SEPTEMBER 2024 - TOURISM NEWS & NOTES | |
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Signups are live! Maryland Restaurant Week 2024
MRW 2024 will take place September 13-22, and members can join early. MRW remains free for all restaurants to participate, and you can sign up through the RAM website. You don’t need your menu yet. Last year, the MDRW website received more than 400,000 views, offering an abundance of free promotion for the participating restaurants. View the 2023 analytics PDF to see why you should participate! If you’d like to upgrade your placement and increase your visibility on our site, we have several options. Premium placement will sell out quickly.
Sign up now!
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State Heritage Area Grants Support Three Cultural Tourism Projects in Prince George’s County, MD
The Maryland Heritage Areas Authority has awarded eighty-seven matching grants totaling $5.19 million to Maryland nonprofits, local jurisdictions, and heritage tourism organizations. Three projects in the Anacostia Trails Heritage Area of Prince George’s County have been awarded $185,000 in funding:
- The Gateway CDC received the maximum capital State Heritage Area grant award of $100,000 to support the adaptive reuse of a ca. 1930s historic firehouse in the Town of Cottage City into a center for film production and the visual arts.
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The Field of Firsts Foundation, a non-profit supporter of the College Park Aviation Museum, received the maximum non-capital award of $50,000 in State Heritage Area funding to create a new exhibit about Black aviators who, historically segregated in the profession, founded the Columbia Air Center as the first licensed Black-owned and operated airport in the country.
- The City of Greenbelt received $35,000 in State Heritage Area funds to research people interred in three City-owned cemeteries including Native Americans, successive waves of European settlers dating back to the early 1700s, the enslaved, small farmers, Revolutionary War heroes, and tenants of all kinds.
The next funding cycle for State Heritage Area grants will open in December 2024 for projects planned to start in July 2025.
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2024-25 Chesapeake Gateways Network Grants to Support Tourism and Economic Development
The National Park Service is accepting applications for the 2024-25 Chesapeake Gateways Network Grants. Funding is available in two categories: Linking Tourism and Economic Development Grants (award range: $50,000-$100,000) and Event Support Grants (award range: $10,000-$25,000). Non-federal cost share or match is not required for these grants. For more information and to apply click here.
The deadline for applications is October 21.
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Maryland Office of Tourism Offers Travel Resources for Maryland’s Year of Civil Rights
BALTIMORE, MD (July 10, 2024) – The Maryland Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism has published a new travel guide and web content for Maryland’s Year of Civil Rights and the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The content helps travelers discover the state’s many attractions, scenic byways, outdoor recreational opportunities, and more.
“Maryland leads the way as one of America’s most diverse and welcoming destinations,” said Governor Wes Moore. “During Maryland’s Year of Civil Rights, I encourage everyone to visit these Civil Rights sites to learn more about the places where courageous souls made history.”
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MSAC Now Accepting Nominations for 2025 Maryland Heritage Awards
The Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) began accepting nominations for the 2025 Maryland Heritage Awards on August 26. Nominations are being accepted for individuals, places, and traditions that have demonstrated outstanding achievement in traditional arts and culture in Maryland. Awards are $10,000 each. Nominations are due Friday, October 11. To submit a nomination using MSAC’s application system visit SmartSimple
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New data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) found that the travel industry’s contribution to the global gross domestic product (GDP) had reached record-setting levels.
According to Reuters.com, WTTC officials said the industry's contribution to global GDP in 2024 will increase 12.1 percent year-over-year to $11.1 trillion, making up 10 percent of global GDP.
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While work-life balance is important, a new survey from ASM Global highlights the importance of work-conference balance, especially among Millennial and Gen Z attendees. In general, attendees go to conferences based on content, potential contacts, and convenience, not the attributes of the host convention center. However, the conference experience, which is strongly influenced by the venue, can be an important factor in an attendee’s decision to return to that event in the future.
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OTD Attends Kickoff Event for 2024 International Underground Railroad Month
On August 22, OTD Managing Director Liz Fitzsimmons presented a Governor’s Proclamation of International Underground Railroad Month, a Department of Commerce Secretary’s Citation, and a Mayor of Riverdale Proclamation of Underground Railroad Month at a kickoff event for the sixth annual International Underground Railroad (IUGRR) month at Riversdale House Museum. IUGRR events, tours and talks are scheduled throughout the month. A full schedule is available on our website. OTD’s new brochure “Finding Freedom, Faith and Family on Maryland’s Underground Railroad” features a map of key locations in Southern Maryland where freedom stories began. Click here to view a PDF.
