Lance Humphries was planning to go shopping. On his list: LED lights. Lots of them.

Humphries is executive director of the Mount Vernon Place Conservancy, the nonprofit that runs Baltimore’s annual Washington Monument Lighting, an event that, for more than a half-century, has illuminated the focal point of one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.

Planning for it begins in August and, on this day in early October, Humphries was preparing to place an order for 10,000 lights that will attach to 28 strands to be hung on the 178-foot-tall monument to the United States’ first president, George Washington.

“The monument lighting is kind of the official launch of the holiday season in Baltimore—it’s like our Rockefeller Center Christmas tree,” he says.

They don’t buy new lights every year, he explains, but the current ones are on their last legs.

The idea for the spectacle came from—who else?—Mayor William Donald Schaefer. The colorful politician never missed an opportunity to promote his city and saw a similar display in Indianapolis’ Monument Circle. Baltimore’s first lighting took place in 1971 and, since then, it has grown exponentially. For years, it was run by the Downtown Partnership, but in 2022, the Conservancy took over. Formed as a nonprofit in 2008, their mission is to restore, maintain, and manage the monument, as well as the surrounding park squares of Mount Vernon Place.

But they don’t do it on their own. Dozens of individuals and organizations are involved in staging the event, from Downtown Partnership to Midtown Community Benefits District. More than 20 vendors sell food to the crowd, which averages 10,000 people. The city’s fire department reviews and approves permitting for the fireworks, which are launched from the plaza. Roughly 1,000 are shot off by Curtis Bay’s Image Engineering.

Emma Loftus has one of the best perches for the five-and-a-half-minute pyrotechnics show. The associate director of the conservancy, she’s typically watching from a sponsor party at the Engineers Club or Topside, a restaurant on the top floor of the nearby Hotel Revival that hosts an annual watch party. “It’s a spectacular show in a spectacular setting,” she says.

Humphries usually watches from the event’s “Main Stage,” which hosts musical performances throughout the night from the Baltimore School for the Arts, Peabody Institute, and the Morgan State Choir. But there are also good views available on the ground from almost anywhere in the neighborhood.

Surprisingly, Humphries says one of the worst vantage points would actually be inside the monument, which is open to the public Wednesdays through Sundays but closed for the lighting. Climb 227 stairs to it and you’ll find narrow windows, meaning most of the fireworks would be exploding out of view, above the statue of George Washington that sits atop the exterior of the monument.

“If you could sit on [his] head, that would be pretty fun,” jokes Humphries.

Construction on the monument began in 1815, prior to that other Washington Monument down I-95, and another one in Boonsboro, Maryland, which some people cite as the first monument to the first president. Humphries is not one of them.

“People were climbing to the top of this monument in 1820,” he says. “It was an active monument in advance of the other ones. The Boonsboro people will beg to differ on that. I’ve read both accounts, and I think that adds to the charm.”

And as anyone who’s seen the monument fully illuminated when the switch is flipped from its basement on the first Thursday in December knows, it certainly does add to the town’s nickname, Charm City.

If you’re not quite in the holiday spirit just yet, Baltimore has more than a few fixes to tame your inner-Grinch. There’s nothing like Christmas lights to conjure up those warm and fuzzy feelings and, luckily, lights are already abound. No matter what part of the city you reside in, there’s a light show or event nearby that the whole family will absolutely love. So bundle up, grab your hot cocoa (or bring your mug full of spiked nog), and check out some of these kid-friendly events that will be sure to have you feeling all the holiday feels this year.

Here are six of the best Christmas light shows to take the family to:

11/29: Belvedere Square Tree Lighting
You can’t miss the ginormous tree in the middle of Belvedere Square Town Center. But on Thursday, November 29 at 7 p.m., that thing is getting lit. With drinks from Grand Cru—like hot spiked cider and mulled wine—you can get lit, too, or at least stay warm and cozy in the chilly winter air. There will be carol singers from Stages Music Arts belting out familiar tunes, food vendors from 5-8 p.m., and a mitten drive to help the needy. Basically, it’s everything you need to get in the holiday spirit. 540 E. Belvedere Ave. 5-8 p.m.

