Get your JOY on with these autumn events in Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay.

Find more events in November  December 

October 2011

Maryland Renaissance Festival
Weekends through October 22-23
10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Revel Grove, Crownsville, MD
www.rennfest.com

The Maryland Renaissance Festival, celebrating its 35th season at Revel Grove, has become the region's premier outdoor event and the second largest Renaissance Festival in the country. The 22-acre, re-creation of a 16th century English village features food, fun, fine-crafts and frivolity. Five pubs, ten major stages, a jousting arena and so much more. Let Merriment Abound!

Haunted Ghost Tour
Fridays and Saturdays through October 29
Sunday and Monday, October 30 and 31
7:30 p.m. -- 9:30 p.m.
Tours depart from the Museum Store, 77 Main Street, Annapolis
Admission: $20/adults, $14/children 3-11
410-268-7601 x 100
www.watermarkjourney.com

As the sun sets and darkness wraps the streets of historic Annapolis, a colonial-attired guide leads you on a journey, sharing tales by candlelight of the spirits who dwell in the town's 18th-century buidings and may linger in the mist. Get ready for a delightful and spooky night of haunted history.

Ghosts of Annapolis Tours
October
8:00 p.m. / Friday-Saturday 7:00 p.m. & 9:00 p.m.
Historic Annapolis
Tickets: $18 & $20. Advanced purchase required.
800-979-3370
www.ghostsofannapolis.com

Take a 90-minute, lantern-led ghost walk through the historic downtown district on a spine-tingling journey into Annapolis’ past. Meet some of the town’s more spirited residents and sites. The more daring may wish to take a raucous two-hour romp through four of Annapolis’ haunted pubs on a Haunted Pub Tour.

United States Powerboat Show
Thursday-Sunday, October 13-16
City Dock, Annapolis
www.usboat.com

Experience the exciting world of powerboats, from luxurious motor yachts to high performance boats and more. Visit the nation's oldest in-water powerboat show to see the latest boat designs and marine technology. Seminars and personal tours answer questions and offer additional information. Bring the family, and spend the day enjoying the many shops and restaurants in historic Annapolis.

Halloween Happening: Haunted Barn & Hayride
Fridays - Sundays, October 14-16, 21-23, 28-30
Fridays & Saturdays 7:00-10:00 p.m.; Sundays 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, 1450 Generals Hwy, Crownsville, MD
Admission: $13 / Children 6 & under Free
410-923-3400
www.aacountyfair.org

This isn’t your typical hayride; the wagon detours through the haunted barn for family-friendly Halloween fun.

Patuxent Wildlife Festival - 75th Anniversary
Saturday, October 15
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
National Wildlife Visitor Center, Powder Mill Rd., Laurel, MD
Admission: Free
301-497-5763
http://patuxent.fws.gov

Party with Patuxent at this fun-filled family event celebrating 75 years of wildlife conservation research. Enjoy live animals, children’s nature crafts, guided tram tours ($) and behind-the-scenes research tours of the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center to see where endangered whooping cranes and sea ducks are raised and studied.

West River Heritage Day Oyster Festival
Sunday, October 16
12:30 p.m. -- 5:00 p.m.
Captain Salem Avery Museum, 1418 EW Shady Side Rd., Shady Side, MD
Admission: $6 / children under 12 free
410-867-4486
www.shadysidemuseum.org

Come out and celebrate all things oyster. Feast on traditional food from the Chesapeake Bay, including fried oysters, grilled oysters, and oysters on the half-shell. Entertainers, artists, authors, craftsmen and various food vendors add to the community merriment.

USNA's Annual Halloween / All Saints Day Concert
Friday and Saturday, October 28-29
8:00 p.m.
USNA Main Chapel
Tickets: $25 adults/ $7 children under 10
410-293-8497
www.usna.edu/music

The USNA annual Halloween Concert is a spectacular event of music, light, drama, and dance. One of the most popular events on the Yard, this production is an experience you will not soon forget. This electrifying concert features Monte Maxwell, Chapel Organist, with the multi-faceted talents of midshipmen in a presentation that has drawn record-breaking crowds into the Naval Academy Chapel.

