There’s just something about driving around town looking for sparkling lights that just get you into the holiday spirit. Luckily for us in Baltimore, there are a ton of options where you can park, walk around, and really take in the glistening of the season. So if you’re in the holiday spirit and ready to get out there and start taking it all in, don’t forget about these five classic spots in Baltimore where you can fill your cup with cheer.
Miracle On 34th Street
Hampden
November 25 – early January
You don’t need to book a trip to New York City to see a miracle on 34th Street. Known as “The Christmas Street,” 34th Street is a real-life winter wonderland that lights up the city in Hampden. Anyone who’s taken the drive or walked around this sparkling strip will tell you that it takes homeowners a lot of time and work to set up 34th Street each year. And with all of their hard work, this 700 block of rowhomes has become one of Baltimore’s most treasured holiday traditions. If you’ve never been, you can expect to be entranced by the countless lights and decorations including everything from inflatable snowglobes and musical trains to blinking angels. You may even be one of the lucky few visitors that are allowed to peek inside! Grab a hot chocolate in a to-go cup and hit up this Baltimore holiday favorite.
46th Annual Monument Lighting
Mount Vernon Place
699 Washington Place
December 7, 5-8 p.m.
Did you know that this is the region’s longest running holiday tradition? Lighting up the historic Washington Monument is a Baltimore tradition that includes so much more. You can head over to take part in caroling, a holiday village, live performances, and a spectacular fireworks display and light show. Many local residents consider this event the official kickoff of the holiday season. Just be prepared to hop into a rather large crowd. This holiday favorite tends to attract about 15,000 people each year.
Little Italy Christmas Tree Lighting
Little Italy
December 1, 7 p.m.
Who doesn’t like seeing a tree lighting? It’s a necessary holiday tradition! Pair that with a visit from Old Saint Nick, and some free treats for the kids and you’ve got yourself a perfect evening. This is in Little Italy, so don’t worry because you can expect some delicious Italian cookies for the adults too as well as hot apple cider, hot chocolate, and roasted chestnuts. If that doesn’t put you in the holiday spirit, I don’t know what will. This is a free event and it runs rain or shine.
Baltimore Parade of Lighted Boats
Inner Harbor and Fell’s Point
December TBD, evening
It wouldn’t be the holiday season in Baltimore without a nautical boat parade! The beloved annual Parade of Lighted Boats hosts more than 50 boats and pleasure crafts, decorated to the nines and magically lit up for your eyes to feast on as they sail around. Head to to the Inner Harbor in Fell’s Point to be a part of this spectacular event. The mapped out path of the parade goes around the entire harbor with the boats getting as close to the pier as possible to help you get a good look! If you plan enough ahead of time, you can even head to one of the local restaurants and hotels that face the water who offer first class experiences to the parade.
The Holly Jolly Trolley
Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore
550 Light Street
Starting December TBD
Not a big fan of spending time outside in the cold? Hop on board the Holly Jolly Trolly and enjoy a magical night of holiday music and light displays around town! The two-hour tour, conducted by an expert guide, will begin at Royal Sonesta Harbor Court in downtown Baltimore and will then proceed to take guests through the adorned neighborhoods of Harbor East, Fells Point and Canton where they will learn a little local history and observe the charming sights and sounds of Christmas. The Trolley even heads north to hit up the aforementioned Miracle on 34th Street lights and on the way back, the George Washington Monument too! Make sure you visit their website to reserve some tickets.
Do you have a favorite neighborhood you always drive through around the holidays to catch some awesome light shows? Comment below and let us know where to go!