12/1: Fells Point Parade of Lighted Boats
On Saturday, December 1st at 6 p.m., the 31st Annual Parade of Lighted Boats will begin. The parade starts at the Anchorage Marina on Boston Street and the boats will be visible along the waterfront from Canton, Fells Point, Harbor East, the Inner Harbor and Federal Hill. So no matter where you post up, you can see the glorious lights shimmering on the water. It’s a boat-lovers Christmas dream come true. 2501 Boston St. 6-8 p.m.

12/2: Holiday Pagoda Lighting in Patterson Park
It’s almost time for the 4th Annual Patterson Park Pagoda Lighting. On Sunday, December 2nd from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., come watch the beautiful lighting ceremony, complete with live music and plenty for the kids to enjoy. There will be a table full of crafts, gift vendors to shop from, a toy drive, and even a visit from the man of the season himself. Ho! Ho! Ho! 27 S. Patterson Park Ave. 4:30-6:30 p.m.

12/6: 47th Annual Washington Monument Lighting
On Thursday, December 6, the 47th Annual Monument Lighting takes place in Mount Vernon Square. The event is from 5-8 p.m., and there’s plenty more to do and see than just the lights—though it’s a spectacular sight on its own. There’s also a fireworks display, a Christmas village that the kids will love to explore, plus food and drinks from dozens of vendors. Still need more to get into the Christmas spirit? How about music from BSO Kids, The Morgan State University Choir, and more for all to hear. Afterwards, head over to Wet City to warm up with holiday cocktails, craft beer and festive specials by Chef Brad. 699 Washington Place. 5-8 p.m.

12/14: 12th Annual Lamp Post Lighting in Canton
Come on down to Canton Square for the 12th Annual Lamp Post Lighting on Friday, December 14 at 5 p.m. O’Donnell Square will help you find your festive vibes as you vote on your favorite decorated lamp post and storefront. Slurp some free hot chocolate, or purchase a tasty cup of eggnog and some treats. There will be caroling, live music, raffle prices, and photos with the Clauses—making this holiday lighting ceremony one the whole family will absolutely love. 2917 O’Donnell St. 5 p.m.

To 12/24: Christmas Village in West Shore Park

Every weekend at West Shore Park from now until Christmas Eve, there’s a special theme at the downtown Christmas Village. Whether it’s a bratwurst eating contest, a lantern parade, or a shopping weekend, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can’t miss the beautiful lights, trees, and decorations. But while you’re there, don’t forget to snap a picture with Gingy and Old Saint Nick himself! 501 Light St. 11 a.m.

To 12/31: Hampden’s Miracle on 34th Street
Christmas in Baltimore just isn’t complete without a visit to the lights on 34th Street. No matter how many times you’ve cruised along the miracle of spectacular decorations that only Baltimore could put together in it’s 72 years, it never quite gets old. Sometimes you can find a hot cocoa vendor and maybe some treats, but you can always count on kind-hearted folks that are happy to open their doors to families—as there are always more decorations inside the homes to explore. The lights stay on until December 31st, so whether you go early or late, don’t leave Hampden off of your holiday check-list. 720 W. 34th St.

Night of 100 Elvises
Dec. 1. The Lord Baltimore Hotel, 20 W Baltimore St.. 4 p.m.-1 a.m. Prices vary. When he was 15 years old, Jed Duvall watched an Elvis Presley impersonator perform in his high-school auditorium and thought: “I bet I could do that.” On the bus ride home, he stood up and belted out “Heartbreak Hotel” to the astonishment of his classmates, and he has been perfecting his impression of the King of Rock and Roll ever since. Unlike other Elvis-themed events, where he’s one of dozens of entertainers donning the singer’s signature white jumpsuit and mutton chops, Duvall looks forward to the Night of 100 Elvises, taking place this year on December 1, where the only thing the bands and acts have in common is that they’re performing songs by the King. “When you hear a bluegrass band do ‘Suspicious Minds,’ then it’s a party,” he says. “At the end of the day, we’re all out here honoring Elvis any way we know how.”

Washington Monument Lighting
Dec. 6. 699 Washington Pl. 5-8 p.m. Free. ’Tis the season for the city’s longest-standing holiday tradition, which fills the cobblestone streets of Mount Vernon Place with thousands of visitors, festive performances, and tons of holiday cheer. After fueling up on hot cocoa and snacks from local vendors, find the perfect spot on the lawn to watch the big-bang firework display illuminate the night sky during the annual lighting of the beloved Washington Monument.

