Baltimore Sister Cities

baltimoresistercities.org

Baltimore Greek Week – March 28 – April 3, 2016

baltimoregreekweek2016

Join us for the 6th annual Baltimore Greek Week! Celebrate Greek culture and enjoy dining at a discount at Baltimore’s many Greek restaurants and cafes throughout the week. The week ends with a parade on April 3 at 2pm in Baltimore’s Greektown.

Visit Greektown for some great food and fun!

The week’s events include:
• Participating Greek restaurants offer specials/discounts all week. See list of restaurants and menus at www.baltimoregreece.org
• Greek American movies shown for FREE at Hazelwood Inn all week, like Zorba the Greek, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, and more.
• Kentrikon (historical landmark in Greektown) is selling Greek speciality items and artwork.
• Friday April 1, 6:30pm – “The Ikarian Diet” event at Ikaros Restaurant. Enjoy healthy Greek food, music, wine, and learn why people on the Greek island of Ikaria enjoy longevity and great health. Reservations: 410-633-3750
• Sunday April 3, 2pm – Annual Maryland Greek Independence Day Parade in Baltimore’s Greektown, featuring New York Hellenic Philharmonic Orchestra, The Maymidons, and Evzones.

For more information
www.baltimoregreece.org
or call 410-952-2251

Sponsored by Baltimore-Piraeus Sister City Committee & Maryland Greek Independence Day Parade Committee

Xiamen 30th Anniversary Trade & Investment Delegation to Baltimore

In October 2015, friends old and new joined Baltimore-Xiamen Sister City Committee (BXSCC) in celebrating the 30th anniversary of Baltimore’s sister city relationship with Xiamen, China by welcoming 35 businesses and government officials from Xiamen.

The BXSCC hosted two opportunities to meet one-on-one with the delegation, led by Xiamen Vice Mayor Li Dongliang, consisting of 5 government officials, 6 economic development and education leaders, and 18 companies. Members from the delegation represented industries such as construction/building, energy, industrial manufacturing, logistics, health/medical, and food processing.

BXSCC also hosted the 9th Annual China Town Hall at Baltimore City hall in October. Topics:

  • “Chinese Investment in the United States” featuring Former Treasury Secretary Robert E. Rubin, Huntsville, AL Mayor Sheldon A. Day, & Rhodium Group Founding Partner Daniel H. Rosen
  • “A Greater Game: The United States, China, & Russia Redux?” featuring Kissinger Institute on China and the United States Director Robert Daly

More information: bxscc.org/newsandevents

Visit us at Artscape July 15-17!

Visit the Baltimore Sister Cities booth at Artscape, Baltimore’s annual free public arts festival — Friday July 15 through Sunday July 17, 2016

During Artscape, the Baltimore Sister Cities organization will have a booth with fun activities for kids related to wind energy, and information about our sister cities around the world.

As a special attraction on Sunday, July 17, Ms. Lifen Weng will demonstrate and exhibit traditional Chinese painting. Ms. Weng is an exchange teacher at Baltimore Design School from Xiamen, Baltimore’s sister city in China.

Sister Cities booth location:

Booth number E22, on the south side of Mount Royal Avenue, on the overpass over Howard Street, near the MICA main building. See map at the bottom of this page.

Festival website

artscape.org

About Artscape

Artscape is America’s largest free arts festival, attracting 350,000+ attendees over three days. Artscape features 150+ fine artists, fashion designers and craftspeople; visual art exhibits on and off-site, including exhibitions, outdoor sculpture, art cars, photography and the Janet & Walter Sondheim Prize; incredible live concerts on outdoor stages; a full schedule of performing arts including dance, opera, theater, film, experimental music and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra; family events such as hands-on projects, demonstrations, competitions, children’s entertainers and street theater; and a delicious, international menu of food and beverages that is available throughout the festival site.

This year, Artscape’s theme is “outer space” and features many kid’s activities related to science, technology engineering, and math, in combination with art (STEAM).

Map showing the location of Sister Cities booth

Map - BSC booth at Artscape 2016

BSC-Booth-Artscape-2016Kids making wind machines at the Baltimore Sister Cities booth at Artscape 2016

Anniversary celebration at Creative Alliance

September 26, 2015: Continental Bridge - 30th anniversary celebration of the Baltimore-Rotterdam and Baltimore-Xiamen sister city relationships

EXHIBIT: Sept 18 – Oct 4, 2015

Art exhibit runs Sept 18-Oct 4 in the Amalie Rothschild Gallery of the Creative Alliance.

