Water Cooler

Food & Music Dominate Artscape This Weekend

  More Information About Artscape

BALTIMORE (WJZ) ― It's a Baltimore tradition which brings together people from all over the city and the entire region. Artscape, Baltimore's annual arts festival, is underway and will continue through the weekend.

Jessica Kartalija reports this year will mark the festival's 27th year in existence.

The event is a mainstay in the Mt. Royal neighborhood.

At the official kick-off that took place at noon on Friday, most patrons had to do what they could to keep cool.

"I love Artscape. I'm very impressed with the different vendors that are out here today," said one woman.
 
"It's absolutely amazing to have Artscape here in Baltimore again. One hundred fifty artists, all sorts of different kind of media. It's an amazing event," said one patron.

If you're looking for something entirely unique at Artscape, it will be an easy find since Artscape expands all the way out to Penn Station.

In addition to the art, music and food, Artscape is traditionally known as one of the hottest weekends of the year in Baltimore.

"Stay out of the sun as much as you can. If you are in the sun, try and wear a hat. A lot of sun protection would be very important. Drink a whole bunch of fluid," said Dr. Dov Frankel with Sinai Hospital.

Events are centered in the 1200-block of Mt. Royal Avenue, but this year will extend to include the 1400-1700 blocks of North Charles Street.

The three-day festival will feature local artists, fashion designers and craftspeople.

In addition to art exhibits there will be live music, dance and theatrical performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Friday's featured performers are Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, Saturday's featured performers are Mario and Dru Hill and Sunday's featured performers will be The Wailers.

Live dance performances will be performed at the Lyric Opera House on Saturday and Sunday.

Artscape's Theater Showcase will have featured plays on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Also returning will be the 19th annual Billie Holiday Competition and 2nd annual Cab Calloway Competition, which will both close out the festival on Sunday afternoon.

There will be plenty of opportunities to purchase art, try different foods and take in exhibits highlighting unique parts of Baltimore's identity.

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