and will include the home arts competitions, carnival rides, farm animals and more. We caught up with Johnston to find out how she went from participant to royalty.

When did you get involved with the fair? I started entering items around 2014/2015. My husband was a failed beekeeper, so I started taking over the bees. And then as a reason to use the honey, I started looking at recipes that used honey and of course I went to baklava. I made it and it was really good, and then a friend of mine said, ‘Oh, you should enter this in the fair; it’s really good!’ … So I entered baklava, just on a hoot, and I got a first-place ribbon. … And then I decided to add two things in the next fair. And then I started looking through the fair catalog. It became like a game.

What advice would you give people who are interested in entering a few contests? If your friends and family tell you, ‘Oh, this coffee cake is really good,’ or ‘That sweater that you knit is charming,’ then usually people aren’t going to volunteer a nice comment if it wasn’t really good. So, if you have something that you know that people like, then make one. … Look at it like you think a judge would. And enjoy it. You have to enjoy what you do.

The post Meet Montgomery County Agricultural Fair’s 2023 HOTY appeared first on MoCo360.

Music 

July 10 through Aug. 21: Live from the Lawn

Pianist Mark G. Meadows and singer Rochelle Rice celebrate blues music in an all-ages version of the concert they present each year to Montgomery County Public Schools fifth graders. The show is the first of Strathmore’s outdoor summer concert series. The lineup also includes an Aug. 7 appearance of EU featuring Sugar Bear, which is expected to be one of Strathmore’s most popular shows of the season. strathmore.org

July 11 through Aug. 1: Cool Concerts for Kids 

Strathmore’s outdoor summer children’s concert series begins with a performance by the Grammy-winning bilingual duo 123 Andrés, which packs energy, education and positive vibes into its family-friendly music. Vocalist Jazzy Ash and the New Orleans-style jazz band the Leaping Lizards, “kindie” rockers Marsha and the Positrons, and hip-hop artist Fyütch fill out the lineup of Thursday evening shows. strathmore.org

July 11 through Aug. 15: Montgomery Parks Summer Concert Series

The series kicks off with a concert by a local band, The Nighthawks,on July 11 at Black Hill Regional Park and continues through mid-August with a different band playing at a county park every Thursday. montgomeryparks.org

July 25: A Night With Norm Lewis

It’s a double celebration at Olney Theatre Center as film, television and Broadway actor Norm Lewis performs a concert to salute the Olney Outdoors season opening and the theater’s 86th birthday. An Emmy, Tony and SAG Award nominee, Lewis made history as Broadway’s first African American phantom in Phantom of the Opera and has appeared in Broadway shows including Porgy & Bess, Chicago and Les Misérables. olneytheatre.org

Aug. 8: Straight No Chaser

Get a shot of nostalgia when the all-male a cappella group takes on the ’90s in a concert featuring pop hits from that decade at The Music Center at Strathmore. strathmore.org

Aug. 15: The Righteous Brothers

Bobby Hatfield and Bill Medley formed the soulful rock ’n’ roll duo in the 1960s, but their songs have endured for decades. Some of their most famous hits were featured in blockbuster movies in the ’80s and ’90s—Tom Cruise’s rendition of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ ” in Top Gun and Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze’s pottery scene with “Unchained Melody” in Ghost—making the tunes iconic. After Hatfield’s death in 2003, Medley teamed with vocalist Bucky Heard to revive the group’s repertoire. They will stop by The Music Center at Strathmore on their farewell tour. strathmore.org

Aug. 17: A BandHouse Gigs Tribute to DC Legends

An impressive number of musical superstars have called the D.C. area home. This show at The Music Center at Strathmore, featuring performances by current regional musicians and vocalists, pays homage to the area’s homegrown talent. Expect songs by Marvin Gaye, Roberta Flack, Patsy Cline, Joan Jett, Nils Lofgren, Emmylou Harris and Duke Ellington to name just a few. strathmore.org

Aug. 24: Santigold

Punk, hip-hop, pop and dub are just some of the influences for this genre-defying indie musician. Expect cuts from her 2022 album Spirituals and more from her oeuvre at The Fillmore Silver Spring. livenation.com

Aug. 24-25: War

The “Low Rider” band rolls into town for two shows at the Bethesda Theater. Formed in the 1960s, the group fuses funk, rock, soul and Latin music for a distinctive sound. Other hits include “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” and “Spill the Wine.” bethesdatheater.com

Theater

Through Aug. 10: Miss Nelson is Missing!