PARTY: Saturday, September 26, 2015

Performances/workshops: 12-5 pm $5
Presentations preceding the reception: 5-6 pm FREE
Art opening reception: 6-8 pm FREE

LOCATION: Creative Alliance

Creative Alliance at the Patterson
3134 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore MD 21224
creativealliance.org

Baltimore Innovation Week
This event is part of Baltimore Innovation Week 2015.

 

About this event

In 2015, BALTIMORE marks the 30 year anniversary of its sister city relationships with ROTTERDAM in the Netherlands and with XIAMEN in China. On Sept 26, there is a daytime celebration with workshops and performances for the whole family with Dutch and Chinese themes, followed by an evening art opening reception / networking event. The art exhibit is on view Sept 18 – Oct 4.

Art exhibition

Rotterdam portion of the exhibit — Works from the Unravel the Code course, a multi-disciplinary and multi institution exploration of contemporary digital fabrication processes rooted in a study of traditional craft practices. This class is a recurring collaboration with students from Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in Baltimore and Willem de Kooning Academy (WdKA) in Rotterdam. By sharing knowledge, research, resources, workshops online and face-to-face meetings, this class infuses new engagements and opportunities for the students on both sides of the ocean. To create a think tank/making lab space, the course is augmented with a NASA research scientist in residence and a local electronic hacker.

Curated by Annet Couwenberg.

Xiamen portion of the exhibit — Several Chinese artists living and working in Xiamen, China, will exhibit selected artworks. The quickly evolving cultural landscape they reflect in their work includes documentation of performance art, installation and photography. Each Xiamen artist in this exhibition presents creative gestures and oblique commentary regarding their rapidly evolving and transforming culture.

This past summer, Baltimore-Xiamen committee member Professor Stephen Bradley mounted an exhibition of his art at Sandao Gallery, Xiamen University. Now, Professor Lin Lin from Xiamen University and Bradley have brought Xiamen artists’ work to Baltimore. In addition,Professor Lin Lin will be an artist/scholar-in-residence at UMBC for two semesters.

Curated by Stephen Bradley.

Sept 26 Daytime performances/workshops include

  • Kung Fu demo & Lion Dance
  • Chinese music, song, and dance
  • Dutch tile art workshop for kids
  • Chinese calligraphy
  • Trash talk: learn about trash & recycling habits in Rotterdam and how it’s different than USA
  • A talk about immigrant experiences in Rotterdam and Baltimore
  • A presentation of the Believe in Music program from Living Classrooms
  • Sister City “ship shape” game
  • Dutch poffertjes
  • Tai chi workshop
  • And more! See schedule on Creative Alliance site
Baltimore-Rotterdam Sister City Committee (BRSCC)
baltimorerotterdam.org
Promotes cooperation, mutual understanding, and friendship between the residents of Baltimore in Maryland, USA and Rotterdam in the Netherlands and supports activities in Baltimore city related to the Netherlands.
Baltimore-Rotterdam Sister City Committee Zustersteden Comite
Baltimore-Xiamen Sister City Committee (BXSCC)
bxscc.org
Promotes business, cultural, educational, health/environmental and other cooperation and exchanges between the cities of Baltimore, Maryland, USA and Xiamen, Fujian, People’s Republic of China and supports activities in Baltimore city related to China and the local Chinese community.
Baltimore-Xiamen Sister City Committee
More information about this event:
Facebook
Press release (PDF)
Press release for the art exhibit (PDF)
Postcard (PDF)
Baltimore’s sister city committees are affiliated with:
The City of Baltimore, Office of the Mayor
Sister Cities International
Visit us at baltimoresistercities.org

Rotterdam photo: Claire Droppert / Rotterdam Image Bank • Xiamen and Baltimore photos: istockphoto • Postcard design: mdesignbaltimore.com

Kawasaki Boy Scouts visit Baltimore in summer 2015

This summer, Crew 3776 of the Baltimore Area Council, Boy Scouts of America is hosting 6 scouts and 6 leaders from the Kawasaki District of the Scout Association of Japan.  This is an exchange program that has been in place between the sister cities of Baltimore and Kawasaki since 1985 (30 years ago). The exchange program is facilitated by the Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee.

The Scouts from Kawasaki arrive in Baltimore on July 24, 2015. On July 25, there is a Welcome Party and 30th Anniversary Celebration at the War Memorial in Baltimore.  The scouts are staying with families in the Baltimore Metropolitan Area and are spending a week at the Broad Creek Memorial Scout Reservation.  After camp, the visitors will spend time with their Host Families, make a day trip to New York City, and complete their visit by hosting a Sayonara Party for all those who made their visit special.  They return to Japan on August 6.

