Arts and culture of Maryland facts for kids

The American Film Institute Silver Theater, a great place for movies.

The arts and culture of Maryland are very diverse. You can find them all over the state, not just in big cities. Maryland's culture is a cool mix of southern and northern American styles. This unique blend comes from its history as a Catholic colony.

Maryland has many exciting places for arts and culture. Some main spots include:

• The American Film Institute in Silver Spring.
• The Filmore, which is part of Discovery Communications.
• The Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts in Columbia.
• The Strathmore in Bethesda. The Strathmore started in 1981. It has two main parts: the "Mansion" and the "Music Center."

What Languages Are Spoken in Maryland?

English is the most common language spoken in Maryland. However, you will also hear Spanish in some areas. These areas are mostly found near the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore corridor.

About 87% of people in Maryland speak only English at home. Around 5% speak Spanish. Other languages are spoken by less than 1% of the population. Among these, French and Chinese are the most common. In Southern Maryland, the Eastern Shore, and Western Maryland, people often speak with Southern accents. Their culture is also influenced by Southern traditions.

Music Festivals and Sounds of Maryland

Maryland is home to many fun music festivals.

• A jazz festival happens every year in Silver Spring. It takes place on the second Saturday of September.
• In Takoma Park, a folk festival has been held every year since 1978. This festival was started by Sam Abbott, who was once the city's mayor and a civil rights activist.
• The folk festival features musicians from all over the area. It also celebrates different cultures with various ethnic foods and crafts.
• Rockville hosts a street festival every year during Memorial Day weekend. This festival includes many concerts over three days.

Maryland's Literature and Authors

The literature of Maryland includes many types of writing. You can find fiction (made-up stories), poetry, and nonfiction (true stories). Some famous authors from Maryland are:

• John Barth
• H. L. Mencken
• Edgar Allan Poe

Performing Arts

Media and News in Maryland

There are several weekly newspapers in Montgomery County. These include The Gazette, which has different versions for Germantown, Silver Spring, and Takoma. There is also an information website called Germantown Pulse. The Washington Hispanic newspaper serves the Spanish-speaking community.

Many popular online blogs focus on Baltimore's culture, arts, and history. Some of these include:

• Baltimore Brew
• Baltimore Fishbowl
• Ghosts of Baltimore
• Baltimore Heritage

Libraries: Places to Learn and Explore

Maryland has hundreds of libraries. Each county has at least one library in each city. Every county also has its own library system. Colleges and universities in Maryland also have their own libraries.

Maryland's 24 public library systems help everyone in the state learn. They offer three main ways to learn:

• Self-Directed Education: This includes books and materials in all forms, like e-books.
• Research Help and Classes: Libraries offer help with research and classes for students of all ages.
• Fun and Educational Experiences: They host events like Summer Reading Clubs and author visits.

Many library systems work together with other schools and educational places in their areas.

Recreation and Outdoor Fun

Maryland offers many places for recreation and outdoor activities. You can find hundreds of playgrounds, playing fields, and basketball and tennis courts in every county. Many parks are open to the public. Some parks belong to homeowners or private groups.

Besides city parks, Maryland has lots of outdoor adventures. These include:

• Access to the famous Appalachian Trail for hiking.
• Mountain biking in Patapsco Valley State Park.
• Rock climbing in Rocks State Park and other spots.

Museums: Discovering History and Art

Maryland has many museums where you can learn about history, art, and science. Here are some of them: