Once upon a midnight dreary (204 years ago), one of the greatest American writers of horror and mystery was born. Celebrate the life of Edgar Allan Poe by attending the 204th Poe Birthday Bash in Baltimore, which features a performance of “The Poe Show” (pictured), theatrical readings by the Poe Masquers, a Poe marketplace (think bobbleheads), a book signing by author Kelly Creagh, and a sneak preview of Kevin Bacon’s new drama, The Following (because Bacon goes with everything). The Poe Society will even be exhibiting a piece of Poe’s coffin, along with a lock of his hair, two appropriately macabre items. Dig your favorite Poe or period costume out of the closet and toast the vaunted author who died by Baltimore’s streets. Not recommended for children under eight. (Nicolette Hatzidimitriou)