With its rich history spanning over two centuries, Zion today hosts a number of annual events featuring its unique brand of hospitality that melds the traditional with a modern flair. While these events were on hiatus in 2020, we hope to welcome you back in 2021 to these festive celebrations of our old world heritage.
See our calendar for details on all upcoming events.
Sour Beef Dinner
Sour beef dinners in Baltimore have a history dating back to the mid-20th century, but Zion’s event may be one of the last of its kind in the city.
In late October, Zion serves the traditional sour beef meal accompanied by its sidekick of homemade potato dumplings, all in a delectable gravy, along with red cabbage, green beans and more. Patrons can choose to enjoy this event in the festive Adlersaal where German music adds to the experience, or in the more formal dining room downstairs.
Our Sour Beef Dinner event was featured in Maryland Public Television’s “Eatin’ the Chesapeake” series, and WYPR’s On the Record program. Watch and listen below.
Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market)
Sponsored by Zion Church and the Baltimore Kickers, the Christkindlmarkt is reminiscent of Christmas markets prevalent in Germany during the Advent season.
The market features a German Christmas store selling imported Lebkuchen, Stollen, Marzipan and other German holiday delicacies. Patrons can enjoy a festive start to the holiday season with traditional German food and “Gluehwein” (mulled wine).
Other attractions include vendors selling gift items, a train garden, holiday music and tours of the historic church building. The Christkindlmarkt is held on the Saturday and Sunday after Thanksgiving.
MaiFest
Zion celebrates May Day, or Maifest, on the first Saturday in May.
This is traditionally the closing of our German Language School season so songs around the Maipole are a central part of the festivities. Of course, games and good food and drink are part of the fun for this spring festival.
Brats & Bier
Zion began ‘Brats and Bier’ several years ago. The events are held on the last Friday of the month in spring and summer. This event has grown in popularity and has become a perfect way for members, city workers and neighborhood residents to start the weekend in a pleasant and relaxing way.