The CIAA’s annual basketball tournament is like a weeklong holiday for Baltimore natives — or just people who love Black culture and college ball. There are plenty of associated events this weekend for fans, as well as a number of activities happening for those who are feeling less sporty. Whether you want to celebrate CIAA’s Fan Fest, kick off St. Patrick’s Day early or play a live version of “Wheel of Fortune,” we’ve got you covered.
Thursday, Feb. 29
After Tournament Late-Night Cruise
After sitting down and watching hoops all day, you’ll probably want to have a little more active fun. With the purchase of a ticket for this late-night cruise, you can enjoy live DJs playing the latest music, a full bar and food while cruising the Inner Harbor.
Time: 11 p.m.
Location: 561 Light St.
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Cost: Tickets are $45.
Family friendly? No, you must be at least 21 years old to attend.
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Friday, March 1
Desi Banks
Popular actor and social media influencer Desi Banks is continuing to cement himself as one of the next great stand-up comedians. Known for his hilarious clips on social media, Banks will show you what the hype is all about on his latest “Purpose Chaser” tour stop.
Time: Doors open at 7 p.m., event starts at 8.
Location: Lyric Baltimore (140 W. Mount Royal Ave.)
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Cost: Tickets start at $39.
Family friendly? The show does not appear to have an age limit, but we would probably recommend leaving the kids at home for this one.
Guinness St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations
The Guinness Open Gate Brewery is kicking off its monthlong St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with a variety of activities including guided tours and tastings, paint and pint events, and more. It all kicks off this weekend with a beer dinner. The four-course dinner, created in collaboration with Sean Hunter, the executive chef of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, will be preceded by beer samples and canapes.
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Guinness Open Gate Brewery (5001 Washington Blvd. in Halethorpe)
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Cost: Ticket prices range depending on which events you want to attend, but the beer dinner is $134.09 per person.
Family friendly? We wouldn’t recommend bringing the kids out while you’re trying to enjoy some nice beer.
Saturday, March 2
Grown & Sexy Music Fest
Baltimore’s own Dru Hill will be joined by Maryland native Tamar Braxton, supergroup Jagged Edge and rising sensation Coco Jones for a special night of music. Be prepared for a night of greatest hits as the performers mix old-school R&B with some current flavor.
Time: 8 p.m.
Location: Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena (1000 Hilltop Circle)
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Cost: Tickets start at $59.50.
Family friendly? Yes, you need to bring your children to educate them on some good R&B music.
CIAA Fan Fest 2024
CIAA Fan Fest is a two-day event created to coincide with tournament week, where competitors, their families and fans can enjoy music, food and dancing. There will be live concerts step shows, a battle of the bands and more.
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Baltimore Convention Center (1 W. Pratt St.)
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Cost: Free with registration.
Family friendly? Yes.
‘She Did It’ Women’s History Month Event & Market
Checkerspot Brewing founder Judy Neff is kicking off Women’s History Month with a market of other women-owned businesses and a release party for two collaboration beers. One is a historical recreation of a cream stout; the other a champagne-y session ale brewed with lemon. The day will also feature live music and remarks from Baltimore City Councilwoman Phylicia Porter.
Time: 12 p.m.
Location: Checkerspot Brewing (1421 Ridgely St.)
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Cost: Free.
Family friendly? Yes.
Sunday, March 3
Wheel of Fortune LIVE!
Local fans of the game show “Wheel of Fortune” have the chance to participate in a live stage show. Fans in the audience are randomly selected to buy vowels and spin a replica of the wheel to win real-life prizes, from trips to Paris to thousands in cash.
Time: Doors open at 6:30 p.m., event starts at 7:30
Location: Lyric Baltimore (140 W. Mount Royal Ave.)
Cost: Tickets start at $35.
Family friendly? Yes.
Maryland Home & Garden + Craft Show
If you’re having spring fever, then make sure you’re at the Timonium Fairgrounds this weekend. The Maryland Home & Garden show will have several guest speakers, 10 gardens, 400 exhibitors and much more for all your decorating and planting needs.
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Timonium Fairgrounds (2200 York Road in Timonium)
Cost: Ticket prices vary.
Family friendly? Yes.
Just announced
Baltimore Book Festival
After a four-year hiatus, the Baltimore Book Festival will return from Sept. 27-29. It will be the 25th anniversary of the event, which will take place along Waverly’s main street.
Baltimore Banner reporter Cody Boteler contributed to this story.
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