While you could make the trek up to D.C. or Alexandria for some of the bigger name musical acts, the Southern Maryland area has many events featuring great, local up-and-coming musicians. Whether you’re looking to enjoy some light jazz over Sunday morning brunch, or you’re ready to strap on your dancing shoes for a night out, Southern Maryland has it all. Here are some of the best spots to catch a local show:

River Concert Series

Where: St. Mary’s College of Maryland, 18952 E Fisher Rd., Saint Mary’s City, MD

 

This exciting outdoor music series happens annually at St. Mary’s College at their beautiful Townhouse Green space. This year, their 2019 series will occur every Friday from June 21 through July 19, with fireworks on July 5th. Their gorgeous riverside location and spectacular stage set the scene for talented local artists ranging from students and alumni to professional soloists. You can catch everything from jazz to classical and even choral arrangements. The best part is that these shows are free and open to the public.

 

Nipsey’s Restaurant and Grill

Where: 5753 Crain Hwy, Upper Marlboro, MD

 

This spot in Upper Marlboro feels like a sports bar during the day and transforms into a popular performance space at night. You could test your own musical talents and join Wednesday night Karaoke or come ready to listen and attend an Open Mic night featuring local musicians, stand-up comics, and poets. Each Thursday and Friday night you can expect live music of some kind, including local bands. They also have a great late-night food menu to enjoy during their events.

Anthony’s Bar and Grill

Where: 10371 Southern Maryland Blvd, Dunkirk, MD

 

This bar is set up for a fun night of dancing with an open space to stretch your legs on live DJ Dance nights. They also host local bands and musicians, like their upcoming event featuring the group Forte on May 11th at 9PM. Check out their website for all their upcoming events. If you show up hungry, you can order a snack like their wings, crab dip, or sliders.

The Social 228 Restaurant & Lounge

Where: 9425 Berry Rd, Waldorf, MD

 

The Social 228 is a brand new spot in Waldorf whose doors opened just weeks ago. It’s meant to be a social watering hole for Southern Maryland locals to mingle, and it’s already proving to be a popular spot. They have a full menu with delicious “Socializers”. These plates meant to be shared with a group are a great option. Try their Social Seafood Tower complete with steamed shrimp, Alaskan crab legs, and raw oysters. They host live bands on Friday nights where you can enjoy contemporary jazz artists like Eric Allen. On weekends, you can catch their Social Saturdays, with a DJ and dancing, or Soulful Sundays, a more relaxed evening with performances from artists like saxophonist Brian Lenair.

The Rex

Where: 22695 Washington Street, Leonardtown, MD

 

The Rex in Leonardtown attracts a crowd throughout the week, with music nights featuring live musicians and DJ’s. Depending on the evening, you can hear live acoustic music from artists like Mike Mallick or a vibrant DJ set. You can also stop in for Sunday brunch and catch artists like Gretchen Richie, a local Jazz Cabaret artist. For Star Wars fans, this might be your spot to celebrate on May 4th. They’re hosting a May the Fourth Star Wars Party at 9PM with costumes and a live DJ.

Acoustic Nights at The Cove at Cobb Island

Where: 12133 Neale Sound Dr, Cobb Island, MD

 

This coffee shop / wine bar offers the space for musicians to jam together a few nights each month. If you play an instrument, you can bring it along and join other local musicians at their Acoustic Nights, usually held on a Friday evening. Just want to listen? You can sit back and enjoy the jam session with a side of dessert or wine. Check their Facebook calendar to catch one of these fun events.

 

 

Who says you need to travel to find an exciting music scene in Maryland? Whether you’re a budding musician yourself and looking for open mics or jam sessions, or you enjoy sitting back and listening to live music, there are plenty of events in Southern Maryland to fulfill your needs. Where do you like to go to listen to live music in Southern Maryland? Share with us in the comments.