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Maryland during Christmas transforms into a magical wonderland, offering everything from dazzling holiday lights to charming traditions that capture the season’s essence. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, there are many best Christmas things to do in Maryland to make your celebration unforgettable. From cozy small towns to vibrant cities, Maryland is brimming with festive events and activities that bring joy to all ages. This guide will explore the best Christmas things to do in Maryland, featuring a variety of unique experiences, including some of the free Christmas events in Maryland 2024 that are perfect for budget-conscious holiday revelers.
10 Best Things to Do for Christmas in Maryland: The Ultimate Holiday Guide
If you’re looking for fun Christmas things to do in Maryland, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy this holiday season. Whether you’re after spectacular light displays, outdoor ice skating, or family-friendly experiences, Maryland offers plenty of options to make your Christmas extra special. Below, we’ve highlighted 10 of the best Christmas things to do in Maryland, including the most festive events and free Christmas events in Maryland 2024. From magical train rides to enchanting light shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this wonderful season!
1. Visit the Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg
One of the most enchanting Christmas things to do in Maryland is visit the Winter Lights Festival at Seneca Creek State Park in Gaithersburg. This spectacular event is a true highlight of the holiday season, offering a 3.5-mile drive-through light display featuring over 450 dazzling lights. With themed sections like “Candy Cane Lane” and “Santa’s Workshop,” the festival creates a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages, making it an unforgettable experience for families and friends.
While the Winter Lights Festival is not free, it is one of the most affordable light shows in the area, providing great value for its stunning display. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit while enjoying the beauty of the lights. Whether you’re looking for a festive night out with loved ones or a fun holiday tradition, this event will leave you with lasting memories of Christmas cheer.
2. Christmas Magic at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is a must-visit destination for a fun and free Christmas event in Maryland 2024. During the holiday season, the harbor transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with a towering Christmas tree, dazzling light displays, and a festive atmosphere perfect for spending time with family and friends.
A highlight of the celebration is the Christmas Village, a charming German-style market where visitors can browse handmade gifts, enjoy holiday treats like roasted chestnuts and bratwurst, and sip on mulled wine or hot chocolate.
In addition to the market, the harbor features holiday-themed performances and captivating window displays, adding to the festive cheer. Strolling along the waterfront, visitors can take in the magical sight of lights reflecting off the water, creating a serene and picturesque holiday setting. Whether shopping for unique gifts, savoring seasonal delights, or simply soaking in the festive ambiance, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor offers an unforgettable holiday experience for all.
3. Stroll Through the Holiday Lights at Brookside Gardens
Brookside Gardens in Wheaton is the ultimate holiday destination, home to Maryland’s beloved Garden of Lights, where over a million twinkling lights transform the garden into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Stroll along winding paths surrounded by dazzling displays of vibrant flowers, playful animals, and glowing butterflies, creating a magical, serene escape into the holiday spirit.
Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful walk or sharing a fun family outing, the enchanting atmosphere is perfect for all ages. After immersing yourself in the light displays, head over to the nearby Brookside Nature Center for festive crafts, Santa visits, and even more holiday cheer.
With its stunning lights and festive activities, Brookside Gardens offers a memorable experience that captures the true magic of Christmas.
4 . Experience the Magic of the Polar Express in Maryland
Step into a Christmas wonderland aboard the Polar Express, where holiday magic comes to life in the heart of Garrett County, Maryland. Inspired by the beloved Christmas classic, this enchanting train ride transports families on a festive adventure to the North Pole, surrounded by the season’s spirit.
From the warm glow of hot chocolate to the joyful carolers and the special appearance of Santa himself, every moment is a celebration of Christmas cheer. As the train winds through the snow-dusted mountains of Western Maryland, the scenic views and festive atmosphere create a storybook setting perfect for lasting memories.
Children will be thrilled by the sights and sounds of the journey and eagerly await Santa’s visit, while parents will relish the opportunity to relive the magic of the holidays through their little ones’ eyes. Whether you’re creating new traditions or sharing a nostalgic experience, the Polar Express Train Ride is an unforgettable way to celebrate the season with your loved ones in Maryland!
5. Explore the Christmas Village at Ellicott City’s Main Street
Ellicott City transforms into a Christmas wonderland each year with its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings. The town’s Christmas Village offers a festive atmosphere where visitors can shop for unique gifts, enjoy holiday treats, and enjoy Christmas cheer.
The annual holiday stroll fills the streets with carolers, food trucks, and even a visit from Santa, making it the perfect way to embrace the season.
The Christmas Village is a free Christmas event in Maryland, and strolling through the beautifully decorated Main Street offers a nostalgic holiday experience. Ellicott City’s festive charm makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a cozy, magical Christmas celebration.
