In a major step to unify the city’s creative efforts, Mayor Brandon M. Scott has set forth the launch of the Mayor’s Office of Arts, Culture, and Entertainment (MOACE).

Announced during his annual State of the City address, the new office will allegedly play a pivotal role in managing Baltimore’s festivals, film industry, nightlife and cultural economy.

Moreover, Scott shared the office will also connect cultural workers with city services, all while aligning Baltimore’s strategy with national best practices.

“Baltimore has serious momentum right now,” Charm City’s mayor said.

“With over 28 million tourist visits last year, incredible outdoor events like Artscape and AFRAM, and a vibrant artistic community, it’s time to unify these efforts under one strategy.”

Modeled after cultural initiatives in cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, and Austin, MOACE hopes to improve coordination, enhance operational efficiency and expand opportunities for local artists and grassroots organizations.

– Unifying arts, events, nightlife, and film under a cohesive vision.

– Supporting grassroots artists and neighborhood-based cultural groups.

– Increasing operational efficiency and revenue through grants and sponsorships.

– Strengthening pathways to build Baltimore’s creative workforce.

“MOACE isn’t just a new office — it’s a new way of connecting Baltimore and showing who we are, ” said Jackson.

“It’s where murals meet music, festivals meet film, and community voices take center stage.”

The creation of MOACE comes amid a transitional period for Baltimore’s cultural scene.

Most notably, the city has faced challenges with its flagship arts festival, Artscape, year after year.

In 2024, severe weather led to the cancellation of Day 2 of the festival, marking the second consecutive year weather disrupted the event.

Additionally, in late 2024, the City of Baltimore terminated its contract with the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts (BOPA), the organization previously responsible for overseeing Artscape, the Baltimore Book Festival, and other events.

Miller Hall emphasized the transformative potential of MOACE for Baltimore’s creative economy. “This office represents a bold step forward in celebrating the cultural richness that defines our city. Through investment in festivals, film, public art, and nightlife, MOACE will drive economic growth and civic pride.”