Olde Tyme Christmas

Dec. 1. Fells Point. 9AM-7PM. Prices Vary. Fells Point already feels otherworldly thanks to its storied history and cobblestone charm, but, for the 15th year, the waterfront neighborhood will transform into a winter wonderland during this annual fête. Snap pictures with Santa Claus after he arrives by tugboat, compete in the eggnog-drinking contest, and then cap off the night by witnessing the annual tree lighting in Broadway Square and the Lighted Boat Parade floating down the harbor.

Mayor’s Christmas Parade
Dec. 2. Locations vary. 1 p.m. Free. Ring in the most wonderful time of the year with this 46th annual parade that leads a jolly assortment of local marching bands, giant balloons, festive floats, a fleet of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and, of course, Santa Claus and Miss Yuletide through the streets of Medfield and Hampden. Find a spot along the two-and-a-half-mile parade route—which begins at Poly Western High School, winds down Cold Spring Lane, and ends at 37th Street—to catch some candy, sip on hot cocoa, and give a wave to Mayor Catherine Pugh.

Anastasia
Dec. 4-9. 12 N Eutaw St. Times vary. $99-225. Based on the 1997 Disney film of the same name, this dazzling musical travels back in time to the Russian Empire during the 1920s and follows the tale of an adventurous young woman searching for answers about her past. With direction by Tony Award-winner Darko Tresnjak and a rich new score, this wintertime classic will warm the hearts of Hippodrome Theatre audiences with songs such as “Once Upon a December” and “Journey to the Past.”

The Importance of Being Earnest
Dec. 4-30. 315 W Fayette St. $25-65. This month, Everyman Theatre’s critically acclaimed resident company will bring to life Oscar Wilde’s uproarious comedy that’s been applauded by generations for its portrayal of Victorian marriage, morality, and mistaken identities. Head to the downtown theater to experience the many twists and turns of this fast-paced play that’s considered Wilde’s masterpiece.

A Charlie Brown Christmas
Dec. 9. 140 W. Mt Royal Ave. Times vary. $25-55. We all know and love the Peanuts, and this winter, see Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the whole gang come alive on the Lyric stage during this all-new production of A Charlie Brown Christmas. Bring the entire family to this one-night-only musical and sing along to holiday carols and classic tunes by original composer Vince Guaraldi. $25-55, modell-lyric.com.

The Stoop Ha-Ha-Holiday Show
Dec. 11. The Senator Theatre, 5904 York Rd. 7 p.m. $15-23. Whether it’s good, bad, or ugly, everyone has a memorable story about their holiday adventures (or misadventures). Pack the Senator Theatre for the Stoop Storytelling Series’ can’t-miss holiday show featuring cocktails, live music by Tongue and Cheek Jazz Band, and side-aching laughs as locals share their most unforgettable holiday tales.

Baltimore Chanukah Festival
Dec. 12. McKeldin Square, Inner Harbor, 101 E. Pratt St. 2:30-5:30 p.m. Free. One of our city’s bragging points is that the Esther Anne Menorah, which stands in McKeldin Square during the holidays, is the second-largest menorah in the world. While the lighting of the 30-foot-tall menorah is the main event of this lively festival, head to the Inner Harbor early to hear live music, grabs eats and drinks from local vendors, and follow the dancing dreidels to the Chanukah Wonderland.

Kwanzaa Celebration
Dec. 29. 830 E. Pratt St. 12-4 p.m. $5. Whether you’re a practiced celebrator or simply want to learn more about the week-long holiday, devote the third day of Kwanzaa to this all-out celebration at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Visit the downtown museum to take in traditional African dance and drumming performances, learn more about the holiday’s rich history during workshops and lectures, and browse locally made goods in the African Marketplace.

When Bob Wagner was a kid, he’d jump on his dad’s Schwinn bike in his 1970s tube socks, short shorts, and sneakers and take off by himself all day. “I was the youngest of three,” Wagner recalls. “We lived in Towson, and by the time I came around, Mom had her hands full. She’d say, ‘Be home for dinner.’ Later, she’d ask what I did, and I’d tell her, ‘I went to Pennsylvania. I ate a sandwich and then rode back.’ Mom would be like, ‘Great.’”

