Laurel, this is Fresh This Month.
A monthly newsletter. Straight to the point. Every issue covers the things that are actually happening in your community:
- Local events worth your time
- New spots to eat in the DMV
- Who's hiring and how to get in
- What's going on in Laurel
August is back-to-school month. Howard County students return to class August 24, and Prince George's County students head back August 25.
Before then, there's a real checklist: immunizations, school shopping and, of course, a fresh cut. The good news? There's plenty happening between now and the first bell—a tax-free shopping week, a festival at Laurel Park, and $10,000 on the table for a Laurel business owner ready to move fast.
Let's get into it.
Sponsored
Laurel News
What's Poppin' in Laurel
School Starts This Month
Remember Howard County students return Monday, August 24. Prince George's County students head back Tuesday, August 25. Check which side of the line you're on before planning that week: hcpss.org and pgcps.org.
Free Back-to-School Shots: Book Your Appointment Now
Maryland's "No Shots, No School, No Exceptions" rule means students cannot start without proof of required immunizations. PGCPS and the County Health Department are offering a free clinic at Cheverly Health Center, 3003 Hospital Drive, for uninsured or underinsured Pre-K through 12th-grade students. Appointments are required, and spots are filling quickly. Book at pgcps.org/immunizations or call 301-749-4722.
Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week Runs August 9 Through 15
For one week, clothes and shoes priced $100 or less per item skip Maryland's 6% sales tax, and the first $40 of any backpack is exempt too. Time the back-to-school trip to that window and the savings come off automatically at the register. No coupon, no form, nothing to sign up for. marylandtaxes.gov
The City Launched Safe Summer Nights for Teens
Laurel's summer curfew for minors is now in effect through September 8. Signed by Mayor Keith Sydnor following recent public-safety concerns, the order aims to prevent large gatherings that could lead to violence or disorder.
Under the order, anyone under 18 cannot be in public places from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., seven days a week, unless they qualify for an exemption. More information here.
Mayor Keith Sydnor says the curfew is meant to prevent problems, not punish young people. City leaders hope it will reduce opportunities for crime and disorder while steering teens toward summer programs, recreation and community events.
As part of that effort, the city is promoting Safe Summer Nights, a supervised evening program for teens ages 13 to 17. Hosted at the Laurel Armory-Anderson & Murphy Community Center and Craig A. Moe Multipurpose Center, it will offer sports, games, arts, workshops, mentorship and other activities throughout the summer.
- August 15 at the Craig A. Moe Multiservice Center Free ages 13–17. Expect live DJs, basketball, local food trucks, and various recreational activities tailored for the city's youth. Enroll here.
Laurel is also offering summer camps, recreational programs, sports and youth events through its Parks and Recreation Department.
Nominate Someone for Laurel's 2026 Light Award
The Laurel Light Award honors everyday people who make our community better. Launched in 2024, the annual recognition is selected by Voices of Laurel staff and Laurel History Boys, Inc. board members from public nominations.
Nominations for the 2026 award are now open. If someone is making a positive difference in our town, this is a chance to recognize them. Nominees do not have to live in the City of Laurel—anyone is eligible.
Submit a nomination by direct message, email at [email protected], or mail. Find the mailing address and full details at Voices of Laurel.
Things To Do
Events
Featured
African Heritage Festival Free
The DMV's largest family-friendly African Heritage Festival returns to Anne Arundel County for its sixth year. Expect a full day celebrating African pride, unity and culture, with music, food, art, fashion and community.
Organizers say this year's festival will be their biggest and most vibrant yet. This is a free event, RSVP here.
Laurel Run Club at Laurel Lake Free
A new wellness group is taking to Laurel's streets—literally. Laurel Run Club is a free community run-and-walk group built around getting healthy through movement.
The group has been active all summer and has already welcomed more than 700 people. Walk, jog or bring a stroller—every pace is welcome. Find each week's route and details here: posh.vip/g/laurel-run-club-7for7.
Wine & Slow Jams Festival
Wine & Slow Jams is an outdoor R&B experience for grown folks ready to unwind, dance and enjoy the summer. Expect smooth classic and contemporary R&B from DJs, curated wine and spirits, local food vendors, and room to lounge, sip and connect.
The lineup includes nostalgic performances from Pretty Ricky, Donell Jones, Case and New Impressionz.
