12/4. MONUMENT LIGHTING
Festivals. Did you know that there are some 10,000 bulbs that illuminate the Baltimore’s annual Monument Lighting? Taking place each year on the first Thursday of December, this now-beloved tradition—55 years this year and counting—lights up Mount Vernon’s 178-foot-tall monument in festive display of holiday cheer. “It’s like our Rockefeller Center Christmas tree,” Lance Humphries, executive director of the Mount Vernon Place Conservancy, which oversees the tradition, told us last year. For one night only, per usual, expect its impressive fireworks display, as well as a host of special offerings from local business, museums, and pop-ups throughout this historic city neighborhood.

12/2. JOSHUA CLARK DAVIS
Classes & Lectures. This local author-professor debunks the harmful myth that the Civil Rights Movement endured police violence without fighting back in his latest book. Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St. 7 p.m. Free.

12/2. CHRISTMAS WITH CHORAL ARTS
Music. A tradition for more than 40 years, the Baltimore Basilica chorus is joined by a brass ensemble to fill the room with holiday tunes. Baltimore Basilica, 409 Cathedral St. 7:30 p.m. Free-$79.04.

12/2-3. MIDWEEK: THE NUTCRACKER
Music. Dancers from the Baltimore School of Arts accompany the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra to reinvent Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. Tues.-Wed. 10 & 11:30 a.m. $7. 

12/3. WARREN WOLF CHRISTMAS VIBES  [Editor’s Pick]
Music. This local vibraphone virtuoso gives holiday cheer a jazzy twist alongside the powerful vocals of D.C.’s Imani-Grace Cooper. Keystone Korner, 1350 Lancaster St. 7-9 p.m. $30-35.

12/3. JINGLE Y’ALL
Music. WPOC presents a night of country music to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, including artists like LOCASH, which has Baltimore roots. The Recher, 512 York Rd., Towson. 7 p.m. $25.69.  

TO 12/4. DECEIVED
Theater. An adaptation of the thriller “Gaslight,” this play follows Bella, who is questioning her sanity as a mystery of manipulation unfolds. Everyman Theatre, 315 W. Fayette St. 7 p.m. $5-66. 

12/4. MONUMENT LIGHTING NIGHT AT THE WALTERS 
Festivals. Before the lighting, swing by the art museum for free, family-friendly activities. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. 5-8 p.m. Free. 

12/4. MCHC MONUMENT LIGHTING OPEN HOUSE
Festivals. Before the lighting, warm up with a self-serve hot cocoa bar and live holiday tunes, with early birds receiving a free hand-carved silhouette portrait by local artist Lauren Muney. Maryland Center for History & Culture, 610 Park Ave. 6-8 p.m. Free.

12/4. SUZANNE CIANI
Music. This trailblazing synthesizer artist brings decades of talent to this iconic show. Le Mondo, 406 N. Howard St. 7:30-10 p.m. $30. 

TO 12/5. NOW YOU SEE IT, NOW YOU … 
Exhibitions. This solo art exhibition by Baltimore visual artist Nora Howell makes the invisible visible. Gallery CA, 440 E. Oliver St. Mon.-Fri. 12-4 p.m. Free.

12/5. THE HEAVY HEAVY
Music. Sip on local beers with taproom performances from The Heavy Heavy and Laney Jones & the Spirits. Union Craft Brewing, 1700 W. 41 St. 7 p.m. $34.16. 

12/5. LOVE NUT 30TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW
Music. This local ’90s indie pop quarter returns to their old stomping grounds to celebrate 30 years as a band with a special appearance. The Recher, 512 York Rd., Towson. 7 p.m. $32.37. 

12/5. FRIDAY NIGHT SWING & LINDY HOP
Dance. Drop in for an all-skill-level dancing lesson and practice your new old-school moves on the dancefloor. Mobtown Ballroom, 30 W. North Ave. 7 p.m. $10-20.

12/5. HOT IN HERRE: 2000S DANCE PARTY
Music. Pull out your lowest low-rise jeans and bedazzled bling for a night full of Rihanna, Eminem, Britney Spears, and other post-Y2K icons. Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St. 8 p.m. $21.17.  

12/5. ART AFTER HOURS: STEP INTO THE SUBLIME [Editor’s Pick]
Exhibitions. Wander through the BMA galleries after regular museum hours with live music and art-making activities inspired by Amy Sherald’s new exhibition, American Sublime. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. 8-11 p.m. $35-45. 

12/5-7. BJC HOLIDAY SALE
Exhibitions. Shop handmade jewelry from Baltimore Jewelry Center students, instructors, and local artisans, then browse their yearly community exhibition, titled “Making Spaces.” Baltimore Jewelry Center, 10 E. North Ave. Fri. 5-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 12-6 p.m. Free. 

