Beginning in 1995, BIRDS has hosted it's annual Rhythm Festival nearly every fall. The idea of the festival is to make rhythm accessible to the public for a spirited weekend including workshops, performances, an open-air market, and an all day drum circle. There have also been some special activities for children.

The Baltimore Rhythm Festival has been honored to host many amazing, internationally renowned musicians and dancers throughout the years, such as Glen Velez, Orlando Cotto, Ubaka Hill and Tony Vacca.
One great teacher, person and musician who performed, taught and spoke at the 1997 Festival is Babatunde Olatunje, featured in the photo to the left with John Millen (BIRDS founder). Click here or the photo to see more wonderful pictures of Baba from that year's festival.

The organizers of the Festival are ALL VOLUNTEERS, and make it happen each year because of a deep commitment to all forms of rhythm, dance, the BIRDS Mission, Baltimore, and the Global Village we are all a part of.
The Festival is you. Without the passion and participation of EVERYONE involved, including those who just show up, and especially those who step forward to shoulder some responsibility, there would be no festival. Please CLICK HERE to let us know how you would like to be involved. The more people involved, the less everyone has to do, and the more we can ALL enjoy the festival together.