Book Festival, Sailboat Show, Beer Week Finale and More: Annapolis Events

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Looking for things to do in Annapolis this weekend? Here are some events coming up to mark on the calendar, from sailing to Jane Austen to a book festival.

Annapolis Beer Week — A week of beer-related events that support area charities and local businesses wraps up April 25 across the city. More than 60 brands of beer will be available, including some beers offered only during Beer Week. On April 25 chow down at the 2nd Annual Maryland Chicken Wing & Beer Festival. Along with great wings and beer there are family-friendly activities, including live music throughout the day and a new kids zone play area. Proceeds from the event benefit YMCA Camp Letts. Also on Saturday, the 4th Annual Drafts & Laughs is going Red, White & Blue this year with Humor, Heroes, and Hops. The night dedicated to the military will include several veteran as well as wounded warrior comedians. The event benefits wounded warriors through Warfighter Sports (a division of Disabled Sports USA.)

Wednesday Night Sailboat Races — Every week through July 29 head to the Annapolis Harbor from 6:10 to 8 p.m. 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.

2nd Annual Arts In The Park Festival — This free family-friendly festival of art, music, dance, theatre and food includes activities for kids of all ages. From: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 25 at the Chesapeake Arts Center.

Annapolis Book Festival — Former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and authors Jim Dwyer, Michael Moss, Boog Powell, and Martin Goldsmith are among the speakers scheduled to appear. The community event features discussions with best-selling authors, as well as book signings, family activities, and new and used book sales. The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 25 at the Key School, 534 Hillsmere Drive, Annapolis.

Annapolis Spring Saiboat Show — Shop for the latest in sailing equipment, electronics, clothing and boating accessories at the 100+ nautical exhibits and on-site pro surf shops. Features more than 80 new and previously-owned sailboats of all types and sizes. Free sailboat rides will be provided by Annapolis Community Boating. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 24 and 25; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26 at the City Dock.

Annual Annapolis Spring Fling Festival — The Maryland Avenue/State Circle Merchants Association hosts the free street festival featuring art, antiques, fashion, home interior, jewelry, crafts, food and children’s activities. Bistro dining at Galway Bay and Harry Browne’s. Live music from noon-5 p.m.; event begins at 10 a.m. on April 26. Free parking nearby at Calvert and St. John’s Streets.

Sense And Sensibility By Jane Austen / Adapted By Jon Jory — The Annapolis Shakespeare Company will perform the romantic classic at 8 p.m. every Friday and Saturday April 2-May 2 at 111 Chinquapin Round Road in Annapolis. Tickets cost $30 - $35. Website: http://www.annapolisshakespeare.org/sense-and-sensibility.html

-- Events and descriptions from VisitAnnapolis.org. For more Annapolis events, visit the website. Photo from the website.