12/5-21. POE CHRISTMAS CAROL [Editor’s Pick]
Theater. The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre performs “A Christmas Carol” in the style of Edgar Allen Poe, aka full of eerie suspense and terror. Motor House, 120 W. North Ave. Sat. 2 p.m., Sun. 8 p.m. Prices vary.

12/5-21. A TUNA CHRISTMAS
Theater. In the fictional town of Tuna, Texas, residents juggle the chaos of the holidays as the annual Christmas Yard Display contest is vandalized by an unidentified “Christmas Phantom.” Spotlighters Theatre, 817 St. Paul St. Times vary. $24. 

12/5-21. THE LONG CHRISTMAS RIDE HOME
Theater. Stories of the past, present, and future intertwine for a family of five on Christmas Eve with humor and powerful emotion. Strand Theater Co., 5426 Harford Rd. Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $15-22. 

12/5-31. GODDESSES, MYTHS, & MONSTERS
Exhibitions. Examine the nuances of misogyny through the dual perspectives of trans women and cis pregnancy with works by local artistic duo DanaidX. Maryland Art Place, 218 W. Saratoga St. Times vary. Free. 

12/6. HOLIDAY GREENS SALE
Fundraisers & Galas. Shop handcrafted wreaths, winter vase displays, Cylburn-themed gifts, and poinsettias to decorate for the season. Cylburn Arboretum, 4915 Greenspring Ave. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Free.  

12/6. SOCK CREATURE SATURDAY
Classes & Lectures. Just in time for holiday gift-giving, turn a pair of fun socks into your very own sock animal at AVAM. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 

12/6. OLD TYME CHRISTMAS
Festivals. After Santa arrives by tugboat, enjoy photo ops, hot cocoa, and activities for kids around the Broadway Square. Fells Point Main Street, 1632 Aliceanna St. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. 

12/6. HOLIDAYS WITH HOOT
Family. Get up close and personal with animal ambassador owls, enjoy games and crafts, and sip hot chocolate during this festive morning. Irvine Nature Center, 11201 Garrison Forest Rd., Owings Mills. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. $10-15. 

12/6. AN ENCHANTED EVERGREEN
Exhibitions. Explore the Evergreen Museum twinkling in its holiday best, make your own ornament, enjoy gift shop discounts, and munch on festive snacks. Evergreen Museum & Library, 4545 N. Charles St. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free-$7.

12/6. NUTCRACKER! MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS BALLET
Dance. Tchaikovsky’s masterful score sets the stage with dazzling costumes and sets, exciting puppetry, and astounding ballet. Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St. 3 & 7 p.m. $33-158.  

12/6. PARADE OF LIGHTED BOATS
Festivals. During this annual tradition, watch a dazzlingly decorated boats cruise ripple along the waterfront between Canton, Fells Point, and the Inner Harbor. Locations vary. 6 p.m. Free.

12/6. INTERACTIVE MOVIE NIGHT: DIE HARD
Film. Shout the lines, play games, test your Die Hard knowledge, and beware of squirt gun casualties, with prizes awarded for themed outfits. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 8 p.m. $29. 

12/6. CULTURALLY CURATED – SNEAKER CHIC EDITION
Festivals. This spin-off event is inspired by the museum’s annual gala, featuring live music, food, and art on display, all in the comfort of your favorite kicks. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. Times & prices vary. 

12/6-7. ELF IN CONCERT
Music. A screening of the cherished Christmas comedy is accompanied by a full orchestra performance of the film’s score. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. $31-109.

12/6-7. HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET
Market. Dozens of local artists and vendors are setting up shop for a smorgasbord of holiday gift options along the warerfront. Harborplace, 200 E. Pratt St. Times vary. Free. 

12/6-7. KICKIN IT WITH SANTA
Fundraisers & Galas. Compete in kickball and pickleball games during Volo’s annual fundraising tournament, followed by an ugly sweater after-party at One Star. 300 E. Cromwell St. 11 a.m. $30-484. 

12/6-7. MICA ART MARKET [Editor’s Pick]
Market. This three-floor holiday market features original artwork by MICA students, alumni, faculty, and staff. MICA Brown Center, 1301 W. Mount Royal Ave. Times vary. Free. 

12/11-20. THE NUTCRACKER [Editor’s Pick]
Dance. Dancers from Baltimore School for the Arts high school and younger TWIGS programs perform this magical holiday classic with a spin. Baltimore School for the Arts, 712 Cathedral St. Thurs.-Fri. 6 p.m., Sat. 2 & 6 p.m. Free.