Light City Baltimore Festival 2016

Baltimore is launching a new annual arts festival March 28 – April 3, 2016 called Light City Baltimore. Baltimore invites artists to submit proposals for installations and performances that involve light to be installed around Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Baltimore Sister Cities strongly encourages artists from Baltimore’s sister cities to submit proposals. A jury will evaluate all the submitted proposals and select the winners. Funds will be provided to the winners.

Deadline for proposals is August 31, 2015. 

lightcity.org/call-for-entry/

There will also be a technology innovation conference and events during this week.

lightcity.org/innovation/

Visit us at Artscape Festival July 17-19

THESE EVENTS ARE NOW OVER


Visit the Sister City booth at Artscape festival July 17-19 to learn about our sister cities and enjoy fun cultural activities for kids. Our booth is located in front of the Modell Center (the Lyric Opera House).

Artscape is America’s largest FREE arts festival, held every summer in Baltimore. Artscape features art (artists, exhibitions, outdoor sculpture, art cars, end more); performing arts (live concerts on outdoor stages, dance, opera, theater, film, experimental music, and Baltimore Symphony Orchestra); family events (such as hands-on projects, demonstrations, competitions, children’s entertainers and street theater); and an international menu of food and beverages.

Festival website: artscape.org

Other art activities happening in July

Baltimore Museum of Art hosts FREE workshops for kids with a Van Gogh theme every Sunday afternoon in July, in honor of the 125th anniversary of Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh’s death. This is a collaboration with the Baltimore-Rotterdam Sister City Committee.
Free Family Fun Day schedule

Past Events

August 25 – October 10, 2025

Walking Together (Art Exhibition)

Date: Exhibition on view until October 10, Mondays-Fridays 10am-5pm.
Reception and Art Walk: September 20, at 4-6pm
Location: Civera Gallery, Notre Dame of Maryland University, University Academic Building, 2nd floor, 4701 N. Charles St. Baltimore MD, 21210
Admission: Free
More Information: www.gormleygallery.com/civeragallery

Curated by Joy Davis, ‘Walking Together‘ brings together three Baltimore-based artists, Shaun Champion, Charles Mason III, and kolpeace, in an exploration of identity, memory and cultural transformation. This exhibition at Notre Dame of Maryland University features three of the artists who participated in the Walk On By exhibition and artists exchange exploring the African diaspora in two historic industrial port cities, Baltimore and Rotterdam. ‘Walking Together‘ is a follow-on project to the interactive station designed by Notre Dame University’s Art Therapy faculty and students at last year’s Walk On By exhibition at Creative Alliance in Baltimore.

Promoted by Baltimore-Rotterdam Sister City Committee (BRSCC)


September 12, 2025

Music from Odesa – A Benefit for Ukraine

Date: Friday Sept 12, 7:00 pm
Location: 2640 Space at 2640 Saint Paul St, Baltimore MD 21218
More Information: Buy Tickets Here

Kommuna Lux, the boy band from Odesa Ukraine, performs brings you the heritage music of their beloved hometown Odesa: “Klezmer, Balkan, and Urban Chanson, with a dash of Ukrainian Folk and powered by rocket fuel, Kommuna Lux impacts the crowd with a nostalgic, high-energy Big Band sound from the bygone days of speakeasies and rum runners” Proceeds from this event supports the Rotary E-Club of Ukraine’s humanitarian relief efforts.


September 13, 2025

A Baltimorean in Egypt

Date: Saturday, September 13, 12-1:30 pm
Location: 400 Cathedral St, Baltimore MD
Admission: Free
More Information: www.baltimoreegypt.org

Join us at Enoch Pratt Library in Baltimore on September 13, 2025 for a talk by Meg Swaney,
Assistant Curator of Exhibitions & Teaching at the Johns Hopkins Archaeological Museum. The Cohen Collection includes  nearly 700 objects, collected  by Baltimore banker, Col. Mendes Israel Cohen, during his four-month journey through Egypt in 1832.
​
RSVP  to 
davol.jon@gmail.com

Organized by Baltimore-Luxor-Alexandria Sister City Committee.


September 15–19, 2025

2025 U.S.–Japan Sister Cities Summit

The 2025 U.S.-Japan Sister Cities Summit (September 16-19, 2025) hosted by Sister Cities International is a milestone event celebrating the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Japan. The summit will bring together 600+ bilateral stakeholders to inspire collaboration, explore new partnerships, and empower the next generation of global leaders. All 460 U.S.-Japan Sister City partners, elected officials, citizen diplomats, and volunteers are invited to the City of Izumisano, Osaka Prefecture under the theme “Celebrating our Legacies, Empowering our Future.”

