Park and Recreation - Prince Georges County MD

African Dance Master Class with Dallas Black Dance Theatre
2026-04-23 19:45 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Dancers learn a mixture of regional dances of Africa from the professionals of Dallas Black Dance Theatre. Women/girls can wear a lappa (two yards of African print fabric to be wrapped around the waist). Spaces are limited; advanced registration is recommended. Tickets $20 for participants, $10 for observers.

Dallas Black Dance Theatre (School Groups Only)
2026-04-24 10:30 - 11:45
Middle & High School students can enjoy an abbreviated performance from the acclaimed Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT), including a brief talkback after the show. For nearly 50 years, DBDT has mesmerized audiences with its spellbinding performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and reach diverse communities. Founded in 1976, DBDT is the oldest, continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas. The ensemble, a contemporary modern dance company, consists of experienced, full-time dancers performing a mixed repertory of modern, jazz, ethnic, and spiritual works by nationally and internationally known choreographers. Their repertoire includes works by Alvin Ailey, Elisa Monte, Milton Myers, Asadata Dafora, Matthew Rushing, Christopher L. Huggins, Twyla Tharp, and others. For Grades 7-12. Groups of 20+ can call 301-277-1710 for Group Sales or fill out the online request form.

Comedy Night with Miss Gayle & Friends
2026-04-24 20:00 - 22:00
A spellbinding and hilarious lady, Miss Gayle began her comedy career at Jeff Valdez Comedy Club in Colorado Springs in 1992. After a standing ovation for her first performance, she was hooked. Born in Chatham, Virginia, and now residing in Danville, Virginia, she has been amusing audiences since age six. Known for her down-home humor, Miss Gayle is bright, energetic, and outrageously funny. She has headlined and featured before sold-out audiences nationwide, opened for national acts, and appeared on national television. She performs across the U.S. and abroad, captivating audiences with humor and charm.

Annual Montpelier Festival of Herbs, Tea, and the Arts
2026-04-25 10:00 - 16:00
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Welcome spring and delight in the sights and sounds of nature, art, and history at this fun FREE festival for the entire family, hosted by the Montpelier Historic Site & Museum and the Montpelier Arts Center!

Explore the Vendor Marketplace, attend a talk on gardening and herbs, tour the Museum, and relax to live music. Beginning at 11am, we will host outdoor performances featuring: the Jane Austen Society of North America – Maryland Region; the Natyabhoomi School of Dance; and Samaria Marley with a special guest. Visit the resident artist’s studios at the Arts Center, watch art demonstrations, paint the Montpelier bird, and create spring-themed crafts. Stroll the galleries and view the exhibitions of Amanda Spaid, Linda Bernard, and the Laurel Art Guild. At 1 pm, join us in the Main Gallery for a free performance by classical guitarist Gwenyth Aggeler.

Held rain or shine.

VendorsFoodNon-ProfitsActivities, Demonstrations & TalksPerformances
Vendors

ART
Artworks by Mary Ann

Femme Prints

J D Art & Décor

Petals by Tippy & More

Studio Kayama

Various artists work available for purchase, Arts Center 1st and 2nd floor artist studios

FABRIC ART
Margarts

Paiges Pieces

Passiondale

HOME DECOR
A Little Pottery

Chris Hanan Ceramics

Light & Leaf

MLE Arts & Crafts

Monica Creates Daily

Noslen Fusion Arts

Serving Up Sparkles

With Love by JC

Various ceramics artists work available for purchase, visit tables adjoining Arts tent

Jewelry
After the Glitter Fades

Chief Mark Tayac

K & K Products

Michelle Ink Designs

Red Mosaic Jewelry

Silverbird

PLANTS
Briar Rose Herbs

Elements of Nature Urban Farm

God Scent Herbs

Jack Creek Plants

Richfield Farm

SELF-CARE
Hazelnut and Honey

Mystic Water Soap

Remedies from Nature

She Knows the Deal

SPICE & HERBS
Dee-Lightfully Good

Gardening and Beats

Max’s Degrees

Plexus Herbs Tulsi Fields Farm

Food

COTTAGE FOODS
McDaniel Honey FarmMiddleton Sweet MunchiesNina’s Cookies Explosion

FOOD TRUCKS
Curbside Sizzle

The Daily Crepe Co.

