Is the Book Escape Haunted? Come Saturday and Learn More!

Come to The Book Escape (805 Light Street) this Saturday, July 14, 1-3 pm and meet paranormal author Rob Gutro who featured this local gem of a book store in his new book. Rob, a meteorologist will be answering questions and signing his latest book, Lessons Learned from Talking to the Dead!

"When I investigated The Book Escape with members of Inspired Ghost Tracking in October 2010, I didn't know what I'd find," says Rob. "Not only did we get an audible message and photographic evidence, but I was able to learn the identity of the helpful ghost who still lives there." The book store investigation is described in detail in his new book, along with many other interesting experiences of the medium.  

Come prepared to do some browsing! The Book Escape is having its biggest sale of the year that same day! This Saturday only: 50% off all used books with a book pass and 25% off without a book pass.

Be sure to stop by The Book Escape this Saturday for some interesting conversation and great deals! Info:   410-504-1902, www.thebookescape.com

Margeaux Appel, intern 

Regi’s Is Back, and in Full Force!

After 3 long months, Regi’s American Bistro (1002 Light Street) has reopened! The restaurant was forced to close following an electrical fire on April 10. The renovated 1860 building can now continue to be a destination for local and regional residents, business groups, and tourists, all of whom can enjoy the "farm and rooftop to fork" cuisine.

Owner Alan Morstein in front of the Authentic Marble
Fireplace in the dining area.

Owner Alan Morstein wants to keep the charm of Federal Hill alive in his restaurant. “Though the fire was a setback, to say the least, I wanted to utilize the closing to make enhancements to both the physical appearance as well as the menu,” said Alan. 

The hardwood flooring, cherished fireplace, and popular bar are originals from 1978 and have been refined and polished. With added touches of Edison lighting, a large Gyro fan, and black and white photos of Cross Street Market, you'll feel right at home!

It goes without saying that the food continues to meet Regi’s high standards. Some exciting new additions are coming, along with a new light fare menu starting on July 12. Alan is proud to welcome a new executive chef, Audiel Vera, who earned his stripes working under such marquis chefs as: Cindy Wolf (Charleston), Jessie Sandlin (Pazo/Vino Rosina), and Pat Morrow (Meli). 

“I am excited about the endless prospects of presenting our signature cuisine blending with Audiel’s creativity and passions,” said Alan. The neighborhood is excited as well!

Be sure to stop in and welcome back Alan and friends at Regi’s American Bistro, a Federal Hill gem!

--Margeaux Appel, Intern

Third Thursdays in Federal Hill!

It's that time again! Tomorrow, June 21, from 6-8 pm, Federal Hill businesses are celebrating Third Thursdays! The following participants stay open during this time and offer fun specials and treats to customers. It is a great time to stroll through the neighborhood and enjoy all of the galleries and shops that Federal Hill has to offer.

Afters Cafe, Apothecary Wellness, Artesanos don Bosco, Bobabooi's Treasure Chest, Brightside Boutique, Cross Street Tobacco, Crystal Moll Gallery, Curiosity, Doggie Style, Lovelace Showroom, Lucinda Gallery & Gifts, Mark Cottman Gallery, Midnite Confection's Cupcakery, Pandora's Box, Phina's for the Home, The Book Escape, Tradestone Gallery, Vanessa's Vintage Treasures

Be sure to check out these special events this Third Thursday:

Big Jim's Deli and Cheese Galore & More, Cross Street Market, team up to kick off the evening with a wine and cheese tasting, 5-7 pm.

Crystal Moll Gallery , 1030 S. Charles St., features its "Honoring 1812" exhibit with a special reception and live jazz, 5-8 pm.




Margeaux Appel, intern

Want a Cool Way to Remember the 1812 Bicentennial?

Photo of Fort McHenry by Mary Braman, one of several on display at Federal Hill Main Street.
 

 The War of 1812 Bicentennial Passport is just that! And, Federal Hill Main Street is part of it. The passports are free, and you can get them "stamped" at several places between now and the end of the 32-month celebration of the 200th anniversary of the war.

The free passports, sponsored by Baltimore National Heritage Area, are available at the Star Spangled Sailabration villages, including the Chesapeake Tent in the Inner Harbor, Broadway Market in Fells Point, and Martin State Airport. You can get them stamped while visiting the Tall Ships during Sailabration (June 13-19) and at other sites now through 1815, including Federal Hill Main Street, Clifton Mansion, Fort McHenry, and The Flag House and Star-Spangled Banner Museum.

