May Day Weekend in Annapolis

a>

I see on my calendar that May first is soon approaching which means time to think about crafting a May Basket, or if you are too lazy to make one, at least a grand weekend to admire other people’s May Baskets. But seriously, even if you live outside of the Historic District Eastport, or other neighborhoods where you can enter your creation in a May Basket competition, at the very least a May basket will make your home look more festive and heralds the start of balmy warm weather and a profusion of flowers in local gardens. The Old Annapolis Towne Club contest will be judged between 10:00 a.m. and noon. If you are lucky to be named a winner, you’ll be invited to a special Garden Club Tea. Lots of ribbons, a handsome basket, and well chosen local flowering shrubs and seasonal flowers are ingredients that will lead you to victory.
Other great events that coincide with admiring the May Baskets is the 5K Kidwalk through Annapolis to raise money for disadvantaged Anne Arundel County children. The event, which begins at the Naval Academy goes from 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Six Annapolis charities (Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Light House Homeless Shelter, Anne Arundel CASA, Vision Workshops, Box of Rain, We Care & Friends) have partnered together to create KIDWALK, a fundraising event to benefit disadvantaged children living in Anne Arundel County. This 5K walk through Annapolis follows a route through Clay Street, up West Street past the Light House homeless Shelter, down Smithville Road to the Boys & Girls Club, and then finishing back at the Stadium. This walk is for families, youth groups, community organizations, companies, and caring individuals. Festivities for children include music from a variety of local bands and artists, food from local restaurants, face painting, moon bounce, and many local vendors selling their wares. For more information call 410-263-4251
In the early evening, if your budget allows, consider attending Pacatinis + Plants = Party to benefit for Historic Annapolis Foundation at the Paca House and Gardens. Call 410-626-1033.

Sunday is the restarting of two Farmer’s Market. Morning. starting at 8:00 a.m. visit the FreshFarm Market in downtown Annapolis in the Fawcett parking lot, and starting at 11:00 a.m. drive to Westfield Mall and in the parking lot near Sears Automotive, local farmers will be selling their wares til 3:00 p.m.. Local items will include crafts, vegetables, meats, and baked goods. The downtown market closes at noon, just when you should start heading up the hill towards Church Circle for another festival.
The first Sunday festival of the season, party with friends or wander by yourself at the monthly warm weather street festival on inner West Street. Last weekend I attended the Maryland Avenue Street festival and this festival is sure to be just as fun with music, arts, crafts, and outside seating at adjacent restaurants.