12/6-23. THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE
Festivals. Be transported into the beloved holiday classic with a real train ride, visits from Santa, your very own silver sleigh bell, and more. B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt St. Times vary. $55-115. 

12/6-31. HOLLY-DAYS
Family. December weekends will be filled with holiday crafts, photo ops, festive story time, and special appearances from Santa and animals at the Zoo. Maryland Zoo, 1 Safari Pl. Times & prices vary.

12/7. JINGLE ALL THE WAY FAMILY RUN
Sports. Join Charm City Run in this 5K race or one-mile walk, beginning and ending at Angel Park playground and amphitheater in Perry Hall. Angel Park, 9685 Honeygo Blvd., Perry Hall. 8:30 a.m. $28-40. 

12/7. CLAIRE ROUSAY
Music. This multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer performs her new album, A Little Death, inspired by the lack of sounds lurking at twilight, in this DIY venue in Charles Village. 2640 Space, 2640 St. Paul St. 6 p.m. $18.10-28.37. 

12/7. U.S. ARMY BLUES
Music. The U.S. Army’s talented jazz ensemble performs Duke Ellington’s “Nutcracker” and other classic Yuletide numbers. Keystone Korner, 1350 Lancaster St. 7 p.m. Free.

12/9. TREE TIME: WINTER SOLSTICE I
Classes & Lectures. Ahead of the winter solstice, learn about nature through stories, crafts, and exploration. Cylburn Arboretum, 4915 Greenspring Ave. 10:30 a.m. $7.18. c

12/9. CLASSICS & CONVERSATION
Theater. Scenes and songs collide to inspire dialogue about two beloved musicals, Hairspray and Real Women Have Curves,, featuring Chester Gregory who played the role of the former’s Seaweed on Broadway. Baltimore Center Stage, 7000 N. Calvert St. 5:30 p.m. $40. 

12/9. OH JOHNNY
Theater. Molly M. Shannon performs this one-woman clown show as Gildana Desdemona, a mystic medium who communicates with the spirit realm. Black Cherry Puppet Theater, 115 Hollins St. 7 p.m. $15-25. 

12/9-13. A LADEW CHRISTMAS [Editor’s Pick]
Festivals. Enjoy a woodland garden light display, a tree lighting, caroling, gifts, and a tour the historic Manor House. Ladew Topiary Gardens, 3535 Jarrettsville Pke., Monkton. Times vary. $4-25. 

TO 12/10. FREDERICK CORNELIUS ALSTON
Exhibitions. In commemoration of the life and work of this African-American artist and educator, view paintings by Alston and others from the early 20th century. James E. Lewis Museum of Art, 2201 Argonne Dr. Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free.

12/10. STUFF THE TRAIN DANCE PARTY
Galas & Fundraisers. Bring new, unwrapped toys for kids of all ages and join DJ Kopec on the Roundhouse dancefloor. B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt St. 6-8 p.m. $12-10,000.

12/10. BIRD IN HAND WINTER CRAFT & MUSIC NIGHT
Family. Enjoy holiday crafting and live music with Common Tone with some of the coffee and book shop’s seasonal treats available. Bird in Hand, 11 E. 33rd St. 6-8 p.m. Free.

12/10. SOCKS
Music. The talented JD McPherson presents all-original, rock-and-roll-themed Christmas songs from his debut holiday album with special guest Melissa Carper. Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St. 7 p.m. $35.56.

12/11. A VERY STOOP HOLIDAY AT THE SENATOR [Editor’s Pick]
Theater. Local storytellers share their truest holiday tales with a performance by musical guest Nelly’s Echo. The Senator Theatre, 5904 York Rd. 7 p.m. $25.  

12/12. STATION NORTH HOLIDAY MARKET
Market. Dozens of artists, makers, food and drink vendors, and musicians gather for this festive indoor and outdoor market. North Avenue Market, 12 W. North Ave. Times TBD. Free.

12/12. BETTER OFF DEAD 
Music. This premier local Deadhead band performs after a dozen years on the road together. The Recher, 512 York Rd., Towson. 7 p.m. $25.69. 

12/12. CIRQUE NUTCRACKER
Music. See Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker like you’ve never seen before, with Troupe Vertigo’s first-class cirque performance. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. 7:30 p.m. $37-107.  

12/12. GZA
Music. In celebration of 30 years of “Liquid Swords,” this founding member of Wu-Tang Clan performs with Phunky Nomads and Ill Conscious. Baltimore Sound Stage, 124 Market Pl. 8 p.m. $42. 