When Wagner, a picture framer by trade who majored in folklore and does not own a cell phone, started the long-distance Rando Rambles bicycling series a decade ago, the now 53-year-old wanted to re-experience that childhood feeling of adventure. (Rando is shorthand for randonneuring, a form of all-day, non-competitive bicycling from city to city popular in Europe.) He dubbed the first “ramble,” a 97-mile, down-and-back ride to the Washington Monument in the nation’s capital, the “Monument to Monument” ride, and it unexpectedly has become a must-do event—if you can call it an event—for local cyclists. There are no entry forms, no fees, no support vehicles, no commemorative T-shirts or rules. Wagner simply posts the date on his WordPress blog with the route, a surprisingly scenic run on quiet roads through Anne Arundel, Howard, and Prince George’s counties, and photos from previous years.

The annual jaunt attracts as many as 100 cyclists—college students, amateur racers, and Medicare-eligible participants—in sunny years and as a few as a half-dozen when forecasts call for showers. For the 10th anniversary Monument to Monument ride this year, about 40 riders met on the cobblestones of Mt. Vernon in June, departing for D.C. at 8:30 a.m. Inevitably breaking into smaller groups by the time they twirled around the towering obelisk on The Mall, most grabbed lunch at Union Station—some got a beer with Wagner at a nearby Irish bar—before returning to Baltimore. For about half, the mileage was no great feat; for others, more than a few inspired by Wagner’s bike blog, it was their first century ride.

Vinny DeMarco, the state’s irrepressible grassroots lobbyist, smiled nearly the whole way, occasionally singing verses of “Volare”—Dean Martin’s Italian-English hit (“To Fly”)—which he calls the official song of the M2M.

All apparently made it home for dinner.

“It’s a weird shift in perspective that takes place,” says Lars Peterson, a mechanic at Race Pace Bicycles. “Suddenly D.C., which you’re used to being snarled in traffic trying to get to, becomes a place you can reach on your bike.”

Other Rando Rambles over the years have included trips to Havre de Grace, Gettysburg, and Chesapeake Beach. Most have particular, sometimes unique, destinations in mind. The “Pancake Intercept” ride, which rolls through the farms and woods of Carroll County, just happens to include a rest stop at an all-you-can-eat breakfast at a Union Bridge firehouse.

When he started the Rambles, Wagner, who sets a moderate pace and keeps an eye out for those in the back of the pack, says he just wanted to create personal challenges. In the early years, he biked up to 10,000 miles a year, meticulously documenting the best off-the-main-thoroughfare routes. (That’s more annual mileage than he puts on his 1964 Chevy station wagon, which remains in his Hampden garage most of the week while he bike commutes to work in Timonium.)

And if no one came to his party, that was fine. If a hundred came, that was fine, too. He was excited either way. “Usually at least two or three people always showed up,” he laughs. “The time commitment is kind of crazy. You have to say to anyone who loves you, ‘I’m going to be gone all day long. I may be even be in some danger today.’ There is the chance you could fall, get in a collision, suffer dehydration, or have a mechanical breakdown. Or get lost. But it’s that feeling—‘I don’t know’—that I’m after. Can I do it? ‘I don’t know.’ What will the roads look like today? ‘I don’t know.’ Will it be dark when I get back? ‘I don’t know.’”

Although San Francisco-based hospitality group Joie de Vivre operates boutique hotels scattered all over the country, its newest property opening in the heart of Mt. Vernon this spring won’t feel like a national chain.

“I’ve worked at a lot of places, traveled, and seen a lot of things,” says Hotel Revival’s executive chef Wilbur Cox, a Baltimore native whose 20-year career includes stints at former favorites Ixia and The Bicycle. “But the thing that is most appealing to me about Revival is that, even though it’s a company that owns the hotel, we are running it like two local, independent restaurants.”

Instead of debuting a carbon copy of one of its hotels in another city, Joie de Vivre is taking a hyper-local approach its Baltimore iteration—playing up its proximity to the Washington Monument and offering two restaurants that make use of local purveyors. Both concepts will have bar programs led by local industry veteran Chelsea Gregoire.

“I couldn’t not be a part of it,” she says about joining the project. “The way that the brand takes the approach of essentially coming into a city, owning it, and loving on it the way that they do really strikes my core. It’s what I’m all about.”

Aside from its 107 guest rooms, the 14-story hotel will boast a lobby-level restaurant and market named Square Meal, as well as a laid-back rooftop destination, Topside, highlighting seafood specialties and local beers.

