Saturday, June 21, 2014

Celebrate a Star Spangled 4th at Oregon Ridge Park

from visit maryland.org

Star-Spangled Spectacular






WHERE?

Oregon Ridge Park, Hunt Valley

Baltimore County - Central Maryland
Be sure to bring your picnic basket for this all-American holiday celebration featuring such famed works as Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture and Sousa's Stars and Stripes culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display. A cozy blanket is the perfect seat for the sloping green lawn of Oregon Ridge as the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra takes to the bandstand and lights up the night.
Oregon Ridge Park opens at 5:00 p.m. http://www.bsomusic.org/

Star Spangled 4th of July Oregon Ridge Park


WHEN?

July 3 AND July 4


WHO AND WHAT?

Robert Franz, conductor

As Music Director of the Boise Philharmonic, Windsor Symphony Orchestra, and Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival Opera and Orchestra, and Associate Conductor of the Houston Symphony, Robert Franz’s appeal as a first-rate conductor and enthusiastic award-winning educator is acclaimed by critics, composers and audiences of all ages. Composer Bright Sheng praised Franz for his “extremely musical and passionate approach towards music making” and critics hail his “masterly pace, emphasis, and technical control” calling his conducting “viscerally thrilling”.


Oregon Ridge Park


Oregon Ridge Park and Lodge 2014 Events


Oregon Ridge Park and Lodge plays host to many events throughout the year. The schedule details those events that are open to the public.  Please note that event dates and prices are subject to change. Please contact the lodge at 410-887-1818 prior to the event for updated information.

May

May 17: Arthritis Foundation 5K; 8 a.m. to noon
May 18: Polakoff Foundation 5K; 8 to 11 a.m.
May 31 through June 1: Great Grapes Wine, Food and Arts Festival; Noon to 6 p.m.


June 7 and 8: Karmafest; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
June 29: Cool Kids Campaign 5K; 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.


July 3 and 4: Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Star Spangled Spectacular/Fireworks; 8 p.m.
July 6: Reggae Jerk Festival; Noon to 9 p.m.
July 26: Believe in Music Festival; Noon to 10 p.m.


August 16: Annual Hot August Blues; Noon to 10 p.m.


September 6: Hike in the Park for Parkinsons; 8 a.m. to Noon
September 13: Greyhound Pets of Maryland Picnic; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Phone: 800-600-8607
September 20: There Goes My Hero Charity Ride; 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
September 24: Rosh Hashanah Under The Stars; 4:30 p.m. Phone: 443-524-0284


October 12: Team Captain Kid Foundation 5K; 7 a.m. to Noon
October 18: Save a Limb Bike Ride; 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.


November 2: Cubs 5K Challenge; 7 to 11 a.m. Phone: 410-456-1363

from marriott.com

WHERE TO STAY?  


Why not make the Star Spangled 4th at Oregon Ridge Park a Stay-cation by staying over at nearby Residence Inn Baltimore Hunt Valley?


All Guests will enjoy:

  • A Suite
  • Free Buffet Breakfast
  • Free High Speed Internet Access
  • Easy Access to Light Rail System
  • Packages that include Marriott Reward Bonus Points
  • AAA, AARP Discounts and more available

Click Here for the Overnight Package perfect for your Star Spangled 4th at Oregon Ridge Park

Residence Inn Baltimore Hunt Valley Hotel is 2 miles/4 minutes from Oregon Ridge Nature Cente



Friday, June 20, 2014

Baltimore's Star Spangled Loop Celebrations


Two great Baltimore Summer events coincide over the 4th of July Weekend in Baltimore, Maryland.

The Fourth of July Celebrations honoring the Nation's Birthday AND events commemorating the 200th Anniversary of the Star Spangled Banner.





Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration The Ports America Chesapeake Fourth of July Celebration takes place Friday, July 4, 2014 from 4pm to 10pm.  Entertainment is provided by Top 40s bands Thunderball at 4pm followed by the U.S. Naval Academy Band Electric Brigade at 7pm.  Performances take place at the Inner Harbor Amphitheater, located at Pratt and Light streets.  The fireworks show, choreographed to festive music, begins at 9:30pm




Grand July 4th Celebration
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

July 4, 2014
Enjoy the Fourth of July with flag talks; cannon-firing; parade through Federal Hill; and a
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
celebration of the nation’s birthday the early-Republic way with toasting, songs and the public reading of the Declaration of Independence at 3 p.m. www.nps.gov/fomc







 Baltimore Beach Volleyball holds “Hat Draw” Tournament on Friday, July 4, 2014 at 1pm.  Registration opens at noon on-site.  The tournament takes place at the Inner Harbor’s Rash Field, located on Light Street and Key Highway.  www.baltimorebeach.com.  


photo from baltimoresun.com   Baltimore Beach Volleyball at Rash field


Military Tattoo Ceremonies
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
July 5 and August 2, 2014

Each evening ceremony features a branch of service – Army, Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps.
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Precision drill, music and living history make each program unique and memorable. www.nps.gov/fomc









Baltimore’s Star-Spangled Summer Events and Exhibitions


A Very Visionary Star-Spangled Sidewalk
American Visionary Art Museum

Through September 2014
A free, outdoor art celebration depicting our nation’s beloved national anthem in an engaging, family-fun and informative format playfully welcomes both visitor feet and wheelchairs into an up-close and personal viewing experience – 520 linear feet of sidewalk transformed into a visually creative interpretation, line by line, of our national anthem. www.avam.org







For Whom It Stands: The Flag and the American People
Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture

May 17, 2014 – February 28, 2015
Few people realize that Grace Wisher, a young African American indentured servant in Mary Pickersgill’s household, worked on the flag that became a national symbol. Wisher’s contribution to American history will be honored with this major exhibition that is an investigation into the history and representation of the U.S. flag as an icon. “For Whom It Stands” features more than 75 works of art, artifacts, documents and photographs. www.rflewismuseum.org



Star-Spangled Banner: Anthem of Liberty
Maryland Science Center

Beginning June 14, 2014
This IMAX film explores the origins of the War of 1812 – the British torching of Washington, D.C., the White House and Capital and the bombardment of Fort McHenry. www.mdsci.org



The Star-Spangled Banner. A Patriotic Song.
Maryland Historical Society

Ongoing
The Maryland Historical Society is home to the oldest known surviving manuscript of Francis Scott Key’s “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Along with this national icon, the Star-Spangled Banner Gallery showcases paintings and artifacts that tell the story of the brave defenders of Baltimore who fought to protect our country from the British. Currently on view is “The Star-Spangled Banner. A Patriotic Song.” Published by Carr Music Store in Baltimore in 1814, it is one of the few remaining copies of the first edition of the poem set to music we know as our national anthem. www.mdhs.org



“O” Say Can You See: The Star Spangled Banner in Sports
Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum
Ongoing

Babe Ruth Birthplace MuseumThe Babe Ruth Birthplace Museum features a 3-D film that reveals the genesis of our national anthem being played at sporting events throughout America. The song has a sporting origin dating back to the first game of the 1918 baseball World Series. The short film, screened on an exciting, new projection technology, also celebrates the anthem’s place in sports by featuring a composite playing of the song pulled from dozens of renditions dating from the 1930s to the present. www.baberuthmuseum.org


So much to do and see why not make stay over and experience Baltimore's "Star Spangled Loop" and enjoy all of the 4th of July Weekend and the Star Spangled Summer Festivities.

Your Star Spangled Loop begins at



Hampton Inn Baltimore Downtown Convention Center

550 Washington Blvd.
Baltimore,  Maryland,  21230
TEL: 1-410-685-5000 

Where you can enjoy a among a selection of overnight Baltimore packages that include:
  • Bonus Hhonor Points
  • Discount Admission to Babe Ruth Museum
  • Free Buffet Breakfast
  • Free High Speed Internet Access
  • And Much More!