The fifth graders at Smedley Elementary School are in for a surprise when their sweet teacher, Miss Nelson, disappears and is replaced by the dreaded substitute, Viola Swamp. The musical adaptation of the children’s book by Harry Allard is performed at Imagination Stage and recommended for children age 4 and older. imaginationstage.org

July 3 through Aug. 25: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical

This jukebox musical at Olney Theatre Center features hits such as “So Far Away,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” by the famous singer-songwriter, and tells the story of her life from a hopeful 16-year-old trying to sell a song to music publishers, to one of the 20th century’s greatest tunesmiths. olneytheatre.org

July 6 through Aug. 4: The Wizard of Oz

Journey down the yellow brick road with Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion in this musical production of the classic American fairy tale at The Puppet Co. in Glen Echo Park. The show, which runs about 55 minutes, is best for age 4 and older. thepuppetco.org

July 6 and 9: Shakespeare in the Parks

Meadowside Nature Center and Brookside Gardens transform into open-air theaters for free performances of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Bring a picnic or, at Brookside, pick up a bite from an on-site food truck. montgomeryparks.org

Aug. 15 through Sept. 8: DinoRock Productions: Dinosaur Babies

With prehistoric characters and original music, this show, which first graced The Puppet Co.’s stage in 1998, is for large reptile lovers. About 45 minutes long, it’s recommended for children age 5 and older. thepuppetco.org

Fairs & Festivals

July 14: International Food and Craft Festival

Experience flavors from around the world at this event at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring. In addition to delicious things to eat, vendors will showcase handmade items and other wares for sale. chiceventsdc.com

July 21: Afro Latino Festival

Celebrate the culture of the community through more than 40 vendors, live music, food and crafts that represent Afro Latino heritage at this free festival at Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza. afrolatinofestival.net

July 27: Tastes of Calleva

At this progressive-style meal, guests tour Calleva Farm in Dickerson and stop at different stations, each featuring an artist or musician from the community along with small plates highlighting eggs and meat from the farm, produce and herbs grown there, and locally sourced beer, wine and cocktails. In addition, there will be zip lines, wagon rides, lawn games, garden tours, a campfire and a sing-along. calleva.org/farm/tastes-of-calleva

Aug. 10: Montgomery County Children’s Business Fair

Up to 40 young entrepreneurs will be open for business at this one-day marketplace at Rockville Town Square designed to inspire businesspeople ages 6 to 15. Kids are invited to create a product or service (think baked goods or paintings), market it and then sell it at the fair. mocochildrensbusinessfair.org

Aug. 17-18: RisuCon

Comic, anime and cosplay fans can meet voice actors, artists and illustrators at this comic convention at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. The family-friendly event features Q&As, panel discussions and autograph signings. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes. risucon.com

Aug. 24: Maker’s Market and Festival

Shop the wares of creative vendors and neighborhood businesses at the summer installment of this seasonal sidewalk festival in Friendship Heights. The free event, along Wisconsin Avenue from Jenifer to Garrison streets, also includes community hangout zones, oversize games, music and dancing. friendshipheights.com

Aug. 25: African + Caribbean Music & Arts Festival

Live music, including a steel orchestra and jazz ensemble, takes center stage at this free festival at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring. Arts and crafts representing African and Caribbean culture are also featured. carnivalnation.com