Leave the kids at home and make a night of it—whether that means a date night with your spouse or a summer outing with friends. With a lineup like this, Wine & Slow Jams is worth the drive from Laurel. Get your tickets here now.
Who's In Town?
Lake Street Dive
For the neo-soul and jazz lovers, this one's for you. Catch Lake Street Dive live, with The Dip opening the show for a soulful double bill.
Alex Isley
Alex Isley brings the kind of smooth R&B that hits differently in an intimate room. Date-night approved.
Joe Bonamassa and Gov't Mule
If guitar solos and Southern rock are your love language, don't miss Joe Bonamassa and Gov't Mule.
Tank and The Bangas
New Orleans funk, soul and spoken word at its best—Tank and the Bangas are even better live.
Kehlani
Get ready to sing along with R&B sensation Kehlani. The lineup also includes Durand Bernarr, TheARTI$t, WASEEL and Dixson.
Asake
The night after Kehlani, Afrobeats takes over with Asake performing his global hits. Uncle Waffles opens what is sure to be an epic night.
Comedy
Tommy Davidson
A DMV favorite and a comedy legend, four nights only. dcimprov.com
Corey Holcomb
Late show, grown-folks room. Leave the teenagers at home. magoobysjokehouse.com
KevOnStage: Grief Sucks
A one-man show from one of the funniest people on the internet, live and close to home.
Mark These Dates: Other Events in August
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 4 | National Night Out (6–8 PM) Free | Granville Gude Park & Lakehouse |
| Aug 7 | The Too Much Talent Band (7–9 PM) Free | Granville Gude Park & Lakehouse |
| Aug 9–10 | Water Lantern Festival (5:30 PM) | kids 8 and under free | lantern kit sold separately | National Harbor SouthPointe |
| Aug 15 | MOCHA: A Chocolate City Block Party (4–9 PM) | 2221 Adams Pl NE, Washington, DC |
| Aug 17 | Foo Fighters with Queens of the Stone Age | Nationals Park, DC |
| Aug 29 | Love Groove Festival 10th anniversary (12 PM–8 PM) | Point Park, Baltimore |
Sponsored
New Eats
Eat Something New
Good month for new openings. Six spots worth your time, and the big one is close to home.
Wonder Bowie New in Bowie
Wonder Food Hall has landed in Bowie, bringing multiple restaurant concepts under one roof. It's made for the family that can never agree on one place: order pizza, steak, tacos, wings, salads, dessert and more in a single stop. Wonder partners with chef-driven restaurants, including concepts from names such as Bobby Flay and Marcus Samuelsson, so there's plenty to explore beyond the usual fast-casual options. Dine in, pickup or have it delivered—either way, it's an easy new answer for "What does everybody want to eat." Open daily from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 p.m.
Qamaria Yemeni Coffee New in Laurel
Qamaria Yemeni Coffee is a new Laurel stop worth adding to your coffee rotation. This coffee house serves traditional Yemeni coffee and tea drinks flavored with warming notes of cardamom, ginger, cinnamon and clove. Go beyond your usual latte with a Mufawaar, a creamy cardamom coffee, or try qishr, a lightly caffeinated tea brewed from the coffee cherry husk. There are espresso drinks, iced options, baked goods and grab-and-go bites, too. It's a cozy place to slow down, meet a friend or try something new. Operating Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. until midnight, and Sunday until 10 p.m.
Spiced Black
Spiced Black in Upper Marlboro makes healthy eating feel like a full-flavor experience. This fast-casual spot serves colorful salad and grain bowls inspired by Black heritage foods across the African diaspora—from the Caribbean and West Africa to the American South. Try a Jollof bowl with shrimp, a mango Caribbean jerk salad with salmon, or build your own bowl with fresh ingredients, plantains, greens and bold house-made sauces. It's a great lunch or dinner option when you want something fresh without settling for bland. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Ulivo
Ulivo brings polished but approachable Italian dining to Columbia Heights. The menu takes inspiration from Italy's Piedmont region, with handmade pasta, satisfying sauces and seasonal ingredients at the center of the table. Come for a cozy date night, a glass of wine with friends or a leisurely Saturday lunch—this neighborhood spot feels special without feeling stuffy. Open Wednesday through Friday from 3 to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and for brunch on the last Sunday of each month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Catahoula
Catahoula brings Gulf Coast flavor to Navy Yard, with a waterfront setting that feels made for a long dinner or sunset cocktails. The menu blends French, Southern, Cajun, Creole and Vietnamese influences, with oysters, Gulf seafood, crawfish boils, po' boys and bold cocktails in the mix. Go for happy hour in the Cocktail Garden, dinner with a river view or a weekend brunch with friends. Lunch runs Monday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m.; brunch is served weekends and holidays from noon to 3 p.m.; and dinner is served nightly beginning at 5 p.m.
