Published by the Students of Johns Hopkins since 1896
March 1, 2025

Leisure

Leisure is the section where we highlight the intriguing, exciting and all-around fun events and activities happening in Baltimore over the weekend.



COURTESY OF ADWITA SINHA
Sinha connects the comforting flavors of The Verandah Kitchen with heartfelt stories from her two visits.

From freshman to familiar: Two visits to The Verandah Kitchen

The first time I stepped into The Verandah Kitchen, I was on the brink of a new beginning. It was the night before I moved into my freshman dorm at Hopkins — my last dinner with my family before settling into college life. My mom, dad and eight-year-old sister sat around a table in this cozy Indian restaurant. The aroma of spices wrapped around us in a familiar embrace.


JIYUN GUO / DESIGN & LAYOUT EDITOR 
This weekend, head to the American Craft Made Baltimore Marketplace to purchase a unique handcrafted product.

Events this weekend (Feb. 21–23)

As February rolls on, Baltimore is packed with energy — offering everything from comedy to craft fairs and late-night dance parties. Whether you’re looking for a night of laughter, a shopping spree for unique handmade goods or an electrifying rave experience, The News-Letter has rounded up the best events to make the most of your weekend.



COURTESY OF YUYU HUANG Huang savors the comforting, homestyle flavors at Ye’s Seafood House.

Homestyle dishes in Ellicott City that keep me coming back

Ellicott City has a unique, familiar charm for me. Its plaza — filled with family-style Asian restaurants — instantly takes me back to my high school days in Southern California when my friends and I would explore similar neighborhoods. Much like back then, these eateries don’t rely on tiny portions or fancy plating to impress: They win you over with fresh ingredients and comforting, homestyle flavors. After a satisfying meal, I might treat myself to a cup of bubble tea or wander through HMart to check out what’s new. That lingering sense of comfort and nostalgia always connects me to those carefree high school days, which is probably why I love spending weekends here. In short, food plays a central role in any visit, so here are my top restaurant recommendations — all within a 20–30 minute drive for Hopkins students.


Events this weekend (Feb 14–16)

The cold snap has finally loosened its grip, and Baltimore is warming up just in time for the weekend. Whether you're looking for live music, a fun night out or something festive to celebrate Valentine's Day, The News-Letter has rounded up some exciting events happening in and around the city.


JIYUN GUO / DESIGN & LAYOUT EDITOR 
This weekend, experience life as an astronaut at an interactive space exploration event at the Maryland Science Center.

Events this weekend (Feb. 7–9)

As winter starts to fade, the city is buzzing with things to do. From festive celebrations to can’t-miss performances, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Here’s a roundup of the best events happening this week.



COURTESY OF KAIYUAN DU
A detective-themed bookstore in Chengdu, China.

Detective fiction: a beginner’s guide

For more than a century, detective fiction has captivated readers from worldwide with its intricate puzzles, thrilling chases and profound social critiques. As an avid reader of detective literature — particularly Japanese detective fiction — I wrote this guide in the hopes that it will help you find the perfect place to begin your journey into the world of mystery and deduction.


RUI DO ROSARIO / DESIGN & LAYOUT EDITOR

Events this weekend (Jan 31–Feb 2)

This week, the chill has finally receded, and temperatures in Baltimore are on the rise. With the weather warming up, it's the perfect time to step outside and make the most of the weekend. If you're looking for something fun to do, The News-Letter has rounded up some exciting events happening around the city — whether you're in the mood for a festival, a concert, or just a new place to explore.


RUI DO ROSARIO / DESIGN & LAYOUT EDITOR

Events this weekend (Jan 24–26)

Welcome back to campus! While the frosty weather might make staying in sound tempting, The News-Letter encourages you to step out and explore Baltimore’s exciting weekend lineup. Take a moment to breathe in the crisp winter air and enjoy the beauty of the snowy season while discovering all the city has to offer.




COURTESY OF ROHAN UPADHYAY
Upadhyay presents four recipes that bring cozy warmth to the enchanting holiday season.

Cheesy holiday-themed recipes

As the holiday season envelops us, the unmistakable charm of Christmas comes alive in every corner — festive decor tucked into cozy apartment corners and grocery aisles brimming with holiday specialty goods. The season’s warm, orangish-yellow hues evoke cravings for dishes that are just as comforting and velvety. Inspired by that, I’ve crafted four recipes — each a celebration of warmth and indulgence. May these dishes fill your home with the spirit of the holidays and delight your taste buds.


COURTESY OF EESHA BELLAD
Bellad offers five inspiring room decor ideas to elevate your holiday spirit!

Five ways to bring the holiday vibe into your room

As the holidays inch closer and the year winds down, the air gets chillier, sniffles seem to follow us everywhere, exam season taunt us and work somehow manages to pile up right before the celebrations begin. But despite the stress, one thing that keeps me going is focusing on the joy waiting just around the corner.


COURTESY OF SOPHIA SEGERSTROM
On her journey to find places to lie down on campus, Segerstrom’s musings weave together the tactical with the introspective. 

Skywatching on the Homewood Campus

If I were to tell you that one of the simplest ways to relax is to lie down, you'd probably roll your eyes, close this article and move on to the next thing on your endless to-do list. But let’s assume you’re still here, caught up in the constant churn of classes, meetings and assignments. And even during downtime — whether you’re watching Netflix, chatting with friends or even taking a bathroom break — there’s that grouchy, taxidermied tuna in the back of your head always asking: “What's next?”


JIYUN GUO / DESIGN & LAYOUT EDITOR
Check out the MICA Art Market this Saturday to browse unique handmade goods! 

Events this weekend (Dec 6.–8)

As the most wonderful time of the year swoops in, our neighborhood is immersed in the spirit of the season with festive events — from holiday markets to tree lightings. Set the stage for the holidays with these exciting happenings near you this weekend.




COURTESY CHRIS SINSHEIMER
Sinsheimer reviews his carnivorous feast at Fogo de Chão, covering everything from the meats and sides to the hearty customer service.

A carnivore finds sizzling satisfaction at Fogo de Chão

When the urge to indulge in something swanky and sumptuous arises after the grueling end of an exam or project, Fogo de Chão is my destination of choice. This esteemed Brazilian steakhouse chain, renowned for its high-quality, open-fire roasting techniques, has locations nationwide. Conveniently for Baltimore residents, two of them are nestled near us in Baltimore: one at the iconic Inner Harbor and the other in Towson. As a graduate student at the School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), I actually visited the Washington D.C. location near the SAIS campus, but the quality of food and service is consistently excellent across all locations.


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