Film

July 26; Aug. 2, 9: Bethesda Outdoor Movies

Bethesda Urban Partnership presents free outdoor films at the corner of Auburn and Norfolk avenues in downtown Bethesda. First up? Men in Black. Dine at a nearby restaurant before the show and make it dinner and a movie. bethesda.org

July 31 through Aug. 21: Movies in the Parks

This free Wednesday evening film series features family-friendly movies in a different Rockville park each week. Bring your own chairs, blankets and picnics to Fallsgrove Park for The Emperor’s New Groove, the first of the set. The lineup also includes The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Encanto and Matilda. rockvillemd.gov/1755/movies-in-the-parks

Aug. 2: James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket 

Marking the 100th birthday of the American writer and civil rights activist, Strathmore launches its series on James Baldwin with a screening of the documentary James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring, followed by a conversation led by Keith Clark, a professor at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. The series continues into October with concerts and lectures. strathmore.org

Dance

July 6: Bumper Car Squares

Want to swing your partner or learn how to do-si-do? Check out this square dance event at Glen Echo Park’s Bumper Car Pavilion. After a lesson for dancers of all levels, a caller will lead a square dance with a live band. The event is for all ages; free for kids 12 and younger. Footwear with a back is suggested—wouldn’t want to lose a shoe while you promenade. glenechopark.org/events-calendar/202407

Fourth of July

July 4: Germantown Glory

Head to South Germantown Recreation Park starting at 7 p.m. for music from a live band before the fireworks kick off. Bring chairs or a blanket and a picnic, or grab a bite from a food vendor on-site. montgomerycountymd.gov

July 4: Poolesville’s Annual 4th of July Fireworks Celebration

The community celebrates with music, food and fireworks at the soccer fields off Hughes Road. Gates open at 5 p.m. poolesvillemd.gov/225/events

July 4: Rockville’s Independence Day Celebration

Uncle Jesse, a cover band playing hits from the ’90s and 2000s, provides the tunes at the city’s July Fourth event, which also includes a 20-minute fireworks display at Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park. rockvillemd.gov/663/independence-day

July 6: Mid-County Sparkles

Keep the celebration going into the weekend with a live band and fireworks at Albert Einstein High School in Kensington. The event begins at 6 p.m. montgomerycountymd.gov

This story appears in the July/August edition of Bethesda Magazine.

The post What to do in Montgomery County in July and August appeared first on MoCo360.

July 4: Germantown Glory

Head to South Germantown Recreation Park starting at 7 p.m. for music from a live band before the fireworks kick off. Bring chairs or a blanket and a picnic, or grab a bite from a food vendor on-site. montgomerycountymd.gov

July 4: Poolesville’s Annual 4th of July Fireworks Celebration

The community celebrates with music, food and fireworks at the soccer fields off Hughes Road. Gates open at 5 p.m. poolesvillemd.gov/225/events

July 4: Rockville’s Independence Day Celebration

Uncle Jesse, a cover band playing hits from the ’90s and 2000s, provides the tunes at the city’s July 4th event, which also includes a 20-minute fireworks display at Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park. rockvillemd.gov/663/independence-day

July 6: Mid-County Sparkles

Keep the celebration going into the weekend with a live band and fireworks at Albert Einstein High School in Kensington. The event begins at 6 p.m. montgomerycountymd.gov

–Stephanie Siegel Burke

Even more places to celebrate:

June 29: Summerfest at Boher Park
Live music and food trucks from 6 to 11 p.m. at Summer Hill Farm.
https://www.gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/special-events/summerfest

July 4: Upper Montgomery Volunteer Fire Department Independence Day Celebration
Located at Hughes and Sugarland Roads. Gates open at 5 p.m. https://umcvfd.org/independence-day-celebration/

The post Where to watch Independence Day fireworks in Montgomery County appeared first on MoCo360.

June is Pride month, commemorating the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York City for gay rights and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Here are a few events the whole family can enjoy.

June 2: Rockville Pride

Pride Month kicks off in Rockville Town Square with a free event featuring live performances, information booths, arts and crafts, and activities for kids. rockvillemd.gov/2276/rockville-pride

June 9: Takoma Pride Day

Takoma Park celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with a day of free events featuring a kids parade, a street fair with face painting and a photo board, as well as a visit from drag queen Tara Hoot. mainstreettakoma.org/featured-events/takoma-pride

June 22: Pride Family Day

Enjoy hands-on art projects, free carousel tickets, rainbow desserts, a special backdrop for photo ops and a family dance party at Glen Echo Park. While you’re there, stop by the playground, art galleries and Glen Echo Park Aquarium (advance tickets required). glenechopark.org/pridefamilyday

June 30: Pride in the Plaza

Last year’s Pride celebration at Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza included live music and drag performances, poetry readings and dance, as well as family activities, food vendors, community resources and health screenings. Expect a similar setup at this year’s event. liveinyourtruth.org

This story appears in the May/June edition of Bethesda Magazine.

The post Where to celebrate Pride Month in Montgomery County appeared first on MoCo360.

Music

May 3: An Evening with Leslie Odom Jr.  

The multifaceted performer won a Tony Award for his role as Aaron Burr in the musical Hamilton. He was also nominated for a Grammy for his song “Speak Now” from the film One Night in Miami… and for an Oscar for his role as singer Sam Cooke in the same movie. Expect to hear songs from those career highlights as well as standards and other tunes when he visits The Music Center at Strathmore. strathmore.org

May 10: Allison Miller 

The acclaimed drummer and DMV native leads jazz ensemble Boom Tic Boom during two shows at AMP by Strathmore. strathmore.org

May 11: National Philharmonic 

The National Philharmonic partners with The Washington Chorus in this concert, the Philharmonic’s last of the season. The two groups perform at The Music Center at Strathmore in a program of spiritual and religious compositions by Lili Boulanger, Igor Stravinsky and Ludwig van Beethoven. nationalphilharmonic.org

May 17: Herb Alpert & Lani Hall 

Famed trumpeter Herb Alpert is now 89, but still blowing his horn. Together with his wife, vocalist Lani Hall, he’ll perform American standards, Brazilian jazz and classics at The Music Center at Strathmore. The performance also includes stories from the couple’s lives, A&M Records—which Alpert co-founded in the 1960s—and artists they’ve collaborated with over the past 50 years. strathmore.org

May 25: RagDolls 

From the costumes and scarf-adorned microphone to the rocking guitar solos and fierce falsetto vocals, you “don’t want to miss a thing” when this all-female Aerosmith tribute band takes the stage at Germantown’s BlackRock Center for the Arts. The band’s “Amazing” performance might leave you “Cryin’.” blackrockcenter.org

June 2: Sticky Fingers: A Night of the Rolling Stones 

Six of the DMV’s leading ladies of indie rock, pop and blues come together at Bethesda Theater for a tribute to the Rolling Stones’ iconic 1971 album. Backed by a band of local musicians, they’ll perform “Wild Horses,” “Dead Flowers” and “Moonlight Mile,” along with the rest of the album and other favorites from the group. bethesdatheater.com

June 3: Madaraka Festival

Rappers, DJs, singers and songwriters from Kenya, Uganda, Cameroon and other parts of Africa take the stage at The Fillmore Silver Spring for this concert celebrating African culture, music and community.  madarakafestival.com

June 27: Christone “Kingfish” Ingram 

A native of Clarksdale, Mississippi, home of the Delta Blues Museum, the Grammy-winning guitarist, vocalist and songwriter has been hailed as a generational talent and torchbearer for Mississippi Delta blues. See his performance at The Fillmore Silver Spring. livenation.com

Theater

May 22 through June 23: Long Way Down  

This new hip-hop musical at Olney Theatre Center is based on the Newbery Medal-winning young adult novel by DMV native Jason Reynolds. After his brother is shot and killed, Will is determined to avenge his death, but what happens on the elevator from his top-floor apartment down to the street might change his mind. olneytheatre.org

