Christmas in Baltimore: A Guide to the City’s Holiday Magic
There’s something truly special about spending the holidays in Baltimore. The city glows with festive lights, the air hums with carols, and the aroma of mulled wine and roasted nuts fills the streets.
From twinkling displays to heartwarming traditions, Baltimore knows how to celebrate the season. At the center of it all is the Christmas Village in Baltimore, a beloved annual market that brings Old World charm to the Inner Harbor.
Beyond the market, you’ll find dazzling light displays like Baltimore’s famous Miracle on 34th Street, joyous concerts, and serene church services—creating a holiday experience that’s equal parts magical and meaningful. Enjoy it all while making The Ivy Hotel your home base for the season.
The Heart of the Season: Christmas Village in Baltimore
No celebration captures the city’s holiday spirit quite like the Christmas Village in Baltimore, located about 10 minutes from The Ivy Hotel. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, this festive event transforms West Shore Park at the Inner Harbor into a European-style winter wonderland.
Local artisans mingle with international vendors, selling ornaments, candles, toys, and cozy winter accessories, all perfect for holiday gift shopping. The smell of roasted nuts and gingerbread fills the crisp air, while a large Christmas tree sparkles over the market. Families can enjoy live performances, photos with Santa, and kid-friendly crafts, while adults can sip festive cocktails or German beer at the Hofbräu beer garden.
Twinkling Traditions: Miracle on 34th Street in Baltimore
Just a short 10-minute rideshare from The Ivy Hotel, the Miracle on 34th Street in Baltimore is one of the most famous displays of Christmas lights in Baltimore and a tradition that has delighted locals and visitors alike for more than 70 years. Each December, the homes along 34th Street in Hampden come alive with over-the-top decorations, from illuminated Santas and reindeer to glowing crabs and snowmen.
The residents of this charming neighborhood go all out, creating a vibrant, walkable spectacle that draws thousands each year. You’ll find a mix of classic holiday cheer and quirky Baltimore flair – keep an eye out for the famous hubcap Christmas tree!
Music, Merriment & Meaning: Holiday Concerts and Church Services
The sounds of Christmas fill Baltimore’s historic churches and concert halls throughout December. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Spectacular” at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, just five minutes from The Ivy Hotel, is a local favorite, blending classical pieces with festive tunes for the whole family.
For something more traditional, attend a candlelit Christmas Eve service at one of Baltimore’s beautiful historic churches. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, about a 10-minute rideshare from The Ivy Hotel, offers a moving Mass in a breathtaking architectural setting.
St. David’s Episcopal Church in Roland Park and Brown Memorial Presbyterian Church in Bolton Hill also host carol services filled with warmth and community spirit.
See the City Sparkle: Christmas Lights in Baltimore
In addition to Miracle on 34th Street, the city shines bright with holiday lights at nearly every turn. Head to the Inner Harbor to see the waterfront illuminated with festive décor, or visit the Maryland Zoo’s “Zoo Lights” event, where larger-than-life animal lanterns light up the night.
The lights at the Druid Hill Park Mansion House and the Mount Vernon Washington Monument also create stunning backdrops for holiday photos. Every corner of Baltimore seems to glitter with warmth and wonder this time of year, making it easy to get swept up in the city’s festive energy.
Celebrate the Season in Style
Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate at the Christmas Village in Baltimore, wandering through the radiant Miracle on 34th Street in Baltimore, or attending a moving holiday concert downtown, the city offers endless ways to make your Christmas magical. Baltimore delivers holiday cheer in every form.
After a day of festivities, unwind at The Ivy Hotel, just minutes from many of these beloved seasonal attractions. The Ivy Hotel’s cozy fireplaces, elegant rooms, and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect holiday retreat.
Celebrate a holly jolly Christmas with The Ivy Hotel this year!