 

November 2011

Annapolis by Candlelight
Friday and Saturday, November 4-5
5:00 p.m. -- 9:00 p.m.
Downtown Annapolis
Tickets: $25-$35
410-267-8146
www.annapolis.org

Experience 21st-century living within four centuries of architecture. Follow the luminaria to some of the most beautiful private homes in Annapolis’ Historic District for an exclusive tour during this annual showcase and celebration of the season. Homes on this year's tour, located throughout the Murray Hill neighborhood, demonstrate different architecture from the late 1800s to present day. Proceeds support programs of Historic Annapolis Foundation.

Maritime Republic of Eastport’s Tug o’ War
Saturday, November 5
Eastport & Annapolis
www.themre.org

Drawing on a decades-old rivalry, this annual charitable event features the longest tug-of-war over a body of water in the world, pitting downtown Annapolitans against the rebels of the mock-breakaway Maritime Republic of Eastport. Dubbed the Slaughter across the Water, it features a 1700-foot rope, 450 tuggers, and a thousand spectators. Downtown Eastport and Annapolis are transformed into a festival-like atmosphere beginning at 11am. Tugging begins promptly (more or less) at the Crack o' Noon.

Messiah Sing-Along
Sunday, November 27
4:00 p.m.
St. James' Episcopal Church, 5757 Solomons Island Road, Lothian, MD
410-867-2838

Join music director Michael S. Ryan, retired US Marine Band soloist and master of ceremonies, for the 25th annual community sing-along to herald in the holiday season. Since 1987, Ryan has corralled former school glee club, chorus and choir members in the small historic church and led them, without rehearsal, in Handel's oratorio, written just 22 years before the church as built. All are invited to sing along in this moving demonstration of community good will and fellowship. A candlelight reception follows the hour-long performance.

Lights on the Bay
Saturday, November 19 through Sunday, January 1
Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis
443-481-3161

Don't miss this spectacular drive-through holiday lights show at Sandy Point State Park on the Chesapeake Bay. Each winter new exhibits are featured as well as the ever popular Dino-lights, Winter Fairy Tale, Teddy Bear, and Maryland-themed light displays. Proceeds benefit the Anne Arundel Medical Center.
 

December 2011

Historic Annapolis Gingerbread Contest
December 1 -- January 1
Historic Annapolis Museum, 99 Main Street
www.annapolis.org

Nowhere in the world is there a greater repertoire of gingerbread recipes than in America. With the rich choice of ingredients, baking aids and decorative items the imaginative cook can create the most spectacular houses and centerpieces. Join Historic Annapolis as it hosts its annual gingerbread contest that provides a creative outlet for professionals and amatuers alike. Well-known Annapolis landmarks are recast in delectably spiced cake and confections. To participate, get your registration in by November 18. Prizes are awarded on December 10.

Historic Annapolis Open House
Friday, December 2
6:00 p.m. -- 9:00 p.m.
www.annapolis.org

Kick off the holiday season with Historic Annapolis. All Historic Annapolis properties, including Historic Annapolis Museum at the St. Clair Wright Center, William Paca House and Garden, Shiplap House, Museum Store, Waterfront Warehouse, and 43 Pinkney Street, welcome visitors for the evening.

State House by Candlelight
Friday and Saturday, December 2-3
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Maryland State House, State Circle, Annapolis
410-974-3400

Enjoy choral, band, and ensemble performances by the glow of the official State Christmas tree in the oldest State House in continuous legislative use in the nation.

Holiday Candlelight Stroll
Fridays, December 2, 9 & 16
Saturdays, December 3 & 20
7:00 p.m. -- 8:00 p.m.
Tours depart from the Information Booth at City Dock, Annapolis
$16 adult / $10 children 3-11
410-268-7601
www.watermarkcruises.com/eventtours

Learn about the origin of holiday traditions from the significance of evergreens, yule logs and Christmas trees to the story of Santa Claus. This hour-long stroll guided by colonial-attired guide brings out the holiday spirit in everyone!