Kona Ice of Laurel

Monroe Suggs

Rocky Ice Cream

Spice Kitchen West African Grill

Non-Profits

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS
Chesapeake Woodturners

Jane Austen Society of North America, Maryland Region

Laurel Art Guild

Laurel Historical Society

Patuxent Research Refuge/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services

Prince George’s County Herb Society

Prince George’s County Master Gardeners

Samaria Marley of Honey Belle Soul

M-NCPPC, DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION, PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY PROGRAMS
M-NCPPC Black History Program

M-NCPPC Public Affairs and Community Engagement Outreach

Sankofa Mobile Museum

Watkins Nature Center

Activities, Demonstrations & Talks
10am-3pm: Paint the Montpelier Bird: A Community Art Experience – Arts Tent (Activity)

10am-4pm: 18th Century Kitchen Activation with Living History Re-enactor Deirdre Harris – Carriage House Kitchen

Participate in an interactive activation of our 18th Century Kitchen Exhibition with a costumed re-enactment and discussion focused on summer crops, including culinary and medicinal herbs.

10am-4pm: Table Games & Tavern Puzzles – Arts Tent (Activity)

11am-2pm: Expressive Mask Making Project – Arts Tent (Activity)

11am-2pm: Watkins Nature Center Live Animal Display (Activity)

11am-3pm: Make & Take Printmaking Activity – Arts Center 1st floor printmaking studio (Activity)

11:15-11:45am & 2:30-3:15pm: The Art of Herbal Tea Blending with Plexus Herbs – Outdoor Education Tent (Talk)

Learn about the five classifications of herbs: nervines, carminative, detox, adaptogens, and anti-inflammatory with a special focus on turmeric, the Herb of the Year, its essential partner, black pepper, and their synergistic relationship. Also hear a brief introduction to herbal energetics, the stimulating and relaxing qualities of herbs for building balanced blends.

12-12:30pm: “Cut, Compose, Create”: Live Collage Demo by resident artist Raquel Keller – Arts Center 2nd floor studios (Demonstration)

1:15-1:45pm: Get to the Root of Valerian with Donna Koczaja, M.S., RH (AHG) – Outdoor Education Tent (Talk)

Learn all about this popular herb known to promote healthy sleep: how to grow, harvest, prepare, and use for better ZZZZZZzzzzzzzssssss….

2-2:30pm: “Thyme to Make”: Ceramic Plant Stakes Demo by resident artist Lecy Mayes – Arts Center 2nd floor studios (Demonstration)

3-3:30pm: “From Clay to Plate”: Live Ceramic Plate Fabrication Demo by resident artist Chris Kirages – Arts Center 1st floor ceramics (Demonstration)

Meet the Speakers:

Deirdre Harris

Plexus Herbs

Donna Koczaja M.S., RH (AHG)

Deirdre Harris

Deirdre Harris is a certified interpretive guide with the National Association of Interpretation who brings history to life through immersive storytelling and hands-on experience. As a locally recognized historian, museum educator, living history re-enactor, herbalist, and artist with over a decade of experience, she weaves together diverse expertise to create transformative encounters with local heritage. Rather than simply teaching the past, Deirdre invites people to inhabit it, fostering genuine connections and forging a deeper understanding of our shared history. Deirdre’s 4 interpretive eras include: Colonial Free Women of Color, Antebellum Enslavement, Reconstruction Era Women of Color, and Tuskegee Army Air Force (TAAF) Nurses.