More information: sistercities.org/sci-japan


September 19, 2025

Gardens for Peace

Date: Friday Sept 19, 9:30 am – 11:00 am
Location: Towson University’s Asian Arts & Culture Center, 7700 Osler Drive Towson, MD 21204
Admission: Free
More Information: RSVP Link

Kick-off the new school year by cultivating a culture of friendship and community! Join a ceremonial raking of the Japanese word for peace (heiwa) in Asian Arts & Culture Center’s Asian Garden, while collectively envisioning and promoting peace with others. Recognize the International Day of Peace with 27 other Asian Gardens nationwide through Gardens for Peace (G4P) which brings people together to advocate for unity.

Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee is a partner for this event.


September 20, 2025

Taste of Japan

Date: Saturday, September 20, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Location: Elton Branch of the Cecil County Public Library
Elkton Meeting Room
301 Newark Avenue, Elkton, MD 21921
Admission: Free
More Information: www.bkscc.org/news-events/taste-of-japan

Join us for a celebration of Japanese culture and traditions! This event brings the rich traditions of Japan to life through engaging activities, live performances, and food sampling the whole family can enjoy. All ages are welcome—come explore, learn, and celebrate together! Program includes: Taiko Drumming, Kamishibai Storytelling, Jujutsu Demonstration, Kimono Fashion + Dressing Demonstration, Shakuhachi performance-Bamboo flute.

Co-hosted by Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee.


September 27, 2025

Japan Film Program

The Funeral (お葬式) 1984, dir. by Juzo Itami

Enjoy this comedy film about a family’s preparations for a suddenly deceased husband and father. The Funeral was Juzo Itami’s feature film debut, garnering five Japanese Academy Awards in 1985.

Dates: Saturday, September 27th, 1:00 pm
Location: Towson University’s Center for the Arts, Room CA #2032
Admission: Free; advance registration required.
More Information: https://www.bkscc.org/news-events/japan-film-program

Hosted by Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee in partnership with Towson University’s Asian Arts & Culture Center.


September 27-28, 2025

Ukrainian Festival

Dates: Saturday, September 27, 12-8pm & Sunday, September 28, 12-6pm (Rain or Shine)
Location: St Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church, 2400 Eastern Avenue and 500 S. Montford Avenue, Baltimore
Admission: Free
More Information: www.stmichaelukrainiancatholicbaltimore.org

The 48th annual Ukrainian Festival celebrates the culture and heritage of Ukraine, held on the grounds of St Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church. The festival hosts traditional dancers, musicians, singers and other entertainment with an exquisite selection of Ukrainian Food, Ukrainian Beer Garden, Novelty Vendors, Art. and Children’s Area. Ukrainian food is for sale in the kitchen in the lower church hall. This year’s festival coincides with 50th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Odesa in Ukraine and Baltimore in the USA.

Promoted by Baltimore-Odesa Sister City Committee.


October 6-10, 2025

Planetary Health conference in Rotterdam

Faculty and staff from Johns Hopkins Institute for Planetary Health (JHIPH) and a Baltimore City delegation traveled to Rotterdam in October 2025 for a research trip, to attend the international Planetary Health Alliance’s Annual Meeting (PHAM) and to participate in a custom program of meetings and site visits in Rotterdam and Delft on themes of multi-functional nature-based solutions, water storage, flood resilience, public health, and more — to bring back ideas and inspiration for a healthier and more resilient future in Baltimore. More information: About the Baltimore delegation to Rotterdam

Held every 18 months, the Planetary Health Annual Meeting aims to connect the global Planetary Health community, seek solutions for the grand challenges facing humanity, and provide tools and drivers to support systemic change. The theme of this year’s conference is “Planetary Health for All and In All: Boosting urgency and agency for systems change.” It is co-hosted by Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management of the Erasmus University Rotterdam and the Planetary Health Alliance (PHA). PHA’s Secretariat is located at Johns Hopkins University’s campus in Washington, DC. Johns Hopkins has an Institute for Planetary Health in Baltimore city. More information: Planetary health conference | Planetary Health Alliance | Johns Hopkins Institute for Planetary Health

Promoted by Baltimore-Rotterdam Sister City Committee.


October 8, 2025

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra: Send Off Concert 

Date: Wednesday, October 8th
Time: 5:00 pm arrival, 5:30 – 6:15 pm program; 6:15 pm refreshments
Location: Baltimore City Hall Rotunda
100 Holliday St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Admission: Free

The BXSCC is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Baltimore-Xiamen relationship this year. 

This fall, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is sending a delegation of five musicians to China to represent the Baltimore Symphony, City of Baltimore, and State of Maryland. In addition to special concerts and cultural exchanges in Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Xi’an, the tour includes a performance in Xiamen celebrating the long-standing sister city relationship between Xiamen and Baltimore.

The pleasure of your company is requested for a special Send Off Concert hosted at Baltimore City Hall. Join us for a preview of the concert program and remarks from special guests.

