December
Lights on the Bay
Mid-November – January 1, 2015
5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. nightly, weather permitting
$14/car; $50/bus
Sandy Point State Park
www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/sandypoint.asp
Don’t miss this spectacular drive-through holiday lights show beside the Chesapeake Bay. The event features more than 60 animated and stationary displays, including traditional Maryland-themed favorites, holiday and children’s displays. Proceeds benefit Anne Arundel Medical Center.
Midnight Madness Holiday Shopping
TBD – Traditionally the first two Thursdays in December
6:00 p.m. to Midnight
Downtown Annapolis
Admission: Free
Lights, garland, action! Historic Annapolis shops throw open their doors in a glorified block party that is open to all. Enjoy musical performances as well as food and refreshments at many stores as you stroll along Main Street, Maryland Avenue, inner West Street, and State Circle in search of that perfect gift. Explore the uniqueness that makes downtown Annapolis so appealing at this magical time of year. Sponsored by Annapolis Business Association.
Holiday Candlelight Stroll
December 5, 6,12,19,20
7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Admission: $16 adult / $12 children under 12
Tours depart from the Information Booth at City Dock, Annapolis
www.watermarkjourney.com
410-268-7601
Learn about the origin of holiday traditions – including the significance of evergreens, Yule logs, Christmas trees and Santa Claus. The stroll along festive Annapolis streets is a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade
Saturday, December 6
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Admission: Free
Annapolis Harbor and Spa Creek
www.eastportyc.org
410-267-9549
Every year in December, magic happens on the waters of the Annapolis Harbor. Boats illuminated with thousands of colored lights and crewed by jolly revelers suddenly appear in the cold wintry night. Families and friends gather at their favorite viewing spots along the waterfront to enjoy the yearly spectacle. Sponsored by the Eastport Yacht Club.
West Annapolis Holiday Magic Saturday
Saturday, December 13
West Annapolis – Annapolis Street
410-956-7278
Don’t miss the family-friendly shopping events in West Annapolis. Take advantage of free parking. Sponsored by the West Annapolis Business Affiliation.
11th Hour Downtown
TBD – Traditionally the third Thursday in December
Stores remain open until 11:00 p.m.
Maryland Avenue/State Circle and Downtown Annapolis Shopping Districts
If shoppers didn’t purchase all of their holiday gifts at Midnight Madness, 11th Hour gives them one more opportunity to check names off their gift list. Shops stay open until 11:00 p.m. Enjoy musical performances as well as food and refreshments at many stores. You’re bound to get caught up in the holiday spirit.
Annapolis New Year’s Eve Celebration 2014
Wednesday, December 31
Admission: Free
Susan Campbell Park, City Dock, Annapolis
410-263-7940