BALTIMORE (WBFF) — Baltimore’s free end-of-summer music festival is returning to downtown in 2026 with national acts, local performers and a slate of family-friendly activities.
Mayor Brandon M. Scott announced the talent lineup and event details for the fifth annual Charm City Live, set for Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, at historic War Memorial Plaza.
“From AFRAM to Artscape and everything in between, Baltimore has once again proven that we are home to the best festivals in the nation,” Scott said. “We’re closing out the summer by celebrating the fifth year of Charm City Live, a festival that brings residents and visitors together to celebrate incredible music, our local businesses, food, and communities. We look forward to welcoming everyone downtown for the best Charm City Live yet.”
The event will include performances by national artists Case and Boys 2 Men, along with DJ sets by Porkchop, DJ Tanz, DJ Keebee and Uncle E. Organizers said the festival will also feature local performers, food vendors, retail merchants, community organizations, city resources, a Kids Zone and a hiring fair connecting residents with employment opportunities in Baltimore City government.
“Charm City Live is more than a concert—it’s a celebration of Baltimore. It’s an opportunity to showcase our artists, support our local businesses, connect residents with City resources, and create experiences that bring people together,” said Linzy Jackson, director of the Mayor’s Office of Arts, Culture and Entertainment. “As we celebrate five years of this festival, we’re excited to continue investing in our downtown, highlighting Baltimore’s incredible talent, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. Whether you’re coming for the music, the food, the Kids Zone, or to discover a new local business, there’s something here for everyone.”
“Charm City Live has become one of Baltimore’s signature traditions, and Baltimore City Recreation and Parks is proud to continue welcoming residents and visitors to the historic War Memorial Plaza,” said Dr. Reginald Moore, executive director of Baltimore City Recreation and Parks. “We’re excited to celebrate this fifth year with another safe, family-friendly experience filled with outstanding entertainment, culture, food, and community.”
Shelonda Stokes, president of the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, said the festival “brings vibrancy and energy to the heart of downtown, creating an experience that supports our businesses, celebrates Baltimore’s culture, and welcomes thousands of visitors into the city.”
The Baltimore City Department of Transportation said temporary road closures and traffic detours will be implemented Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, to accommodate the festival at War Memorial Plaza. Residents should expect temporary closures along portions of Gay Street, Baltimore Street, Saratoga Street, Lexington Street and Fayette Street. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, allow additional travel time, follow posted detour signs and consider alternate routes. Additional traffic information and parking details will be released closer to the event.
Charm City Live is a free, one-day festival presented by the Mayor’s Office of Arts, Culture and Entertainment, bringing thousands of residents and visitors together for live music, food, local businesses, family activities and community engagement in the heart of downtown Baltimore.
Vendor applications for food, retail and community exhibitors remain available through the Charm City Live website. Organizers said additional festival information, including entertainment schedules, parking information and event updates, will be announced in the coming weeks.
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