May 29 through June 23: Topdog/Underdog 

Writer Suzan-Lori Parks’ Pulitzer Prize-winning play is about two con men brothers named Lincoln and Booth, their sibling rivalry and their struggle for dominance. But the dark comedy staged at Round House Theatre in Bethesda is also about larger themes such as race, poverty, violence and brotherhood. roundhousetheatre.org

June 21 through Aug. 19: Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical 

Based on the Caldecott Honor-winning book by Mo Willems, this musical at Adventure Theatre MTC in Glen Echo follows Trixie and her father through the streets of New York City, but somehow Knuffle Bunny doesn’t make it home that day. adventuretheatre-mtc.org

Art

May into July: Art Exhibitions  

VisArts in Rockville will feature two exhibitions exploring Black experiences. In the Gibbs Street Gallery, Sanah Brown-Bowers’ paintings of Black families tell stories of joy and 1980s nostalgia, blending pop art, fantasy and whimsy. They’re on display from May 24 through July 14. In the Kaplan Gallery from May 31 through July 21, the exhibition Wade, curated by Mae A. Miller-Likhethe, explores questions of Black ecologies, geographies and lifeways in the African diaspora through a variety of artworks. visartscenter.org

June 6-30: Bethesda Painting Awards Exhibition 

This annual competition awards a $10,000 grand prize to a painter from Maryland, Virginia or Washington, D.C. See artwork by the finalists at this Gallery B exhibition in Bethesda. An opening reception is planned for June 14. bethesda.org

Comedy 

May 3: The Mother of All Comedy Shows  

Women take the mic for this stand-up comedy show meant for audiences 18 and older at the Arts Barn in Gaithersburg.  gaithersburgmd.gov

Community Events 

May 4: Sligo Creek Fest  

Sligo Creek Parkway transforms into a street festival from Dennis Avenue to University Boulevard, complete with live music, activities and entertainment for children, food and drinks. The event aims to highlight Sligo Creek Parkway and the surrounding trails. montgomeryparks.org

May 4: Family Archaeology Day

Kids can get a glimpse into the world of an archaeologist at this free event at Needwood Mansion in Rock Creek Regional Park. Hands-on activities include a simulated archaeological dig, making clay marbles and pots, tinsmithing and weaving. Try your hand at spear throwing or compete in a sack race. Also, learn how people in the region lived during the Civil War and pre-Colonial eras. montgomeryparks.org

May 4: Kensington Car Show 

Check out antique and customized cars, trucks, buses and motorcycles during this event at the Kensington Service Center and along Howard Avenue. The event is free to attend and also features a monster truck show, face painting and balloon twisting for kids, food vendors and live music. The proceeds benefit the Jubilee Association of Maryland, a Kensington organization that supports adults with disabilities. kensingtoncarshow.com

May 4-5: Rockville Arts Festival 

Rockville Town Square becomes an outdoor art gallery at this free event showcasing work by more than 100 artists. In addition to art for sale, there will be art demonstrations, a community art project, a chalk art competition, and food and drinks for sale from local vendors.  visartscenter.org/rockville-arts-festival

May 11-12: Bethesda Fine Arts Festival 

More than 100 artists from around the country display and sell paintings, photographs, sculpture, handmade jewelry and more at this free fair that also features live music, food from local restaurants, and a children’s area. It takes place around downtown Bethesda’s Woodmont Triangle. bethesda.org/arts/artsfestival.htm

May 17: Roller Disco 

Bring your skates and your funky moves for this free roller-skating party, which features a DJ and concessions for purchase. You can BYO chair, blanket and picnic to Ridge Road Recreational Park in Germantown. montgomeryparks.org

