Artscape 2016 Theme, Musical Lineup Announced

As the weather heats up, that means Artscape is around the corner.

Baltimore's annual summer arts extravaganza is set for July 15 to 17. This year marks the event's 35th anniversary.

The 2016 theme is "Space: Explore What’s Out There!"

NASA will have an exhibit on the "Sun as Art" as well as a solarium at the Maryland Institute College of Art. The National Aquarium will have a presence showcasing the ocean as a site for space exploration.

On the musical front, headliners include hip hop star Wyclef Jean, who will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 15; ska band Mighty Mighty Bosstones at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 16; and reggae artist Burning Spear at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 17. See the full musical lineup, from locals to internationally known artists. Performances will be at 1400 Cathedral Street.

Indie bands will perform on Charles Street near North Avenue, and that stage will house a Prince "Party Like It's 1999" dance party at 9 and 10 p.m. on Friday, July 15, plus a David Bowie tribute called "Bmore Does Bowie" at 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 16.

Artscape will also feature the works of local artists and vendors.

See the full 2016 calendar of Artscape events.

Approximately 350,000 people annually attend what is billed as the world's largest free arts festival. The event is sponsored by the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts.

Pictured, Artscape 2014. Photo Credit: Elizabeth Janney.