Every year on June 21, the world comes together to celebrate the one thing that is agreed upon around the globe—music.
Known as a free worldwide celebration of music, Make Music Day is observed by more than 1,000 cities around the world. Here in Maryland, we know a thing or two about music…
Not only was the national anthem written at Fort McHenry, but our state is home to singers such as Frank Zappa, O.A.R., Sisqó, Future Islands, Billie Holiday, Brothers Osborne, Kix, Mario, and Good Charlotte. That’s a pretty impressive lineup!
While you might not be able to catch a famed local music act this week, there are plenty of other ways to celebrate Make Music Day. Here are five musical Maryland venues to check out and get your groove on this summer.
1. Merriweather Post Pavilion
Consistently ranked one of the country’s best music venues, Maryland’s largest amphitheater is the perfect place to spend a summer night (or weekend). Grab a cold one and lay out under the stars while you listen to your favorite acts. Upcoming shows include Phish, Blink 182 & Lil Wayne, Hootie & The Blowfish, Chris Stapleton, and our local favorite… O.A.R.
Photo courtesy of Merriweather Post Pavilion
2. Hippodrome Theatre
Built in 1914, the Hippodrome has been a Baltimore staple for more than a century. For the next month, catch a showing of HAMILTON—the story of one of America’s founding fathers—with some jazz, hip hop, rap, and Broadway music all intertwined.
3. Maryland Live! Center Stage
Tribute bands and theme-nights are the perfect way to let the music move you. At Maryland Live!, every night is a new adventure. From Lunes Latino (or Latin Mondays) to Send Me Back Sundays (hits from the 70’s-90’s), there’s bound to be an event that covers your favorite genres at this intimate venue.
4. MilkBoy ArtHouse
UMD’s performance venue MilkBoy ArtHouse provides an eclectic feel for students and Prince George’s County residents alike. According to the venue, it is the only “campus-community arts venue” of its kind across the country. Come give it the college try and check out the Y La Bamba or Senses Fail shows in the upcoming months.
Photo courtesy of MilkBoy ArtHouse
5. Summer Festivals in Maryland
Still looking for more ideas? Music festivals are taking place all across our state this summer. Downtown Frederick’s summer concert series takes place every Sunday at Baker Park. Salisbury is hosting the three-day National Folk Festival from September 6-8 along the Wicomico River. Annapolis runs its Tides & Tunes event until mid-August, with rock to R&B to pop all gracing the waterfront. Find a celebration in your area and head out for a night on the town!