Click Here to begin your Baltimore Star Spangled Loop

Baltimore's Star Spangled Loop




Monday, June 16, 2014

Baltimore County 4th of July Celebrations

Baltimore County 4th of July Celebrations

There are a host of sites to celebrate the 4th throughout the Baltimore County area.  Choices range from Fireworks Cruises to witnessing a Naturalization Ceremony - Baltimore has it all.  Take a look at the choices and have a very safe and Happy 4th of July.

Baltimore County 4th of July Celebrations



Fireworks Cruises in Annapolis & Fireworks Cruises in Baltimore

Fireworks Cruises in Annapolis and Baltimore
July 3-4, 2014
Taking guests out on the water to watch area fireworks displays is one of Watermark's specialties, and 2014 brings several opportunities to view a dazzling fireworks show in both Annapolis and Baltimore. It is recommended that you book your tickets early to guarantee the best seat in town for watching fireworks, as these cruises tend to sell out quickly.
410-268-7601x100
http://watermarkjourney.com







Independence Day Naturalization Ceremony


July 4, 2014
186 Prince George St.
Annapolis, Maryland 21041
Robert Clark will host the naturalization ceremony, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services officials will
give the Oath of Allegiance to the candidates, Annapolis High School's JROTC unit will provide a cadet color guard, and the All Children's Chorus of Annapolis will sing the National Anthem.
410-267-7619
www.annapolis.org













Annapolis Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks
July 4, 2014  6:30pm
Annapolis, Maryland 21041
4th of July Annapolis Maryland


The Parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will travel along West Street, around Church Circle, and down Main Street to the City Dock. Then, visit Susan Campbell Park at 8:00 p.m. for a performance by the Naval Academy's Concert Band, followed by a fireworks display at 9:15 p.m.
http://www.visitannapolis.org












Baltimore’s Ports America Chesapeake Fourth of July Celebration

July 4, 2014 7pm-10 pm
Inner Harbor
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Baltimore City -  Central Maryland
Commemorate Independence Day with live music and celebratory fireworks in the heart of downtown
Baltimore. The event will showcase music by Electric Brigade and other performers starting at 7:00 p.m. at the Inner Harbor Amphitheater on Pratt and Light Streets. At 9:30 p.m., Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake will kick off the multicolored fireworks, which can be viewed from several locations downtown and in the surrounding neighborhoods of Federal Hill, Fell's Point, and Harbor East.
1-877-BALTIMORE
For more information Click Here




Catonsville's Independence Day Celebration

July 4, 2014
Catonsville, Maryland 21043
Baltimore County - Central Maryland
This all-day, fun-filled Catonsville tradition features children's games, races, and concerts starting at 9:30
a.m., the 68th Annual Grand Parade on Frederick Road at 3:00 p.m., and the best fireworks display in the region at 9:15 p.m. at Catonsville High School.
443-840-9574
http://catonsvillecelebrations.org

Dundalk Heritage Association Independence Day Parade and Fireworks

July 4, 2014
North Point Government Center
Dundalk, Maryland
Baltimore county - Central Maryland
The 80th Annual Dundalk 4th Of July Parade will be held on Friday, July 4, 2014 starting at approximately 8:15 a.m. Fireworks will start at approximately 9:15 p.m. 410-284-4022
http://www.dundalkheritagefair.com



Independence Day Fireworks Cruise

July 4, 2014 7:30-11pm
Spirit of Baltimore (ship)
Inner Harbor
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Baltimore City - Central Maryland
Enjoy Front-Row Fireworks, Baltimore's Ultimate July 4th Experience! Splash aboard Spirit Cruises and get
front-row seats to Baltimore's spectacular fireworks show. The Inner Harbor has never looked so stunning beneath the illuminated night sky. Celebrate America's birthday this 4th of July with a premium bar package, festive buffets and interactive DJ Entertainment. There's no better place to celebrate than out on the water with Spirit!
410-727-3113
800-695-BOAT
http://spiritcruise.com