“Any chef will tell you that they like to have their cash cow, high-end restaurant,” Cox says. “But they also always want to have that fast-casual place where they can be a little more creative and not worry about rules so much. This gives us that opportunity to do both. It’s kind of every chef’s dream.”

Square Meal will offer all-day service, as well as its own retail market with to-go items like local Ceremony Coffee, house-bottled sauces, cured meats sliced to order, and a selection of prepared foods. Cox has enjoyed partnering with area farmers—including Liberty Delight in Reisterstown and Albright Farms in Phoenix—to develop the seasonal menu, with signature dishes including a smoked white fish mousse bagel, soft-boiled Scotch eggs, mustard green agnolotti, and braised pork cheek with red cabbage and pickled mushrooms.

Though there will be plenty of proteins to choose from, Cox says that he’s especially excited to get creative with local produce: “Instead of drying a piece of beef and making jerky, we’ll dry cabbage leaves and make it taste like seaweed,” he says. “We’re really trying to showcase the bounty of the farmers that we’ve partnered up with.”

The downstairs restaurant will also boast a fully stocked bar, featuring a limited-edition bourbon bottled exclusively for the hotel by Old Line Spirits in Highlandtown. Upstairs, the beverage offerings at Topside will be a bit more beer-centric—with 13 East Coast varieties on tap, 60 bottles and cans, a custom brew from Peabody Heights, and a beer-inspired cocktail list.

“Think about those common flavors that you find in beer, like the citrus of a pale ale, or those roasted, nutty, chocolatey notes that you find in a great stout,” Gregoire explains. “Here, we’re breaking it down to a chemical, molecular level and trying to get to the basis of these flavors to put them into a cocktail.”

The beverages at Topside will be paired with Cox’s seafood-centric dishes including a whole-fired blue catfish, bay scallops, and a local seafood tower with mussels, clams, and crab claws. Adds Cox: “When I have an ice-cold beer, I want to be eating something that I can wash down.”

The rooftop hangout will project a laid-back vibe with foosball tables, a giant Connect Four board, and panoramic views of the Washington Monument.

“We want to do something fun,” Gregoire says. “Revival can mean a lot of things, but for me it’s a breath of fresh air. We just want to breathe new life into the city and the community.”

Enhancing the community is something that both Cox and Gregoire say they are most excited about. In fact, the dining team has already partnered with organizations like the Maryland Food Bank and Back On My Feet to help bring opportunities to aspiring chefs.

“If we don’t bring everyone with us as we are moving forward, then we are doing a disservice to our neighbors,” Gregoire adds. “If we’re doing something new, we should bring everyone alongside of us. That’s the true meaning of community.”

British Invasion 
Dec. 31-Jan. 1. The Hippodrome Theater, 12 N Eutaw St., 7-9:30 p.m. Prices vary. We were as surprised as you were when this irreverant British comedian became one of America’s most beloved nighttime talk show hosts. Of course, John Oliver was nothing new to the U.S. airwaves, having cut his comedic chops as one of Jon Stewart’s foreign correspondents on The Daily Show. But once he landed his own half-hour show at HBO, his brainy, sometimes cantankerous brand of comedic news took off, and, before long, he joined the ranks of Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert, and Bill Maher as a titan of late night. Through charming wit and candid commentary, his Last Week Tonight delves into deeply reported topics, including segments on net neutrality, opioid addiction, and voter identification laws, the kind of coverage that has landed the show eight Emmys since premiering in 2014. And now, with the announcement that the series has been picked up through 2020, Oliver will have us laughing well into the new year and beyond. This New Year’s Eve, say goodbye to another crazy year with some much-needed, unfiltered humor with back-to-back shows at the Hippodrome that are sure to see 2017 off with a bellyaching bang.

Night of 100 Elvises
Dec. 1-3. Lord Baltimore Hotel, 20 W. Baltimore St. Fri. 7-11 p.m., Sat. 4 p.m.-1 a.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Prices vary. Slick back your hair and hop in your best flared jumpsuit for Charm City’s eclectic three-day tribute to the King of Rock and Roll. Whether you’re a fair-weather Elvis fan or a full-time Presley devotee, mingle with scores of impersonators at the new location of the Lord Baltimore Hotel for lots of live music, local brews, and the legend’s favorite snack: fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches. 