Little Birdie
Little Birdie is a new Del Ray spot putting real care into comfort food—especially chicken. The menu centers on crispy chicken sandwiches, tenders, house-made sauces and satisfying sides, made with chicken from trusted Pennsylvania farms and Japanese milk buns from local bakers. It's easy enough for a casual weekday meal but polished enough for brunch, dinner or a night out with friends. Little Birdie is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
For the Parents
Family Playbook
Howard County Fall Youth Programs
Howard County Recreation & Parks has its fall activity guide ready for families planning beyond the first day of school. From youth sports and fitness to creative classes, nature programs and seasonal activities, there are plenty of ways to keep kids moving, learning and connected this fall. Programs are offered for a range of ages, interests and skill levels, so it's worth browsing early for the best fit. Registration is available online, and the county notes that programs, locations and additional sections can change—so check back often for the latest openings. Explore the Fall Activity Guide and register here.
Kids Day At National Harbor
National Harbor's Kids Day is an easy Tuesday-morning outing before the school year begins. The free family program takes over the Plaza every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. through August, with a different activity each week.
August starts with a Work It Out Wombats! experience on August 4, followed by a didgeridoo workshop with Australian artist Cameron McCarthy on August 11. On August 18, kids can meet community heroes during Be My Neighbor Day, and the series wraps up August 25 with interactive story time, singing and dancing from the Prince George's County Memorial Library System. Make a day of it: Capital Wheel visitors can receive one free child's ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket using the code "KIDS DAY," and kids 12 and under eat free at Nando's with a qualifying purchase. See the full schedule and details.
Movies On The Potomac
National Harbor's Movies on the Potomac is bringing free outdoor movies to the Plaza all month long. Bring lawn chairs, grab dinner to go from one of the Harbor's restaurants and settle in for Thursday date-night movies at 7 p.m. or family movies on Sundays at 6 p.m.
August's lineup includes Top Gun (Aug. 6), Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie (Aug. 9), Top Gun: Maverick (Aug. 13), Elio (Aug. 16), Creed (Aug. 20), Babe (Aug. 23), Michael (Aug. 27) and Little Giants (Aug. 30). It's a simple, budget-friendly way to make the most of these last summer evenings. Weather can affect the schedule, so check for updates before heading out. See the complete lineup and details.
Local Economy
Economy Pulse
Laurel's Thrive Grant Still Has $10,000 Available
The City of Laurel is offering a $10,000 grant, first come, first served, to eligible businesses that opened between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, in an approved zone. This is a Laurel-run program, not a statewide long shot, and applications are still open. If you or someone you know recently opened a shop, food truck or salon in the city, there's real money on the table right now. cityoflaurel.org/1929
More State Funding for Small Businesses
If Laurel's Thrive Grant is not the right fit, don't stop there. Maryland's Business Boost Microgrants and Project Restore 2.0 are also supporting eligible small businesses through the state's Department of Housing and Community Development. These programs can help businesses with growth, recovery and improvements, though requirements vary by program and location. Take a few minutes to review the eligibility rules, gather your business documents and apply while funding is available. businessexpress.maryland.gov
Jobs & Opportunities
Get That Bag
Entry Level Government Jobs
- Laurel Police Officer, City of Laurel | Starting salary $70,269 plus sign-on bonus | Open recruitment | Apply
- City of Laurel Job Board | Pay varies by opening | cityoflaurel.org/179
Retail, Food Service and Customer-Facing
- Ross, Retail Associate | Baltimore Ave, Laurel | $15–$15.50/hr | Apply
- Sam's Club, Carwash/Gas Station Attendant | Laurel | $17–$25/hr | Part-time | Apply
- Sam's Club, Personal Shopper | Laurel | $18–$26/hr | Part-time | Apply
- Walmart, Cart Attendant | Laurel | $14–$27/hr | Part-time | Apply
- Best Buy, HP PC Sales Rep | Laurel | $19/hr | Apply
- Domino's, Customer Service Rep | Baltimore Ave, Laurel | Apply
- Proximity Global Logistics, Amazon Delivery Driver | Laurel | $21/hr | Must be 21 with a valid license and clean driving record | Apply
Non-Profit, Healthcare and Professional