Independence Day CelebrationJuly 4, 2014 William Paca House and Garden

186 Prince George St
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
Anne Arundel County - Central Maryland
Join Historic Annapolis in welcoming forty new citizens into the American family at a naturalization ceremony
on Friday, July 4, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. The free event, which has become an annual Independence Day
tradition, will be held at the William Paca House and Garden. Seating for the ceremony will be reserved for the new citizens and their invited guests, with limited seating and standing room available for members of the general public. 410-267-8146
http://www.annapolis.org


Middle River Fireworks Extravaganza

July 6, 2014
Eastern Yacht Club
Middle River, Maryland 21220
Baltimore County - Central Maryland

Enjoy this annual fireworks extravaganza on Middle River.
410-335-8219
http://middleriverfireworks.com/

Old-Fashioned July 4th Picnic/Celebration/Fireworks
July 4, 2014 - Begins at Noon
Carroll County Farm Museum
Westminster, Maryland 21157
Carroll County - Central Maryland
Celebration includes onstage entertainment, children’s games, fireworks, and food and crafts for sale.
410-386-3880
http://www.carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org



Salute to Cecil County Veterans Celebration and Fireworks

July 3, 2014 5-10pm
200 W. Walnut St
North East, Maryland 21901
Enjoy music, fireworks, and food at this patriotic event sponsored by the North East Chamber of Commerce.
http://northeastchamber.org

Six Flags America
July 4-6, 2014
13710 Central Avenue,
Bowie, Anne Arundel County - Central Maryland
Celebrate the independence of our country with three jam-packed days of thrills and water park fun on Fourth of July Weekend at Six Flags America. There will be fireworks and live entertainment every night.
http://www.sixflags.com/america/




Star-Spangled Spectacular

July 3-4, 2014
Robert Franz, conductor
Oregon Ridge Park, Hunt Valley
Baltimore County - Central Maryland
Be sure to bring your picnic basket for this all-American holiday celebration featuring such famed works as Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture and Sousa's Stars and Stripes culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display. A cozy blanket is the perfect seat for the sloping green lawn of Oregon Ridge as the BSO takes to the bandstand and lights up the night.
Oregon Ridge Park opens at 5:00 p.m. http://www.bsomusic.org/



Towson Fourth of July Parade

July 4, 2014   10:00 A.M.
Towsontown Blvd & Bosley Ave
Towson, Maryland 21285
Baltimore County -  Central Maryland
Celebration of America's birthday with bands, clowns, marching units and military.
410-832-2190
http://towsonparade.org

Friday, June 13, 2014

Star Spangled Spectacular in Baltimore

from: http://www.starspangled200.com

http://www.starspangled200.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/SSP_logo_590px.jpg


O Say Can You See! 




WHAT?

Star-Spangled Spectacular is a free festival that celebrates the 200th anniversary of our national anthem. Tall ships, Navy gray hulls and the Blue Angels will come to Baltimore’s famed Inner Harbor to celebrate The Star-Spangled Banner. Land side festivals include living history demonstrations, a family fun-zone, live musical performances, and Chesapeake food and beverage.



Fireworks at Baltimore's Inner Harbor


WHERE?

Events in Baltimore begin September 10 but the crescendo is on September 13 with a star-studded patriotic concert and extraordinary fireworks display over Fort McHenry and the Baltimore harbor.

Inner Harbor Baltimore Maryland


WHEN?

September 10 through September 16.  CLICK HERE for the list of Star Spangled Spectacular Events.


Blue Angels at Baltimore's Star Spangled Summer


So much to do and see.  Why not make it a Star Spangled Overnight Summer in Baltimore ??


Tall Ships Star Spangled Summer in Baltimore

from hilton.com + marriott.com:

WHERE TO STAY?


