MICA Lecture Series. Regional, national and international artists, designers, authors and curators discuss their work, life and career experiences. Open to the public and free, these lectures offer an opportunity to learn about the creative process from prominent contemporary figures in the art world. Maryland Institute College of Art, Baltimore. For schedule, visit fyi.mica.edu.

Meet the Artists, Wine and Cheese Reception. Harford Artists Gallery, Bel Air, 1-4 pm, 410-420-9499.

Featured Artist at Harford Artists Gallery. Painter Andrea Kipp will be demonstrating her landscape oil painting techniques. Harford Artists Gallery, Bel Air, 1-5pm, 410-420-9499.

“Raw” Art Sale. Raw (unframed and unmated) artwork, including prints, photographs, drawings, paintings, small sculptures, and other artworks on sale to the public. The Gateway: BBOX, Maryland Institute College of Art, Baltimore. Sun, Noon-4pm, Mon, 10am-4pm, 410-225-2300.

Art Competition Exhibit, 13^th annual. Themed exhibit, Discovering the Native Landscapes of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Adkins Aboretum, Ridgely, 410-634-2847.

Baltimore, 410-396-7101

Ongoing through Feb. 25, Candida Hoffer, Interior Worlds. Thirteen works by the internationally acclaimed contemporary German photographer are presented in this intimate exhibition.

Baltimore, 410-547-9000

Ongoing through April 15, Touch and the Enjoyment of Sculpture: Exploring the Appeal of Renaissance Statuettes. Groundbreaking show explores the implications of tactile perception in enjoying sculpture.

 

 

Peabody Symphony Orchestra. Mozart’s Overture to The Marriage of Figaro and Ein Heldenblen, Opus 40, by Strauss. Miriam A. Friedberg Concert Hall, Peabody Institute, Baltimore, 8pm, 410-234-4800. $

A BSO Valentine. Celebrate with your sweetheart as pianist Tony DeSare displays his trademark romantic style, playing such favorites as “Fly Me to the Moon,” “Night and Day,” “One for My Baby” and “Moon River.” Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, Baltimore, Fri-Sat, 8pm, Sun, 3pm, bsomusic.org. $

Air Supply with special guest John Waite. American Music Theater, Lancaster, 8pm, 800-648-4102. $

Baltimore Chamber Orchestra: Markand Thakar, conductor, featuring Ana Vidovic on guitar. Kraushaar Auditorium, Goucher College, Towson, 3pm, bco.org. $

Hopkins Symphony Chamber Orchestra. Vladimir Lande returns to conduct Mozart’s Symphony No. 41 “Jupiter.” Mattin Center, Second Decade Society Room, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 3pm. 410-516-6542. $

2nd Annual Black Gospel Music Experience. Singers from several Harford County churches will perform and compete in an evening of black gospel music and discuss its importance in the African American community. Havre de Grace branch, Harford County Public Library, 6pm. Registration required. Call branch to register. 410-273-5600 for additional information.

 

 

Baltimore, 410-332-0033 $

Through Feb. 5, Gleam. This saga brings to life characters from the beloved novel Their Eyes Were Watching God, a shining jewel of the Harlem Renaissance. Through March 4, A Skull in Connemara. In a flyspeck of a town in Ireland’s fabled West, four lonely, lovable misfits dig for the truth, and get so much more in this side-splitting comedy.

Baltimore, 410-752-2208 $

Through Feb. 19, Fifty Words. Baltimore premier! This story of a couple’s nightlong exploration of a modern day marriage makes “George and Martha’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolf union seem restrained,” according to The New York Post.

Baltimore, fpct.org $

Through Feb. 12, The Iceman Cometh. The iconic work by Eugene O’Neill set in a Skid Row Saloon in 1912 – a political year of social questions relevant to us today.

Baltimore, 410-547-7328 $

Through Feb. 12, Wishful Drinking. Carrie Fisher’s true and intoxicating tale of her life as a Hollywood legend.

