Montgomery Parks will lift the suspension of the park directive that allowed alcohol in 13 parks across the county. The temporary directive was suspended on July 1, 2021, in response to the end of the COVID-19 State of Emergency issued by the State of Maryland.
“While the directive was in effect, people were responsibly enjoying food and alcohol in these parks,” said Montgomery Parks Director Mike Riley. “It has been great to see the support from the public and elected officials to bring this program back.”
“Our parks have helped us get through the pandemic by providing much needed outlets for our physical and mental health,” said Montgomery County Councilmember Evan Glass. “The parks system also innovated their services by creating the Picnic in the Park program, which has been hugely popular among residents and small business owners. I’m delighted that this program will continue and that individuals will be able to enjoy an adult beverage in the great outdoors.”
“We encourage people to gather with their friends and families in our parks for birthdays, barbecues, and other events, and this program is part of that effort,” said Montgomery County Councilmember Andrew Friedson, who serves as the council’s lead on parks. “We heard from many residents who really appreciated being able to enjoy a glass of wine or beer outdoors on a nice day.”
The parks department’s top priority is always the safety of its patrons, staff and volunteers. The pilot program allows park patrons, 21 years of age or older, to responsibly consume alcohol during operating hours, dawn to dusk, in 13 parks. Additionally, Park Police will continue to ensure all state and county laws, as well as Park Rules and Regulations, are being followed.
The original park directive was enacted on September 24, 2020, and allowed for the consumption and possession of alcohol in nine Montgomery Parks until May 31, 2021. On May 27, 2021, the directive was then renewed for an additional 12 months and expanded from the original nine parks to 13.
Information about the program, including maps of the areas in the 13 parks where alcohol is permitted, can be found online at www.montgomeryparks.org.
Courtesy of Montgomery Parks
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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.
Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.
Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)
Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
www.dayofthebook.com
Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival
Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director
301-949-9416 (text preferred)
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
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Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