Mayor’s Christmas Parade
Dec. 3. Medfield & Hampden. 1 p.m. Free. Bundle up and join more than 20,000 onlookers as beating drums and blaring tubas make their way through the neighborhoods of Hampden and Medfield. This festive parade will feature dozens of marching bands, dance troupes, and Harley-Davidson motorcycles all heading towards 37th Street, with Miss Yuletide, Santa Claus, and Mayor Catherine Pugh in tow. 

Washington Monument Lighting
Dec. 7. 699 Washington Pl. 5-8 p.m. Free. 410-244-1030. For the 46th year, the cobblestone streets of Mount Vernon Place will buzz with the sounds of sizzling food, clinking cocktails, chattering passerby, and, loudest of all, the big-bang boom of fireworks during the annual lighting of Baltimore’s beloved Washington Monument. 

Harlem Globetrotters
Dec. 9. Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 2 & 7 p.m. $19-118. 410-347-2020. Baltimore might not have its own basketball team, but every December, the star-studded roster of the Harlem Globetrotters dribbles its way into town for an epic night of tricked-out dunks, finger-spinning stunts, and awesome athleticism at the RoFo Arena. This year, watch the world-famous troupe take on the Washington Generals, and for a few hours, consider them our home team in a makeshift, courtside Battle of the Beltways.

A John Waters Christmas
Dec. 19. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 8 p.m. $44-49.50. 410-244-0057. For more than a decade, Baltimore’s irreverent filmmaker and cult-classic comedian has created a seasonal tradition out of his critically acclaimed one-man show that puts the X in Xmas. Laugh out loud to John Waters’ twisted takes on the “most wonderful time of the year,” with holiday-horror stories, cringeworthy tinsel tales, and all around merry mischief.

Cirque de la Symphonie: Holiday Spectacular
Dec. 22-23. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 3 & 8 p.m. Prices vary. 410-783-8000. At this dazzling circus, watch as world-class acrobats dangle from the rafters, gymnasts contort into impossible angles, and dancers move to seasonal scores from the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

KIX-mas
Dec. 23. Rams Head Live, 20 Market Pl. 9 p.m. $27.50. 410-244-1131. Baltimore has always had a soft spot for ’80s hair-rockers Kix. The Maryland natives blew up decades ago but never forgot their roots, and while there’s less hairspray and leather involved in their present-day performances, the group is still rocking out up and down the East Coast. This holiday season, transport back to ’89 as the band plays hits like the Top 40 power ballad, “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” as well as new numbers off of their first record in nearly two decades. No one will judge if you gently wave a lighter through the air. In fact, we highly encourage it.

A Christmas Story, The Musical
Dec. 6-11. Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. Tue.-Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 1 & 6:30 p.m. $42-147. 410-837-7400. You already know the story of Ralphie Parker, a young boy in the 1940s with his heart set on Santa bringing him a Red Ryder BB gun. The 1983 cult-classic film, based on the legendary radio stories of humorist Jean Shepherd, is brought to new life in this hilarious musical adaptation directed by Tony Award-winner John Rando, with the Hippodrome even offering local auditions for two children to be featured in special roles.

Washington Monument Lighting
Dec. 1. Mount Vernon Place between Cathedral & St. Paul Sts. 4-8 p.m. Free. 410-244-1030. If you have yet to admire the Washington Monument’s $5.5 million renovation, make your way to Mt. Vernon for a holiday season kickoff. For the 45th year, join thousands of onlookers, street party festivities, and a massive fireworks display over the heart of the city.

Night of 100 Elvises
Dec. 3. Lithuanian Hall, 851 Hollins St. 4-11 p.m. $60-90. 410-494-9558. Everyone loves Elvis, and for some odd reason, everyone seems to love Elvis even more around the holidays. Gather at Lithuanian Hall for a celebration of The King, as dozens of cover bands, tribute artists, and diehard fans pay homage with this colorful night of rock and roll.

About Face
Dec. 8-Jan. 28, 2017. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. Tue.-Sat. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 410-276-1651. Local artist Amy Sherald has skyrocketed to artistic stardom since becoming the first woman to win the prestigious Outwin Boochever competition at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. this March. Shortly thereafter, she graced the pages of our October 2016 issue and is now the centerpiece of a new exhibit at her resident Creative Alliance. Alongside those of artists like Rozeal, Tim Okamura, and Ebony Patterson, her bright, brilliant paintings attempt to reconcile art with racial stereotypes, forcing viewers to examine a deeper understanding of black identity.