Historic Annapolis' Wreath-Making Workshop
Saturday, December 3
10:00 a.m. -- Noon
1 Martin Street, Annapolis
Admission: $50 general public / $45 HA members. Reservations required.
410-267-8146
www.annapolis.org

Add a handmade touch to your holiday decorations by creating a Colonial Revival wreath in this hands-on workshop, put on by Historic Annapolis. Expert floral arrangers will teach the fundamental techniques of making this classic evergreen wreath. Clipped boxwood, wreath forms and basic supplies are provided. You may also wish to personalize your wreath by bringing a variety of greens, fruit, seedpods, ribbons or other decorative materials to add.

65th Annual Handel's Messiah Concert with the ASO
Saturday and Sunday, December 3-4
8:00 p.m. Saturday and 3:00 p.m. Sunday
USNA Main Chapel
www.usna.edu/music
410-293-8497 (USNA Ticket Office)

Continuing a long-standing tradition, the USNA Glee Club joins the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra to present selections from Handel's beloved Messiah. Conducted by USNA Director of Choral Activities, this elegant concert has been broadcast on public television stations regionally and nationwide.

Children's Tree Trimming Party
Sunday, December 4
Captain Salem Avery House Museum, 1418 Shady Side Road, Shady Side, MD
1:00 -- 3:00 p.m.
Admission: Free
www.shadysidemuseum.org

Children of all ages are invited to a Tree Trimming party at the Captain Salem Avery House museum. Attendees will celebrate the holidays 1860s-style by taking part in an old-fashioned taffy pull and crafting Victorian gifts. Get into the spirit of the season by listening to stories and songs of holidays past. Rumor has it that Santa may stop by with candy for the young folk.

Home for the Holidays -- A WW2 Broadcast Concert
Sunday, December 4
7:00 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
410-280-5640 (box office)
www.marylandhall.org

From the early 1930s through the 1960s, big bands were a powerful presence in the world of jazz and popular music. Names like Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw and Duke Ellington were the music stars of those days. The voices of Bing Crosby, The Andrew Sisters, and Nat King Cole brought listeners and dancers into their music with style and grace. Many of the now familiar holiday songs that we hear every year, like I'll Be Home For Christmas, White Christmas, and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas came from this era. The Brooks Tegler Big Band brings these classic songs to life with a show format based on the annual AFRS Transcription Nationwide radio shows that relayed "live" selections from nightclubs and theaters all around the nation.

Christmas with Aaron Neville and his Quintet
Monday, December 5
Rams Head OnStage, 33 West Street, Annapolis
8:00 p.m.
410-268-4545
www.ramsheadonstage.com

With warmth and sincerity, Neville lends his angelic voice to timeless holiday standards. Don't miss this performance as Neville succeeds in crafting a fun, Cajun-spiced yet traditional Christmas show, sure to capture all of the joy, passion, spirituality ,and nostalgia which goes along with the holiday season. This concert has become an Annapolis tradition.

Live Arts Maryland: A Celebration of Christmas
Thursday & Friday, December 8 & 9
7:30 p.m. Thursday / 8:00 p.m. Friday
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
410-280-5640
www.liveartsmaryland.org

This hometown Annapolis tradition is a must-hear for the holiday season. A holiday stocking full to the top with carols sung by a choir (of 160 voices!) and much much more. J. Ernest Green conducts the Annapolis Chorale, the Annapolis Chamber Orchestra, the Annapolis Youth Chorus and very special guests for this grand holiday event.

Concert: Peter White's Christmas
Thursday, December 8
6:30 p.m.
Rams Head OnStage, 33 West Street, Annapolis
410-268-4545
www.ramsheadonstage.com

There's an Englishman in the oversized red suit preparing to slide down the chimney of all the good little smooth jazz fans this holiday season. Peter White will deck the halls with jazzy versions of seasonal classics, a few original holiday songs and some of their best known hits. The show promises enough fun, funk, jazz and pop to get meanest of Scrooges into the spirit.

