Christmas Eve in Maryland is a magical time, filled with festive atmosphere, joyful spirit, and endless opportunities for merriment. As the sun sets on December 24th, families, friends, and loved ones gather to celebrate the night before Christmas. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Maryland offers a diverse range of activities to make your Christmas Eve unforgettable. In this article, we'll explore five fun ways to spend Christmas Eve in Maryland, from traditional celebrations to unique experiences.
Traditional Christmas Eve Celebrations in Maryland
For many, Christmas Eve is a time for traditional celebrations with family and friends. Maryland is home to many wonderful churches, cathedrals, and other venues that host special Christmas Eve services and events. Some popular options include:
- The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore, which offers a Midnight Mass and a festive concert.
- The Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. (just a short drive from Maryland), which hosts a Christmas Eve service and a special concert by the cathedral's choir.
Enjoy a Festive Holiday Market
Many towns and cities in Maryland host festive holiday markets on Christmas Eve, offering a fun and lively atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights, festive food, and unique gift shopping. Some popular holiday markets include:
- The Baltimore Christmas Market in downtown Baltimore, which features local vendors, artisans, and craftspeople selling handmade gifts, decorations, and treats.
- The Annapolis Holiday Market in Annapolis, which offers a charming atmosphere, complete with horse-drawn carriage rides, visits with Santa, and a festive holiday market.
Unique Christmas Eve Experiences in Maryland
If you're looking for something a bit more unique and adventurous, Maryland offers a range of special Christmas Eve experiences that are sure to create lifelong memories. Here are a few ideas:
- Take a romantic Christmas Eve cruise on the Chesapeake Bay, complete with stunning views, festive music, and a delicious holiday buffet.
- Visit the historic town of St. Michaels, which hosts a special Christmas Eve celebration complete with a festive parade, visits with Santa, and a holiday market.
Go Ice Skating or Sledding
For those who love winter sports, Maryland offers a range of fun and festive ice skating and sledding options on Christmas Eve. Some popular spots include:
- The National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden Ice Rink in Washington, D.C. (just a short drive from Maryland), which offers a festive atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights and holiday music.
- The Lake Artemesia Sledding Hill in College Park, which offers a fun and thrilling sledding experience, complete with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
A Fun and Festive Christmas Eve in Maryland
Whether you're looking for traditional celebrations, unique experiences, or fun and festive activities, Maryland has something for everyone on Christmas Eve. From the mountains of Western Maryland to the beaches of the Eastern Shore, the state is filled with holiday cheer and festive atmosphere. So why not come and experience it for yourself? With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Maryland is the perfect place to spend Christmas Eve.
A Very Merry Christmas Eve in Maryland
As the sun sets on Christmas Eve in Maryland, the state comes alive with festive music, twinkling lights, and joyful spirit. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's no better place to spend the holiday season. So come and experience the magic of Christmas Eve in Maryland โ you won't be disappointed!
What are some fun things to do on Christmas Eve in Maryland?
+There are many fun things to do on Christmas Eve in Maryland, including traditional celebrations, unique experiences, and fun and festive activities. Some popular options include attending a Christmas Eve service or concert, visiting a holiday market, taking a romantic Christmas Eve cruise, and going ice skating or sledding.
What are some popular holiday markets in Maryland?
+Some popular holiday markets in Maryland include the Baltimore Christmas Market in downtown Baltimore and the Annapolis Holiday Market in Annapolis. These markets offer a charming atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights, festive food, and unique gift shopping.
Are there any unique Christmas Eve experiences in Maryland?
+Yes, there are many unique Christmas Eve experiences in Maryland, including taking a romantic Christmas Eve cruise on the Chesapeake Bay and visiting the historic town of St. Michaels, which hosts a special Christmas Eve celebration complete with a festive parade, visits with Santa, and a holiday market.