Army vs. Navy Game
Dec. 10. M&T Bank Stadium, 1101 Russell St. 3 p.m. 410-261-7283. In this rivalry for the ages, two of the country’s best military academies go head to head for the 126th time, this month at M&T. Maryland must pick sides between the underdog Black Knights and their Annapolis Midshipmen, with Navy enjoying a 14-game winning streak and devoted fans longing to make it a lucky 15.

Shifting Views: People & Politics in Contemporary African Art
Dec. 18-June 18, 2017. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. 443-573-1700. This stirring exhibit—the Baltimore Museum of Art’s first foray into contemporary African art––uses photographs, prints, and drawings by multiple artists to offer political perspectives on African life and its diaspora. In the 1970 photograph of singer Margaret Singana by David Goldblatt, the black-and-white still takes a quiet look at the continent’s capitalism, while other works explore themes such as slavery and racism.

UMD Basketball vs. UNC Charlotte
Dec. 20. Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 7 p.m. $15-103. 410-347-2020. For one night only, just a couple dozen miles up I-95 from their home, the men of the University of Maryland Terps basketball team battle the University of North Carolina at Charlotte 49ers. Without a national basketball team, Charm City hangs its hat on these College Park ballers, spreading the message of “Fear the Turtle” from November through April. With guard Melo Trimble entering his third season and guard Dion Wiley returning after a knee injury, this hoop showdown is one you shouldn’t miss.

A John Waters Christmas
Dec. 21. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 8 p.m. $28-30. 410-244-0057. The legendary local filmmaker—most famous for his cult-classic, Charm City-centric cinema (Pink Flamingos, Hairspray, Cry-Baby)—hosts a critically acclaimed evening of adult humor. Far more naughty than nice, the mischievous one-man show tackles the hoopla of the holidays, from religious fanaticism for Santa Claus to terrible decorations and perverted gifts. A sharp and witty raconteur, his merry monologue calls it like it is, using shock, awe, and magnetic storytelling to point out the absurdity of the season and to put “the X in Xmas.”

50th Anniversary Kwanzaa Celebration
Dec. 30. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. 3 p.m. $5. 443-263-1800. While the thought-provoking National Museum of African American History & Culture just opened in Washington, D.C., here in Baltimore, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum has been dedicated to celebrating Maryland’s African-American history and culture for more than 10 years. This holiday season, head to the museum to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Kwanzaa. Whether you’re a practiced celebrator or simply want to learn more about the holiday, enjoy African dancing and drumming performances, partake in arts and crafts, and explore a variety of workshops

Mayor’s Christmas Parade
Dec. 6. Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, 1400 W. Cold Spring Ln. 1 p.m. Free. For one wintry Sunday, join tens of thousands of Baltimoreans for the 42nd annual Mayor’s Christmas Parade. The 2.5-mile route meanders through Hampden, heading south on Falls Road before ending at 37th Street. Throw on a jacket and see Santa Claus, festive floats, marching units, local TV and radio personalities, over 100 Harley Davidsons, the Mummers of Philadelphia, and this year’s Miss and Junior Miss Yuletide.

A Monumental Occasion
Dec. 3. Mt. Vernon Pl., 600 N. Charles St. 5-8 p.m. Free. 410-244-1030. At the beginning of the month, see the Washington Monument lit up in all its fresh, new glory at the 43rd annual lighting ceremony in Mt. Vernon. After its $5.5 million renovation was completed this summer, the 200-year-old marble landmark is spick-and-span, with a polished exterior, new interactive displays, and a freshly restored staircase for its 227-step climb. See for yourself at this long-running holiday tradition, with music, food, drink, and a fantastic fireworks show.

Makayla Gilliam-Price
Dec. 3. MICA, Fred Lazarus IV Center, 131 W. North Ave. 7 p.m. Free. 410-669-9200. You might have heard this extremely eloquent 17-year-old speak at this year’s Artscape. Makayla Gilliam-Price took to the Lyric stage and spoke to an enraptured audience with dynamic wordplay and an impressively powerful voice as part of the annual arts festival’s Wired Up! event, which reunited the cast of The Wire to tell real stories of Baltimoreans who lived through this past spring’s uprising. When she finished, the packed house was the most excited it would be all night. It was clear that the youth leadership award she received just moments before was beyond well-deserved. The young activist and founder of local youth justice organization City Bloc has also been awarded the Princeton Prize in Race Relations and was an invited speaker at TEDxMidAtlantic this past September.

