Annapolis Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Annapolis and surrounding areas
Annapolis' Christmas 2025 lights up historic City Dock and the Naval Academy waterfront with glittering Holiday lights, bustling markets, and seasonal performances that reflect Chesapeake Bay charm. Highlights like Ballet Theatre of Maryland Presents The Nutcracker and Midnight Madness offer classical shows and late-night shopping during the festive season. With waterfront lights displays, holiday markets, tree lighting ceremonies, and family-friendly parades, there are many things to do in Annapolis for visitors seeking maritime holiday magic and festive events near Maryland Avenue.
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Christmas Markets
34 eventsAnnual community fundraising event supporting local non-profits.
Christmas Shows
15 eventsAnnapolis-inspired Nutcracker with local history
Christmas Lights
10 eventsDrive-through holiday light spectacle
Christmas Parties
8 eventsNew Year's Eve fireworks cruise with DJ and dancing
Christmas Activities
32 eventsExperience Christmas in 1775 Annapolis.
Editor's Picks (6)
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New Year's Eve Annapolis Yacht Party
New Year's Eve fireworks cruise with DJ and dancing
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Ballet Theatre of Maryland Presents The Nutcracker
Annapolis-inspired Nutcracker with local history
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Christmas in St. Michaels
(St. Michaels)
Annual community fundraising event supporting local non-profits.
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Christmas Village in Baltimore
(Baltimore)
Authentic German Christmas market in Baltimore's Inner Harbor.
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The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker
(Washington)
DC's holiday tradition with local twists
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A Christmas Carol at Ford's Theatre
(Washington)
Classic holiday play with acclaimed actor Craig Wallace
Events Happening Soon (6)
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about holiday events and activities in Annapolis
- Cookies and Cocoa with Santa at Children's Theatre Published: Tue, Nov 25, 2025
- Annapolis Adaptation of The Nutcracker Published: Tue, Nov 25, 2025
Annapolis Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Annapolis
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Annapolis!
Annapolis Christmas FAQ
The Grand Illumination tree lighting downtown and the Lights on the Bay drive-through light show at Sandy Point State Park are among the biggest annual Christmas events in Annapolis, drawing locals and visitors alike.
Annapolis is known for its sailboat parade of lights on the harbor, where boats decorated with holiday lights create a magical waterfront display unique to the city’s maritime heritage.
Neighborhoods near downtown Annapolis and Eastport are popular for their festive neighborhood displays and walking trails, offering a cozy and community-focused holiday experience.
Christmas markets and local artisan vendors are primarily found in downtown Annapolis and at community centers near Annapolis, featuring a variety of crafts, gifts, and seasonal food and drink.
Free activities include attending the Grand Illumination event, exploring neighborhood light displays, and visiting local holiday markets with no admission fees. Many shops also host free seasonal events and late-night shopping nights.
Families can enjoy the Lights on the Bay drive-through event, visits with Santa at local markets, and the sailboat parade. The Grand Illumination event also offers music and performances suitable for children.