- CALMRA Day Program, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Laurel | $18.67/hr | Apply
- Veolia, Account Manager, Water Treatment Chemicals | Laurel | $80,000–$100,000 salary | Full-time | Apply
Job Fairs This Month
- Maryland Regional Virtual Job Fair | Thursday, August 6 | 10 AM to noon | Carroll County | Call 410-386-2820 for the registration link | Details
- PGCPS Hiring Event | Thursday, August 6 | PGCMLS Library, Hyattsville | Details
More Job Boards
- Howard County Government Careers, howardcountymd.gov/careers
- State of Maryland Jobs, jobapscloud.com/MD
- USAJobs, filter for Maryland, usajobs.gov
- Indeed, Laurel MD, indeed.com
- Prince George's County Careers, princegeorgescountymd.gov
Learn a Trade
College is not the only path to a solid career. Maryland's registered apprenticeship programs let you earn a paycheck while building real skills through hands-on work, classroom instruction and mentorship from experienced professionals. Opportunities are available in electrical, HVAC, plumbing, carpentry, construction and other in-demand fields—with some programs also leading to industry credentials such as OSHA training or an apprentice license.
For young adults ready to get started, these programs can offer a direct route into a skilled trade without taking on student-loan debt. Adults changing careers can apply, too, and high school students may be eligible for youth apprenticeship opportunities through their school systems. The state does not place apprentices directly, but its site can help you find programs and contact sponsors. dllr.state.md.us/employment/appr
Gig Life
| App | What You Do | Sign Up |
|---|---|---|
| Curri | Deliver construction and industrial supplies | curri.com |
| Uber Eats | Deliver food on your schedule | Sign up |
| Instacart | Shop and deliver groceries | Sign up |
| Veho | Deliver packages | shipveho.com |
Back-to-school season means more delivery demand. Good month to pick up extra gigs.
Watch This Space
Community Spotlight
Makairos Massage
Not every glow-up starts in the chair. Makairos Spa and Wellness Center, located at 8101 Sandy Spring Road in Laurel, takes a client-driven, holistic approach to massage—because no two bodies, or sessions, are exactly alike.
Choose from customized signature massages, deep-tissue and Swedish-inspired sessions, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi, hot-stone therapy, manual lymphatic drainage and therapeutic massage for injury recovery or chronic tension. Need relief fast? Same- or next-day "Squeeze In" appointments may be available by phone. The practice has earned a 4.98-star rating from more than 130 client reviews, and appointments are available throughout the week.
If your summer has been all camp drop-offs, long workdays, family plans and back-to-school errands, consider this your reminder to pause. A massage can be the reset your body needs before the calendars fill up again. Whether you need relief from everyday tension or simply want to make time for yourself, Makairos brings the experience to you. Book through the link in their bio.
Follow @makairosmassage and book at linktr.ee/makairosmassage.
Local Government
Town Hall
Van Dusen Road Construction Is Underway
Laurel has started Phase 3 of the Van Dusen Road Improvement Project, covering the stretch from just north of Route 198 to Old Sandy Spring Road. The work includes new and repaired sidewalks, curb and gutter work, pedestrian ramps and crosswalks, fresh pavement and markings, plus a full rebuild of the traffic signal at Van Dusen Road and Old Sandy Spring Road.
The project is meant to make this busy corridor safer and easier to navigate for drivers, walkers and residents with mobility needs. Expect temporary lane closures and traffic delays during construction, generally Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; occasional evening or weekend work may be needed. The City says the project began July 15, but has not announced a completion date yet. More details.
City Council Meetings Are Cancelled
There does not appear to be a regular City Council meeting in August. The next listed work session is September 2, followed by a regular meeting September 14. Residents who want to speak or get the Zoom link should contact the City Clerk by 2 p.m. on the day of the meeting. laurel-md.municodemeetings.com
Fresh Out.
That is Issue #04 of Fresh This Month.
Back-to-school on August 24 and 25, free shot clinics, a tax-free shopping week, a festival at Laurel Park, and $10,000 still up for grabs for a Laurel business. That's what's going on in our community right now.
If someone in your circle should be reading this, forward it. Signup is open at tcutme.com/blog.