ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND—Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (VAAAC) wants to make it easy for individuals to enjoy the many exciting events and activities that will be taking place in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, Maryland in July 2016. To assist individuals who are making advance plans for business or vacation travel, VAAAC has put together a July 2016 Major Events Calendar. For a more comprehensive overview of events large and small, visit VisitAnnapolis.org.

A Single Goal: The Art of Trumpy Yacht Building Friday, July 1 to Friday, July 15 Chaney Gallery, MD Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis http://www.marylandhall.org/ 410-263-5544

You won’t want to miss this major exhibition exploring the detailed process of wooden boat-building as an art form using Trumpy Yachts as its focus. Models, paintings, photographs, artifacts, vintage signage and original drawings by Naval architect and yacht designer John Trumpy, Sr. will bring the boat-building process to life. The exhibit will explore the craftsmanship of these distinctive yachts, including their furnishings and interior finishes; how the yachts were coveted as a status symbol in the 1930s and 40s; and the preservation of the remaining yachts as a historical treasure.

Midsummer Madness Friday, July 1 to Friday, July 8 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily Maryland Federation of Art’s Circle Gallery, 18 State Circle, Annapolis Admission: Free www.Mdfedart.org 410-268-4566

Reception: July 8.

Annapolis Towne Centre Free Friday Concerts Every Friday – July 1 to August 26 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Annapolis Towne Centre at Parole, 1906 Towne Centre Blvd., Annapolis Admission: Free www.visitatc.com

Every Friday night, the area's best talent takes the stage on Towne Centre Boulevard to deliver a rockin' performance. Enjoy local music, including classic rock, jazz, 80's, blues, swing and Motown. Event includes a beer garden hosted by Towne Centre restaurants. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket.

Almost Heaven – Songs by John Denver July 1-28 Various Times Children’s Theatre of Annapolis Complex, 1661 Bay Head Road, Annapolis Admission: $22.00 - $36.00 www.infinitytheatre.com 443-261-5130

ALMOST HEAVEN weaves together the songs of John Denver to create a uniquely theatrical narrative that catches the spirit of the country during a time of massive change. Many of Denver's songs – including “Rocky Mountain High,' 'Sunshine on My Shoulders,' 'Annie's Song,' 'Leaving on a Jet Plane,' and more – are rediscovered and reinvented, performed against a backdrop of America in the late '60s and early '70s, a time of social unrest and political protest.

Million Dollar Quartet July 1 – August 7 Various Times The Children’s Theatre of Annapolis Complex, 1661 Bay Head Road, Annapolis Admission: $22.00 - $36.00 www.infinitytheatre.com 443-261-5130

The Tony Award Winning musical is set on December 4, 1956, when an extraordinary twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. Million Dollar Quartet brings that legendary December night to life with a tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations that is both poignant and funny. Relive the era with an incredible score of rock ‘n’ roll, gospel, R&B and country hits, performed live onstage by world-class actors and musicians. Showcased hit songs include: “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and more.

First Sunday Arts Festival Sunday, July 3 (and every first Sunday through November) Noon to 5:00 p.m. First block of West and Calvert Streets, Annapolis Admission: Free www.firstsundayarts.com 410-263-4012

Enjoy live entertainment and peruse the work of 100 local and regional artists as you stroll along the first block of West Street and Calvert Street next to Whitmore parking garage. Local restaurants set up outside cafes that are perfect for people watching and an afternoon bite to eat. Free parking for the family-friendly event is available at the state parking garage on the corner of Calvert and Bladen Streets.

Independence Day Fireworks Cruises Sunday-Monday, July 3-4 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Harbor Queen departs from City Dock, Annapolis Admission, July 3: $48, adults; $25, children under 12 Admission, July 4: $53, adults; $30, children under 12 http://www.watermarkjourney.com/ 410-268-7601

Enjoy the best seat in town for the fireworks aboard the Harbor Queen. Includes drink special and light snacks for a spectacular event.

Annapolis Fourth of July Parade Monday, July 4 6:30 p.m. Downtown Annapolis www.annapolis.gov 410-263-7997

The festivities kick off at 6:30 p.m. with an old-fashioned community parade. This patriotic salute to our nation is always a crowd pleaser with thousands of viewers lining the route. The United States Naval Academy presents a concert at 8:00 p.m., and the night wraps up with fireworks over Annapolis Harbor starting around 9:15 p.m.

Shady Side Independence Day Parade Monday, July 4 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Downtown Shady Side Admission: Free 410-867-2599

Sponsored by the Shady Side Community Center, the annual parade runs through the streets of downtown Shady Side – starting at Cedarhurst Road and ending at the Shady Side Community Center on Snug Harbor Road. Floats, celebrities, politicians, marchers, clowns, bicyclists and decorated vehicles will all be participating. Each float or vehicle will be assigned a number and a position the morning of the parade. Trophies and ribbons will be awarded.

