Calendar of Events - Family Friendly Events

All events were scheduled at the time of posting. Please confirm with event hosts before making plans.

Sarah's Family Friendly Event Picks

December

Through December 24

Photos with Santa. Visit Santa this holiday season at The Shops at Kenilworth! Get your photos with Santa from November 21st-December 24th. Reservations are encouraged; walk-ups will be available as space allows throughout the day. Prices vary depending on package chosen. Hours vary, see link for current schedule. The Shops at Kenilworth, 800 Kenilworth Ave., Towson. https://www.theshopsatkenilworth.com/events/photos-with-santa/

Christmas Village. Since its inception in 2013, Christmas Village has captured the hearts of Baltimore as a cherished holiday tradition. Inspired by Nuremberg's historic 16th-century Christkindlesmarkt, our market is renowned for its exceptional vendors offering high-quality gifts and food. It's the perfect setting for everyone to create lasting holiday memories amidst festive cheer. Named one of the best Christmas markets in the US by Timeout in 2024, this market features over 60 vendors in charming wooden booths. Illuminated by thousands of lights, including the stunning Glühwein Pyramid, a traditional German mulled wine tower, Christmas Village in Baltimore offers both indoor and outdoor holiday markets, a Carousel and Ferris Wheel, a heated tent, and a beer garden. Warm up with a mug of Glühwein and freshly grilled Bratwurst, or enjoy a stein of German beer from Hofbrau. FREE admission. 12PM-8PM Sunday through Thursday; 12PM-9PM Friday & Saturday; 12PM-5PM Thanksgiving & Christmas Eve; closed Mondays & Tuesdays except for 12/22 & 12/23; closed Wednesday 11/26. West Shore Park, Inner Habor, 401 Light St., Baltimore. https://www.baltimore-christmas.com/index.html

Through December 31

Miracle on 34th Street. The unofficial start of the holiday season happens in Hampden, hon! Stroll the neighborhood, enjoy the lights, shop with local merchants and get in the spirit! FREE admission. 6PM-10PM Sunday - Thursday; 6PM-12PM Friday & Saturday. 700 Block of W 34th St., Baltimore. https://www.facebook.com/Miracleon34thSt

Through January 4

Holiday Train Garden. Holiday cheer is pulling in! The Kenilworth Train Garden arrives Saturday, November 22. This is the holiday event you can’t miss! FREE admission. 10AM-8PM Monday through Saturday; 10AM-5PM Sunday. The Shops at Kenilworth, 800 Kenilworth Ave., Towson. https://www.theshopsatkenilworth.com/events/holiday-train-garden/

Santa Clause is Comin': A Motown Revue. Deck the halls and jingle all the bells! This holiday season, join Center Stage for an upbeat, heartwarming evening of Motown magic! Santa Claus Is Comin’ is a dazzling, family-friendly musical concert celebration by Nygel D. Robinson, the powerhouse performer and co-creator of our breakout hit Mexodus. Packed with heart and groove, this spirited show features classic holiday favorites, reimagined with the unmistakable sound of Motown legends—from Smokey Robinson to The Supremes. Whether you’re bringing kids, coworkers, grandparents, or that one cousin who lives for a dance break—this is the holiday party you don’t want to miss. Ticket prices and show times vary, see link for details. Center Stage, 700 N Calvert St., Baltimore. https://www.centerstage.org/events/santa-claus-is-comin/

Through January 19

Inner Harbor Ice Rink. Skate at the Inner Harbor Ice Rink for a memorable experience under the stars with beautiful views of the waterfront and the downtown skyline. Perfect for a date night or family outing. Check out the special events on Thursday evenings including HBCU Night, Glide with Pride, Date Skate and more. Other special events happening throughout the season such as Grinch Steals Christmas on 11/25, Santa Visit on 12/6 and 12/20, Army Navy Celebration & Veteran's Discount on 12/11 and more. Skate rentals are included in pricing. Prices vary depending on age and options chosen. Season passes available. Open 10AM-11PM Saturday, 10AM-8PM Sunday, 12PM-10PM Monday through Thursday and 12PM-11PM Friday; Holiday hours differ. Inner Harbor Ice Rink, 201 E Pratt St., Baltimore. https://www.waterfrontpartnership.org/inner-harbor-ice-rink

