Park and Recreation - Prince Georges County MD

Hands on History: Festival of Lights
2025-12-20 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
Join us for our Hands-On History program, where we will make candles out of real bayberry wax and light them for luck in the New Year! At this special holiday event, explore the local history of candle making and New Year’s traditions among the diverse communities of Maryland. Please note: children 10 & under must have a chaperone (no more than two adults per family).

Regional Textile Showcase & Artists’ Boutique
2025-12-20 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-21 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-22 10:00 - 16:00
Enjoy viewing a variety of fiber mediums by textile artists, contemporary and traditional – quilts, rug hooking, felting, embroidery, needlepoint, crocheting, beading, and more. You can vote for your favorite piece! Are you a fiber artist? Participate and enter your creation! The artists’ boutique is back by popular for interesting gifts! Support local artisans/crafters.

Ages 5+. Free, donations welcomed. Reservations recommended but not required. Drop-ins welcomed!

Michael G. Stewart: Inner Visions
2025-12-20 10:00 - 2026-01-25 17:00
* This exhibition runs Dec. 20, 2025–Jan. 25, 2026, with a public reception on Sun., Jan. 11. *

Michael G. Stewart has always looked at the world in his off-kilter way, and this show presents his unique “Inner Visions.” Rooted in the real, but bordered by the decidedly surreal, Michael’s art is whimsical, weird, and sometimes unnerving. Be his guest as he passes through a slightly cracked lens into a landscape both familiar and out of this world.

A Charlie Brown Christmas with The Eric Byrd Trio
2025-12-20 14:00 - 16:00
Christmastime is here! Montpelier Arts Center and The Eric Byrd Trio celebrate the season with an afternoon filled with festive music from the Peanuts’ special. Comprised of pianist/vocalist Eric Byrd, bassist Bhagwan Khalsa, and drummer Alphonso Young, Jr., the Trio has traveled the world as enthusiastic ambassadors of jazz. Bringing fresh arrangements to these familiar songs, they are sure to put you in a holiday mood. “Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown!”

Hits Different: 5 Under 35 - Artist & Curator Talk
2025-12-20 14:00 - 16:00
* This exhibition runs Nov. 10, 2025–Jan. 3, 2026, with a public reception on Sat., Nov. 15 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., Dec. 20. *

Curated by Emily Fussner, Hits Different: 5 Under 35 spotlights the fresh perspectives and bold creativity of five emerging artists—Milan Warner, Marisa Stratton, Madyha Leghari, MK Bailey, and Ara Koh. This exhibition showcases innovative approaches to material, form, and storytelling, reflecting the dynamic voices shaping the next generation of contemporary art. With a focus on experimentation and personal narrative, Hits Different captures the energy and evolution of young artists redefining the visual landscape.

Keith Kreuger: What You See Is What You Get - Artist & Curator Talk
2025-12-20 14:00 - 16:00
This exhibition runs Nov. 10, 2025-Jan. 3, 2026, with an opening reception on Sat., Nov. 15 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., Dec. 20.

In What You See Is What You Get, artist Keith Kreuger presents a striking collection of found object assemblages that challenge perceptions of art, value, and transformation. Using everyday materials and discarded objects, Kreuger crafts intricate, thought-provoking sculptures that invite viewers to reconsider the beauty and potential of what is often overlooked. Each piece tells a story of reclamation and reinvention, offering a fresh perspective on the power of artistic expression through the art of assemblage.

Holiday Bazaar
2025-12-20 14:00 - 18:00
Join us for a fun filled day with arts & crafts, cookie decorating, stocking stuffing, gifts, refreshments, secret shopping, and pictures with Santa and friends.

Improv 6-week Class
2026-01-06 18:30 - 19:30
Learn the art of improvisation, also known as ‘Silly make ‘em ups!’ Excellent for developing social skills, collaboration skills, and communication skills. Practice accepting other people’s ideas and adding some of your own, speaking specially, paying attention to what you are doing, etc. thorough exercises and short form Improv games.