Choose among these Baltimore County Hotels - only minutes away from your Star Spangled Summer in Baltimore

Baltimore Hotels, White Marsh Hotels, Hunt Valley Maryland Hotels, Arundel Mills Maryland Hotels




White Marsh Maryland


Fairfield Inn & Suites White Marsh

8477 Cordon Way, Baltimore, MD 21236

Enjoy free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi- Complimentary Shuttle in 5 mile radius. Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservations or call (410) 9339797

Hampton Inn Baltimore White Marsh

8225 Town Center Dr.,  Baltimore,  MD  21236

Enjoy free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi- Complimentary Shuttle in 5 mile radius. Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservations or call (410) 931-2200


Hilton Garden Inn Baltimore White Marsh - 

5015 Campbell Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21236

Complimentary Shuttle in 5 mile radius. Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservations or call 410-427-0600


Residence Inn Baltimore White Marsh 

4980 Mercantile Road, Baltimore, MD 21236

Enjoy a suite, free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi. Complimentary Shuttle in 5 mile radius. Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservations or call (410) 933-9554


Hunt Valley Maryland

Residence Inn Baltimore Hunt Valley

45 Schilling Rd, Hunt Valley, MD 21031

Enjoy a suite, free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi. Public transportation/Light Rail System steps away

Click Here to make your reservations or call (410) 527-2333


Arundel Mills/Hanover Maryland

Hampton Inn & Suites Arundel Mills/Baltimore

 7027 Arundel Mills Circle, Hanover MD 21076 

Enjoy free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi- Complimentary Shuttle to Arundel Mills Mall and Maryland LIVE! Casino.  Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservations or call (410) 540-9225

Residence Inn Arundel Mills BWI Airport

7035 Arundel Mills Circle, Hanover MD 21076 

Enjoy a Suite, free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi. Scheduled Evening Reception- Complimentary Shuttle to Arundel Mills Mall and Maryland LIVE! Casino.  Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservation or call (410) 799-7332

SpringHill Suites Arundel Mills BWI Airport

7544 Teague Road, Hanover MD  21076 

Enjoy a Suite, free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi. Complimentary Shuttle to Arundel Mills Mall and Maryland LIVE! Casino.  Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservation or call (410) 799-7100


TownePlace Suites Arundel Mills BWI Airport

7021 Arundel Mills Circle (410) 379-9000 

Enjoy a Suite, free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi. Complimentary Shuttle to Arundel Mills Mall and Maryland LIVE! Casino.  Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservations or call (410) 379-9000

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

The Legend of Tír na nÓg and The Baltimore Experience

The Legend of Tir na Nog


In Irish mythology and folklore, Tír na nÓg  ("Land of the Young") or Tír na hÓige ("Land of Youth") is one of the names for the Otherworld.  It is depicted as a supernatural realm of everlasting youth, beauty, health, abundance and joy. Its inhabitants are the Tuath Dé, the gods of pre-Christian Ireland..

Oisin and Niamh

Tír na nÓg is best known from the tale of Oisín and Niamh..  In the tale, Oisín (a human hero) and Niamh (a woman of the Otherworld) fall in love. She brings him to Tír na nÓg on a magical horse that can travel over water. After spending what seems to be three years there, Oisín becomes homesick and wants to return to Ireland. Niamh reluctantly lets him return on the magical horse, but warns him never to touch the ground. When he returns, he finds that 300 years have passed in Ireland.  While coming to the aid of another during his journey, Oisín falls from the horse. He instantly becomes elderly, as the years catch up with him, and he quickly dies of old age.




"Welcomed I will be in a tongue I know,
love and hospitality will be offered me..."

Inspired by the Legend of  Tir na NÓg a restaurant concept was developed.  The idea was to provide a unique Irish experience incorporating the warmth of an Irish pub with New American cuisine and all the while maintaining the same charm and hospitality.


Tir Na NOG Irish Bar & Grill
Tir na NÓg  Irish Bar and Grill , Baltimore, Maryland re-created a small piece of Ireland in downtown Baltimore by salvaging interesting architectural pieces, furniture and bric-a-brac from churches and castles in Ireland. These pieces, combined with rich textiles, Celtic script adorning the walls, and rich, dark wood have shaped an elegant yet inviting atmosphere.