Annual Independence Day Naturalization Ceremony Monday, July 4 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. William Paca House and Garden, 186 Prince George Street, Annapolis Admission: Free, no reservations required; limited seating www.annapolis.org 410-267-7619

Join Historic Annapolis in welcoming new citizens into the American family at its annual naturalization ceremony. Historic Annapolis President Robert Clark will host the ceremony, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officials will administer the Oath of Allegiance to the candidates for citizenship.

July 4th at a Signer's Home & Garden Monday, July 4 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. William Paca House and Garden, 186 Prince George Street, Annapolis, MD Admission: Free www.annapolis.org 410-267-7619

William Paca was one of the four Maryland men who signed our nation's Declaration of Independence in 1776. Celebrate America's birthday by touring the grand Georgian mansion he built 250 years ago. While strolling along the paths of his beautifully restored two-acre pleasure garden, visitors will likely encounter Paca himself and hear why he pledged his life, his fortune, and his sacred honor to the revolutionary cause of American independence. Day includes craft activities for children.

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare – Abridged! Tuesdays, July 5, 12, 19 and 26 (and every Tuesday through September 27) 7:30 p.m. Reynolds Tavern Courtyard, 7 Church Circle, Annapolis Admission: $30 www.annapolisshakespeare.org 410-415-3513

It’s Shakespeare like you’ve never experienced it! Come prepared for a lighthearted evening when three talented members of the Annapolis Shakespeare Company team perform lighthearted parodies of the bard’s most well-known plays. Written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield. Directed by ASC Artistic Director Sally Boyett.

Wednesday Night Sailboat Races Wednesdays, July 6 through August 31 First Gun: Approximately 6:10 p.m. Annapolis Harbor www.annapolisyc.com 410-263-9279

Grab your favorite dockside seat in America’s Sailing Capital to watch some 150 crews compete in midweek races that involve sailing around several marks in the Bay before heading back to Spa Creek for a finish in front of the Annapolis Yacht Club. For many, the post-race party is the official beginning of the weekend.

Aerial Tours of Wednesday Night Sailboat Races Wednesdays, July 6 through August 24 Monumental Helicopters, Tipton Airport, 7505 General Aviation Drive, Hangar 84, Ft. Meade, MD 20755 Admission: Visit website http://monumentalhelicopters.com/baltimore-events-and-annapolis-events/ 410-491-4354

Take in the bustle of City Dock and Ego Alley and get a grand view of historic Annapolis and the Wednesday Night Sailboat Races. Catch a “quick look” at Annapolis attractions and the beauty of Chesapeake Bay sailing while you admire boats, marinas and stunning waterfront estates.

Tides & Tunes Summer Concert Series Thursdays, July 7 through August 25 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Annapolis Maritime Museum, 723 Second Street, Eastport, Annapolis Admission: Free; $10 donation suggested http://amaritime.org/ 410-295-1040, ext. 4

Enjoy folk, classic rock, soul, psychedelic funk, country, Hawaiian swing, Island music, boogie-woogie, and swing – all on the beach!

Rent Thursdays - Sundays, July 7 through July 23, plus Wednesday, July 20 8:30 p.m. Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, 143 Compromise Street, Annapolis Admission: $22 http://www.summergarden.com 410-268-9212

Exuberant, passionate, and joyous, Rent is a pop culture phenomenon that won the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. On the 20th anniversary of its Broadway premiere, we’re excited to present this groundbreaking musical about falling in love, finding your voice, and living for today.

Thursday Night with the Stars Thursdays, July 7 and every Thursday through August 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Admission: Free Susan Campbell Park, City Dock, Annapolis 410-263-7958

Large and small groups of local musicians perform everything from country to jazz on Thursday evenings. Bring a comfy chair, although chairs are provided. Presented by the Art in Public Places Commission. July 7: Folk-style country classic singer Mark Brine; July 14: The Eastport Oyster Boys; July 21: TJ Shaw ensemble with vocalist Tish Martinez; July 28: Peacherine Orchestra.

Annapolis Tango Friday, July 8 and every second Friday through September 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Susan Campbell Park, Annapolis City Dock Admission: Free 410-263-7958

Watch and join in the dance while the moon rises over the Annapolis Harbor.

Living History Weekend: Revolutionary London Town Saturday-Sunday, July 9-10 Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 4:30 p.m. Historic London town and Gardens, 839 Londontown Road, Edgewater Admission: Included with general admission. Free for members www.historiclondontown.org 410-222-1919

The year is 1776. British warships are terrorizing the Chesapeake, and London Town’s nervous residents are defended by the South River Militia. Step back into the contentious days surrounding the Declaration of Independence. Join the Continental Army or Continental Marines to learn musket drill; debate the merits of independence in William Brown’s tavern; and learn how colonists made a living during these difficult times at the Carpenters’ Shop and Lord Mayor’s Tenement.