12/12. MUSIC UNDER THE DOME: PINK FLOYD
Music. This immersive visual planetarium experience tat zips you through space to Pink Floyd’s seminal album, “The Dark Side of the Moon.” Maryland Science Center, 601 Light St. 8 & 9 p.m. $35.

12/12-13. ANDREW DICE CLAY
Comedy. This outrageously successful and hilarious comedic legend brings his hysterical satire to this local stage. Magooby’s Joke House, 9603 Deereco Rd., Timonium. Fri. 7 p.m., Sat. 6:30 & 9 p.m. $64.99-420.  

12/13. CHARM CITY CRAFT MAFIA HOLIDAY HEAP [Editor’s Pick]
Market. Purchase local, handmade, original gifts from over 40 vendors during this beloved annual holiday market. 2640 Space, 2640 St. Paul St. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 

12/13. PINTS & PANIC HOLIDAY VENDOR MARKET
Market. Sip on beer and shop more than 25 local vendors in this annual holiday market at the Heavy Seas brewery. Heavy Seas Beer, 4615 Hollins Ferry Rd. 12-5 p.m. Free.

12/13-14. HANDEL, EXEMPLIFIED
Music. The Handel Choir helps listeners get in the holiday spirit with the angelic choral singing of works by the famed composer. Locations vary. Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. $11.37-57.95. 

12/14. MAYOR’S CHRISTMAS PARADE [Editor’s Pick]
Festivals. Massive floats, local personalities, live bands, and Santa Claus travel through north Baltimore during this annual tradition of holiday cheer. Hampden and Medfield. 1-4 p.m. Free.

12/14. IN THE SHADOWS
Music. Manor Mill presents an afternoon performance by pianist Wan-Chi Su and baritone Rob McGinness in a beautiful exploration of harmony. The Loft, 2029 Monkton Rd., Monkton. 2-4 p.m. $27.50. 

12/14. BALTIMORE CLASSICAL GUITAR SOCIETY HOLIDAY CONCERT
Music. See the region’s best classical guitarists pick away at this timeless holiday tunes. University of Maryland Baltimore County, 1028 Hilltop Cl. 3-5 p.m. $15-20. 

12/14. A BAROQUE CHRISTMAS & CAROLS 
Music. Bach In Baltimore presents this Christmas concert with iconic works by composers like Bach, Vivaldi, and Handel, with sing-alongs to boot. Church of the Redeemer, 5603 N. Charles St. 4 p.m. Free-$39. 

12/14. OTTOBAR MAKER’S MARKET [Editor’s Pick]
Festivals. This belove rock venue’s indoor-outdoor bazaar spreads holiday cheer with handmade goods, hot drinks, food, and, of course, music. Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St. 5-9 p.m. Free.

12/17. BMI HOLIDAY MARKET
Market. Shop for last-minute gifts from over 30 vendors along the BMI waterfront, with special vouches for hot cocoa at the harbor’s Christmas Village. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hwy. 4-8 p.m. Free. 

12/17-1/11. WICKED
Theater. This Broadway masterpiece tells the untold story of the witches of Oz, long before a certain girl from Kansas stumbled upon the yellow brick road. Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St. Times vary. $68-336. 

12/18-19. BOISTER WINTER SOLSTICE [Editor’s Pick]
Music. During this beloved annual tradition, these local icons of chamber pop perform their takes on holiday classics, featuring everything from Joni Mitchell to Tchaikovsky. An die Musik Live!, 409 N. Charles St. 8 p.m. $10-25. 

12/19. MUSEUM BY CANDLELIGHT
Exhibitions. Visit the historic home of Mary Pickersgill, maker of the Star-Spangled Banner over Fort McHenry during the War 1812, with seasonal activities, treats, and music of that era. Star-Spangled Banner Flag Museum, 844 E. Pratt St. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free-$9. 

12/20. HELICON’S WINTER SOLSTICE CONCERT [Editor’s Pick]
Music. In this long-held annual tradition, renowned musicians Ken Kolodner, Robin Bullock, and Chris Norman unite for international sounds and seasonal tunes. Goucher College, 1021 Dulaney Valley Rd. 3:30 & 7:30 p.m. $25-45.

12/20. ANNUAL HANNUKAH CONCERT
Music. The Baltimore Klezmer All-Stars flood the seventh night of Hanukkah with the grooves and smooth moves of jazz. An die Musik Live!, 409 N. Charles St. 7:30 p.m. $10-20.

12/20. JONAS BROTHERS
Music. These pop-rock idols are set to “burn up” the CFG stage on their latest tour. CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 7:30 p.m. $53-258. 

