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Christmas in Annapolis

Christmas Lights, Boat Parades, Candlelight Tours, Holiday Concerts and More

By Rachel Cooper, About.com

Maryland State House in Winter

Photo © Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Conference & Visitors Bureau
The Christmas season is a great time to visit Annapolis, the state capital of Maryland, and enjoy a variety of seasonal activities. Stroll along the historical seaport, shop for unique gifts, check out some of Annapolis’ museums and 18th century historic homes, get in the spirit of the season while watching the Annapolis Christmas light boat parade or listen to a concert of holiday music.

For general information about Annapolis, see an Annapolis Visitor’s Guide.

2009 Calendar of Annapolis Christmas Events

Lights on the Bay
November 21, 2009 - January 3, 2010, 5-10 p.m. Sandy Point State Park, Route 50, Annapolis, Maryland. (410) 481-3161. An annual drive through Christmas light show sponsored by the Anne Arundel Medical Center. Drive along the shore of the Chesapeake Bay and see more than 60 animated and stationary displays illuminating the roadway. $12 per car.

Annapolis Candlelight Tours
November 6-7, 2009, 5-9 p.m. (410) 267-8146. Seasonal music, candlelight tours of a variety of historic homes. Tickets $35. Free trolley shuttle between homes. Reservations required.

Lighting of the Annapolis Christmas Tree
November 29, 2009, 6:00 p.m. Annapolis City Dock. Kick off the holiday season with the annual lighting of the tree. Event sponsored by Homestead Gardens.

Midnight Madness
Thursdays, December 3 and 10, 2009, 6 p.m.-midnight. Downtown Annapolis along Maryland Avenue, Main, and West Streets. Historic Annapolis' shops stay open late for this community block party that is open to all. Enjoy musical performances, food and refreshments and enjoy some holiday cheer!

Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade
December 12, 2009, 6-8 p.m. Annapolis City Harbor (410) 267-9549. Enjoy a parade of lights when more than 70 power and sailboats show off their holiday decorations.

Handel's Messiah Concert
December 5-6, 2009, Main Chapel, US Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland. Performance by USNA Glee Club, Hood College Choir and the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra. Purchase tickets online.

New Years Annapolis
December 31, 2009. Ring in the new year at a family-oriented event with musicians, street performers, a Battle of the Bands, and fireworks.

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