Bel Air, 443-412-2211 $

Feb. 3-12, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Cheer Snow White and boo the Evil Queen! Black Box Theatre in Joppa Hall. Call for show times. February 10, Fancy Nancy and Other Storybooks. Six delightful tales come to life in this musical revue based on popular children’s stories. 5:30 and 7:30pm.

Baltimore, 410-685-5086 $

Feb. 2-4, Fiddler on the Roof. The Tony Award winning musical that has captured the hearts of people around the world with its universal appeal and rousing score. Feb. 24-26, Come Fly Away. This new Broadway musical brings together the legendary vocals of Frank Sinatra and the creative choreography of Tony Award winner Twyla Tharp.

Cymbaline. Shakespeare’s romantic fairy tale of redemption and forgiveness. Kittamaqundi Community Church, Columbia, Thur-Fri, 8pm, Sat, 3pm. chesapeakeshakespeare.com. $

 

 

StepDance. This show fuses traditional and contemporary Irish dance and music in a way you’ve never experienced before. Jim Rouse Theatre, Columbia, 7pm, StepDanceshow.com. $

 

 

The Future is Now! African Americans in Dentistry. In honor of Black History Month, the National Museum of Dentistry presentsa tribute to the extraordinary men and women who paved the way for African Americans’ success as dental professionals. National Museum of Dentistry, Baltimore, Wed-Sat, 10am-4pm; Sun, 1-4pm. 410-706-0600. $

African-American Heritage Walking Tour. This unique walking tour traces the rich history of African Americans in Annapolis and their impact nationally and internationally. Annapolis City Dock, Annapolis, 1pm. Reservations required, call 410-268-7601. $

The Great Baltimore Fire Motor Coach Tour. This historic fire destroyed 140 acres of downtown Baltimore in less than 30 hours. Historian Wayne Schaumburg gives a slide show at the Fire Museum before leading the tour of the downtown area destroyed by the fire. Fire Museum of Maryland, Lutherville, 1-4:15pm. 410-321-7500. $

Hidden in Plain View: A Secret Story of Quilts and the Underground Railroad. Dr. Raymond Dobard, Howard University professor and co-author of the renowned and controversial book, "Hidden in Plain View," will discuss the fascinating secret codes of freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad. Hampton National Historic Site, Towson, 2-3pm, 410-823-1309, ext. 251.

War of 1812 Lecture Series. “Researching Free People of Color in Harford County.” Speaker: Reggie Bishop, genealogist. City Hall, Havre de Grace, 7pm, 410-252-7519.

Harriet Tubman – Meet the Amazing Woman. Known as “the Moses of her People” Harriet Tubman led slaves to freedom, served as a scout and a spy for the Union during the Civil War, and was a nurse for fugitive slaves. Join Gwendolyn Briley-Strand as she discusses this remarkable woman. Surratt House Museum, Clinton, 4pm. Very limited seating on first-come basis. 301-868-1121.

Wheaton, 301-962-1400 $

Through April 15, Spring Garden Display. Spring comes to the conservatory when plants that flower in cool temperatures and short days bring color and fragrance to the dark days of winter.

Backyard Conservation – Build Your Own Rain Barrel. Rain barrels are a cheap and easy way to conserve water and help protect the environment. Build your own and learn of their many benefits at this workshop. Anita C. Leight Estuary Center, Abingdon, 2-4pm. 410-612-1688 $

Horticultural Society of MD Annual Winter Seminar. Regional meeting of the Perennial Plant Association’s Mid-Atlantic Region. Five speakers will make presentations on a range of topics. Sheppard-Pratt Conference Center, Towson, 9am-4:30pm, 410-821-5561.

