The dog days of summer are here. Humidity, temperatures, kid's boredom and parents' tempers are all sharply on the rise.

Cool off! Outdoor dining is a great escape from the summer doldrums, right on Main Street.

There are several opportunities to dine al fresco without traveling on a beltway.

O'Lordan's Irish Pub is a good spot for a pint and other Irish spirits on its two-tiered deck and patio. Engage the luck of the Irish for a cool night without humidity while you enjoy a potent potable during happy hour, Tuesdays through Fridays, 4 to 7 p.m.

On Aug. 16 and Aug. 23, you can also enjoy live music with Ben Sherman and Tony Denikos, respectively.

But if you want to try your own hand at playing an Irish tune, visit the pub every second and fourth Wednesday, 8 to 10 p.m., for a traditional Irish jam session.

"Bring your tin whistle, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, banjo or accordion if you want to join in," says owner Dave Johannson.

Rafael's on Main Street offers an extended deck on the back of its restaurant, providing an excuse to literally step out for the evening.

In addition, each month from May to September, Rafael's offers its "deck party," providing live music on the deck, 4 to 8 p.m. The next party will be held Aug. 10, with the band Group Therapy providing live music.

Maggie's and Paradiso are nearby eateries offering dining under the stars. With candlelight on the tables, have a romantic evening of great food while enjoying a Westminster summer night.

If lighter fare is on your mind, stop by the Pour House Café for a latte and relax by the soothing fountain at its beautifully appointed patio.

The café also offers live entertainment many evenings, with several opportunities to enjoy the music at its outside venue.

OK, so what if you want to engage in outside dining without a crowd? Create your own experience by putting together your a picnic dinner.

Picnics need not be an ant-infested affair of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Nope. Create your own gourmet experience with a few select stops on Main Street.

For example, visit Wine Me Up for a bottle of white wine and accompany it with Italian cheeses from Guilianova.

Then mix it up to create a Mexican picnic with items from Papa Joe's, or make it Mediterranean with items from Semiramis Grill.

Pick a nice spot at City Park or other venue, even your back yard, to enjoy the open air, relaxed atmosphere and incredible edibles.

Main Street Second Hand

Keep the party going island style with a trip to the Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main St., on Friday, Aug. 1, 8 p.m. to see Ewabo Caribbean Trio deliver a fantastic evening of Caribbean music.

Caribbean cocktails and fruit juices will be available for purchase during the concert.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for members, Students and seniors. For more information call 410-848-7272.

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