May 18: Gaithersburg Book Festival 

Whether it’s the latest page-turning thriller on your bedside table, a deep-dive nonfiction exploration or a collection of poetry, there’s sure to be something to pique your interest at this annual book festival, which draws prominent authors from around the country. Fiction writer Alice McDermott, journalists Carlos Lozada and Susan Page, and young adult literature writer Sharon G. Flake are just a few of the festival’s featured authors. Expect book talks, workshops, Q&As with writers, activities for kids and more during the free event at Bohrer Park at Summit Hall Farm. gaithersburgbookfestival.org

May 18: WaterFest 

Learn about the local watershed at this event geared toward kids ages 5 to 12. Attendees can make and shake a rain stick, and also create fish prints, suncatchers, frog masks and other spring crafts at the Maydale Nature Classroom in Colesville. An aquatic scavenger hunt with prizes is also on tap. montgomeryparks.org/event/waterfest

May 25-26: Hometown Holidays Music Fest 

Rockville kicks off the unofficial start of summer with this free two-day festival at RedGate Park. Rock band Everclear headlines two stages of live music, activities for kids and the Taste of Rockville food festival. rockvillehth.com

May 27: Memorial Day Ceremony and Parade 

Founded 80 years ago, the event begins with a ceremony remembering service members who gave their lives and continues with a parade through downtown Rockville, featuring military and community groups, fire trucks, marching units and dance troupes. rockvillemd.gov/2402/memorial-day-ceremony-and-parade

June 15: Silver Spring Blues Festival 

This free block party has attendees literally dancing in the street with two performance stages for live music—one for acoustic acts and the other for electric groups. The 15th annual festival draws local, regional and national bands and musical ensembles to downtown Silver Spring. silverspringblues.com

June 15: Mudfest 

Make mud pies and mud art, and slip and slide in mud pits at this down and dirty annual festival at Woodstock Equestrian Special Park in Beallsville. The family-friendly event takes place rain or shine. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes for the ride home. montgomeryparks.org/event/mudfest

June 15: Paws in the Park 

This one’s for the dogs. Leash up your four-legged friend for a festival that includes a group dog walk, demonstrations, contests and pup-related vendors at the Montgomery County Agricultural Center in Gaithersburg. mchumane.org/paws-in-the-park-2024

June 29: SummerFest

Gaithersburg celebrates Independence Day a few days early with a family-friendly festival that includes food trucks, activities for kids, a fireworks display and SummerGlo After Party at Bohrer Park at Summit Hall Farm. gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/special-events/summerfest 

Sports 

May 31: Big Train Baseball  

The summer collegiate team kicks off its 25th season with an exhibition game against the Southern Maryland Senators on May 31 and the home opener against the Gaithersburg Giants on June 1. The regular season ends on July 17 and playoffs begin on July 20. Catch the Big Train’s home games throughout the summer at Cabin John Regional Park’s Shirley Povich Field. bigtrain.org

This story appears in the May/June edition of Bethesda Magazine.

The post What to do in MoCo this May and June appeared first on MoCo360.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs from March 20 through April 14, but you don’t have to go into D.C. to see the heralds of spring. Here are a few places in Montgomery County to get your petal fix:

Kenwood (Bethesda and Chevy Chase)

About 1,200 Yoshino cherry trees—the same kind that bloom around the Tidal Basin—line the streets of the neighborhood. They were planted by a developer in the 1930s to draw residents to the community. The display has become popular for blossom viewers, so go early in the morning to avoid crowds. Parking is not allowed in the neighborhood, so find a space at a garage in downtown Bethesda, grab a cup of coffee to go, and walk the Capital Crescent Trail to access Kenwood on foot. Kenwood and Dorset avenues and Kennedy Drive provide some of the best viewing.