Introduction to Honeybees and the Art of Beekeeping. Delve into the secret world of honeybees first-hand in this introductory course. Follow up courses available for an in-depth look at the processes of beekeeping. Eden Mill Nature Center, Pylesville, 3-5pm, edenmill.org. For ages 12 and older. $

 

American Craft Council Show in Baltimore, 36th annual. Show includes more than 700 top contemporary craft artists presenting their latest handmade creations including: jewelry, clothing, furniture, green craft and home décor. Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, public.craftcouncil.org/Baltimore. $

 

 

Westminster Coin and Currency Show. Thirty coin and currency dealers, free appraisals, free admission and parking. Dealers will be buying, selling, and trading coins and currency. Westminster Fire Dept. Engine Company No. 1, Westminster, 9am-4pm. 443-623-7025.

Cask to Kisses. Savor the taste of Linganore’s delicious red wines paired with European chocolates. Berrywine Plantations/Linganore Winecellars. Mt. Airy. 10am-5pm; Sat, 10am-6pm; Sun, Noon-5pm. 410-795-6432. $

Sip and Sliders. Enjoy delicious sliders with the perfect wine pairing, then have a tour of the winery. Boordy Vineyards, Hydes, Sat. & Sun. 1-4pm, 410-592-5015.$

Chocolate Affair, 21st annual. Baltimore’s best restaurants, caterers and chocolatiers will offer mouth-watering cuisine at this event to benefit Health Care for the Homeless. Baltimore Waterfront Marriott Hotel, 6-9pm, chocolateaffair.org. $

Foreign Film Festival, 9^th annual. Weekly screenings of award-winning foreign language films. Carroll Arts Center, Westminster, 7:30pm, 410-848-7272, carrollcountyartscouncil.org. $

Heavy Seas Beer & Oyster Festival. All-you-care-to-taste extravaganza with bottomless samplers of oysters, heavy seas beer, live music and more. Clipper City Brewery. Baltimore City. Noon-4pm. 410-878-9900. $

Red Pump Ball. To benefit Upper Chesapeake Health Cardiovascular program. A black tie optional dinner dance with open bar, silent auction, raffles, and live entertainment. Bulle Rock Residents' Club, Havre de Grace, 6-10pm. 443-643-3460. $

Great Scale Model Train Show. Operating display layouts, 800 vendor tables, train movies, Thomas area for kids, free parking. Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium, Sat, 9am-4pm; Sun, 10am-4pm. 410-730-1036. $

Motor Trend International Auto Show. Explore hundreds of new cars and trucks, hybrids, futuristic concepts, exotics cars and more! Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore City, Thurs, Noon-10pm; Fri-Sat, 10am-10pm; Sun, 10am-7pm. 800-345-1487. $

Timonium International Motorcycle Show. A true motorcycle show covering every aspect and segment of the motorcycle industry. National bike builders featured. Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium, Fri-Sat, 10am-9pm; Sun, 10am-6pm. 410-561-7323. $

Y of Central MD Family Sweetheart Dance. Dance the night away with mom, dad or that someone special at your Local Family Center Y. Nonstop music and dance contests. Times vary, check you local Family Center Y for details. Free for members, $ for non-members. Visit ymaryland.org for more information.

Chesapeake Oyster and Beer Festival. Offering the bounty of the Chesapeake featuring hundreds of beers and wines, oysters and so much more. National Harbor, Fri, 6-10pm; Sat, Noon-4pm and 5-9pm. 410-878-9900. $

Seaside Boat Show, 29th annual. Eastern Shore's largest boat show with boats, accessories, clothing, arts, crafts and a children's charity event.Ocean City Convention Center, Ocean City, Fri, 11am-7pm; Sat, 10am-7pm; Sun, 11am-5pm. ocboatshow.com. $

Maryland Recreational Vehicle Show, 46th annual. The newest motor homes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and tent campers in every price range will be on display, along with outdoor sporting and camping equipment. Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium, Fri-Sat, 10am-8pm, Sun, 10am-6pm. 410-561-7323. $