Residence Inn Baltimore Hunt Valley and Tir na NÓg Irish Bar and Grill have partnered to create an overnight package - The Baltimore Experience


Now they can't promise you'll never grow old or that time will stand still, but you are guaranteed to have one of the most unique Hotel and Restaurant experiences in Baltimore.


The Baltimore Experience includes:

  •  Overnight Suite Accommodations at Residence Inn Baltimore Hunt Valley
  •  $25 Gift Card to Tir Na Nog Irish Restaurant
  •  Two round trip Light Rail Tickets to downtown Baltimore, where you can explore the Inner Harbor,  National Aquarium, Camden Yards and more!
  •  Baltimore Themed gift upon check in
  •  Free Hot Buffet Breakfast daily
  •  Free WiFi

Click Here  or call 410-527-2333 and begin your

 Baltimore Experience Today !






Monday, June 2, 2014

Make Baltimore's 4th of July Festivities an Over Night Sensation

Baltimore's Inner Harbor 4th of July Fireworks

The Great Baltimore 4th of July Festivities are only minutes away from White Marsh and Hunt Valley, MD via public transportation or a short drive into downtown Baltimore.

You can experience one of the best Independence Celebrations in the USA and escape the crowds by staying over night just outside the city.

4th of July Ports America Chesapeake


Make this year's 4th of July Celebration in Baltimore an "Over Night Sensation" by staying over in Baltimore County- White Marsh or Hunt Valley Maryland.



Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration
Ports America Chesapeake 4th of July Celebration

July 4, 2014  |  7:00PM - 10:00PM
Inner Harbor
Fireworks start at 9:30pm
Commemorate Independence Day with live music and celebratory fireworks in the heart of downtown Baltimore. The Ports America Chesapeake Fourth of July Celebration takes place Friday, July 4, 2014 from 7pm to 10pm. Visitors to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor can enjoy music at 7pm.  Electric Brigade, in addition to other performers, will take the stage at the Inner Harbor Amphitheater, located at Pratt and Light streets. Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake kicks off the multicolored fireworks display 9:30pm.
The holiday fireworks can be viewed from several locations in downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods of Federal Hill, Fell’s Point and Harbor East.


Picnic at the Top!

July 4, 2014  |  7:00PM - 10:00PM
Top of the World Observation Level
401 E. Pratt Street 27th floor Baltimore, MD 21202
Come and enjoy music, food and a great view of the Fourth of July Celebration fireworks at Top of the World Observation Level for Picnic at the Top! on Friday, July 4 from 7pm to 10pm.

Tickets cost $50 for adults, $25 for children.

Top of the World Observation Level, located on the 27th floor of the World Trade Center at 401 E. Pratt Street, is a facility operated by the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts.

For more information, visit www.viewbaltimore.org or call 410-837-VIEW.



Make the 4th of July and "Over Night Sensation" by reserving your room at one of these Baltimore County Hotels:


Hampton Inn Baltimore White Marsh - Enjoy free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi- Complimentary Shuttle in 5 mile radius. Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservations or call (410) 931-2200

Hilton Garden Inn Baltimore White Marsh - Free WiFi. Restaurant on site.

Complimentary Shuttle in 5 mile radius. Near public transportation
Click Here to make your reservations or call 410-427-0600

Residence Inn Baltimore White Marsh - Enjoy a suite, free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi. Complimentary Shuttle in 5 mile radius. Near public transportation

Click Here to make your reservations or call (410) 933-9554

Residence Inn Baltimore Hunt Valley Enjoy a suite, free hot buffet breakfast and WiFi. Public transportation/Light Rail System steps away

Click Here to make your reservations or call 410-527-2333

Map of Hunt Valley MD and White Marsh, MD

4th of July Fireworks Baltimore MD