8/6-7: MOONRISE FESTIVAL
Much to the delight of lovers of electronic dance music (EDM), the annual two-day live-music blowout, known for bringing the best of the genre (and thousands of ravers) to Baltimore, heads back to Pimlico Race Course this month. Starring headliners Fisher (“Ya Kidding”), Tiësto (“The Motto”), and Zedd (“Stay,” with pop singer Alessia Cara, and “Clarity,” featuring Foxes), this year’s long-awaited Moonrise brings a whopping 40-plus acts (think the likes of AC Slater, Cheat Codes, Canabliss, and Liquid Stranger) to the fabled horse track.
“After a three year hiatus, we’re excited to bring [Moonrise] back to Pimlico Race Course this August and build upon this amazing festival’s success as we launch into the next phase of spreading love for our culture on the East Coast,” said Pasquale Rotella, CEO and founder of event company Insomniac, who shared the news on Instagram this past spring. “It’s an honor to continue the legacy and work with friends who share the same love and respect for the rave scene and its roots.” Pimlico Race Course. Times vary. $129-229.
8/1: F.O.G.: MONSTER MASH
Join Blue Water Baltimore at Enoch Pratt to learn about the F.O.G. (fats, oils, and greases) monsters causing blockages in pipes and storm drains. Enoch Pratt Free Library, Patterson Park Branch. 1 p.m.
8/3: WRITER’S LIVE! D. WATKINS
Bestselling Baltimore author D. Watkins talks his new book, Black Boy Smile, at Enoch Pratt Library’s central branch. Enoch Pratt Free Library. 7 p.m.
8/4: BALTIMORE MINIFEST
This music and arts festival brings national and local acts (think everyone from Fari X to MoonManFlo) together for one evening on East Cross Street. The 8×10. 6 p.m. $23.
8/4: MAREN MORRIS
To promote her latest album, Humble Quest, the pop and country queen hits Merriweather Post Pavilion, joined by folk artist Joy Oladokun. Merriweather Post Pavilion. 8 p.m. $45-125.
8/5-7: YACHT ROCKET!
Fluid Movement’s 70-plus swimmers take their synchronized ballet routine (complete with throwback tunes, space telescopes, and Captain Neil Tennille’s titular contraption, held together by macrame and bubble gum) to local pools. Riverside and Patterson Park pools. Times vary. $10-20.
8/6: CARIFESTA MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL
DJ G-Nice and Suzy Q play host to this Carribean-themed festival, which brings face paint, snow cones, Afrobeats, and island eats to Laurel. Granville Gude Park. 12-8 p.m.
8/6: CASEY CARES 5K WALK/RUN
In its 13th year, this race, which raises funds for the families of critically ill children, has adopted a new venue at the Maryland Zoo. Compete on foot, enjoy refreshments, score a T-shirt, and fla-mingle with your favorite animals. Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. 8-10 a.m. $10-40.
8/6: COMMUNITY PLANT SWAP
Bring a bloom or two out to the gated lot at Enoch Pratt Library’s Walbrook Branch, where fellow plant parents await. Plus, take a brand new leafy best friend home. Enoch Pratt Free Library. 11 a.m.