This class will run from January 6–February 10, 2026 on Tuesday evenings, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Registration will open in mid-November, 2025. Participants must register for the entire class session; there are no drop in rates.

Lunchtime Listening with Just the 2 of Us
2026-01-07 11:00 - 13:00
Looking for an afternoon of soulful, high-energy music? Sit back, relax, and let Ken and Sebrina Morris take you on an unforgettable journey through jazz, R&B, and gospel. With over 20 years of captivating performances, Sebrina’s powerful vocals and Ken’s soulful saxophone create a musical experience that moves and inspires. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic—catch Ken and Sebrina live and let the music take you away!

Tribute to The Music of Stevie Wonder
2026-01-10 20:00 - 22:00
You will be treated to a great evening honoring the music of Stevie Wonder. Enjoy a performance from a catalog of his greatest hits, such as “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours,” “Superstition,” “Isn’t She Lovely,” “Master Blaster,” “Overjoyed,” “Part-Time Lover,” and more. Spread the word and come on out and enjoy this Tribute to the Music of Stevie Wonder.

Michael G. Stewart: Inner Visions - Public Reception
2026-01-11 14:00 - 16:00

Emily Springer: The Holds of Legacy
2026-01-13 10:00 - 2026-03-01 17:00
* This exhibition runs Jan. 13–Mar. 1, with a public reception on Fri., Feb. 20. *

Emily Springer’s sewn tapestries create a space for reflection and conversation about cultural identity, resilience, and the power of storytelling through art. The pieces depict compositions highlighting the generational bonds between Black women. Through their intricate craftsmanship, they are an ode to the historical practice of quilting and its significance to Black culture.

Montpelier Black History Month Exhibition
2026-01-14 10:00 - 2026-03-01 17:00
* This exhibition runs Jan. 14–Mar. 1, with a public reception on Fri., Feb. 20. *

Celebrate Black History Month with Montpelier Arts Center! Featuring works by Anita Carrington, Jeffrey Felten-Green, Angie O’Neal, Lydia Peters, Chris Malone, and Jenathel Shaw, this exhibition showcases the diverse talents of our regional artists. The featured artwork highlights African Americans’ lives, stories, and experiences through painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture, and more.

Get On Up (2014)
2026-01-17 14:00 - 16:00
Get On Up is a biographical film that chronicles the life of James Brown, the Godfather of Soul. The movie explores his childhood and his evolution into one of the most influential musicians in history. The film stars an ensemble cast, featuring Chadwick Boseman as Brown, Nelsan Ellis as Bobby Byrd, Dan Aykroyd as Ben Bart, Viola Davis as Susie Brown, Craig Robinson as Maceo Parker, and Octavia Spencer as Aunt Honey.

Art Exhibit: Luther Wright: American Dreaming
2026-01-19 - 2026-03-08
* This exhibition runs Jan. 19–Mar. 8, with a public reception on Thu., Feb. 19. *

American Dreaming is a poignant exploration of the complex interplay between pursuing financial freedom and the Black experience in America. This series delves into the nuanced relationship between aspiration and the systemic barriers that persist within our society, particularly emphasizing the American lottery system as a symbol of hope in the Black community.

This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from January 19-March 8, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.

Genuine
2026-01-20 - 2026-03-14
This exhibition runs Jan. 20–Mar. 14, with a public reception on Sat., Jan. 24 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., Feb. 21. *

Curated by Asha Elana Casey in honor of Black History Month, Genuine celebrates the depth, resilience, and authenticity of Black artistic expression. Featuring works by Lionel Frazier White III, Khaleelah Harris, Jessica Valoris, and Desmond Beach, this exhibition explores themes of identity, heritage, and truth through a range of materials and perspectives. Genuine highlights the power of storytelling and cultural reflection, offering a compelling tribute to the legacy and future of Black artistry.