Monument Lighting. Illuminating the historic Washington Monument is a Baltimore holiday tradition that has been around for decades. Now in it's 54th year, the lighting is the unofficial opening of the Baltmore holiday season. The night includes caroling, food and good cheer. Fireworks cap the evening marking the official start of the holiday season. The Conservancy's beverage concessions will provide local beer, mead, wine and hot and spiked cider. FREE admission. 5PM-8PM. Mount Washington Place, 699 Washington Pl., Baltimore. https://mountvernonplace.org/monument-lighting/

5-30

Holiday Light Spectacular. See what all the excitement is about at the 2nd annual Maryland Holiday Light Spectacular! Over 40,000 people came last year to enjoy this new favorite family holiday tradition. Immerse yourself in a half-mile magical holiday experience of over 1 million twinkling lights, music and mystical snow globes. The trail is complete with 25+ interactive scenes, a winter carnival with Ferris Wheel and more rides, and so much more. $10-$39 depending on day, time and ticket options; additional fees for some activities. 5:30PM-10PM nightly; 5:30PM-7:30PM Christmas Eve; Closed Christmas Day. Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Rd., Lutherville-Timonium. https://mdholidaylights.com/

Baltimore County Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Kick off the holiday season at the Baltimore County Christmas Tree Lighting in the heart of downtown Towson! Join for a joyful evening filled with twinkling lights, festive music, and community cheer as we officially light the beautiful Christmas tree in Olympic Park. Enjoy live performances, holiday treats, and a special visit from Santa Claus himself! Bring your family and friends to experience the magic of the season — from carolers and local entertainment to cozy photo opportunities and sparkling holiday décor. FREE admission. 6PM-7:30PM. Olympian Park, Allegheny Ave. between York Rd. & Washington Ave., Towson. https://www.towsonchamber.com/events/baltimore-county-tree-lighting-3/

6-7

Breakfast with Santa & Friends. Join the Zoo for yuletide cheer and celebration this holiday season! You’ll enjoy a breakfast buffet on the Zoo’s Mansion House Porch before settling in to create unique seasonal crafts. Then get ready to meet one of Santa’s feathered friends (think penguin). When you hear the bells begin to jingle, Kris Kringle is on his way! Finish your magical morning with a visit from Santa, and tell him your wishes for the holiday season. Plenty of photo opportunities with Zoo mascot Sphen the penguin and of course, Santa! Tickets include same day zoo admission. $56 Adults; $46 Children ages 2-13; FREE for Children Under 2 but ticket still required; Discounts available for members. 8:30AM-10AM. The Maryland Zoo, Mansion House Porch, 1 Safari Pl., Baltimore. https://www.marylandzoo.org/event_series/breakfast-with-santa-and-friends/breakfast-with-santa/

East Coast Nationals Indoor Car, Truck & Bike Show. This show brings hundreds of custom, classic, and show-stopping vehicles together under one roof. It’s one of the region’s premier indoor automotive showcases, featuring vendors, specialty exhibits, and fun for all ages. $25 Adults (16+); $10 Children (11-15); FREE for Children 10 & Under. 9AM-6PM Saturday; 9AM-4PM Sunday. Timonium Fairgrounds, 2200 York Rd., Timonium-Lutherville. https://marylandstatefair.com/events/category/series/east-coast-indoor-nationals-car-truck-bike-show/