12/20 & 29. HAMPDEN HOLIDAY MARKET
Market. Find the perfect holiday gifts from more than 40 local vendors with live music, poetry, hot drinks, and more on The Avenue. St. Luke’s Church, 800 W. 36th St. 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Free.

12/21. IVY BOOKSHOP WINTER SOLSTICE
Family. Gather for an outdoor evening of singing, storytelling, themed crafts, and a candlelit walk at dusk on the winter solstice. The Ivy Bookshop, 5928 Falls Rd. 4:30 p.m. $10. 

TO 12/22. BALTIMORE FARMERS MARKET
Market. Maryland’s largest farmers market brings the community together with local farms, food vendors, and live performances. Saratoga & Holliday St. Sun. 7 a.m.-12 p.m. Free.

12/22-23. BAH HUMBUG
Theater. Michael Harris and a team of the area’s best improvisers turn audience suggestions into a one-of-a-kind twist of a Dickens’ classic. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 7 p.m. $19-35. 

TO 12/23. WINTERFEST & HOLIDAY SALE 
Market. Find the perfect gift in this collection of hand-crafted ceramics created by Baltimore Clayworks artists. Baltimore Clayworks, 5707 Smith Ave. Times vary. Free.

TO 12/23. A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Theater. The Dickens holiday classic is adapted to take place in 19th-century Baltimore. Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, 7 S. Calvert St. Showtimes vary. $35-82.  

12/23. MODERN NUTCRACKER BALLET
Dance. This revamped Nutcracker replaces outdated scenes with a gender-neutral approach, female leads, and more. Theatre Project, 45 W. Preston St. 7:30 p.m. $32. 

12/23. A JOHN WATERS CHRISTMAS [Editor’s Pick]
Comedy. For an unconventional, raunchy, and downright alarming jab at Christmas, the city’s iconic auteur performs his annual holiday special that leaves audiences in stitches of laughter year after year. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 8 p.m. $55-79. 

TO 12/24. CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Markets. This annual holiday market of holiday goodies featuring a carousel, Ferris wheel, heated tents, craft vendors, and a beer garden. 501 Light St. 12-5 p.m. Free. 

12/28. NEW YEAR’S TEA
Food & Drink. Travel aboard the Mile One Express before indulging in a selection of fine teas, freshly baked scones, treats, and a champagne toast. B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W. Pratt St. 12:15 p.m. $50-70.

12/30. JOHN OLIVER LIVE
Comedy. This late-night talk show personality and award-winning writer returns to his roots as a stand-up comedian. The Lyric, 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 7 & 9:30 p.m. $88.15-175.15. 

TO 12/31. COLLECTIVE ACTION 
Explore the effort to improve organized labor throughout the 21st century through the stories and experiences of working Baltimoreans. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hwy. Wed.- Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free.

TO 12/31. CROSSCURRENTS
Exhibitions. The Contemporary Wing galleries contain works reflecting everything from environment and ecology to social protest, recuperation, and migration. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free.

12/31. NOON TIME NEW YEAR
Festivals. Ring in 2026 with fun activities for the family, like confetti cannon crafts, wish-tree resolutions, comedy shows, and more. Port Discovery, 35 Market Pl. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $24.95.

12/31. NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS
Festivals. Ring in the New Year with a spectacular fireworks show along the waterfront at the. Inner Harbor. Locations & times vary. Free.

TO 1/1. MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET 
Festivals. The most festive block in Hampden is decked out in over-the-top holiday cheer. 700 block of W. 34th St. Sun.-Thurs. 6-10 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 6 p.m.-12 a.m. Free.

TO 1/4. SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN’
Music. This Motown Christmas revue features holiday tunes reimagined by the talented Nygel D. Robinson. Baltimore Center Stage, 700 N. Calvert St. Times vary. $10-60. 

TO 1/4. DECONSTRUCTING NATURE
Exhibitions. This collection of over 50 19th-century works on paper explores artist roles in transforming the environment into an industrial resource. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free.

TO 1/11. SOULFUL CREATURES
Exhibitions. View nearly 100 ancient animals from the Egyptian collection of the Brooklyn Museum and 10 works from our very own Walters Art Museum. Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 1-8 p.m. Free.

TO 1/19. INNER HARBOR ICE RINK
Family. Ring in the holiday season with the return of the Inner Harbor’s family-friendly ice rink. Inner Harbor Amphitheater, 200 E. Pratt St. Times & prices vary. 

