Dinner Under the Stars proves that Downtown Annapolis was ahead of its time.
Since 2015, Annapolitans have gathered on summer evenings to enjoy open-air dining and outdoor entertainment. Dinner Under the Stars, now an annual tradition, takes place on West Street in the Annapolis Arts District. For a limited time, Dinner Under the Stars is being offered every Wednesday through Sunday from 5pm – 10pm.
I recently had the opportunity to attend Dinner Under the Stars for the first time. Reflecting on my experience, I must enthusiastically share that Dinner Under the Stars in 2020 is far more than just a meal — it is a testament to the resilience and unity of the Annapolis community.
The Traditional Experience
A balmy breeze blew past West Street as the Dinner Under the Stars event began. Though quiet at the start, more and more visitors arrived as the night progressed. All of West Street was soon filled with patrons sharing meals, listening to live music, and savoring the opportunity to be out and about.
Attendees enjoy live music along with their meals at Dinner Under the Stars.
There is certainly not a lack of cuisines to choose from at Dinner Under the Stars. Participating restaurants include Stan and Joe’s Saloon, 49West Coffeehouse & Wine Bar, Luna Blu, Rams Head Tavern, El Toro Bravo, and Tsunami. It should be noted that certain restaurants take reservations while others are first-come, first-serve. For more information about restaurants, visit: www.dinnerunderthestars.org/reservations.
Dinner Under the Stars has an artistic feel, undoubtedly brought about by its location within the Annapolis Arts District. A painter could be seen in the middle of the street working diligently to render the sights around him on a canvas. Live music is a staple of Dinner Under the Stars, and the expanded schedule has increased the number of live performances. For a full roster of live musicians, visit: www.facebook.com/DinnerUndertheStarsAnnapolis.
An Array of Activities
Members of the Annapolis Pickleball Club engage in a pickleball match on West Street.
Though dining is touted as the central activity during Dinner Under the Stars, a walk around the block revealed a wide range of evening pastimes. Just steps away from the dining setup, community members were getting into the swing of things…quite literally. Rousing pickleball matches were courtesy of the Annapolis Pickleball Club, one of the largest clubs in the Annapolis area with over 600 members.
After inquiring further about the games, Rick Benton of the Annapolis Pickleball Club provided an overview of the club. For $30 a year, members can participate in any of the club’s frequent pickleball events, located in spots such as West Street and in numerous nearby parks. Benton also noted that the Mayor of Annapolis, Gavin Buckley, is a huge supporter and avid pickleball player.
Attendees congregate around an outdoor ribbon-cutting ceremony for Gallery 57 West.
The Annapolis Arts District during Dinner Under the Stars was reminiscent of a time before social distancing was a household phrase. A cheerful crowd including Mayor Buckley gathered outside Gallery 57 West with champagne in hand and masks up, celebrating the gallery’s official opening and ribbon-cutting. Gallery 57 West is a permanent, year-round gallery of artwork from members of the Annapolis Arts Alliance.
Other businesses on West Street were operating throughout the evening as well. Mission Escape Rooms proudly displayed a “YES WE ARE OPEN” sign outside their green facade. At Mission Escape Rooms, patrons can test their problem-solving skills when trying to escape from one of their four themed rooms. Masks are currently required to participate in these escape room experiences.
The Community Unites
A sign at the front of West Street thanks visitors for their patronage.
Altogether, the atmosphere at Dinner Under the Stars was joyful and optimistic. Dinner Under the Stars is a wonderful option for a night out in Annapolis, whether you are seeking a romantic outing, a space to reconnect with friends, or an excursion for the entire family.
Dinner Under the Stars is also fostering an important and mutually-beneficial relationship between businesses in Downtown Annapolis and visitors. Local businesses gain from increased patronage during the event, and visitors will relish a night filled with relaxation and fun.
The strength of the Annapolis community absolutely shines through during Dinner Under the Stars — simply attend Dinner Under the Stars to see this for yourself.
For more information about Dinner Under the Stars, visit: www.dinnerunderthestars.org
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