The Polar Express Train Ride. Whether you’re starting a family tradition, planning a festive date night, or celebrating with friends, climb aboard for a magical, two-hour experience inspired by the beloved holiday classic! Slip into your coziest pajamas and climb aboard this enchanted train bound for the North Pole. Your adventure begins with a joyful live performance of “Hot Chocolate,” followed by a special moment with Santa himself—who presents each guest with the First Gift of Christmas: a silver sleigh bell. When you arrive at the B&O Railroad Museum's winter wonderland, the magic continues with holiday crafts, cozy s’mores, festive shopping, and a keepsake photo with Santa. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride brings the spirit of Christmas to life—for all who believe. Ticket prices and times vary; see link for more information. The B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W Pratt St., Baltimore. https://www.borail.org/events/polar-express-2/

Brunch with Santa & Friends. Join the Zoo for yuletide cheer and celebration this holiday season! You’ll enjoy a brunch buffet on the Zoo’s Mansion House Porch before settling in to create unique seasonal crafts. Then get ready to meet one of Santa’s feathered friends (think penguin). When you hear the bells begin to jingle, Kris Kringle is on his way! Finish your magical morning with a visit from Santa, and tell him your wishes for the holiday season. Plenty of photo opportunities with Zoo mascot Sphen the penguin and of course, Santa! Tickets include same day zoo admission. $56 Adults; $46 Children ages 2-13; FREE for Children Under 2 but ticket still required; Discounts available for members. 11:30AM-1PM. The Maryland Zoo, Mansion House Porch, 1 Safari Pl., Baltimore. https://www.marylandzoo.org/event_series/breakfast-with-santa-and-friends/brunch-with-santa/

Sock Creature Saturday. There's festive fun afoot: make your own sole-mate at the AVAM! Sock Creatures don’t only make for cuddly companions of your own, but are great last-minute gifts for loved ones of all ages too. Many materials including stuffing, sewing needles, thread, visionary baubles will be provided. Bring a pair of fun, clean, colorful socks if you’d like, they will also have some available for you! FREE; donations accepted. 9AM-1PM. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy., Baltimore. https://www.avam.org/event-details/sock-creature-saturday-2025

Fells Point Old Tyme Christmas. Catch the arrival of jolly old St. Nick in Fells Point during this full day of family fun events. Breakfast with Santa, photo opportunities, festive Family Fun Zone and carolers are just part of the fun. Take in the tree lighting and the parade of boats through the harbor. See link for full schedule of events. FREE admission; some activities require purchase. 9AM-6PM. Broadway Square, Thames St. & Broadway, Baltimore. https://fellspoint.com/events/old-tyme-christmas/

Holiday Parade. Celebrate the season with local high school marching bands, street performers, mascots, dance troops and so much more – all leading up to the big guy in the red suit! Santa will be sticking around for “Skate with Santa” at the ice rink at the conclusion of the parade! Tickets for skating must be purchased online in advance. FREE admission; ticket purchase required for skating. 10AM. The Avenue at White Marsh, 8125 Honeygo Blvd., White Marsh. https://theavenueatwhitemarsh.com/2025/09/18/holiday-parade/

Kerplunk! Family Art Drop-In. Kerplunk! is great for younger kids and families! Join us in the Creativity Center every Saturday to create fun seasonal crafts and art projects based on current exhibitions! FREE. 12PM-3PM. Creative Alliance Creativity Center, 3137 Eastern Ave., Baltimore. https://creativealliance.org/event/kerplunk-free-family-art-drop-in-4/2025-12-06/

Lighted Boat Parade. Enjoy festive lighted boats as the parade through the Harbor. There are many places to view this beloved Baltimore holiday tradition. Boats originate from the Anchorage Marina in Canton and slowly make their way along the waterfront toward the Inner Harbor. FREE. 5:45PM-8PM. Baltimore Harbor, Baltimore. https://baltimore.org/event/baltimore-lighted-boat-parade/