TO 1/10. SUSAN GOLDMAN: THE ORIGIN OF SELF 
Exhibitions. This collection celebrates the 25-year artistic evolution and work of this esteemed printmaker, artist, curator, and filmmaker. Galerie Myrtis, 2224 N. Charles St. Thurs.-Sat. 2-6 p.m. Free.

TO 1/23. AMALIE ROTHSCHILD’S MODERNIST EYE [Editor’s Pick]
Exhibitions. View Goya’s first major solo exhibition of this iconic local artist’s work since the gallery was named the exclusive representative of the Rothschild Estate in 2024. Goya Contemporary Gallery, 3000 Chestnut Ave. Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 12-4 p.m. Free.

TO 2/1. DAILY HUSTLE: THE PHOTOGRAPHS OF I. HENRY PHILLIPS , SR.
Exhibits. This collection of images by iconic photographer I. Henry Phillips Sr. depicts Black Baltimoreans at work, curated by his grandson, Webster Phillips. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hwy. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free-$15. 

TO 2/1. JOHN AKOMFRAH
Exhibitions. View an immersive video installation from this London-based featuring perspectives of young Civil Rights activists of the 1960s. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free.

TO 2/15. MODERNISMS
Exhibitions. Explore modernist works of 14 Jewish artists, many from Baltimore, including Florence H. Austrian, Gladys Goldstein, and more. Jewish Museum of Maryland, 15 Lloyd St. Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Wed. 12-4 p.m. Free. 

TO 2/15. PAWS ON PARCHMENT
Exhibitions. See how cats were depicted in medieval manuscripts as beloved pets, hunters, and important symbols in the period’s culture. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 1-8 p.m. Free.

TO 3/8. ENGAGING THE ELEMENTS: POETRY IN NATURE
Exhibitions. View photographs, prints, drawings, and textiles illustrating air, water, earth, and fire against broader themes of ecological awareness and preservation. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free.

TO 3/8. THE WAY OF NATURE
Exhibitions. A collection of more than 40 Japanese, Chinese, and Korean artworks explore the many intersections of nature. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free.

TO 4/5. AMERICAN SUBLIME
Exhibitions. Don’t miss this powerful and poignant retrospective of works by one-time Baltimorean and artist Amy Sherald, from her portraits of First Lady Michelle Obama to the late Breonna Taylor and more. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free-$18. 

TO 4/27. TITAN
Exhibitions. Through rare photos and artifacts, take an in-depth look into the life of Maryland native Reginald F. Lewis, the first African American to lead a billion-dollar company. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. Mon., Thurs.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 12-5 p.m. Free

TO 8/31. FANTASTIC REALITIES
Exhibits. In this otherworldly exhibition, these surreal artworks challenge what’s real and navigate time and space. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$15.95. 

ONGOING. LATIN AMERICAN ART/ARTE LATINOAMERICANO
Exhibitions. For the first time, see over 200 artworks from the museum’s collection from South, Central, and North America and the Caribbean in one space. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thurs. 1-8 p.m. Free.

It may not be visible from space, but hand it to Hampden’s Miracle on 34th Street for setting the high-wattage mark of holiday lights. Where else can you find a single block so devoted to such an unabashedly over-the-top and proudly tacky tribute to the most wonderful time of year?

But believe it or not, Baltimore, 34th Street has rivals throughout the Mid-Atlantic. There are neighborhoods, and one especially luminous family farm, that can brighten the night sky.

Brilliantly festooned botanical gardens and parks. High-tech light shows, as well as simple, ceremonial tree lightings. Boats that float and some that don’t, lit from bow to stern. There are displays through which you can drive, walk, or even ice-skate. Many include family-friendly extras: Santa and his elves, candy canes and model trains, cozy bonfires and hot cocoa. For the actively inclined, there’s also ice-tubing, ice-skating, and…axe-throwing?

If you love lights of the festive and decorative kind, consider these doable day trips or wintry weekend getaways. And let there be lights—lots of ’em.

DECORATED DAY TRIPS

Nightly through Jan. 1: National Christmas Tree

President’s Park, Washington, D.C.
3 hours roundtrip. Free. 

A century ago, on Christmas Eve, 1923, President Calvin Coolidge walked from the White House to the Ellipse to inaugurate a cherished tradition. He switched on a 48-foot fir tree wrapped in 2,500 red, white, and green bulbs, turning “the national Christmas tree into a flashing vari-colored pyramid of radiance,” marveled the Washington Evening Star. Visitors can admire this year’s radiant conifer and its 60,000 lights following the National Christmas Tree Lighting on or about Nov. 30. The Pathway of Peace features smaller lit trees representing U.S. states, territories, and the District.

Through Dec. 31: Enchant Christmas

Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.
2 hours roundtrip. $24-89.60.