Mame Ndiaye: Glimpses of Heaven
2026-01-20 - 2026-03-14
* This exhibition runs Jan. 20-Mar. 14, with an Opening Reception on Sat., Jan. 24 and an Artist & Curator Talk on Sat., Feb. 21. *

In Glimpses of Heaven, Mame Ndiaye invites viewers into a dazzling world of mixed media works that sparkle with vibrancy and imagination. Using glitter as a central medium, Ndiaye creates otherworldly pieces that evoke a sense of transcendence and wonder. Each artwork is a luminous exploration of light, color, and texture, offering fleeting moments of beauty that transport viewers into a dreamlike space. Through Glimpses of Heaven, Ndiaye captures the ephemeral nature of joy and the magic found in the simplest, most radiant elements of life.

Veterans Book Group
2026-01-20 19:00 - 21:00
Active service members and veterans of all eras are invited to join this free, monthly small group reading and discussion dinner series centered around books which relate to military experiences or offer a veteran’s perspective. Veterans Book Group is coordinated statewide by Maryland Humanities and presented locally in partnership with Montpelier Arts Center. Discussions are led by Dr. Karen Arnold, former poet-in-residence at the Arts Center and discussion moderator for multiple literature groups in Baltimore. Dinner and reading materials are provided. Call 301-377-7800 for more information and to register. Spaces are limited; registration is required by Jan. 6, 2026.

Ages 18 & up; FREE; registration required

Runway Rhythms featuring Riverdale Chamber Music: Peter and the Wolf Multilingual Family Concert
2026-01-24 15:00 - 16:30
NOTICE: The Sunday, January 25 Peter and the Wolf Family Chamber Concert has been moved to Saturday, January 24 due to weather. Please contact the museum with any questions.

Join us for a fun, multilingual family concert with the Riverdale Chamber Music Woodwind Quintet! Enjoy the thrilling adventure of Peter and the Wolf, brought to life through classical music. This concert is specially crafted for families and children, offering a vibrant, interactive experience that transcends language barriers. Enjoy refreshments and meet the musicians after the performance. Register in advance to secure your spot! Walk-in spaces will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Includes museum admission.

Genuine - Opening Reception
2026-01-24 17:00 - 20:00 | Lake Arbor Community Center, 10100 Lake Arbor Way, Bowie, MD, 20721, United States
This exhibition runs Jan. 20–Mar. 14, with a public reception on Sat., Jan. 24 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., Feb. 21.

Curated by Asha Elana Casey in honor of Black History Month, Genuine celebrates the depth, resilience, and authenticity of Black artistic expression. Featuring works by Lionel Frazier White III, Khaleelah Harris, Jessica Valoris, and Desmond Beach, this exhibition explores themes of identity, heritage, and truth through a range of materials and perspectives. Genuine highlights the power of storytelling and cultural reflection, offering a compelling tribute to the legacy and future of Black artistry.

Mame Ndiaye: Glimpses of Heaven - Opening Reception
2026-01-24 17:00 - 20:00

Black History Month Exhibition
2026-01-26 - 2026-03-07
Black History Month 2026 Exhibition

Black County, Black History: Preserving, Promoting, and Protecting Black History in Prince George’s County

Exhibition Dates: Monday, January 26 – Saturday, March 7, 2026

Opening Reception: Sunday, February 1, 2026, 2–5 pm (RSVP at blackhistory@pgparks.com)

All ages, FREE

Harmony Hall Arts Center

Black History Month formally began in 1926 with “Negro History Week,” established by historian Carter G. Woodson, a founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). And almost from the beginning, black educators in Prince George’s County were participating in the celebration. By the closing decades of the twentieth century, these educators had been joined by an ever-expanding corps of individuals, community organizations, and governmental units, all dedicated to preserving, promoting, and protecting black history in the county through a variety of efforts. This exhibition details the history of these efforts, chronicling the past, present, and future of this work in Prince George’s County.

