The 10 Most Magical Christmas Towns in Maryland

In Maryland, magic fills the air every year as the holidays approach. Between the light dusting of snow, carolers strolling down main streets, vibrant Christmas parades, and the bountiful decorations, it's safe to say the Old Line State knows how to celebrate.

If you need some holiday cheer, you'll want to visit the following Hallmark movie towns in Maryland. Not only are these charming spots decorated to the brim with lights and garland, but they also host a multitude of events and activities sure to keep you busy this season. You won't want to miss out on the festivities!

1. Berlin

Berlin, Maryland, is a cheerful holiday town that hosts an annual Christmas parade down Main Street on December 4 at 7 p.m., horse-drawn carriage rides (often led by Santa himself), and a charmingly decorated downtown for the season. The town even hosts a tree lighting to ring in the holiday season, meet-and-greets with Santa, and an experience called Ice Ice Berlin, featuring fascinating ice sculptures. Both the tree lighting and Ice Ice Berlin take place on November 28 at 5 p.m. this year.

2. St. Michaels

St. Michaels, Maryland, has a plethora of festive events during the holiday season, including a parade, a gingerbread house competition on December 14 and 15, and even breakfast with Santa at Foxy's Harbor Grille on Saturday, December 13. You won't regret a weekend or even a day trip to this historic waterfront town—it truly becomes a winter wonderland each year. St. Michaels even creates a limited edition Christmas ornament every year to commemorate the season, which you can purchase online.

3. Cumberland

Every year, the town of Cumberland, Maryland, gathers for an annual Christmas tree lighting (on Baltimore Street on Friday, November 28) to kick off the season. Once the tree is lit, the holiday events begin: live music, ice skating, holiday festivals, and several decorations lining the historic Main Street. You can even visit one of the 27 buildings registered under the National Register of Historic Places or dine at a restaurant in the vibrant arts district.

4. Frederick

Frederick, Maryland, becomes a twinkling wonderland—on land and sea—during the holidays. Stroll along the European-inspired cobblestone streets past storefronts and houses adorned with holiday decor, or visit the Sailing Through the Winter Solstice exhibit at Carroll Creek Park, a display of boats covered in fun light displays. The exhibit opens in November every year and can be seen nightly until March.

5. Ellicott City

Ellicott City, Maryland, experienced a flash flood a few years back, but the town has been mostly restored and is better than ever. During the holidays, the city goes all out with events, like Midnight Madness—a spectacular Christmas Tree lighting and a visit from Santa at the Howard County Welcome Center on December 5. There are also plenty of family-friendly events that take place throughout the season in this charming town. Even the storefronts have vibrant and festive displays.

6. Annapolis

Annapolis, Maryland, is always filled with Christmas cheer. Visit Sandy Point State Park for Lights on the Bay—a dazzling drive-through display from November 23 to January 1. Or head to downtown Annapolis to visit charming shops decorated just right. Once the night falls, go to the waterfront to witness the annual Eastport Yacht Club Light Parade on Saturday, December 13, where boats are elegantly adorned with lights and decor. A Christmas spent in Annapolis is one you'll never forget.

7. Baltimore

Baltimore, Maryland's seasonal ice rink returns to Inner Harbor on November 7 through January, for a nostalgic dose of Christmas cheer. Of course, be sure to also check out the annual Miracle on 34th Street—an event featuring a row of brilliantly decorated homes on 34th Street in Hampden, from November to New Year's Day. Even the shops, restaurants, and bars get in on the fun, decorating and participating in deals and special events all season long.

8. National Harbor

At National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, holiday magic fills the air from the moment that the gigantic outdoor tree is lit. All through December, you can visit the harbor's shops and vendors to pick up Christmas gifts, and then end your day checking out the ice displays at the Gaylord National Resort. While the harbor, with its Ferris wheel, stunning views, and parked boats, is beautiful any time of year, the Holidays on the Harbor are especially lovely.

9. Ocean City

As if the glorious Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, Maryland, wasn't enough, the waterfront town also hosts super-fun Christmas parades, carriage rides, and much more. The festive, family-friendly events are considered bucket list items for locals and tourists alike. Sure, you can't take a dip in the water (unless you're part of a polar plunge!), but you can still stroll the boardwalk, take a ride on the amusement park rides, and see Ocean City in a whole new light.

10. Cambridge

Cambridge, Maryland, hosts classic holiday events in its downtown area, such as the 34th Annual Christmas Parade on December 6 and, of course, the annual lighting of the bushel basket tree the day after Thanksgiving. When you're done walking through the charming streets, head toward the water to see the Choptank Lighthouse and the peaceful river in all its glory.

Ready to discover even more Christmas displays in Maryland? Whether you're a local or visiting the Old Line State for the first time, try out Only In Your State's itinerary planner for your holiday trip, and get recommendations for dining, lodging, and incredible sightseeing opportunities.