Two enterprising Canadian teenagers turned a neighborhood light-decorating business into a high-tech holiday extravaganza held at seven locations, including the Nation’s Capital. D.C.’s baseball stadium hosts their 2023 themed “Reindeer Games” show, whose signature attraction is an immersive light maze. Visitors are tasked with finding Rudolph and co.’s magic bells amid a blinking, pulsing, cascading landscape of more than one million lights. (Think Oz meets Times Square.) There’s also an illuminated ice-skating trail, a 100-foot-tall Christmas tree, and a village of artisan vendors.

Through Jan. 1: Mormon Temple Festival of Lights

Washington D.C. Temple, Kensington, MD
2 hours roundtrip. Free.

From its hilltop perch above the Capital Beltway, the white marble, six-spired Mormon Temple is an imposing sight in any season. Come December, though, the starkly spotlighted temple goes technicolor during its beautiful Festival of Lights. Nearly one half million lights in shades of red, green, blue, gold, purple, and white festoon trees on the temple’s 57-acre grounds. In the Visitors’ Center, model crèches depict nativity scenes from around the world and the 540-seat auditorium hosts live holiday concerts.

Through February: Sailing Through the Winter Solstice

Carroll Creek Linear Park, Frederick, MD
2 hours roundtrip. Free, donations encouraged. 

Frederick’s downtown “linear park” follows gentle Carroll Creek, where a small fleet of unusual vessels steal the spotlight during the cold winter months. Beginning in November, an eclectic armada of downsized boats—gaff-rigged ketches, three-masted schooners, pirate ships, and even a boat designed to look like an aircraft carrier, all outlined in lights—battle Old Man Winter in the name of charity and cabin-fever relief. For a dollar a vote, pick your favorite among the floating fleet and a handful of on-land watercraft.

Through Dec. 30: Winter City Lights

Olney Boys & Girls Club Park, Olney, MD
2 hours roundtrip. Advance tickets only. Prices vary.

Everything about this attraction is gigantic: one million-plus lights, a lit canopy the size of a large Ferris wheel, a 52-foot-tall Christmas tree programmed into an ultra-sophisticated light show, 33 bonfires, eight lanes of snow-tubing, and a signature dessert (The Blizzard) made of multiple funnel cakes, deep-fried Twinkies, deep-fried Oreos, and tons of whipped topping. A 1.5-mile mulched trail leads through woods lit with supersized decorations and it “snows” (artificially) at regular intervals. Did we mention there’s axe-throwing,
too?

Through Dec. 30: Christmas Magic—A Festival of Lights

Rocky Ridge Park, York, PA
2 hours roundtrip. Reservation-only. Prices vary.

This annual spectacle owes its origins to the 1970s energy crisis, when York County stepped in to light the way for residents dissuaded from decorating. A half-mile, hilltop trail meanders through forest lit with 600,000 sparkling LED lights and animated scenes as holiday music plays. And warm snacks include a beloved local treat: Bricker’s Famous French Fries.

Dec. 7-15: National Menorah

The Ellipse, Washington, D.C.
2 hours roundtrip. Free

The ceremonial lighting of the world’s largest menorah—an over-30-foot-tall, electrified candelabra—begins the Hanukkah celebration in Washington and across the country. Jewish leaders and a VIP speaker preside at the event, attended by thousands and broadcast internationally. The lighting occurs Dec. 7 and the menorah remains on display throughout the holiday.

Dec. 9: Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade

Annapolis Harbor, Annapolis
2 hours roundtrip. Free. 

A beloved Chesapeake Bay tradition, this enchanting procession of brightly lit boats through the Annapolis Harbor and along Spa Creek has been going strong for 40 years. Grab a viewing spot (very) early on Spa Creek Bridge, at City Dock, along Eastport’s and Spa Creek’s waterfronts, or book a cruise with a local tour company for the Dec. 9 parade.

MORE MERRYMAKING

Through Jan. 7: A Longwood Christmas

Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA
3 hours roundtrip. Reservations required. Free-$30.

The most coveted holiday ticket around, Longwood Gardens will celebrate “A Very Retro Christmas” this year, decorating its conservatory and nearly 200 acres of gardens with midcentury flair, including “a fab, festive holiday party scene.” As always, over half-a-million lights and the gardens’ famous dancing fountains synced to Christmas music will highlight the display, with hot cocoa available for both day and nighttime visitors.

