Baltimore, get your googly eyes ready. On Saturday, September 6, the Inner Harbor Amphitheater is turning into the ultimate waterfront block party, starring none other than Mr. Trash Wheel—the floating garbage-guzzling legend who’s been slurping up our harbor litter since 2014. And this time, he’s not just cleaning up—he’s hosting a festival. Because after pulling 2,000 tons of trash out of the water, the guy deserves a day off and maybe a Wagyu hot dog.
So, what’s happening?
“Baltimore by Baltimore: Mr. Trash Wheel and Friends” is basically Comic-Con meets the farmers market meets a giant floating Roomba with googly eyes. Expect:
- A Mr. Trash Wheel music video shoot at 4 p.m., where you (yes, you) can be in the video. Break out your best dance moves, trash-inspired costumes, or just show up with your normal Baltimore swagger.
- A costume contest at 5 p.m. (Pro tip: gluing googly eyes to a pizza box might just win you first place.)
- Performances by Chyno the Baltimore Foodie, Katie Pumphrey the ultra-marathon swimmer/artist, Big Fred Watkins the comedian, and Jes Raschella the stilt-walking puppeteer. Basically, the Avengers of Charm City.
Other highlights from the day include:
- 2:00 – DJ Eddible
- 3:15 – Lil’ Laughs Talent Show
- 4:00 – Mr. Trash Wheel Music Video Shoot
- 5:00 – Costume Contest
- 6:30 – DJ Foqus
- 7:15 – Waterbug
The snacks (arguably the most important part)
Forget your sad PB&J. You’ll be eating like a harbor hero with:
- Oysters from The Urban Oyster
- Crabs from Xash Crabs
- Ice cream from Taharka Brothers
- Arepas from Arepi
- Fancy hot dogs from Glizzy’s Wagyu Dogs
And because this is Baltimore, yes—there will be drinks. Thanks, Bar Movement.
Mermaids, puppets, and a little trash (on purpose)
This festival isn’t just about food and music. Expect mermaids, giant puppets, environmental art, and probably someone in a trash bag tutu. The whole thing is a joyful love letter to Baltimore’s weird, wonderful, and slightly gritty soul.
Boats included
Oh, did we mention you can hop on the historic Sigsbee sailboat for free rides at 2:30, 4:40, and 6:00? That’s right—you can sail into the sunset pretending you’re a pirate while Mr. Trash Wheel looks on approvingly.
Getting around & parking
Whether you’re in it for the music, the environment, the food, or just the goofy celebration of Baltimore weirdness, your Saturday trip downtown will be more fun if you plan ahead.
PSA: Pratt Street will be closed from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. for the Maryland Cycling Classic, so be sure to plan your timing and route around that.
And when it comes to parking, Harbor Park Garage at 44 Market Place is an ideal spot. It’s easily accessible from major routes in and out of the city, like I-83, and is open and staffed 24/7 with a friendly crew of employees. Plus, it’s reasonably priced, you can book your spot in advance, and it’s all just a few quick steps to the main action taking place on Saturday.