35th Annual Town of Bel Air Christmas Celebration. This tradition has been a local favorite for 35 years! Come together to celebrate the holiday season in downtown Bel Air with a live music, a parade down Main Street, food trucks and more. The event culminates with the annual tree lighting in Shamrock Park. FREE. 2:30PM-5PM. Downtown Bel Air, Main St. & Rt 22 to Main St. & Lee St., Bel Air. https://downtownbelair.com/events/bel-air-christmas-parade-tree-lighting-celebration/

Winter Lights at the Observatory. Live music, food vendors and trucks, local gift vendors, Santa & holiday characters, toy drive and more...FREE! Come early to shop local for wreaths, handmade jewelry and crafts, macarons and decor! Entertainment leading up to the 6pm lighting will feature fabulous entertainers The Ukulalas, Bahía Vieja, Juventud Latina, Ukulalas, Charm City Sings, and Too Much Talent, along with some special guests and carolers! FREE. 4PM-7PM. Patterson Park Observatory, S Patterson Park Ave. at E Pratt St., Baltimore. https://pattersonpark.com/winterlights

Fire & Ice Family Night and Cookie Crawl. Experience the magic of winter in Towson at the Fire & Ice Night & Cookie Crawl! Enjoy an evening of dazzling ice sculptures, cozy fires, and sweet holiday treats as you explore downtown Towson. Stroll through participating shops and collect delicious cookies at each stop! Discover Towson’s charming local businesses, enjoy special offers, and take in the festive holiday décor along the way. FREE admission. 6PM-9PM. Downtown Towson, see link for participating businesses. https://www.towsonchamber.com/events/fire-ice-family-night-and-christmas-tree-judging/

13-14

Shake Out Your Sillies. Shake out your sillies with song, nursery rhymes, puppet shows, instruments, and, of course, a dance party! Each class begins with a breathing exercise before transitioning into music and movement activities. Taught by Eliza Adams, a Maryland preschool teacher and musician, this class is designed for children 5 and under. Caretakers are welcome to join or watch! $16; $12 Members. 11AM. Creative Alliance Creativity Center, 3137 Eastern Ave., Baltimore. https://creativealliance.org/event/shake-out-your-sillies-5/2025-12-13/

Kerplunk! Family Art Drop-In. Kerplunk! is great for younger kids and families! Join us in the Creativity Center every Saturday to create fun seasonal crafts and art projects based on current exhibitions! FREE. 12PM-3PM. Creative Alliance Creativity Center, 3137 Eastern Ave., Baltimore. https://creativealliance.org/event/kerplunk-free-family-art-drop-in-4/2025-12-13/

Painted Screens: A Baltimore Folk Art. Painted screens are a one-of-a-kind Baltimore folk art, and now you can learn how to create your own! Join us for a festive, family-friendly workshop featuring a short film on the history of painted screens, a live demonstration of the technique, and the chance to paint your own small screen. Choose from multiple designs and make something truly special — a unique holiday gift or a fun seasonal keepsake to enjoy together! Ages 7+. All supplies provided. $35; $30 Members. 12PM-2:30PM. Creative Alliance Creativity Center, 3137 Eastern Ave., Baltimore. https://creativealliance.org/event/painted-screens-a-baltimore-folk-art-2025/

40th Annual Union Square Cookie Tour. Charm City’s most charming event. For 40 years, residents of the Union Square neighborhood of Baltimore City have welcomed visitors into their historic homes for tours, homemade cookies, and holiday cheer. Immerse yourself in the heritage of Baltimore’s Union Square, brimming with fascinating stories and rich architectural history. Grab a hot chocolate and some holiday gifts in the heart of the lovely square, then walk from one beautiful home to the next, exploring the neighborhood, engaging with residents excited to share anecdotes and insights into their cherished homes, and eating home-baked cookies made with love just for you. Whether you're a cookie connoisseur, a history buff, or simply seeking a fun-filled day out, the 40th Annual Union Square Cookie Tour of Historic Homes is a not-to-be-missed event that might just be your family’s newest holiday tradition. Check in begins at 11:30AM in Union Square Park. $25. 12PM-4:30PM. Union Square Park, Corner of Hollins & Stricker Sts., Baltimore. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/40th-annual-union-square-cookie-tour-of-historic-homes-tickets-1657817991239

