There are plenty of ways to get in the holiday spirit in Southern Maryland. Here are some of the best events to celebrate art, culture, and the winter holiday season this month:

Leonardtown First Fridays

When: Friday, Dec 7, 2018 | 5:00 – 8:00PM

Where: Leonardtown Square and Leonardtown Shopping Centers, Leonardtown, MD

 

First Friday in Leonardtown is always a fun event, and this month there’s a festive spin. December’s First Friday theme is “Keep the Cheer Here”, and small shops around the area will be hosting special one-evening-only sales. This event is a great opportunity to cross some names off your shopping list with unique gifts. You could include dinner at one of the many local restaurants to kick off your evening, and head over to St. Mary’s County Arts Council for a Drum Circle with the SoMar Drummers from 7-8PM.

 

Solomons Christmas Walk

When: Friday – Saturday, Dec 7 – 8, 2018 | 6:00 – 9:00PM

Where: Calvert Marine Museum — 14200 Solomons Island Road, Solomons, MD

 

In Solomons, don’t miss their Christmas Walk hosted at the Calvert Marine Museum on the first Friday and Saturday evenings of December. It’s a free event with entertainment, special crafts, refreshments and, of course, a Santa appearance. The museum will be offering free admission during the event, and members will receive 20% off in the Museum Store. On Saturday, Santa’s Coffee House will be open and offering complimentary coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and cookies for visitors. It’s a festive event that the whole family will enjoy.

 

Winter’s Farmer’s Market at Marietta

When: Saturday, Dec 8, 2018 | 9:00AM – 2:00PM

Where: Marietta House Museum — 5626 Bell Station Road, Glenn Dale, MD

 

Further into Prince George’s county lies the Marietta House Museum in Glenn Dale where they’re hosting the Winter’s Farmer’s Market in early December. It’s a free event with vendors selling produce, plants, herbs, holiday baked goods, and more. It’ll take place both out on the historic grounds and within the lower level of the museum. It’s a great place to shop local for the food on your table this holiday season.

 

16th Annual Holiday Craft Fair

When: Saturday, Dec 8, 2018 | 9:00AM - 3:00PM

Where: Northern High School Cafeteria and Mary Harrison Center — 2950 Chaneyville Road, Owings, MD

 

Another great way to shop local for your holiday needs is to support the local crafters and artisans in Southern Maryland. In Owings, the 16th Annual Holiday Craft Fair is happening at the Northern High School and will host over 80 creative vendors. The event benefits the Northern High band programs, so it’s for a great cause, and you’re sure to find high-quality handmade gifts. They’ll be giving away door prizes each hour, and Santa will make a visit as well. At 11:00AM there will be an all-ages holiday concert in the Mary Harrison Center auditorium.

 

Santa & Mrs. Claus on the Square

When: Saturday, Dec 15, 2018 | 11:00AM – 1:00PM

Where: Leonardtown Square — 22735 Washington Street, Leonardtown, MD

 

If you’re looking for a festive event to take your kids to, mark your calendars for Santa & Mrs. Claus on the Square. They’ll be making a special visit to historic downtown Leonardtown, and kids can get their photos taken for free with the duo. Be sure to bring your wish list along!

 

Ugly Sweater Party

When: Friday, Dec 21, 2018 | 8:00 – 11:00PM

Where: Ruddy Duck Brewery and Grill — 13200 Dowell Road, Dowell, MD

 

For the grownups in Calvert County, don your worst holiday sweater, and head over to the Ruddy Duck Brewery and Grill in Dowell. They’re hosting this event just before Christmas and giving away prizes for the ugliest sweater, including gift cards, t-shirts and more. Run Catch Rain will be performing live music all evening, so come “eat, drink, and be ugly”.

 

 

Southern Maryland has plenty going on this month to keep you entertained and in festive spirits. Whether you’re looking for a day out with the family or the perfect place to shop local, there’s something for everyone. Which events will you be attending this month?