Jmore’s Top Event Picks for July 2019

June 28, 2019 Scott Kiewe

The national touring company of "Hamilton" (Photo by Joan Marcus) and Artscape (Handout photo)

July is the time to independence and freedom. It’s a month of concerts, regional traditions and languishing outdoors.

Here are some of our top picks for enjoying those carefree sunny days and getting deep in the summertime mood.

‘Hamilton’

The life-changing touring production of “Hamilton” has finally made it to the Hippodrome Theatre. And, last we checked, official tickets were still available (though scattered) for Lin-Manuel Miranda’s tour de force, inspired by the life of founding father Alexander Hamilton.

Hippodrome Theatre, through July 21

Watch Hippodrome president Ron Legler discuss “Hamilton” on Facebook Live:

Water Lantern Festival

Light up the night while you reflect on your own life. Send meaningful messages floating out across the water for all to see and bask in the glow. This festival truly is “lit.”

Canton Waterfront Park, July 6

Flicks from the Hill

Immerse yourself into “The Sound of Music” experience withthis outdoor screening that includes subtitled lyrics and musical numbers soyou can sing along with family and friends. Costumes are encouraged. It’ll bejust like you’re in the hills of Salzburg, except hotter.

American Visionary Art Museum, July 11

Wine & Dinosaurs

There’s something to be said for learning about animals that we’ve never seen with our own eyes and never will. But, even better, there’s also a way to learn while drinking wine! Wander through the life of extinction with a drink in your hand. Interactive presentations provide information on the prehistoric beasts, as well as the delicious vintage in your glass. When’s the last time you looked at your favorite vino under a microscope?

Maryland Science Center, July 19

World HeritageFestival

Learning about different cultures is what makes the world go round. Go on an international exploration at this event with ethnic food, music and multicultural vendors. This is a family-friendly atmosphere with games and free admission. “Freeeeeee” — music to our ears.

West Shore Park, July 20

Gogol Bordello performing at Artscape 2017 (Photo courtesy of the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts)

Artscape 2019

This is the Baltimore outdoor arts festival — the granddaddy of all the rest, the reason for the season. If — and we have no idea why you would — you have a personal quota on how much fun you can have in one month, you’d better make Artscape your stop. This weekend-long celebration of arts and culture includes great musical headliners, tons of good eats, exhibits, performances, crafts and anything else you might want in a festival. Go, discover.

Mount Royal, July 19-21

Billy Joel Concert

The first ever concert at Oriole Park epitomizes a summer night out. Crowd-pleasers like “Uptown Girl” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire” will have both you and your parents out of your seats and on your feet. “The Piano Man” in Baltimore is an historic moment. Be a part of it.

Oriole Park at Camden Yards, July 26

Also see: Billy Joel Says the Night He Wore a Star of David was One of His Most Memorable Concerts

Fluid Movement the WaterBallet

Ballet and swimming in the same event? Be amazed by the wackyin-water antics of these talented (but not quite pro) synchronized swimmers.This year’s show is filled with comedy, drama and gasp-worthy choreography. Getready for this splash of greatness.

Druid Hill Park Pool, July 27-28

Also see: Fluid Movement’s ‘Sharkespeare’ Combines Synchronized Swimming and Shakespeare