Guests are welcome. All attendees will need to present government-issued identification to gain entry to Baltimore City Hall.

For more information about the BSO and their international tour, visit BSOmusic.org.

Promoted by Baltimore-Xiamen Sister City Committee.


October 12, 2025

Japan Day (Fall Festival)

Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Location: 8045 Harriet Tubman Ln, Columbia, MD 21044

Did you know that the State of Maryland and Kanagawa Prefecture in Japan have had a Sister State Relationship for more than 40 years? Join us to explore Japanese culture, performances, and food at Japan Day. This Fall Festival is hosted by the Maryland and Kanagawa Sister State committees along with Misako Ballet, Matcha Time Gift Shop, and the Japanese Area at UMBC.

More information: Event Tickets | BKSCC Facebook Page

Promoted by Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee.


October 25, 2025

Japan Film Program

Tampopo (タンポポ) 1985, dir. by Juzo Itami

A comedy film called the first “ramen Western”, a play on the term spaghetti Western. It received two Japanese Academy awards, and several awards in the United States.

Dates: Saturday, October 25th, 1:00 pm
Location: TBD
Admission: Free; advance registration required.
More Information: https://www.bkscc.org/news-events/japan-film-program

Hosted by Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee in partnership with Towson University’s Asian Arts & Culture Center.


November 15, 2025

Japan Film Program

A Story from Chikamatsu (近松物語) 1954, dir. by Kenji Mizoguchi

Dates: Saturday, November 15th, 1:00 pm
Location: Towson University’s Center for the Arts, Room CA #2032
Admission: Free; advance registration required.
More Information: https://www.bkscc.org/news-events/japan-film-program

In this 1954 historical drama, an Edo-period Kyoto scroll maker, his apprentice, wife, and servant spin a web of star-crossed romance, betrayal, and compromised morality. Based on a classic eighteenth-century Japanese bunraku puppet-theater drama by the acclaimed Chikamatsu Monzaemon, Kenji Mizoguchi’s stunning film masterfully portrays the fears, frustrations, hopes and vulnerabilities of the story’s characters.

Hosted by Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee in partnership with Towson University’s Asian Arts & Culture Center.


December 3, 2025

Maryland State of The Ports & Global Flavor Showcase

Dates: Wednesday, December 3, 4:00 – 7:30pm
Location: Baltimore Museum of Industry
Admission: $95.00
More Information: wtci.org/events/state-of-the-ports


The State of the Ports & Global Flavor Showcase offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into the critical role Maryland’s ports play in driving economic growth, global trade, and regional development. Hosted at the Port of Baltimore, this annual event convenes business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss the latest strategies, challenges, and opportunities shaping international commerce. Complementing these discussions is the Global Flavor Showcase, where attendees can experience curated wines and cuisine from around the world—highlighting the cultural and economic connections that trade makes possible. This distinguished gathering provides both valuable knowledge and meaningful networking in an engaging and globally focused setting.

The Embassy of Japan and the Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee are hosting tables at this event.


January 17, 2026

Film screening: Spring Dreams (春の夢 Haru no Yume)

Image from the Spring Dreams film (Japan Film Program 2026)

Time: 1pm ET
Location: Towson University Center for the Arts, Art Lecture Hall, Room 2032, 7700 Osler Drive, Towson, MD 21204

Admission: Free; advance registration required. To register, go to the film program webpage and click the RSVP link next to the film.

This 1960 satirical comedy explores class, greed, love and selfishness. A sweet potato vendor has a stroke in the home of the wealthy and dysfunctional Okudaira family. While he recuperates there, “well-wishers” from his tenement house drop in to visit with ulterior motives. (color) Directed by Keisuke Kinoshita. 126 minutes.

The Japan Film Program is organized by the Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee (BKSCC) in partnership with Towson University College of Fine Arts and Communication (COFAC) Dean’s Office , along with the Asian Arts & Culture Center at Towson University. Films are hosted by and from the private collection of Reed Hessler, longtime host on WBJC.


January 22, 2026

Baltimore Sister Cities Meet & Greet

Baltimore Sister Cities logo. Meet and Greet - Jan 22, 2026 6-8pm (Rain or Shine) R.House, 301 W 29th St, Baltimore. Mingle with our volunteers and friends! Enjoy appetizers from around the world. (Image includes a list of Baltimore's sister cities)

Time: 5:30-7:30pm (people are welcome to stay longer if they’d like)
Location: R.House, 301 West 29th Street, Baltimore MD 21211
Admission: Free
No RSVP needed – just show up!