This exhibition is curated by the M-NCPPC Black History Program. For additional information, email blackhistory@pgparks.com or call 240-264-3415.

To RSVP for the opening reception, email blackhistory@pgparks.com.

Qrcky: Bereft of Color
2026-01-31 - 2026-03-07
* This exhibition runs Jan. 31–Mar. 7, with a public reception on Sun., Feb. 1. *

Qrcky’s artistic endeavors delve into the interplay between the sensibilities of the Black diaspora and the urban landscapes they inhabit. While the artist draws inspiration from esteemed artists such as Kara Walker and Jean-Michel Basquiat, Qrcky also profoundly influences the surrounding world. Qrcky is captivated by the sensations of movement, the deconstruction and reassembly of surfaces, and the intricate processes of forgetting and remembering that shape our collective consciousness. The artist’s creations profoundly reflect his identity, heritage, and the encompassing tapestry of culture that envelops him.

Patricia Phillips Bowden: Travel Collaged and Painted
2026-01-31 10:00 - 2026-03-08 17:00
* This exhibition runs Jan. 31–Mar. 8, with a public reception on Fri., Feb. 20. *

Primarily an oil painter, Patricia Phillips Bowden discovered a renewed interest in exploring paper, collage, and mixed media during the pandemic. She finds beauty in the old, the worn, and the rusty, and hopes to capture that elegance in her work. As an artist, she strives to maintain a childlike sense of wonder and curiosity toward this fascinating place we call Earth.

Qrcky: Bereft of Color - Public Reception
2026-02-01 14:00 - 16:00

Black History Month Exhibition - Open Reception
2026-02-01 14:00 - 17:00
* This exhibition runs Jan. 26–Mar. 7, with a public reception on Sun., Feb. 1. *

Black History Month 2026 Exhibition

Black County, Black History: Preserving, Promoting, and Protecting Black History in Prince George’s County

Exhibition Dates: Monday, January 26 – Saturday, March 7, 2026

Opening Reception: Sunday, February 1, 2026, 2–5 pm (RSVP at blackhistory@pgparks.com)

All ages, FREE

Harmony Hall Arts Center

Black History Month formally began in 1926 with “Negro History Week,” established by historian Carter G. Woodson, a founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). And almost from the beginning, black educators in Prince George’s County were participating in the celebration. By the closing decades of the twentieth century, these educators had been joined by an ever-expanding corps of individuals, community organizations, and governmental units, all dedicated to preserving, promoting, and protecting black history in the county through a variety of efforts. This exhibition details the history of these efforts, chronicling the past, present, and future of this work in Prince George’s County.

This exhibition is curated by the M-NCPPC Black History Program. For additional information, email blackhistory@pgparks.com or call 240-264-3415.

To RSVP for the opening reception, email blackhistory@pgparks.com.

Black History Month Book and Film Discussion: Erasure and American Fiction - Part 1
2026-02-03 19:00 - 21:00
Join us for a two-part book discussion and film screening featuring Percival Everett’s satirical 2001 novel Erasure and its 2023 film adaptation, the Best Picture-nominated dark comedy American Fiction, starring Jeffrey Wright. The book and film examine (and skewer) the use of Black stereotypes in fiction and the anti-Black stance of the publishing industry.

Lunchtime Listening with Muneer Nasser, Trumpet
2026-02-04 11:00 - 13:00
Celebrate Black History Month with the soulful fusion of Memphis blues, New York fire, and D.C. flavor with the Muneer Nasser Quintet. A master trumpeter, composer, and jazz historian, Nasser brings his deep-rooted passion for jazz to the stage. His latest album, Blue House Session, is a vibrant mix of blues, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and timeless jazz energy. Celebrate Black History Month with an electrifying performance that honors the past while igniting the future of jazz. Don’t miss this unforgettable afternoon of music. Celebrate history. Experience the music.