Through December: Miracle on South 13th Street

1600 Block, South 13th St., Philadelphia, PA
4 hours roundtrip. Free.

Philadelphia’s answer to Charm City’s 34th Street ornamentation is this block of rowhouses in South Philly, where residents are just as festively gung ho. The entire stretch glows with white and colored lights strung over the street, around windows and doorways, under eaves and encircling trees, filling front yards, and spilling onto sidewalks. With a mixture of gaudy and imaginative yard art,  inflatables, and costumed figures, the spectacle traditionally draws thousands of holiday lovers who drive or walk by each year.

Through Jan. 1: Tinseltown Holiday Spectacular

FDR Park, Philadelphia, PA
4 hours roundtrip. $15.99-40.99.

Another South Philly attraction, Tinseltown is a soup-to-nuts celebration of the season featuring an immersive stroll through a crystalline wonderland of over two million lights—twinkle-lit trees, tunnels, snow globes, snowflakes, even a version of the Liberty Bell. There’s also an ice-skating trail, an ice slide, and guest appearances by Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and Gritty Claus, the Philadelphia Flyers’ orange, google-eyed mascot dressed in holiday threads—with photo ops to boot. Warm up with hot beverages at Union Forge Lodge and in the gift shop at Mistletoe Marketplace.

Weekends through January: Shady Brook Farm’s Holiday Light Show

Shady Brook Farm, Yardley, PA
4 hours roundtrip. $30-150.

More than three million lights illuminate this century-old farm market and “agri-tainment” venue in Bucks County each December. Ho-ho-hoing all the way, drive a two-mile trail of festively lit displays or hitch a ride on a tractor-drawn wagon. While there, pick out your Christmas tree and pose with Santa to complete a jolly evening.

Through Jan. 1: Koziar’s Christmas Village

Bernville, PA
4 hours roundtrip. Free-$12.

If you’re traveling darkened country roads near Bernville this time of year, that glow in the distance is an ex-dairy farm turned fantasyland. William Koziar first decorated his farmhouse in 1948. Since then, the display has mushroomed, becoming one of Pennsylvania’s most popular seasonal attractions. Over one million lights adorn the farmhouse, barn, roofs, walkways, train tracks, holiday scenes, and a village of small buildings, casting their colorful reflections on a large pond. Don’t miss indoor and outdoor model trains.

Through Jan. 7: Winter Walk of Lights

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
3 hours roundtrip. $18.

Visitors to this Northern Virginia oasis wander a half-mile paved path through an enchanting forest of illuminated “flora” and “fauna,” including larger-than-life tulips, sunflowers, toadstools, butterflies, grasshoppers, herons, whittling woodpeckers, belching bullfrogs, and koi that appear to leap from a lake. The 95-acre garden’s living trees are also wrapped, twigs to trunk, in tiny, colored lights, as is the lake’s gazebo. Buy hot beverages and desserts in the glittering conservatory and enjoy s’mores over a fire pit.

FARTHER FESTIVITIES

Through Dec. 31: Richmond Tacky Lights Tours

Richmond, VA
5.5 hours roundtrip. Free

Take 34th Street’s miraculous lights, scatter them over a 20-mile radius, and you’ve got Richmond’s “tacky lights” tours. Every year, the Richmond Times-Dispatch offers driving maps of neighborhoods where over-the-top holiday decoration is the rule of thumb. We mean tens of thousands—even 100,000—lights per property. Yards obscured in inflatables, cutout figures, and animated displays. Windows where Santa dances and “leg lamps” shine. Suggested driving tours range from 30 minutes to an hour, but plan on more; you need to see many of these on foot.

Through Jan. 7: GardenFest of Lights

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Henrico County, VA
5.5 hours roundtrip. Advanced purchase only. $8-27.

A perennial favorite and one of the nation’s most impressive botanical exhibits, GardenFest of Lights bathes the 50-acre Virginia garden in over one million lights, including on more than 100 trees. The most spectacular, Darlington Oak, is draped in a mile of miniature bulbs. This year’s decorating theme is “Rhythms of Nature,” reflected throughout the grounds and the 11,000-square-foot Conservatory, with its towering Christmas tree. Sip hot chocolate and toast s’mores in the Children’s Garden and don’t miss the Kelly Education Center’s model trains.

Through Dec. 31: Kings Dominion WinterFest

Kings Dominion, Doswell, VA
5 hours roundtrip. Free-$49.99.

Thirty minutes north of Richmond, this theme park becomes a dazzling holiday experience. Aglow with millions of lights, WinterFest features strolling performers, horse-drawn carriage rides, sessions with Santa, holiday treats, iceskating, a petting zoo, and, of course, roller coasters and other rides. The park’s iconic 300-foot-tall Eiffel Tower becomes a spectacular Christmas tree.