Glenview Mansion (Rockville)

The driveway leading to the 1926 Neo-Classical Revival mansion in Rockville Civic Center Park is lined with Kwanzan cherry trees that sprout fluffy, double pink blooms about a week later than the Yoshino variety. The formal gardens behind the mansion are home to more cherry trees, including the delicate white-petaled Yoshinos. Parking is usually plentiful, and picnics are welcome on the public grounds, but check the website before heading there to make sure it isn’t closed for a private event. rockvillemd.gov/389/glenview-mansion

Brookside Gardens (Wheaton)

Walk the paved trail through the gardens and you’ll see more than 60 flowering cherry trees, including several particularly beautiful weeping varieties. Just over half of the cherry trees, comprising 10 different types, are rooted among the hills and ponds in the Japanese-style Gude Garden. The rest are planted throughout the grounds. There is ample parking at Brookside Gardens, but food and beverages aren’t permitted. Picnic facilities are available nearby in the Shorefield Area of Wheaton Regional Park. montgomeryparks.org

This story appears in the March/April issue of Bethesda Magazine.

The post Where can you see cherry blossoms in Montgomery County? appeared first on MoCo360.

Music

March 8: Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Founded in the 1960s, the South African a
cappella group brought its distinctive Zulu harmonies to the world stage. The artists’ collaboration with Paul Simon on his 1986 album Graceland made them international stars. See the five-time Grammy-winning group at The Music Center at Strathmore. strathmore.org

March 18: Rhiannon Giddens

A founding member of Black folk music revival acts Carolina Chocolate Drops and Our Native Daughters, the two-time Grammy-winning musician is also a MacArthur “Genius Grant” recipient and 2023 Pulitzer Prize winner. Last summer she released You’re the One, her first album of all original songs. This spring, see the singer and player of multiple stringed instruments, including the fiddle, viola and banjo, at The Music Center at Strathmore.  strathmore.org

March 22: Buckwheat Zydeco Jr.

Growing up, Sir Reginald M. Dural played and toured with his father, the late Stanley “Buckwheat” Dural Jr., and his Buckwheat Zydeco band. After his father’s death in 2016, Dural stepped into his shoes as Buckwheat Zydeco Jr., keeping his dad’s music and legacy alive with the Ils Sont Partis Band, which includes longtime members of Buckwheat Zydeco. They’ll bring the sound of Creole jazz from Louisiana to Germantown’s BlackRock Center for the Arts. blackrockcenter.org

March 30: Keiko Matsui

A Tokyo native, the keyboard player and composer blends Asian and Western music into a mix of new age, jazz, pop and R&B. She performs at the Bethesda Theater to promote Euphoria, her latest album. bethesdatheater.com

April 8: Busta Rhymes

With an unmistakable flow and style, the “Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check” rapper is one of a kind. His tour, promoting his latest album, Blockbusta, comes to The Fillmore Silver Spring. livenation.com

Theater

April 10-May 5: A Jumping Off Point

This drama about the confrontation between a Black writer who just landed a deal with HBO and the white man from her grad school cohort who accuses her of plagiarizing his work has its world premiere at Round House Theatre as part of the National Capital New Play Festival. roundhousetheatre.org

April 11-28: Islander

With a bare-bones set and cast, this musical at Olney Theatre Center uses live looping and mixing to create dramatic sonic landscapes evoking the mythical Scottish island where it takes place. The story centers on two girls—among the island’s last inhabitants—who form a friendship after they discover a beached baby whale. olneytheatre.org

Comedy/Variety

March 22: Fairytales on Ice

Peter Pan, Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, the Little Mermaid and other fairy tale characters sing and glide on synthetic “ice” during this performance at the Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center in Silver Spring. The show, which sold out last year, combines professional ice skating with elements of magic, circus arts and a modern soundtrack. mcblogs.montgomerycollege.edu/cac/event/foi-2024/

April 12: Alan Cumming

Whether you know him as Nightcrawler in X2 (the X-Men sequel), Eli Gold on The Good Wife, or from one of his many other roles onstage, in films and on television, you can see the Scottish actor when he comes to the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center on the Rockville campus of Montgomery College. Cumming will discuss his life and Emmy- and Tony-winning career with Olney Theatre Center Artistic Director Jason Loewith. montgomerycollege.edu

