Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Fire Pit or Grill | Is Your Home Ready For Summer Vacation? | My Top Summer Festivals

by Jen Ward

It's that time of year: Temperatures are rising, the school year is coming to a close, and the unofficial start of summer -- Memorial Day -- is just around the corner. Thank you to all who have served our country to protect our freedoms!

Before everyone heads out on summer vacation, I want to bring some safety tips to your attention. In recent showings with buyers, I've noticed that fire pits and grills are not located in safe areas: too close to the house, on the deck, or under trees. I've pointed out melted, warped vinyl siding and deck railings. This isn't just an aesthetic issue -- it's not safe for you and your home.

As the mercury increases, so do the outdoor events. Here are a few events to look forward to this summer:

Asia North Festival - An Asian arts, culture, and food festival in Baltimore throughout the entire month of May.
Preakness - This Baltimore tradition - and 2nd race in the Triple Crown - celebrates its 150th anniversary at Pimlico on May 17th.
Artscape - The largest, FREE art festival is now scheduled for May 24-25 in Baltimore City. Will it be the hottest weekend in May?
Capital Jazz Fest - The arts are central to Howard County and the Capital Jazz Fest comes to Columbia from June 6-8 at Merriweather.
LakeFest - The Columbia Festival of the Arts is central to Howard County. Enjoy the FREE festival celebrating the visual, musical, and performance arts from June 20-22 all around the lake.
Music City Maryland Festival - Catonsville has been named the Music City in Maryland (based on the number of shops selling musical instruments and music) and hosts its namesake festival on August 23.

First Fridays are back! If you're interested in hearing some music, having a drink, and meeting some neighbors, check out First Friday celebrations around the area.