The Mayor's Christmas Parade. This year marks the 52nd annual Mayor's Christmas Parade in Baltimore. Experience the holiday celebration that captivates thousands along a 1.5 mile route through Hampden and Medfield. The parade boasts colorful floats, local personalities, Darth Vader, the Boumi Shriners, lively bands and culminates with Santa Claus, offering a delightful experience for all! FREE. 1PM-4PM. Parade route runs from Falls Rd. between Cold Spring Ln. and 36th St., continues along 36th St. and concludes on Chestnut Ave. between 36th and 37th Sts., Baltimore. https://www.themayorschristmasparade.com/

5th Annual Menorah Lighting. Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, celebrates the rededication of the second Jewish temple in Jerusalem. Gather to celebrate as a community and light the 12-foot menorah on the first night – Sunday, December 14th. The celebration will include: Donuts, Latkes, Ice Skating, and more! The word “menorah” is Hebrew for “lamp” and refers to the eight flamed lamp that is lit on the eight nights of Chanukah. The lighting of the Menorah is a symbol and message of the triumph of freedom over oppression, of spirit over matter, of light over darkness. A little bit of light dispels the darkness. FREE. 5:30PM-7PM. The Avenue at White Marsh, 8125 Honeygo Blvd., White Marsh. https://theavenueatwhitemarsh.com/2025/09/11/5th-annual-menorah-lighting/

19-23

23-30

Snow Days. School’s out—science is in! Celebrate the wonders of winter this winter break with a flurry of science exploration! You will find frosty fun around every corner of the museum each day between December 23 and December 30. All activities are free with paid admission and completely free to members, unless otherwise noted. Explore the concept of friction as you glide around on an indoor ice rink, pick up a few new engineering skills while building snow forts and towers, partake in a daily snowball fight, warm up with a fiery science demonstration or cozy story time, stop by the SciLab to investigate the chemistry of holiday baking. No matter the forecast, there's a 100% chance of an indoor snowstorm, twice each day! FREE with admission. 10AM-4PM Tuesday through Friday; 10AM-5PM Saturday & Sunday. The Maryland Science Center, 601 Light St., Baltimore. https://www.mdsci.org/events/snow-days/

Kwanzaa Candle Lighting. Kwanzaa has become an integral part of the American culture. Join in lighting the first candle of the holiday in celebration of Umoja, or Unity. A candle will be lit every day of the week and will include a discussion of each day's purpose. FREE. 3:30PM. Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum, 300 Oella Ave., Catonsville. https://discoverbaltimorecounty.com/events/kwanzaa-candle-lighting/

Noon Year's Eve. Celebrate the New Year with the whole family! Ring in the New Year at the B&O! Create your celebratory party hat and mirror ball, then head over to our Resolution Station and set your goals for the new year. No New Year’s Celebration would be complete without the chance to see the ball drop, make a toast (with apple juice), and celebrate with confetti poppers. Don’t forget to commemorate this great day out with family with photos topped off with balloons and props. You can also ring in the New Year with a ride on the Reindeer Railway! Departing at 11 am and 1 pm, this special New Year’s edition offers festive fun for the whole family. Every rider will receive a celebration necklace and a delicious treat—the perfect way to welcome 2026! Train ride tickets may be purchased on site. $28 Adult Admission; $24 Seniors; $18 Children; FREE for B&O Members. 10AM-1PM. The B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W Pratt St., Baltimore. https://www.borail.org/events/noon-years-eve/

Sarah's Family Friendly Event Picks

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December

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