Join us January 22 at our Meet & Greet get-together to ring in the new year! We’re excited to bring together friends, old and new, to celebrate our city’s diverse cultures and connections. This in-person gathering promises an evening filled with fun, laughter, and community spirit. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with fellow Baltimoreans, make lasting memories, and find out more about our sister cities and our activities at this informal get-together. Mark your calendars and get ready for a night of good vibes, great food, and amazing company. Spread the word to others in your network and invite them to come, too!

Baltimore Sister Cities will provide limited appetizers; a variety of dinner and beverage options are available for purchase at this venue.

More information: baltimoresistercities.org/meetgreet2026


September 21, 2025 – March 1, 2026

The Way of Nature: Art from Japan, China, and Korea

Exhibition at the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA)
For centuries, East Asian cultures have considered human life as part of a much larger system that encompasses the natural world. More than 40 artworks from Japan, China, and Korea demonstrate a way of living where mountains and seas, animals—both wild and supernatural—and plant life and insects are symbolically meaningful and historically pervasive in visual culture. The objects range from delicate 13th-century porcelain to a luminous 18th-century embroidered silk Buddhist Priest’s Robe and large-scale 20th-century photography. Collectively, these works provide a sense of the impulse to fully experience the natural world, as foundational to our existence, as impacted by human life, and as an enduring metaphor for our survival.

More information: artbma.org/exhibition/the-way-of-nature-art-from-japan-china-and-korea


February 15, 2025 – March 1, 2026

Lunar New Year Arts Festival


Location: Vollmer Center, Cylburn Arboretum, 4915 Greenspring Avenue
Admission: Free

Celebrate the rich traditions and themes of the Lunar New Year and Asian and Asian American communities and welcome in the Year of the Horse (the zodiac symbol that embodies confidence, power, joy, freedom, energy, and perseverance) with a series of community events. The public will enjoy a diverse array of music, dance, visual art, spoken word, markets, and other cultural activities. This event is a platform to honor and share the traditions of many Asian and Asian American cultures and communities that call our area home.
Events include:

  • Artists Market and Resource Fair on February 28, 12-4pm
  • Art exhibition by Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) artists February 15–28 (with an opening reception on February 15)
  • Celebration of Talent with performing artists on February 22, 12-3pm

More information:
www.eventbrite.com/e/lunar-new-year-celebration-of-talent-tickets
www.towson.edu/campus/artsculture/centers/asianarts/events/

Presented by National Association of Asian American Professionals Baltimore Chapter (NAAAP Baltimore), Maryland 250, Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives, Governor’s Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission, Towson University’s Asian Arts & Culture Center (AA&CC), Cylburn Arboretum Friends, and Baltimore Rec and Parks.



February 21, 2026

Lunar New Year at the Walters Art Museum

Date/time: Saturday February 21, 2026 at 11am – 4pm ET (Snoe date: February 22)
Location: Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21201
Admission: Free (advance registration is required)
More information & to register: thewalters.org/experience/programs/lny/

Whether you were born in the year of the horse, the ox, or the monkey, we encourage you to celebrate Lunar New Year at the Walters Art Museum! This year’s festival welcomes the year of the horse, which represents the seventh year of the 12-year Lunar calendar cycle. Visitors of all ages will enjoy a day of art-making, photo booth fun, food, performances by Baltimore Chinese School, Korean Culture and Art of Maryland, Yong Han Lion Dance Troupe, storytime sessions, and more! Christian Oh, chair of Baltimore-Changwon Sister City Committee, is emceeing this event, and the the committee is providing performers.

Baltimore-Changwon Sister City Committee (BCSCC) is a partner in this event.


February 25, 2026

Meet Baltimore Sister Cities at the Legislative Reception hosted by Maryland Sister States

MD Sister States Legislative Reception Feb 25, 2026 - Exploring Maryland's Citizen Diplomacy. Background of image is shapes in the color of Maryland's flag (red, white, yellow, black). In the foregound are photos from previous years' receptions showing group photos and a music and dance event.

Time: 5:30-8pm ET
Location: Miller Senate Building, Annapolis, MD
To RSVP: Eventbrite page

This annual event brings an international flavor to Annapolis, showcasing the relationships, food, culture, connections, and the impact of Maryland’s citizen diplomacy. The event is held during Maryland’s General Assembly’s annual legislative session; it increases awareness among legislators of the programs and activities of the Maryland Sister States, and the opportunities that they and their constituents have to participate.

Baltimore Sister Cities, Maryland Sister States, Sister Cities International, and Montgomery County Sister Cities have tables at this event. Stop by their tables to find out more about what they do and about their sister regions around the world!

Organized by Maryland Sister States in partnership with the Maryland Secretary of State International Division.


February 25, 2026

NAMBA: A Japanese American’s Incarceration and Life of Resilience (film screening)

NAMBA film poster. Photos is from SNF Parkway website.

Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2026
Time: 7pm ET (45 minute film, followed by Q&A)
Location: SNF Parkway, 5 West North Ave, Baltimore, MD 21201
Admission: Free
More information: parkway.eventive.org/films/698bd4aacfc13329f508b8b2

85 years ago in February, President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, incarcerating all Japanese Americans on the West Coast. May Namba was one of the 125,000 people who were forced into government camps. They were two-thirds born citizens and one-third immigrants to the U.S. The film NAMBA shows May’s granddaughter unpacking the experience and thinking about what it means for their family and country today. A Q&A with filmmaker, Emily Hanako Momohara follows the screening.

Sponsored by Maryland Institute College of Art, DC Chapter Japanese American Citizens League, and Asian Arts & Culture Center of Towson University.


March 1, 2026

Closing Program for the The Way of Nature: Art from Japan, China, and Korea

Two Samulnori percussionists performing outdoors, seated in front of their drums, on steps. Photo is from Baltimore Museum of Art.

Date: March 1, 2026
Time: 1-4pm ET
Location: Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, MD 21218
More information: artbma.org/event/closing-program-the-way-of-nature-art-from-japan-china-and-korea

A special closing program on the last day of The Way of Nature: Art from Japan, China, and Korea exhibition, featuring:

  • An outdoor performance and interactive demonstration of Samulnori, a genre of traditional Korean percussion music, by Washington Samulnori
  • Learn about traditional Korean crafts with the Korean Cultural Center, Washington, D.C.
  • In-gallery guided exploration and Experiential Art Making with artist and scientist Se Jong Cho and Frances Klapthor, BMA Associate Curator of Asian Art, The Way of Nature: Art from Japan, China, and Korea
  • “Sunday Shorts” quick museum tour

This program is presented by Baltimore Museum of Art in partnership with the Korean Cultural Center, Washington, D.C. 


March 1, 2026

Building Baltimore: A Talk on Immigration and Opportunity by Jack Burkert

Time: 2-3pm ET
Location: Garrett-Jacobs Mansion (Engineers Club), 11 West Mount Vernon Place, Baltimore MD 21201
Admission: $10-$15
More information: baltimoreheritage.org/event/building-baltimore-a-talk-on-immigration-and-opportunity-by-jack-burkert/

For almost two million people, Baltimore was the destination that promised a new life, hope and opportunity. Beginning in earnest in the 18th century, accelerating through the19th, immigrants provided the labor force necessary for Baltimore to become an industrial powerhouse. Early arrivals endured often tortuous Atlantic crossings under sail. Later steam powered ships sped the trip, but steerage accommodation offered little improvement to time spent at sea. Who were these people? Where were they from? Why did they abandon their homes? On March 1, join Baltimore historian Jack Burkert to explore immigration into Baltimore.

Hosted by Baltimore Heritage.


March 6, 2026

Asia North 2026 – Call for Art – Deadline

The Asia North 2026 exhibition committee invites artists to submit artworks that explore the many facets of hospitality—a core value rooted in respect, ritual, and community for many of us who grew up in APIMEDA (Asian Pacific Islander Middle Eastern Desi American) households. Considering hospitality as a malleable practice, the organizers ask that submitted works address the ways in which hospitality beckons us to prioritize the care of others, create safe spaces for exchange, and reinforce/redefine cultural traditions. The organizers invite works from across mediums that convey the nuances of what it means to be “hospitable” across the greater Baltimore and DMV regions today. The exhibition will feature works from guest artists and from this open call for art and will be installed in the SNF Parkway Theatre and Currency Studio throughout the month of May.

More information and to apply

Deadline for entries: March 6.


March 13–21, 2026

Architecture study trip to Rotterdam

Under the leadership of Professor Cristina Murphy, students and faculty from Morgan State University School of Architecture + Planning (SA+P) and design professionals travel again to Rotterdam in March 2026. Program includes design workshops, visits to design firms, seminars, and city tours in Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Amsterdam. Environmental sustainability, community-centered design, and urban resilience are key themes for this year’s trip. More information on AIA Baltimore website

Supported by Baltimore-Rotterdam Sister City Committee (BRSCC).


March 14, 2026

Film screening: The Ceremony (儀式 Gishiki)

Image from The Ceremony film (Japan Film Program 2026)

Time: 1pm ET
Location: Towson University Center for the Arts, Art Lecture Hall, Room 2032, 7700 Osler Drive, Towson, MD 21204
.
Admission: Free; advance registration required. To register, go to the film program webpage and click the RSVP link next to the film.

