Things to Do Near Crofton, Odenton, Gambrills, Bowie & Annapolis: Fri Nov 13 - Sun Nov 15, 2026
Local theater, a dance-fitness fundraiser, jazz history, and a run for a good cause - there are plenty of ways to enjoy this weekend close to home. Here's our roundup around Crofton, Odenton, Gambrills, Bowie, and Anne Arundel County.
All times are Eastern Standard Time. Check organizer links before heading out for availability, registration, and weather updates.
Jump to: Crofton · Odenton · Gambrills · Bowie · Around Anne Arundel County · Our team's picks
Crofton
Peter and the Starcatcher - The Cardinal Players
Support local student theater with an adventure that reimagines the origins of Peter Pan, complete with pirates, unlikely heroes, and a mysterious trunk of starstuff.
Performances are Friday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 14, at 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Nov. 15, at 2 p.m., at Crofton High School, 2291 Davidsonville Road, Gambrills. Check the ticket page for reserved seating, prices, and availability.
Odenton
First Responder 5K Run/Walk
Get moving while supporting Odenton Volunteer Fire Company. Its inaugural First Responder 5K includes breakfast for participants at the firehouse, with race merchandise available in very limited quantities.
The race starts Sunday, Nov. 15, at 9 a.m., at 1425 Annapolis Road, Odenton. Paid registration is required. The organizer's $40 early-bird rate expires Nov. 10, so check the current price when registering.
Event details and registration
Gambrills
Inspire Dance Zumba Party
Move, groove, and support local dancers at this one-hour fundraiser for the Inspire Dance Competition Team. Kearsha "Keya" Saxon and Barnitta "Lady B" Moses lead the session. All fitness and experience levels are welcome - no dance experience is required.
The party is Saturday, Nov. 14, from 4-5 p.m., with doors opening at 3:45 p.m., at Jazzercise, 1119 Maryland Route 3, Gambrills.
Admission is $25 in advance or $30 at the door; check checkout for any fees. Anyone under 18 must attend with a parent or legal guardian. Bring water, comfortable workout clothes, and supportive shoes. The organizer lists free parking.
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Bowie
This Is My Night: A Tribute to Chaka Khan
Creative Entertainment presents a tribute performance featuring Bléz and DJ Maxx. This is a tribute show, not an appearance by Chaka Khan herself.
The show is Saturday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m., at Bowie Center for the Performing Arts, 15200 Annapolis Road. The venue lists tickets at $40-$50; check availability and any checkout fees.
Around Anne Arundel County
Italian Contributions to American Jazz - Annapolis
Jazz vocalist and historian Vanessa Racci explores Italian American contributions to jazz, from early New Orleans musicians to names such as Frank Sinatra, Henry Mancini, and Chick Corea. This musical lecture and discussion is part of the Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival.
The program is Saturday, Nov. 14, from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Eastport-Annapolis Neck Library, 269 Hillsmere Drive, Annapolis. This adult program is free. Reservations are strongly recommended by the festival.
Library event details · Reserve a free seat
Illuminate Annapolis - Arnold
Browse local arts, artisan goods, and wellness exhibitors at Anne Arundel Community College's Arnold campus. The organizer lists free admission and free workshops; purchases are separate.
The event runs Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Schwartz Student Union, 101 College Parkway, Arnold.
Genealogy Drop-In - Annapolis
Curious about your roots? An Anne Arundel Genealogical Society member will help with ancestry research, whether you're getting started or working through existing records.
Sessions are Saturday, Nov. 14, from 1-4 p.m., in the Maryland Room at Busch Annapolis Library, 1410 West Street. The program is for adults and teens ages 11 and older. Call 410-222-1750 for available appointment times; walk-ins are welcome when space permits.
National Take a Hike Day Program - County Parks
Wrap up the weekend with a guided hike led by a park ranger or volunteer naturalist. The county's program offers a chance to explore a trail and enjoy the outdoors.
The program is Sunday, Nov. 15, with activities within a 10 a.m.-3 p.m. window. Participation is free, but registration is required. Confirm the specific park, meeting location, and start time for your chosen hike. Bring sturdy footwear and water, and dress for the weather.
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Our Team's Picks
- Local theater: Catch the Cardinal Players' Peter and the Starcatcher, with performances Friday through Sunday.
- An active Saturday in Gambrills: Join the Inspire Dance Zumba Party and support the competition team - beginners welcome.
- Jazz history in Annapolis: Reserve a free seat for Vanessa Racci's Saturday morning program at Eastport-Annapolis Neck Library.
- A community-minded Sunday: Support Odenton's volunteer firefighters at the First Responder 5K, or reserve a county guided hike for time outdoors.
- More Saturday choices: Browse Illuminate Annapolis, explore your roots at Busch Annapolis Library, or enjoy the Chaka Khan tribute show in Bowie.
Have a great weekend!
The Scott Smolen Team | RE/MAX Leading Edge
Helping local home buyers and sellers since 1999.
Have questions about living in Odenton, Gambrills, Crofton, Bowie or the surrounding areas? Contact Scott.