Plexus Herbs

Plexus Herbs is an herbalism company founded in 2023 in Laurel, Maryland by Kyara Nichols and Savioune Shepherd.
Learn more at https://plexusherbs.org/ and be sure to visit their booth during the festival!

Donna Koczaja M.S., RH (AHG)

Donna Koczaja, M.S., RH(AHG) graduated from Maryland University of Integrative Health (formerly Tai Sophia Institute) with a Master of Science in Therapeutic Herbalism and a Post-Master’s Certificate in Clinical Herbalism. She earned Registered Herbalist status from the American Herbalists’ Guild in 2018. Originally educated as a mechanical engineer, she combines the rigor of her original scientific training with the traditional healing art of herbal medicine to partner with her clients to uncover the root cause of their underlying health issues. Also a Master Gardener since 2008, her primary interest is in inspiring others to improve their health and sense of wellbeing through the joys of gardening and the power of natural medicine.
Learn more about her at greenhavenherbalist.com and visit her at the PG County Master Gardeners booth.

Performances
11-11:30AM: Simple Elegance; Regency Fashion Styling with the Jane Austen Society of North America, Maryland Region – Outdoor Main Stage

11:45AM-12:30PM & 2-2:45PM: Natyabhoomi School of Dance Indian Classical Dance Performance – Outdoor Main Stage

1-2PM: Classical Guitar Concert featuring Gwenyth Aggelar – Arts Center Main Gallery

3-4PM: Honey Belle Soul Performance – Outdoor Main Stage

Meet the Artists:

JASNA-MD

Natyabhoomi School of Dance

Gwenyth Aggeler

Honey Belle Soul

JASNA-MD

JASNA-MD is a regional group of the larger Jane Austen Society of North America. Our mission is to foster among the widest number of readers the study, appreciation, and understanding of Jane Austen’s works, her life, and her genius. We meet virtually or in person several times a year with our largest gathering in December to celebrate the anniversary of Jane’s birth

Natyabhoomi School of Dance

Natyabhoomi School of Dance, based in Potomac, Maryland, is a premier institution dedicated to the Mysuru tradition of Bharatanatyam. Founded by Artistic Director Deepti Mukund Navile and supported by her sister Shruthi Mukund, Artistic and Outreach Director.
In 2026, the school proudly celebrates 32 wonderful years of excellence in dance and cultural education. Natyabhoomi helps students connect with their Indian heritage while growing up in America and is committed to sharing India’s rich art and culture with wider audiences.

Gwenyth Aggeler

Donna Koczaja, M.S., RH(AHG) graduated from Maryland University of Integrative Health (formerly Tai Sophia Institute) with a Master of Science in Therapeutic Herbalism and a Post-Master’s Certificate in Clinical Herbalism. She earned Registered Herbalist status from the American Herbalists’ Guild in 2018. Originally educated as a mechanical engineer, she combines the rigor of her original scientific training with the traditional healing art of herbal medicine to partner with her clients to uncover the root cause of their underlying health issues. Also a Master Gardener since 2008, her primary interest is in inspiring others to improve their health and sense of wellbeing through the joys of gardening and the power of natural medicine.
Learn more about her at greenhavenherbalist.com and visit her at the PG County Master Gardeners booth.

Honey Belle Soul

Covering a range of genres including blues, old time, gospel, and folk, Honey Belle Soul creates beautiful harmonies and honors the tradition of Black string band music while sharing their passion and joy of creating through their performances.
Honey Belle Soul features Samaria Marley and Jalila Williams.

Gwenyth Aggeler
2026-04-25 13:00 - 14:00
Gwenyth Aggeler is a classical guitarist whose performances have been described by the Cultural Voice of North Carolina as “full of energy” and “striking.” Passionate about collaborating, she is working on a new project involving the commissioning and recording works for a guitar duo by composers from diverse backgrounds. Gwenyth is pursuing a Graduate Performance Diploma at the Peabody Conservatory.

Fences (2016)
2026-04-25 14:00 - 16:00
Fences is a 2016 American period drama film directed and co-produced by Denzel Washington from a screenplay by August Wilson, based on his 1985 play. It stars Washington, Viola Davis, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Jovan Adepo, Russell Hornsby, Mykelti Williamson, and Saniyya Sidney. It follows a working-class, African-American father who tries to raise his family in the 1950s, while coming to terms with the events of his life.

Dallas Black Dance Theatre (Weekend)
2026-04-25 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-04-26 16:00 - 17:30
For nearly 50 years, the Dallas Black Dance Theatre has mesmerized audiences with its spellbinding performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and reach diverse communities. Founded in 1976, DBDT is the oldest, continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas. The ensemble, a contemporary modern dance company, consists of experienced, full-time dancers performing a mixed repertory of modern, jazz, ethnic, and spiritual works by nationally and internationally known choreographers. Their repertoire includes works by Alvin Ailey, Elisa Monte, Milton Myers, Asadata Dafora, Matthew Rushing, Christopher L. Huggins, Twyla Tharp, and others.

Sat., Apr. 25, 7 pm Tickets

Sun., Apr. 26, 4 pm Tickets

Sharp Radway Trio
2026-05-01 20:00 - 22:00
Pianist, composer, arranger, and author Sharp Radway is a protégé of jazz legend Dr. Randy Weston. With deep roots in the church, his debut album of gospel jazz is Hymns and Things. His latest endeavor, Black Woman—A Conversation, combines Latin jazz, spoken word, ensemble pieces, pocket grooves, and more in tribute to Black women.

Paper Flower Sculptures
2026-05-02 13:00 - 15:00
Celebrate Spring in full bloom with a paper flower-making workshop! Learn techniques to craft delicate and vibrant paper flowers that will never wilt—perfect for home décor or gifts.

Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration
2026-05-02 13:00 - 16:00
Celebrate culture, community, and creativity at our annual AANHPI Heritage Month Celebration on Saturday, May 2, from 1-4 pm! Enjoy a vibrant afternoon featuring delicious AANHPI cuisine, Japanese calligraphy, henna art, AANHPI trivia, Filipino dance, a Chinese tea ceremony performance, and more. Come early and kick things off with a Bollywood Fitness Flow workout at 12 noon in the dance studio. Don’t miss this enriching celebration for all ages!

PLAYdate: Coven Edition, with Happenstance Theater
2026-05-02 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-05-03 16:00 - 17:30
Happenstance Theater has invited some new collaborators for a PLAYdate! Just in time for Spring, this will be a super-charged explosion of original work by powerhouse performers from the DC/MD Theatre community who want to dive into devising. In only ONE week, the generative artists, who all happen to be women, will build an assemblage of vignettes and scenes inspired by themes of passages, oceans and PLAY itself! Let the adrenaline soar! Come see what we conjure and be a part of the Happenstance magic.

Cast members include Carolyn Cook, Gwen Grastorf, Alyssa Keegan, Sabrina Mandell, Amber Mayberry, Kristin Putchinski, and Tia Shearer.

“You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.” – Pla(y)to.

Sat., May 2, 7 pm Tickets

Sun., May 3, 4 pm Tickets

The 57th Annual Laurel Art Guild Juried Exhibition - Public Reception and Awards
2026-05-03 13:00 - 15:00
* This exhibition runs Apr. 18–May 31, with a public reception and awards ceremony on Sun., May 3. *

This annual exhibition, organized by the Laurel Art Guild, is juried by a regional professional and shows works by artists ages 18 and older in the Washington, D.C., area. The exhibit includes paintings, drawings, photographs, wall-hung sculptures, collages, and more. Cash prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place, along with three merit awards. Get involved and enjoy the support and camaraderie of your fellow local artists — more information is available at laurelartguild.org.