Midnight Madness Holiday Shopping
Thursdays, December 8 and 15
6:00 p.m. -- Midnight
Downtown Annapolis

Lights, garland, action! Historic Annapolis’s shops throw open their doors in a glorified block party that is open to all. Enjoy musical performances as well as food and refreshments at many stores as you stroll along Main Street, Maryland Avenue, inner West Street, and State Circle in search of that perfect gift. Explore the uniqueness that makes downtown Annapolis special. Sponsored by Annapolis Business Association.

Ballet Theatre of Maryland: The Nutcracker
Saturdays and Sundays, December 10 & 11 and December 17 & 18
7:00 p.m. Saturday / 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Sunday
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
Admission: $45 Adult / $19 Children 10 and under
410-280-5640
www.balletmaryland.org

The possibility of dreams comes true when you relive Clara's adventures as she helps her beloved Nutcracker defeat the evil Rat Queen and enters the land of dreams in this holiday classic. A cash bar lounge is available on Saturday night performances one hour prior to the performance and during intermission. Patrons of the Sunday performances are invited to meet Clara and the Nutcracker Prince at the ever popular Sugar Plum parties that take place prior to each performance. Children can have their picture taken with their favorite Nutcracker character or with Santa Claus. Sample special sugar plum treats and other fare and share in the tradition!

Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade
Saturday, December 10
6:00—8:00 p.m.
Annapolis Harbor and Spa Creek
410-267-9549
www.eastportyc.org

Every year on the second Saturday in December, magic happens on the water of the Annapolis Harbor—boats suddenly appear out of the cold wintry night illuminated with thousands of colored lights and crewed by jolly revelers. Families and friends gather at their favorite viewing spots along the waterfront to see this yearly spectacle and to celebrate the holiday season together. The Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade is one of Annapolis’ signature holiday events.

An Annapolis Christmas
Monday & Tuesday, December 12 & 13
7:00 p.m.
Rams Head OnStage, 33 West Street, Annapolis
410-268-4545
www.ramsheadonstage.com

Join your favorite local artists as they perform a mix of original and classic holiday songs, all on one stage. This show was inspired by the release of the popular holiday album, "An Annapolis Christmas" over ten years ago, and is now an annual tradition for many local music lovers. All proceeds from this show support the Annapolis Musicians Fund for Musicians.

Annapolis Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Pops
Friday, December 16
8:00 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
Tickets: from $25 / Students $10
410-263-0907 (box office)
www.annapolissymphony.org

Simply Sinatra Christmas is a terrific new holiday show featuring Pops sensation Steve Lippia and the ASO. Steve presents popular holiday songs along with some of the most beloved numbers performed by Frank Sinatra. This show is a wonderful blend of holiday cheer and swing standards with an energetic flair that only a big band can provide. You will be treated to many great, long-time holiday favorites like “White Christmas,” along with standards such as “All The Way” and “Summer Wind.”

Live Arts Maryland: Messiah - G.F. Handel
Friday, December 16 and Sunday, December 18
8:00 p.m. Friday / 3:00 p.m. Sunday
St. Anne's Church, Church Circle, Annapolis
410-280-5640
www.liveartsmaryland.org

In the acoustic and historic splendor of St. Anne’s Church, in the soft glow of candlelight, Handel’s masterpiece comes to majestic life again as performed by the Annapolis Chorale Chamber Chorus, Annapolis Chamber Orchestra and a quartet of world-class quartet of soloists, including soprano Brandi Sutton, whose soaring “Rejoice Greatly” dazzled audiences last season, and baritone Shouvik Mondle, who majestically duets with the orchestra brass on “The Trumpet Shall Sound.”

Live Arts Maryland: A Celebration of the Nativity
Saturday, December 17
8:00 p.m.
St. Anne's Church, Church Circle, Annapolis
410-280-5640
www.liveartsmaryland.org

The second night of the Live Arts Maryland Messiah weekend is a candlelight concert with segments of Messiah’s Part I and a set of moving carols that recall and honor the divine events in Bethlehem.

Annapolis New Year's Eve
Saturday, December 31
Downtown Annapolis

Every New Year's Eve, downtown Annapolis features entertainment and spectacular fireworks for the entire family.