6. Attend the Festival of Trees in Timonium
The Festival of Trees at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium is a dazzling holiday event that features over 700 beautifully decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, and gingerbread houses, creating a stunning visual display for all ages.
This annual tradition captures the festive spirit and supports a great cause: All proceeds benefit the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS).
In addition to the breathtaking displays, visitors can enjoy live entertainment, shop for unique holiday gifts, and even visit Santa Claus. The event offers the perfect opportunity for families to create lasting memories while supporting a charitable cause.
7. Go Ice Skating at Rockville Town Square
If you’re searching for fun Christmas things to do in Maryland, ice skating at Rockville Town Square is a must! This charming outdoor rink, open from November to February, offers a classic winter experience surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations, creating a magical holiday atmosphere. Whether you’re gliding across the ice or enjoying a leisurely skate, it’s the perfect way to embrace the season.
After skating, warm up with hot cocoa or explore the cozy restaurants and festive shops around the square, which comes alive with Christmas cheer. While skating has a small fee, there’s plenty of holiday magic to enjoy for free as you watch the skaters and soak in the stunning light displays. Whether skating or simply strolling through the square, Rockville Town Square offers a joyful and memorable way to celebrate the holiday season.
8. Experience the Magic of Christmas at the National Harbor
Just a short drive from anywhere in Maryland, National Harbor in Prince George’s County becomes a festive holiday wonderland, brimming with activities for all ages. A top highlight is the renowned ICE! exhibit, where visitors can marvel at massive, intricately carved ice sculptures and explore themed rooms that bring Christmas to life in vibrant color and chilly charm.
The holiday magic continues with sparkling waterfront light displays that create a breathtaking atmosphere, perfect for a magical stroll along the water. For an unforgettable experience, take a ride on the Capital Wheel, offering panoramic views of the holiday lights and decorations.
Don’t forget to visit the National Harbor Christmas Market, where you can shop for handcrafted gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and soak up the festive ambiance. Whether you’re admiring the twinkling lights, picking up unique gifts, or just enjoying the holiday cheer, National Harbor promises a magical Christmas experience you won’t want to miss!
9. Tour the Christmas Lights in Kensington
Kensington, a charming neighborhood in Montgomery County, is famous for its dazzling Christmas light displays that will leave you in awe. Every year, residents go all out with holiday decorations, and the lights along Cedar Lane and University Blvd come to life with synchronized shows that twinkle and dance to holiday music. It’s a free, magical experience that captures the true spirit of Christmas, bringing the whole community together in celebration.
For the best Christmas experience, bundle up, grab a warm drink, and take a leisurely walk or drive through this festive neighbourhood, where hundreds of shimmering lights illuminate the streets. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful stroll or sharing the vibrant displays with family, Kensington’s holiday lights offer a heartwarming way to embrace the season, making it an unforgettable tradition filled with joy and holiday cheer.
10. Enjoy a Holiday Concert at the Strathmore Music Center
If you’re a fan of Christmas music, the Strathmore Music Center in Bethesda is the perfect place to enjoy a live holiday concert. Strathmore offers various festive musical experiences from orchestral performances to intimate vocal recitals. The center’s elegant atmosphere and beautiful acoustics make for a memorable night out, and many of the concerts feature traditional Christmas songs and contemporary holiday hits.
FAQs: Top Christmas Things to Do in Maryland 2024
1. What are some free Christmas events in Maryland in 2024?
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, Ellicott City’s Christmas Village, and Kensington’s Christmas light displays are all free events that offer festive fun for all.
2. When does the Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg take place?
The Winter Lights Festival runs from late November through early January, creating a magical holiday atmosphere in Seneca Creek State Park.
3. Can I visit the Polar Express train ride in Maryland during Christmas?
Yes, the Polar Express train ride in Garrett County offers a festive, family-friendly adventure to the North Pole throughout the holiday season.
4. Where can I ice skate in Maryland for Christmas?
Rockville Town Square offers outdoor ice skating from November to February, with a festive atmosphere and twinkling lights.
5. Are there Christmas markets in Maryland?
Baltimore’s Christmas Village and National Harbor’s Christmas Market are popular spots offering unique gifts, food, and holiday cheer.
6. What are some holiday events for families in Maryland?
The Festival of Trees in Timonium, Brookside Gardens’ Garden of Lights, and the Polar Express train ride offer family-friendly holiday activities.
7. What’s a must-see light display in Maryland during Christmas?
The Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg and the dazzling Christmas lights in Kensington are top light displays to experience this season.
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