We are ready for visitors! Not only do we have a patriotic stamp on hand, we also have a display of original photographs of Fort McHenry donated by local artists James Hammond and Mary Braman. This is a once in a lifetime event - mark the occasion with a passport and visit participating sites to get your stamps.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/baltimoreheritagearea

Margeaux Appel, Intern

Come Celebrate with the Sailors in Federal Hill!

Well Sailabration is here, and the ships are making their way to the Inner Harbor. What a great start to the celebration of the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the “Star Spangled Banner"!

Federal Hill hospitality establishments are putting out the welcome mat for our maritime guests with specials and discounts for visiting sailors at restaurants and bars from 7-11 pm on June 14 (tomorrow). It's all part of "Sailors' Night Out," taking place at 71 places around the city, including 15 in Federal Hill. The sailors will be in uniform and ready to enjoy the town!

Local participants are Abbey Burger Bistro, Bluegrass Tavern, C & R Pub, Crazy Lil's, Illusions Magic Bar & Lunge, MaGerk's Pub & Grill, Mad River, Mother's Federal Hill Grille, Nobles Bar & Grill, No Way Jose Cafe, Pub Dog Pizza & Drafthouse, Ropewalk Tavern, Ryleigh's Oyster, Social Pub & Pie, and Stalking Horse.

    Come down and welcome the sailors and have some fun!


    Margeaux Appel, Intern

Let’s Celebrate with the Star Spangled Sailabration!

This year commemorates the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the “Star Spangled Banner,” and Baltimore is pulling out all the stops! The first leg of the festivities, "Sailabration," scheduled for June 13-19, offers many great events close to Federal Hill. We can expect hundreds of thousands of tourists, and hope many find their way to our business district.

During that week, more than 200 ships from around the world will be docked at the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, and Locust Point, with several international Tall Ships right in the Inner Harbor.  Activities will include water slides, an airshow featuring the Blue Angels, and much more. Thursday, June 14, is "Sailor Night at the Bars," and several Federal Hill establishments are participating.

For those looking for transportation ideas, check out the new free Charm City Circulator Banner Route, traveling between the Visitors' Center and Fort McHenry. We have Banner Route maps and Sailabration schedules at Federal Hill Main Street, so stop by and pick one up!

            For more details and updated schedules, go to www.starspangled200.com. 

Margeaux Appel, Intern

Federal Hill Festival Thank You!

Photo by Mary Bramen.

 The Federal Hill Main Street Jazz&Blues Wine&Art Festival was a great success! We want to thank all of the volunteers, vendors, artists, musicians, sponsors, and everyone involved for making it such an enjoyable day, including Mother Nature! And, thanks also to everyone who came out to celebrate our community.

From the beautiful artwork in the Artist Alley, to the delicious food and the great music, to the new Wine Garden and expanded Kids' Kross Street, a good time was had by all!

   The next festival is our biggest one of the year: Street Beat Festival, Sunday, September 30, 11 am to 7 pm. And, don't worry, the Ravens play that Thursday night, so you won't miss any of the action on the field. 

       Have a great summer!


Margeaux Appel, Intern

Come One, Come All! To Federal Hill's Jazz&Blues Festival on Sunday!

Federal Hill’s FREE Jazz&Blues Wine&Art festival is only TWO DAYS AWAY! There will be activities for all to enjoy. From kids to adults, to art lovers and food connoisseurs, there will be something for everyone!

For the Music Lovers, there will be two stages with performers including Walter “Wolfman” Washington and the Honey Island Swamp Band, both from New Orleans! There will also be local bands including the Cris Jacobs Band, Dawgone, and many more! For a complete schedule, check out www.historicfederalhill.org.

For the Arts and Crafts Lovers, there will be over 50 different vendors, with a huge selection of unique and interesting items, from jewelry to clothing to home goods.

For the Wine Lovers, there will be 11 red and white varietals and informational seminars hosted by experts. Right across from the Wine Garden, you'll find Artist Alley showcasing original works by local artists.

And, of course, we can't forget the kids! This years Kids' Kross Street offers two moon bounces, an obstacle course, crafts, games, and much more!

Don't miss this fun and free event! For more details, go to www.historicfederalhill.org or give us a call at 410-727-4500!



Margeaux Appel, intern