Funerals without bodies. Burials without funerals. Marriages without brides. This 1971 epic drama revolves around twenty-five years of weddings, funerals, and incest of the Sakurada clan and their intergenerational conflicts which mirror Japan’s post-war fall from grace. (color) Directed by Nagisa Oshima. 123 minutes.

The Japan Film Program is organized by the Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee (BKSCC) in partnership with Towson University College of Fine Arts and Communication (COFAC) Dean’s Office, along with the Asian Arts & Culture Center at Towson University. Films are hosted by and from the private collection of Reed Hessler, longtime host on WBJC.


March 28, 2026

Hanami: Spring flower viewing and community picnic

Cartoon graphic of a picnic underneath a pink cherry tree. Name, date., and location of the event.

Time: 1-4pm ET
Location: Fort McHenry (East Grove), 2400 E. Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230
Admission: Free to attend; advance RSVP required

Join the Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee in celebrating the arrival of spring beneath a canopy of pink blossoms under the cherry blossom grove at historic Fort McHenry!

Bring your blanket, a picnic, and your cultural curiosity. Come to learn about this wonderful Japanese tradition of Hanami (spring-time flower viewing) underneath beautiful cherry blossoms. We will celebrate with food, kites, lawn games, outdoor painting, and J-pop music.

More information & to RSVP: www.bkscc.org/news-events/hanami-2026

The event is free with RSVP ticket. Bring your own picnic.

You can park in the Fort McHenry parking lot and walk through the Visitor’s Center to reach the East Lawn Cherry Tree Grove.

This annual event is organized by Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee (BKSCC).

April 10, 2026

Arab American Heritage Month Celebration

Time: 6-8pm
Location: Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 S Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
More info & to register

Join us in Celebrating Arab American Heritage Month in Gaithersburg! This special event is free and open to the public, offering a wonderful opportunity to honor Arab American culture, heritage, and contributions to our community. The event includes a fashion show and cultural display tables.

The Baltimore-Luxor-Alexandria Sister City Committee will have a table at this event.

Event is hosted by the Office of Community Partnerships (OCP), Arab Americans of Montgomery County, the City of Gaithersburg Multicultural Affairs Committee, and Middle Eastern American Advisory Group (MEAAG).

Japanese Film: House (Hausu)

Time: 9pm ET
Location: SNF Parkway Theatre, 5 W. North Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21201
Room: Parkway 1. Part of Maryland Film Festival 2026
More information & tickets: Maryland Film Festival website

The one-of-a-kind cult classic HOUSE from 1977 invades the Maryland Film Festival for a special presentation on the big screen. Part psychedelic carnival ride, part snapshot of spiritual malaise in post-war Japan, HOUSE is a genre-defying horror movie, Screening includes the premorer of a new short documentary ”A TAPE: The American History of Nobuhiko Obayashi’s HOUSE” and filmmaker discussion. Come early to mingle in the Parkway Lounge and connect with local organizations, HOUSE fanatics and 1970’s Japanese rock selections specially curated by WFMU DJ Chris Crash!


April 19, 2026

Kōdō 香道 : The Way of Fragrance

Kōdō is a classical Japanese art form: the art of appreciating Japanese incense. Baltimore-Kawasaki Sister City Committee is partnering with Johns Hopkins University’s JASA (Japanese American Student Association) for a special private workshop on April 19 at the Johns Hopkins University campus in Baltimore. A trained expert, Nishinari-san, will visit the campus to give a talk on Kodo —”the way of the scent” — helping participants appreciate incense and focus on “listening” to the aroma of aromatic woods. The event is by invitation only.


April 23, 2026

B’more Taiko and Arugakki performance at Patterson Park

Members of BmoreTaiko (Japanese-style drumming group) standing next to their drums, with hands raised, holding drumming sticks in their hands.

Time: 6pm
Location: Cedar House at Patterson Park in Baltimore
Admission: Free

Arugakki (Kris Bergstrom and Minh Ngyuen) present their newest production on tour: Tricky Left. Over three years in the making, “Tricky Left” is a dynamic and emotional powerhouse of original music and choreography, featuring taiko, percussion, synthesizers, and home-made instruments enmeshed with movement.

Baltimore’s own B’more Taiko (photo above) is performing with Arugakki. B’more Taiko is a Baltimore-based group dedicated to Japanese group drumming (kumi daiko style), that fosters community and fun. Carissa Aoki and Kate Megineux, co-founders, have been artists-in-residence with Making Space in Baltimore since 2024, where they focus on Japanese and Japanese-American traditions and offer classes and workshops.

Pre-Concert Workshop: The night before the performance, Kris and Minh will be giving a workshop at Making Space in Baltimore on Kris’s composition “Jack Bazaar,” featuring B’more Taiko’s performing ensemble, who are midway through learning the piece. 

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