January In Maryland 2010

Replenish your spirit, soothe your soul with a cup of tea and a stay at one of Maryland’s bed and breakfasts or inns. January is National Hot Tea Month and an ideal time to unwind from the holiday season. Relax and re-charge at a B&B or make your visit an extended celebration. About 200 B&Bs are in the state – from the Eastern Shore to Mountain Maryland. B&B hosts are accommodating and can provide an insider’s guide to local attractions and happenings.

Top images courtesy of The Annapolis Inn.

Tea Time – It’s always on somewhere
Black, Green, Oolong or White – perhaps herbal? What’s your pleasure? National Hot Tea Month is a time to note the many tea rooms and other places in Maryland where you can enjoy a cup of tea. Chinese Emperor Shen-Nung, the “Divine Healer,” knew he had something special when tea leaves blew into a pot of water that he was boiling nearly 5,000 years ago. Afternoon tea, high tea or tea at any hour of the day – tea time is for sharing with others.

History & Heritage – Honor an American icon
Celebrate the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. Visit Annmarie Garden during Martin Luther King Days, Jan. 16-18, and be part of a community art project. Work on a collage that reflects your perception of King’s legacy. On Monday, Jan. 18, watch the 10th annual MLK Birthday Celebration Parade in Baltimore, starting at noon at the intersection of MLK Boulevard and Eutaw Street.

Great Outdoors – Plungapalooza 2010
Spending too much time indoors? Try the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge, Jan. 30 at Sandy Point State Park, near Annapolis. Take a quick dip yourself, or watch others – pledges and donations go to Special Olympics Maryland. Musical entertainment, food and amusements featured at this annual event. Free admission.

Pet Spotlight – Starring man’s best friend
These are the real “dog days.”World of Pets Expo and Educational Experience – Jan. 29-31 at the State Fairgrounds in Timonium – is an annual extravaganza for pet (dog, cat, bird reptile and ferret) enthusiasts. Event has seminars, demos, exhibitors, entertainment and petting zoo. Northeastern Maryland Kennel Club All-Breed Match – Jan. 30-31 in Harford County – features competition and obedience trials in an event sanctioned by American Kennel Club.

Arts & Entertainment – Awaken your passion
Music and art faculty at Harford Community College in Bel Air stage The Winter Doldrums, a Sunday Afternoon of Music and Fine Art, Jan. 31, in the Chesapeake Theater and the Student Center. Join the artists at a reception featuring hot jazz and cool drinks. Also, plan a trip to Imagination Stage in Bethesda – one of largest theatrical companies for young people in the region. It offers year-round professional theater and inspiring classes.

Image: Disney’s Mulan, through Jan. 10 at Imagination Stage

Winter Wine – Reds and whites to warm you
Wine is always in season. Thaw out with Maryland soups and wine at Berrywine Plantations/Linganore Winecellars in Mt. Airy (near Frederick) during January. Wine and dessert pairings also available daily – just the right wines for chocolate raspberry cake, almond petite fours and other sumptuous desserts. Boordy Vineyards in northern Baltimore County presents Chili Winter Days: Jan. 16-17, 23-24 and 30-31. Enjoy three kinds of chili – paired with red wines – and listen to live music. Tours offered at both wineries.

Martin O'Malley, Governor
Anthony G. Brown, Lt. Governor