Frederick County, Maryland, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with twinkling lights, festive events, and small-town charm around every corner.
This guide has ideas and inspiration to make the most of a holiday visit to Frederick County, where historic traditions blend seamlessly with new holiday adventures.
1. Unique Shopping Experiences
Skip the crowded malls and big box stores - opt for a more personal shopping experience in Downtown Frederick.
With more than 200 locally-owned specialty shops, boutiques, and art galleries, Downtown Frederick is perfect for finding unique gifts that reflect the creativity of our region. Discover handcrafted goods, locally made products, and holiday-themed treasures that make gift-giving extra special - all in the cozy, historic district where 19th century architecture is decked out for the season.
Don’t forget the Downtown Frederick Gift Card - available at the Frederick Visitor Center. That way you can give the gift of experiencing this lovely city to your friends and loved ones.
Explore Frederick’s one-of-a-kind shops and find the perfect holiday gifts!
2. December Saturdays in Downtown Frederick
Throughout December, Downtown Frederick comes alive on Saturdays with holiday music, live performances, and special events. You’ll find carolers and musicians that add a magical feel as you stroll through historic streets decked out in holiday lights. Many shops offer special discounts and treats, making it the perfect time to shop and soak in the holiday spirit. These special events are hosted by the Downtown Frederick Partnership and local businesses and organizations.
Experience December Saturdays and discover Frederick’s holiday magic!
3. Frosty Friday
Kick off the holiday season with Frosty Friday, Downtown Frederick’s answer to Black Friday. On the day after Thanksgiving, local businesses open early with special deals, extended hours, and festive surprises.
From live entertainment to hot cocoa stands, Frosty Friday is a festive and relaxed way to start your holiday shopping.
Join us for Frosty Friday—shop local and celebrate the start of the holiday season!
4. Christmas Tree Shopping in Frederick County
There's nothing like the tradition of finding the perfect Christmas tree to kick off the holiday season. Frederick County boasts several family-owned farms where you can cut your own tree or choose from a selection of fresh pre-cut options.
Visit Mayne's Tree Farm or Gaver Farm, where you can wander through acres of evergreens to find that ideal tree to adorn your home. Many of these farms offer additional holiday goodies like handmade wreaths, garlands, and ornaments. Warm up with a cup of hot cider or cocoa as you create lasting memories with family and friends.
Begin your holiday festivities by finding the perfect tree right here in Frederick County!
5. Candlelight Tours
Step back in time with candlelight tours that let you experience Frederick’s history with a holiday twist. Experience Candlelight House Tours by Celebrate Frederick on December 7-8, providing an opportunity to tour old homes and new in Frederick’s 50 block historic district. Get your tickets online or at the Frederick Visitor Center.
On December 14, head out to Frederick’s historic sites and museums for the annual Museums by Candlelight event. This FREE family event features special programs, music, refreshments, and plenty of opportunities to make new family traditions while learning about Frederick’s history and heritage.
Head to Downtown Frederick on December 26 for the 38th Annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship. This is Frederick's most popular church tour and is a great opportunity to step inside some of its most beautiful buildings.
As the sun begins to set, visitors can tour many of Frederick’s famous clustered spires and other historic houses of worship by candlelight. This is a FREE event.
Plan a candlelit experience in Frederick County this year!
6. Performances and Music
A Motown Christmas at the Weinberg Center
The holiday season in Frederick County is filled with performances and music that bring joy to all ages. The Weinberg Center for the Arts hosts a variety of holiday shows, including classics like "The Nutcracker,” “A Christmas Carol,” and festive concerts. The Maryland Ensemble Theatre and other theaters also put on holiday productions that showcase our community's talent. Don't miss the carolers and musicians while strolling through Downtown Frederick on weekends, adding a harmonious backdrop to your holiday shopping experience.
7. Holiday Events
Frederick County's holiday season is brimming with special events that bring the community together in celebration. One of the highlights is the Kris Kringle Procession on December 13, a cherished tradition in the heart of the City of Frederick. The procession winds through Downtown Frederick with costumed characters, festive floats, and local musicians, culminating in the lighting of the City Tree in Baker Park. It's a magical evening that captures the spirit of the holidays.
You’ll find another unique event during the Bike Doctor Holiday Lights Ride on December 14th. Cyclists of all ages deck out their bikes with lights and holiday decorations, then cruise through the illuminated streets of Frederick, creating a fun display of holiday cheer. It's an eco-friendly way to enjoy the city's festive atmosphere while spreading holiday cheer with hundreds of riders along the route.
Don't miss the Festival of Lights, an annual ceremony held at City Hall Park. This multicultural celebration on December 11 brings together the community with candles, carols, and inspirational messages from various faiths and traditions. The event concludes with a communal candle lighting, symbolizing hope, peace, and unity during the holiday season.
Experience the warmth and joy of Frederick's special events, and make your holidays unforgettable!
8. Sailing Through the Winter Solstice
This unique event brings art and light to the waters of Carroll Creek Park. Sailing Through the Winter Solstice features dozens of brightly lit boats designed by local businesses and community groups. Each boat has its own theme, and the lights reflect beautifully off the water of Carroll Creek, creating a mesmerizing display.
Make sure to take a stroll along the creek to enjoy this one-of-a-kind holiday art installation that starts lighting the night on November 23 through March 2025. Don’t forget this is a fundraiser - donate to your favorite boat and support Frederick County nonprofits and charitable causes.
9. Lafayette 200 Commemoration
This holiday season, Frederick County celebrates the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s farewell tour in America. The Lafayette 200 commemoration offers a unique blend of history and holiday spirit, with events and exhibits that honor the legacy of the Revolutionary War hero and Frederick’s connections to his story. Join us in celebrating Lafayette’s visit to Maryland during the holiday season with special events from December 27-29, including a Lafayette-themed history scavenger hunt!
Learn more about Lafayette’s legacy with special events this holiday season
10. New Year's Eve Celebration on Carroll Creek
Ring in the New Year Frederick style at the Key Drop on Carroll Creek. The park comes alive with music, food vendors, Candlelights on the Creek, and the ceremonial Key Drop at midnight. Enjoy live entertainment as you await the countdown, and make memories with friends and family in the heart of Downtown Frederick.
Celebrate New Year's Eve at Carroll Creek and welcome the New Year with a bang!
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