CASA of Harford County Bull and Oyster Roast, 2^nd annual. Silent auction offerings include four Park Hopper tickets to Disney, Ski Roundtop Ski Package, Maryland Terps Lacrosse tickets, jewelry, restaurant gift certificates and more. Join in the fun to support Court Appointed Special Advocates. Jarrettsville Gardens, Jarrettsville, casaofharfordcounty.org. $

Maritime Mexican Fiesta (to benefit the Maritime Museum). Mexican fiesta fundraiser featuring traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex fare. Hit the piñata to win a prize! Sombreros encouraged! Community Center, Havre de Grace, 6-9pm, 410-939-4800. $

Humane Society Bowl-a-Rama. The Humane Society of Harford County is hosting a bowl-a-rama to raise funds for homeless animals. Registration is $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Forest Hill Lanes, Forest Hill, 3-6:30pm, 410-836-1090, ext. 101 or harfordshelter.org. $

Wine Expo 2012. The HCC Alumni and Friends Association and Wine World and Spirits sponsor an afternoon of wine, delectable hors d’oeuvres, desserts and a chocolate fountain. Enjoy sampling wine from around the world while representatives from 35 wine companies share their knowledge. Proceeds benefit the HCC Alumni and Friends Association. Harford Community College-Susquehanna Center, 3-6pm, 443-412-2449, harford.edu or mywineworld.com. $

Where’s the Woodchuck? Celebrate Groundhog Day at the Nature Center with a story and craft, then find out what the groundhog and its cousins are up to outside. Reservations required. Cromwell Valley Park, Towson, 2-3:30pm, 410-887-2503.

This Little Heart of Mine, Family Valentine Party. Come enjoy stories songs, games, crafts and snacks. Recommended for children ages 3-8 with their families. Eden Mill Nature Center, Pylesville, 1-2pm. Preregistration is required. 410-836-3050.

Cocoa Creations. Winter is a time for enjoying many sweet treats, but did you ever wonder where hot cocoa comes from? Come learn about the origins of cocoa and make a delicious chocolate treat to take home! Ages 6 & up. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills, 1-2:30pm, ExploreNature.org. $

Mommy and Me Valentine Tea. Dress in your finest and enjoy a story time and tea in celebration of Valentine’s Day. Ages: 5-Adult. Anita C. Leight Estuary Center, Abingdon, 2pm-4pm. 410-612-1688 $

Teddy Bear Sleepover. Share stories and a craft with your favorite stuffed animal and allow them to spend the night at the library. Receive a special surprise when you return the next day to pick up your friend. Registration required. Call branch to register. Aberdeen branch, Harford County Public Library, 6:30pm. 410-273-5600 for additional information.

 

 

Trail Guide Training.  People who enjoy nature, children and hiking are needed as volunteer Trail Guides for schools visiting during the year. Training will also be offered in September, and inquiries are welcome as to alternative training methods.. $25 fee is refunded if one becomes an active trail guide. Oregon Ridge Park, Cockeysville, 10am-1pm each day, 410-887-1815 or oregonridge.org.

Maple Magic. Experience the process of maple sugaring as you head out to identify trees, observe tapped maple trees, and collect sap. Learn to boil down the sap to make syrup. All ages welcome. Ladew Topiary Gardens, Monkton, 2-4pm, call 410-557-9570 to register. $

Hot Chocolate Walk for Families. Bundle up and join a Cylburn naturalist for a guided walk through the woods to search for signs of winter wildlife. Afterwards, enjoy hot cocoa in the mansion. Cylburn Arboretum, Baltimore, 11am-12 Noon. Call 410-367-2217 to register. $

 

 

 

Pennsylvania Horse World Expo, 10^th annual. This big event for horse enthusiasts includes top equestrian clinicians and performers, hundreds of vendors and equines of all breeds and disciplines, non-stop seminars, shopping and entertainment. All activities are indoor and heated. Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg, Pa. Thurs, Noon-8pm, Fri,10am-8pm, Sat, 9am-8pm, Sun, 9am-5pm. horseworldexpo.com. $