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Pulitzer Price-winning author and journalist Scott Shane will discuss his new book "Flee North: A Forgotten Hero and the Flight for Freedom in Slavery’s Borderland" on Sept. 12, 2024, 6:30-8pm at Marietta House Museum and online. This award-winning book about the Underground Railroad in the DC metropolitan area is a riveting account of the extraordinary Black abolitionist Thomas Smallwood and his secret New England partner Charles Torrey. $5/person. Please call 301-464-5291 or email mariettahouse@pgparks.com to register and for more information.
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6th Annual Echoes of the Enslaved
Join Darnall’ s Chance House Museum and the Archaeology Program on Saturday, September 28 for the 6th Annual Echoes of the Enslaved from 4-9 pm. Experience a new museum exhibit entitled, History in Her Hands, about the lives of Black women enslaved at Darnall’s Chance and learn how archaeology works to interpret the lives of underrepresented people. Partake in a dinner that celebrates African American cuisine. Listen to an all-women panel discuss the relationships of an 18th household and the lasting impacts of enslavement.
Later, join us fireside for continuing conversation experiences and perspectives of the day.
Advanced registration is required for this FREE event:
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In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, join the M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation’s College Park Aviation Museum and Airport, as we honor Latinas in aviation. Watch as pilots featured in the Latinas in Aviation book fly into the College Park Airport and share their unique experiences and passion for aviation. This one-of-a-kind event gives you the opportunity to meet and hear from contributing authors while learning about the magic of aviation. Explore static aircraft displays, interactives, presentations, children’s activities, mentorship circles, and scholarship opportunities throughout the event.
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Free shuttle rides are available from Langley-McCormick ES to the festival grounds and back, every 30 minutes starting at noon until 5:30pm. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on! Activities and events include music, live entertainment, delicious ethnic food, craft vendors, children's area, teen area, displays, exhibitors, carnival games, and more.
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Brentwood’s miXt Food Hall plans to create a new public art display facing Route 1 and is calling for artists’ submissions.
Located at 3809 Rhode Island Ave. next to the Studio 3807 apartment building, the food hall is currently looking for an artist to design, create and install an artwork on the patio facing Rhode Island Avenue. According to a recent call for submissions put out by the food hall, the artwork can be affixed to the building or railing or mounted in a plant bed. The piece must also be washable and able to withstand the local climate.
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Sir Tom Jones continues to captivate audiences with his timeless discography of hit songs on the Ages & Stages Tour. With a career spanning over 50 years, Tom Jones has gone from strength to strength, with his seminal and ubiquitous hits such as ‘It’s Not Unusual’, ‘Kiss’, ‘Delilah’, ‘What’s New Pussycat’, ‘I’ll Never Fall In Love Again’, ‘Sex Bomb’, and more.
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Puerto Rican vocalist and songwriter Taisha Estrada will lend her talent for the third performance of The Summer Concert Series. Highlighting her compelling lyrics and dynamic stage performance, she was featured in the Washington Post and NPR’s Tiny Desk show.
Taisha Estrada performs in Brentwood on Saturday, September 14, from 6 – 8pm.
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Dramatized” is a thought-provoking film that tells the poignant story of Clara, an adult actress who finds herself cast in a church drama about forgiveness and redemption. As Clara immerses herself in the role, the powerful themes of second chances and unconditional love resonate deeply within her, challenging her past choices and igniting a desire for change. The church community’s acceptance and the transformative message of the drama compel Clara to confront her past and seek a new path. Ultimately, she discovers that true freedom comes from embracing forgiveness and letting go of her former life.
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Trick-or-Treat Trail, family friendly rides, fall festivities, and ghoulish food for every taste! See spooky shows, a pumpkin patch, a spider maze, and more. When you're not busy screaming, explore marvelously delicious treats and dishes.
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Six Flags America is dedicated to families and helping to unlock more inclusive guest experiences.
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Are you brave enough to step inside? The only way out is through. Get the Haunted Attractions Pass.
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Sample an array of artisanal beers and curated wines from local vineyards and breweries while learning about the craft and the perfect pairings through educational workshops. Relax in the shaded comfort of our garden pavilion, surrounded by the laughter of fellow enthusiasts and the soothing melodies of live music.
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No American man has won a grand slam singles title since Andy Roddick at the 2003 US Open - but there is now a chance that drought could end this weekend. An American man is guaranteed to play in the US Open final - a first for a grand slam singles final since 2009 - after US star Frances Tiafoe advanced to the semifinals. His opponent, world No. 9 Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria, retired with an injury in the fourth set of their quarterfinal with Tiafoe leading, 6-3, 6-7 (7-5), 6-3, 4-1.