The Night of 100 Elvises
Dec. 5. Lithuanian Hall, 851 Hollins St. 4 p.m.-12 a.m. $60-90. 410-494-9588. Elvis left the building last year, when this eclectic annual event ditched its longtime home of Lithuanian Hall for new digs in Hunt Valley. But now, The King is back, as the 22nd annual celebration returns to Hollins Market. Party like Presley with cover bands, tribute artists, hot rods, showgirls, a Vegas-themed lounge, and his personal favorites: fried peanut-butter-and-banana sandwiches and plenty of booze.

Ciara
Dec. 4. Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. 8 p.m. $42-74. 410-837-7400. At the beginning of the month, the princess is here . . . “Ciara!” Made famous by her 2004 self-titled debut and smash-hits like “1, 2 Step” and “Goodies,” the Grammy-winning R&B artist is coming to Baltimore on the heels of her latest album, Jackie, performing live for the first time in six years. Head to the Hippodrome to see her rockin’ bod and hear her sultry new singles, including the breakup ballad “I Bet” and the super sexy “Dance Like We’re Making Love.”

Straight No Chaser
Dec. 5. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. 8 p.m. $36.50-56.50. 410-783-8000. It’s easy to see how, in the era of Pitch Perfect and Glee, these 10 troubadours were made famous by a Christmas performance gone viral a few years back. The a cappella group performs playful versions of holiday favorites, mixing Top 40 with classic crooning, skilled harmonies, and witty wordplay in royal Rat Pack fashion. At the Meyerhoff, hear their humorous hits like “Who Spiked the Egg Nog?” and “Text Me Merry Christmas.”

Matisse Prints and Drawings
Dec. 9-July 3, 2016. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. 410-573-1700. The BMA has created a Henri Matisse treasure trove, with more than 1,000 works culminating in the world’s largest collection of his art, which now includes some 20 additional drawings and prints from the artist’s twilight years. From December 9 to July 3, 2016, browse the expressive artworks as part of the museum’s “New Arrivals” series, fittingly on display where it all began—the galleries of the Cone Collection.

Orioles FanFest
Dec. 12. Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $6-12. 888-848-BIRD. Baseball season might be over, but it’s once again time to don your orange and black and head to the makeshift Birdland that is Orioles FanFest. Earlier than usual this year, the Baltimore Convention Center will fill with thousands of fans, all filing in to meet current players and coaches, snag some autographs (don’t forget to bring your Buck gnome), and, hopefully, experience the highly anticipated Adam Jones pie-facing. Stick around for hilarious question-and-answer sessions, tours of the clubhouse, and to take home some memorabilia that will tide you over ’til spring.

Harlem Globetrotters
Dec. 26. Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 1 & 6 pm. $18-118. 410-347-2020. For the past 90 years, ball has been life for the Harlem Globetrotters, as the world-famous team has dribbled and dunked its way around the planet in an unparalleled display of athletic swag and skill. The players return to Baltimore at the end of the month for a day of family-fun, perfect for getting out of the house after all the holiday hoopla.

The Charles Street landmark was the first planned monument to the first President, predating the other Washington Monument in our nation’s capital by several decades. Located in historic Mt. Vernon Square, the surrounding grassy knolls have hosted FlowerMart, the Baltimore Book Festival, and, of course, the monument’s annual holiday lighting.

The 178-foot monument, designed by Robert Mills, was finished in 1829—14 years after construction began. (Mills also designed the obelisk on the Mall in D.C., which opened in 1885.) Col. John Eager Howard, who served under Washington, donated land to the project and $100,000 was raised for the monument’s construction through a Maryland-authorized lottery—although the costs ultimately forced the original design to be scaled back.

Scaffolding currently envelops the monument, closed since 2010. A $5.5-million restoration effort begun this year will fix structural problems discovered during a Mount Vernon Place Conservancy engineering study. Visitors hoping to climb the 228 steps to the top of the monument for one of the best views of the city will have to wait until Independence Day 2015—the bicentennial of the start of construction of the monument and scheduled completion date of the repairs.

Did you know?

Forest for the Trees

Howard’s Woods

When the monument’s cornerstone was laid on July 5, 1815, Charles Street did not yet reach the monument area, and the surrounding environ was a forest, known as Howard’s Woods.