April 13: David Sedaris

The satirist and author of more than a dozen books of stories and personal essays, including Me Talk Pretty One Day, Barrel Fever and his latest, Happy-Go-Lucky, comes to The Music Center at Strathmore to regale audiences with humorous readings and recollections.
strathmore.org

Art

March 7-31: Celebrate the Feminine

This solo exhibition at Bethesda’s Gallery B features paintings, sculptures and drawings depicting women by Deborah CC LaCroix. The Washington, D.C., resident got her start in art in her 40s and in 2009 retired from a 30-year law career to pursue her passion full time. bethesda.org

Film

March 15-17: Community Stories Film Festival

Started in 2010, this free festival features documentaries made by DMV filmmakers, and all the topics are about people, places or events from our region. The festivities at the Silver Spring headquarters of Docs in Progress include in-person and virtual screenings and live Q&As with filmmakers. docsinprogress.org

April 5-6: Bethesda Film Fest

All the movies are short—just five to 30 minutes—at this annual showcase for local documentary filmmakers, but the subjects are wide-ranging. After the screening at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema, stick around for a discussion and Q&A session with the filmmakers. bethesda.org/bethesda/bethesda-film-fest

Community Events

March 16: St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Celtic dancers and bagpipe bands star in this procession, along with school groups, equestrian units, fire trucks and community organizations. Find a spot on the route along Rio Boulevard and Grand Corner Avenue at Rio Lakefront in Gaithersburg for best viewing.  gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/special-events/st-patrick-s-day-parade

April 21: Kensington Day of the Book Festival

Meet authors, poets and members of literary and community organizations at this annual book festival in the heart of Kensington’s historic district. The event also includes poetry readings, cookbook demos, guest speakers, children’s programs and live musical performances. dayofthebook.com

April 26-28: Olney Days

Three days packed with events celebrate the Olney community. Highlights include an outdoor movie night, a Rec Regatta in which teams of two race homemade cardboard boats across the pool at Olney Swim Center, an outdoor festival with live music, games, inflatables and fireworks, and, of course, a parade. olneycivicfund.org

April 27: Carousel Day

Glen Echo Park’s 103-year-old carousel opens for the season with a celebration that includes free musical performances, hands-on arts and crafts activities, and open artist studios and galleries. glenechopark.org/carouselday

This story appears in the March/April issue of Bethesda Magazine.

The post Concerts, parades, festivals and more to see in MoCo this spring appeared first on MoCo360.

Cupid is spreading the love around, and whether you’re falling for your boo, your gals or your fur baby, we have a Valentine’s date for you.

For the couple who’s been together forever:

An Evening with Mandy Patinkin and Kathryn Grody

Patinkin played Inigo Montoya in The Princess Bride, while Grody has had a lengthy career of her own as a writer and actor. Together more than 40 years, they experienced newfound fame at the beginning of the pandemic when their son Gideon Grody-Patinkin began posting snippets of their life on social media. 

$48-$128, 8 p.m. Feb. 14, The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda, strathmore.org

For the dog lovers:

Pet Sunset Paint & Sip

Bark Social, the Pike & Rose “social club for dogs,” hosts an artistic evening where you can paint a pre-sketched design celebrating your pup. The painting can be done solo or with a partner. So bring your four-legged friend and maybe a human date, too (because, let’s face it, Fido isn’t the best artist). Registration is required. 

$40, 6:30 p.m. Feb. 14, Bark Social, North Bethesda, tcstudios.org 

For the group celebrating Galentine’s Day:

Barbecue and Karaoke

Get ready to rock the mic at Nosh Grill House, a clubby Rockville restaurant where you can grill northern Chinese specialties right at your table. The spot features a karaoke bar with a 12-foot screen and a long cocktail menu that includes seasonal and classic drinks, specialty shots and shooters, and full bottles, so you can get nice and lubricated before belting out “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.”

Nosh Grill House, Rockville, noshgrillhouse.com

This story appears in the January/February issue of Bethesda Magazine.

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