WOW Baltimore

WOW Baltimore made history in 2012 as the first-ever international WOW Festival, setting the stage for a decade (and more!) of powerful conversations, performances and community-driven change in the city and beyond.

In a city known for its resilience and cultural vibrancy, WOW Baltimore brought a new kind of stage – where the voices of women, girls, non-binary people and allies could be heard, elevated and celebrated. The programming has always been shaped by Baltimoreans themselves, ensuring it is grounded in the lived experiences of local communities. Themes have ranged from education, housing and justice, to health, mental wellbeing and creative freedom and each festival brings together artists, activists, students, academics and city residents.

After editions in 2012, 2016 and 2018, WOW Baltimore returned on 5 April 2025, taking place at the Rita Rossi Colwell Center and hosted by Notre Dame of Maryland University. The programme celebrated the women who care, build and create Baltimore and included a keynote with Olympic gymnast Dominique Dawes, a session on Raising Boys, Leading Change: Men’s Role in Society with Equimundo’s Gary Barker and a session on Women Redefining Food and Power. The day also included WOW Sounds and WOW Pop-up performances and a bustling WOW Marketplace showcasing local businesses, services and advocacy organisations.

In a city that has experienced both deep injustice and immense creative strength, WOW is both a mirror and a megaphone – amplifying the work already happening and inviting everyone to imagine what’s possible together.