Hagerstown Gears Up for a Busy Fall with Diverse Community Events

Hagerstown, MD residents can anticipate a vibrant community calendar as the City of Hagerstown, in collaboration with various local partners, has announced a series of upcoming events spanning music, local commerce, and community awareness throughout August and September. These gatherings aim to bring residents together for entertainment, to support local businesses, and to foster community engagement.

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The cultural festivities kick off on Wednesday, August 27th, with a free outdoor performance by Abba Farm at the City Park Bandshell at 7:00 PM. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs to enjoy the music. The City Farmers Market will also be in full swing, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts every Sunday from noon to 4:00 PM at Hub City Brewery, beginning August 31st. This market is co-hosted by the City of Hagerstown and Hub City Brewery.

In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day on Sunday, August 31st, a gathering will take place from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Public Square. This event is dedicated to remembering those lost to overdose, raising awareness, and offering support to those affected. The observance will include a guest speaker, local vendor resources, and a special segment to honor loved ones.

The focus on recovery continues with the Recovery Kick-Off on Saturday, September 6th, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Hagerstown City Park. This event will feature speaker Fausto Castellanos, who will share his experiences and the tools he used to overcome addiction, codependency, and trauma.

A culinary competition, the inaugural Battle of the Burgers, is scheduled for Saturday, September 13th, from noon to 4:00 PM at 38 South Potomac Street. Ten local restaurants will compete for the title of best burger, with awards for “Judge’s Top Choice” and “People’s Choice.” The winning establishment will receive a trophy to display for a year.

The month of September also features the 8th Annual Recovery Walk on Saturday, September 20th, commencing at Meritus Park at 10:00 AM and concluding at 2:00 PM. This year’s walk will feature speaker Ryan Leaf, known for his work as CEO of RAM Consultant, Inc. and his roles as a college and NFL game analyst.

Simultaneously on Saturday, September 20th, from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Hagerstown City Park will host the City Park Fall Fest & Fireworks. This event will offer food, vendors, and music, culminating in a fireworks display over the lake at 8:00 PM. Also on September 20th, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the 10th Annual South End Community Block Party will take place in Hagerstown City Park. This family-friendly event will provide free admission, local resource vendors, train and pony rides, character meet-and-greets, games, and live music by the Chuck Brown Band, with food available for purchase.

The month of September concludes with a double feature on Friday, September 26th. “Thunder in the Square,” a car show hosted by the Alsatia Club, will run from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Downtown Hagerstown, featuring food and live music, with a $10 registration fee on the night of the show. Following this, “Music in the Plaza” will offer free admission at University Plaza from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with music by Guys in Thin Ties playing 1980s hits. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets, and the Alsatia Club will be serving food.

Residents interested in participating in or learning more about these events can contact the City of Hagerstown’s Community Engagement Office at events@downtownhagerstown.org or by phone at 301-766-4258. Downtown Hagerstown is identified as a Maryland Main Street Community focused on fostering a thriving downtown environment.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from City of Hagerstown.

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