Arts & Entertainment

America250 Events In Maryland: What’s Happening Through July 4

Patch has the details on Maryland250 events happening across the state, along with America250 and Independence Day events.

The Fourth of July will carry extra meaning this year in Maryland with events centered around the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

In Maryland, residents can find parades, concerts, history programs, fireworks, volunteer opportunities and family-friendly celebrations leading up to Independence Day.

America250, the national semiquincentennial initiative, is encouraging communities to take part through local commemorations, block parties, service projects and July 4 events. State and local commissions, historical societies, museums, libraries, parks departments and civic groups are also hosting events tied to the milestone.

Find out what's happening in Bel Airfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Here are America250 and Independence Day events happening in Maryland from now through July 4:

Nearby America250 Events

Sail250 Maryland & Airshow Baltimore

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When: June 24-30

Where: Baltimore Inner Harbor

What to know: Sail250 Maryland and Airshow Baltimore is a global gathering of international tall ships, military ships and aircraft celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States. Maryland and Baltimore are part of a five-city national event which also includes the ports of New Orleans, Norfolk, New York and Boston. The event offers ship crews, cadets and midshipmen, aviators and, of course, visitors from all over the world to join in an unforgettable experience and a world-class celebration of all things maritime and aviation in commemoration of our Nation's semiquincentennial.

Cost: Free to the public

More info: sail250md.org


HoCo 250: Reflections on Independence, Then and Now

When: June 28

Where: Howard Community College Horowitz Center

What to know: Inspired by Richard Henry Lee’s historic Resolution for Independence and the Declaration of Independence, this engaging program will examine what these founding documents meant in 1776—and what they continue to mean for us today.

Cost: Free to the public

More info: ci.ovationtix.com/32275/production/1274953?performanceId=11804735


250 Anniversary Scavenger Hunt

When: July 11

Where: Centreville Branch of the Queen Anne's County Library

What to know: Find images around the Kidz Zone/library to complete facts about our country as a celebration of America's 250th birthday. Find all of the images and fill out the blanks to find a secret answer and win a small prize.

Cost: Free to the public

More info: qacl-qaclibrary.libnet.info/event/16581321


History Relived: 250th through Movies

When: June 30

Where: Howard County Library System Glenwood Branch

What to know: Gather a new perspective on the history of this county through movies, from actual events to patriotic themes that develop from watching them. Titles include 1776, Independence Day, Yankee Doodle Dandy, Born on the Fourth of July, Gettysburg, The Longest Day, Mr. Smith Goes To Washington, and All the President's Men. Join an informal discussion about the movies that peak your pride and the patriotism for your country.

Cost: Free to the public

More info: howardcounty.librarycalendar.com/event/history-relived-250-through-movies-401134


Commemoration of a New Nation

When: June 27

Where: Dorchester County Historical Society.

What to know: Crafts, period music, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence by the town crier.

Cost: $5 for adults, kids 12 and younger are free

More info: dorchesterhistory.com/current-events


Star-Spangled 250

When: July 3

Where: Oregon Ridge Park

What to know: The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra celebrates America's 250th birthday with concerts at the beautiful Oregon Ridge Park, including a spectacular fireworks display.

Cost: Tickets available online

More info: my.bsomusic.org/20639/20670


250th All-American Bash

When: July 4

Where: B&O Railroad Museum

What to know: This July, as America turns 250, the cab of the legendary American Freedom Train No. 1 locomotive will be open to the public for one day only. Climb aboard and snap your picture inside a true piece of American history. The Baltimore Honky Tonk and the Talbot Mayo Band are taking over the B&O from noon to 3 p.m. for an afternoon of live music and two-stepping. Free lessons are included. While the music plays, younger guests can enjoy a full lineup of lawn games and hands-on arts and crafts activities. Fuel up with a BBQ lunch available for purchase on-site. There will be free ice cream on the train ride. For the adults, Mystique Barrel Brewing and Lager House will be on hand, pouring a selection of craft beers and specialty drinks.

Cost: Tickets available online

More info: borail.org/events/250th-all-american-bash/


250th All-American Bash

When: July 10

Where: Anne Arundel County Public Library

What to know: Celebrate the 250th Birthday of the U.S. by enjoying themed hands-on activities and crafts.

Cost: Free to the public

More info: aacpl.net/event/usa-250th-birthday-celebration-231551


July 4 Fireworks, Parades And Festivals


How To Add An Event

Know of another America250, Fourth of July or community history event in Maryland? Add it to the Patch calendar.

Before You Go

Residents planning to attend July 4 events should check with organizers before heading out, as weather, parking rules, security plans and fireworks schedules may change.

Are you planning a 4th of July or other summer event? Feature it so nearby readers see it all across Patch — including in roundups like this!

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