Linda Bernard: From the Earth - Public Reception
2026-05-03 14:00 - 16:00
* This exhibition runs Apr. 18–May 17, with a public reception on Sun., May 3. *

Linda Bernard is a resident artist whose work centers on hands‑on making across clay, fabric, and photography. In “From the Earth,” Bernard presents ceramics, horse hair raku, quilts and photographs inspired by nature. Her ceramics and raku works emphasize experimentation with shape, surface and fire while her quilts incorporate fabric, paint and even recycled jewelry pins to tell a story with fabric. Her photographs feature trees and reflections at Collington Lake, capturing the quiet beauty of the natural landscape.

Introduction to Taiko, the Art of Japanese Drumming ft. Mark H Rooney
2026-05-05 10:00 - 10:45, 2026-05-05 11:15 - 12:00
This performance is part of our Education on Stage Series and is recommended for Grades K-6. Join us in celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with an engaging program led by taiko performer Mark H Rooney. This event showcases traditional and contemporary songs and rhythms of this full-body drumming art form, delving into the instruments, use of the voice in taiko, and a touch of Japanese history and vocabulary. Audience members might even be able to play these LARGE drums on stage! Mark H blends a traditional foundation with modern elements, delivering high-energy performances that are vibrant, dynamic, and exciting. Please note, everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age. Groups of 20+ can call 301-277-1710 for Group Sales or fill out the online request form.

10 am Tickets

11:15 am Tickets

Lunchtime Listening with Tomika Arnold, Vocals
2026-05-06 11:00 - 13:00
Back by popular demand, celebrated vocalist Tomika Arnold has been hailed for her captivating and powerful voice. Ms. Arnold has shared the stage with music giants such as Michael Jackson, Sting, Bon Jovi, Beyonce, CeCe Winans, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, and Gloria Estefan. She has sung for three U.S. Presidents: President George W. Bush, President William Clinton, and the inauguration of President Barack Obama. A true powerhouse vocalist, this performance, including gospel, jazz, R&B, and everything in between, is not to be missed!

Immersive Sound Meditation
2026-05-06 14:00 - 15:00
May is National Physical Fitness & Sports Month! Take a trip to a calming destination as the Publick Playhouse stage transforms into a peaceful retreat. Sound Meditation provides an opportunity to slow down and dive deeper into a state of relaxation to bring balance to your mental, physical and spiritual health. The use of instruments such as crystal and Himalayan singing bowls, chimes, bells, gong and voice blend together to invite the mind to a state of calm and the body to release held emotions and tension. Whether you are looking to try something new, meditate or seek a moment of peace, sound meditation can help you do it. Space is limited; advanced registration is recommended.

Hawaiian Dance Workshop
2026-05-07 13:00 - 14:30
Experience the transformative power of Hawaiian hula. We invite older adults to engage with this Polynesian art form and connect with Hawaii’s rich heritage through graceful movements, music, and captivating storytelling. With gentle exercise benefits, cognitive stimulation, and social connection, hula nourishes both body and soul.

Eternally: Roberta Flack Tribute (Platinum)
2026-05-08 11:00 - 12:00
Hailed as one of the greatest songstresses of our time, GRAMMY Award-winning Roberta Flack remains unparalleled in her ability to tell a story through her music. Her songs bring insight into our lives, love, culture, and politics, while effortlessly traversing a broad musical landscape from pop to soul to folk to jazz. Following her passing in February 2025, this tribute concert will honor her life and legacy by showcasing some of her most cherished music, thoughtfully curated by musical director and Roberta Flack band alumnus Daryl L.A. Hunt.

This concert features vocalists Sylver Logan Sharp, Nova Tate, Shanti Walker, Stoney Ellis, Jasmine Jacobs, and Trent Cokely. The All-Star Band will include Daryl L.A. Hunt (keys), Hamilton Hayes (bass), Chris “Biscuit” Bynum (drums), Arnell Byrd (guitar), Chris Allen (percussion), and Brian Lenair (saxophone).