Sundae Sunday Sunday, July 10 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Captain Avery Museum, 1418 East West Shady Side Road, Shady Side Admission: Free; small sundaes $2.50 www.captainaverymuseum.org 410-867-4486

This summer tradition on the lawn attracts kids of all ages: teenagers playing music and singing on the front porch; families playing croquet and other games on the lawn; artists with easels in the raingarden; couples dangling their toes in the water off the pier; and even folks napping in the shade.

Summer Concert Series Sundays, July 10 to July 31 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Historic London Town and Gardens, 839 Londontown Road, Edgewater Admission: Free; Donations recommended www.historiclondontown.org 410-222-1919

Enjoy music in London Town’s ornamental gardens overlooking the South River on Sunday afternoons in July. Bring your family (and your dogs!) and spread out on our lawn for a relaxing time. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase. No alcohol can be brought on site, but it can be purchased at London Town. Rain or shine. July 10: Dan Haas; July 17: Wall & Frye; July 24: The Eastport Oyster Boys; July 31: Jr. Cline and the Recliners.

Naptown National Challenge Boys Lacrosse Tournament Monday-Wednesday, July 11-13 Monday-Tuesday, various local high schools; Wednesday, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, 550 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis www.naptownchallenge.com 410-224-3232

Hall of Fame Coach Cottle, past Head Coach at University of Maryland, Loyola College, and Chesapeake Bayhawks and current GM and President of the Bayhawks, joins Matt Hogan of HoganLax.com to bring nationally recognized club lacrosse teams by invitation only to an exciting high school tournament in Annapolis. Divisions are comprised of 2018, 2019, and 2020 classes. Players are exposed to the highest level of competition in a 16-seeded tournament. Wednesday’s championship will be broadcast on Comcast Sports Network.

Fiber Options Thursday, July 14 to Saturday, August 6 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily Maryland Federation of Art’s Circle Gallery, 18 State Circle, Annapolis Admission: Free www.Mdfedart.org 410-268-4566

National juried exhibition of artwork based in fiber. Reception: July 24.

Music on the Lawn Friday, July 15 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Captain Avery Museum, 1418 East West Shady Side Road, Shady Side Admission: Free www.captainaverymuseum.org 410-867-4486

Come see the musical stars of tomorrow in our collaboration with Garrett Music Academy! Bring your blankets, chairs and picnic baskets. Inside, if it rains.

Annapolis Irish Festival Friday-Saturday, July 15-16 Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, 1450 General’s Highway, Crownsville Admission: TBA www.annapolisirishfestival.com 410-980-7971

Celebrate everything Irish at the only festival of its kind in the region. Enjoy traditional Celtic music and Irish rock bands on three different stages, along with workshops and exhibits. When you get hungry, try some delicious Irish beef stew and other Irish favorites. Little Leprechaun Land provides crafts, face painting and other free activities for the kids. As in past years, the festival will benefit local charities.

Great Frogs Date Night Series Friday, July 29 and every last Friday of the month through September 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Great Frogs Winery, 3218 Harness Creek Road, Annapolis Admission: Early Bird: single/$55; $110/couple. General admission: $60/single, $120/couple. Harness Creek neighbors (walk-ins only, no parking) $55/single, $110/couple http://www.greatfrogs.com/new-events-2/2016/5/27/date-night-series 410-626-6193

Join Great Frogs Winery for an intimate evening with music, pizza and wine. Patrons are invited to sample Great Frogs’ newest selection of wines before choosing a bottle to share. Guests will also get to choose from among three farm-to-table pizzas. Limited tickets are available. Reservations are recommended.

Endless Summer 6-hour Run Saturday, July 30 7:30 a.m. starting time Quiet Waters Park, 600 Quiet Waters Park Road, Annapolis Admission: $50 for Annapolis Striders; $60 for non-Striders. Race-day registration $70 https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=37665

The Annapolis Striders are proud to present the 6th Annual Endless Summer 6-Hour Run – a scenic 4.151-mile loop with slightly rolling hills, primarily on paved walking paths through the shaded woods of Quiet Waters Park. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Semper Fi Fund. Awards to overall solo runners (male/female/masters/military categories); overall relay team – 3 runners per team (male/female/mixed categories); and top male/female in 10-year age groups (29 & under through 60 & up).

VAAAC is a nonprofit, membership-based destination marketing organization that generates revenues for the local economy by promoting Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay to leisure and business travelers across the country and around the world.

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Contact Susan Seifried at SSeifried@VisitAnnapolis.org or via phone at 410-280-0445, ext. 303