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The Washington Commanders’ home field now will be known as Northwest Stadium after the team announced an agreement Tuesday with Northwest Federal Credit Union.
The team announced an eight-year deal to rename the place that was known as FedEx Field from 1999 until several months ago. FedEx ended its naming-rights agreement in February, two years before it was set to expire, making it Commanders Field on a temporary basis.
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Every Sunday at Walker Mill Regional Park in Maryland
Practices held one hour prior to games once a week.
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University of Maryland Terps home game!
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Bulldogs fans, get ready for an electrifying volleyball match! Our Bowie State Women Bulldogs are set to take on Morgan State University in a face-off that promises to be intense and thrilling. Our Women Bulldogs have been putting in the work and are prepared to dominate the court. This match is about more than just points – it’s about showcasing our skills, determination, and team spirit. Morgan State may be a strong competitor, but we know our Bulldogs have what it takes to come out on top.
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See website for additional information.
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Get ready for the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo at the Showplace Arena on Friday, September 20th, at 7:00 PM as they celebrate their 40th Anniversary with a third show.
Before the rodeo kicks off, join us for the exclusive Soul Country Music Star DC/Maryland competition pre-show, where two talented Soul Country Music contestants will battle it out for a chance to win $10,000! But that's not all! BPIR attendees will have a shot at winning a stylish and exclusive Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Jacket and VIP tickets for the BPIR in 2025!
Doors open at 6:00 PM, and remember, you must be present to win. Don’t miss out on this electrifying evening of rodeo entertainment and excitement at the BPIRs greatest show on dirt!! Visit online for more information and tickets.
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The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo celebrates and honors Black Cowboys and Cowgirls and their contributions to building the West. We highlight the irrefutable global appeal of Black Cowboys and Cowgirls in the West and the stories behind a sub-culture that is still strong today. BPIR also serves as a cultural event and opportunity for families to enjoy and embrace the cowboy culture while being educated and entertained with reenactments, history highlights, and Western adventure. Visit online for more information and tickets.
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For 77 years the Maryland Horse and Pony Show has been a premier equestrian event. The perfect chance to show indoors before Capital Challenge, Harrisburg and Washington!
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September 26-October 6, 2024
The heart of Capital Challenge has always been about creating a world-class event for the exhibitor, the owner, the breeder of fine sport horses. We strive to shine a spotlight on excellence in our industry. When we built this show we wanted to create a special moment for anyone walking in the ring, and certainly for those walking out with a ribbon. The show’s unique combination of indoor and outdoor arenas and the elaborate championship presentations drew people to Maryland, but it is the high-quality horses that drew people from around the country to compete.
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October 21-October 27, 2024
Founded in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) is one of the most prestigious, competitive and exciting equestrian sporting events in North America. WIHS is an FEI World Cup Qualifier and carries the top CSI5* rating.
Held annually in October, WIHS brings together the finest and most talented horses and riders from across the country and around the world for seven days of top jumper, hunter and equitation competition, equestrian entertainment, and community and charity events.
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September 14th - November 3rd
Welcome to an exciting day at our Fall Festival, packed with fun and perfect for photo ops! Savor delicious treats, refreshing drinks, and shop at our farm markets. Dive into the farm festivities with adorable animals, exhilarating playgrounds, a Trike Track, Barnyard Basketball, Giant Hill Slides, ride-on pig races, and so much more!
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We are open Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm, from the 2nd Sunday in May to the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
Plus, our Special Holiday Market in early December
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Enjoy summer evenings at our new Farmers’ Market in Old Town Bowie (on Railroad Avenue, behind Keller’s Antiques). Beginning on August 7 and continuing every Wednesday through October 30 from 4 to 7 p.m., you can shop for fresh produce, handmade goods, and unique crafts. There will also be food trucks on site. The Market will be held at the City of Bowie Parking Lot on Railroad Avenue.
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The Laurel Farmers’ Market aims to improve the health of our community by offering a place where local farmers and producers can come together to sell fresh produce and other products directly to residents and visitors. We want to support local farming and encourage healthy living. Come to the Laurel Farmers’ Market to enjoy the best fruits, vegetables, and goods from our local growers and makers while helping our community stay healthy and strong.
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The College Park City-University Partnership plans to extend a campus bike path to the Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail.
The $3 million bike lane would run along Campus Drive from the main campus to the intersection with the Trolley Trail near the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute.
Though it’s only a half-mile, it would make College Park much more bikeable, especially for University of Maryland students living in one of the apartment buildings along Route 1.
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