Listening Room Presents Fuad Foty
2026-05-08 20:00 - 22:00
An oud virtuoso and Arabic vocalist, Foty has dedicated his life to preserving and innovating Arabic music. His work blends traditional Arabic folk with contemporary influences.

Rashid Cornish: Whispers of the Divine – A Spiritual Journey Through Nature
2026-05-09 10:00 - 2026-06-21 17:00
* This exhibition runs May 9–Jun. 21, with a public reception on Fri., Jun. 12. *

Rashid Cornish explores the profound relationship between the natural world and spirituality through the delicate medium of pastel painting. The collection invites viewers to experience nature as an environment and a living, breathing entity with spiritual significance and a connection to something greater in the cosmos.

Pen & Pose: A Workshop in Yoga and Writing
2026-05-09 11:00 - 12:30
Join us for an inspiring 90-minute workshop with poet and yoga educator Yael Flusberg! Through a dynamic blend of breathwork, yoga poses, mindfulness practices, and creative writing exercises, you’ll discover new ways to connect with your body, calm your mind, and awaken your spirit. This is your chance to pause, recharge, and tap into your inner creativity. What to bring: comfortable clothing, a yoga mat, a pen, and your favorite notebook. Come ready to move, breathe, and write your way to a deeper sense of balance and self-expression!

To register, please call 301-377-7800.

The Golden Hour: Boomer & Gen Z Pour & Paint
2026-05-09 12:00 - 15:00
The Golden Hour invites grandparents and grandkids (ages eight to 17) to slow down, create together, and share meaningful stories. In collaboration with Riversdale Historic Site & Museum, this pour and paint session supports their oral history workshop by celebrating family memories and voices across generations. Participants will discover how art helps keep the mind sharp, the body active, and the spirit calm, and will leave with colorful canvases and even brighter connections.

Paper Lotus Lantern Workshop
2026-05-09 14:00 - 15:00
Artist Sookkyung Park will lead participants in creating small lamps inspired by the lotus flower. Participants will explore the cultural and historical significance of the lotus while learning craft skills. Attendees will make their lotus lamps, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. This experience offers a creative and therapeutic activity, providing time for personal reflection. The fee includes all materials.

Borderless - Artist & Curator Talk
2026-05-09 14:00 - 16:00
* This exhibition runs Apr. 6–May 30, with a public reception on Sat., Apr. 11 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., May 9. *

Curated by Akemi Maegawa in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Borderless explores themes of identity, migration, and cultural fluidity. Featuring Jeff Huntington (JAHRU), Mei Mei Chang, Tang, June Lee, and Julia Chon, this exhibition highlights the diverse artistic expressions of AAPI artists who challenge boundaries—both literal and conceptual. Through dynamic visual storytelling and innovative materials, Borderless reflects the interconnectedness of heritage and contemporary experience, embracing art as a space without limits.

Eternally: Roberta Flack Tribute
2026-05-09 20:00 - 21:30

Tribute to the Music of Mary J. Blige
2026-05-09 20:00 - 22:00
Experience the soulful and powerful music of Mary J. Blige like never before with this tribute performance. This event celebrates the iconic career of the multi-award-winning artist, known for her groundbreaking contributions to R&B and Hip-Hop. Talented musicians and vocalists come together to deliver an unforgettable evening filled with Blige’s greatest hits. From her early classics to her recent chart-toppers, you’ll be immersed in the emotional depth and vibrant energy that defines her music. Join us for a night of live music that honors the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, capturing her artistry’s essence and impact on the music industry. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, this tribute promises to be a memorable celebration of Mary J. Blige’s legacy.

Lunchtime Lawn Concert with The Tribe Band
2026-05-13 12:00 - 13:30
Stop by Darnall’s Chance Historic Site & Museum and listen to The Tribe Band. Bring your own brown bag lunch or picnic basket. Some picnic tables will be on-site, but you are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair. Program sponsored, in part, by a grant from the Maryland State Humanities Council. No reservations required. FREE
