72 HOURS Dec. 21, 2023

37TH ANNUAL

Tuesday, December 26, 2023 4–9pm Discover Downtown Frederick’s most celebrated houses of worship and enjoy special holiday music programs at this free self-guided event.

With Support from

BREWER’S ALLEY, EVEREDY SQUARE & SHAB ROW, ROY ROGERS, PLAMONDON HOSPITALITY PARTNERS, and VISIT FREDERICK

BELOVED BALLET: ‘The Nutcracker’ comes to the Weinberg Center as part of World Ballet Series PAGE 10

Events brought to you by Visit Frederick.

(301) 600-4047 • www.visitfrederick.org

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TOURISM MINUS VAMPIRISM: HOLY HISTORY: See Frederick’s spires up close at the Candlelight Tour of Visiting secrets in the Transylvanian mist PAGE 11 Historic Houses of Worship PAGE 9

INSIDE THIS WEEK Signature Dish ..........................................5 Music ..........................................................6 Comics ........................................................8 Holidays..................................................9 Getaways...............................................11

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Family .......................................................12 Cover story..............................................14 Art ..............................................................18

MIDDLETOWN: 200 Middletown Pkwy Middletown, MD 21769 301-371-4000 HAMPSTEAD: 2315 A Hanover Pike Hampstead, MD 21074 410-374-0909

MAKE RESERVATIONS AT FRATELLISPASTA.COM 2 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Film ............................................................19 Classifieds ............................................... 20 Calendar .................................................. 22

event 10 days prior to publication at newspost.com/calendar.

PUBLISHER Geordie Wilson EDITOR Lauren LaRocca llarocca@newspost.com REVENUE DIRECTOR Connie Hastings CALENDAR EDITOR Sue Guynn sguynn@newspost.com On the cover: Laurie Gavitt-Smith, known locally as the “Christmas Queen,” poses for a portrait within the “Christmas store” at her home in Frederick.

Staff photo by Katina Zentz fredericknewspost.com/72_hours

SOMETHING’S SHAKIN’ ON SHAKEDOWN STREET

What started as a single Grateful Dead tribute performance at Gambrill Mt. Food Co. has turned into a full year of shows in the area. That said, Dead For One Night, a supergroup of local artists, says their upcoming show this week will be their last — for real this time (probably). Catch them live from 7 to 10 p.m.

Dec. 23 at Steinhardt Brewing in downtown Frederick. The night’s lineup includes Andrew Roulette, Cyrus TJ, Max Vendetti, Dan Kehoe, Adrienne Smith and Tyler Golsen.

DO YOU KNOW THE CHRISTMAS QUEEN? Laurie Gavitt-Smith carries the Christmas spirit in such a rare way. She has collected vintage and antique ornaments, trees, decorations, Christmas cards and other items from around the world for decades and decks the halls of her Frederick home each year for the sheer joy and delight it brings her — and everyone who stops by for a visit … which is everyone from family and friends to neighbors to civic groups and strangers who have heard about the “Christmas House.” She’s dubbed “The Christmas Queen” in this area, but we think she has earned the title for an area much wider than Frederick. Her house’s elaborate display is like no other, more akin to a museum of curated, historical items. We wish her a Merry Christmas, as she has made so many Christmases brighter over the years.

SEE FREDERICK’S SPIRES UP CLOSE

This year’s Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship is on Dec. 26 and invites you to wander through beautiful, historic churches and other sites throughout Frederick and see them at their best — shimmering in shiny, festive decorations and glowing by candlelight, and many offer live music throughout the day. Docents will be at several locations to provide some context and backstory to each site and how it came to be, so you can take home with you memories of the beauty of the holidays along with some local history knowledge. Hagerstown will host its own Historic Houses of Worship Tour on that same day featuring several sites within walking distance throughout downtown that will be open for visitors to take in thei lovely Christmas decorations and music.

SOMETHING FOR YOUR NEXT PARTY

If you’re looking for a creative, healthy food option for your next get-together, look no further than Charcuterie by Randi. What started as a side hustle has turned into a full-blown business for Frederick’s Randi Willard, and her creations are absolutely Pinterest-worthy. Order ahead and pick up your platter in downtown Frederick. Don’t forget to take photos before digging in.

WONDERING WHAT TO DO WITH ALL THAT TIME?

Call it Betwixtmas, Winterval, Merrineum or Crimbo Limbo — the week between Christmas and New Year’s is a strange one, perhaps the one week of the year when nearly everyone finds themselves in not-their-usual routine. Might we suggest you wander into one of the museums or art galleries during this time?

Nearly all of our local cultural centers remain open during this weird week and offer a quiet time to take in some art or history.

Partners In Care Upscale Resale Boutique Helping Older Adults to Live Independently

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Sorry, Not Sorry: It’s Pablo-matic at the Brooklyn Museum

Catherine Morris

Lisa Small

THURSDAY, JAN. 4, 5:30-7 PM Brooklyn Museum curators discuss examining Pablo Picasso’s complicated legacy through a critical, feminist lens $8 museum members, $10 general public. To reserve your seat, call 301-739-5727

Come early to see Picasso on Paper: The Artist as Printmaker, 1923-72

Washington County Museum of Fine Arts 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown | wcmfa.org

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 3

DRINK

The best wine and spirits to give as gifts for the holidays

By ELIN MCCOY and KARA NEWMAN Bloomberg

Holiday party season is upon us, and if you aren’t hosting your own, don’t show up empty-handed to wherever you’re invited. Any one of these easily shared gifts will make you the favorite guest.

THE HARD STUFF

Metro

Little Rest American Single Malt Whisky Ten Mile distillery in upstate Wassaic, New York, has created plenty of buzz with its first releases. John Dyson, former deputy mayor of New York City and majority owner of the Williams Selyem Winery in Sonoma, California, purchased this property in 2017 and brought in a a master distiller directly from Scotland. $100 Loco Puro Corazon The Mexican owner of Napa Valley’s Sullivan Estate is behind this new ultrapremium tequila that pays attention to terroir-where the agave is grown-just as if it were a wine. While Puro Corazon is the top bottling, it also comes in a boxed set with two other options in the family: Loco Blanco and Loco Ambar Reposado. $683 Hennessy Paradis Lunar New Year 2024 The Paradis cognac, as always, is stellar. But for the host who already has everything, consider the limited-edition version that’s bottled in white porcelain and decorated with gold dragons by artist Yang Yongliang for the 2024 Chinese Lunar New Year. £7,745 ($9,844) Skiklubben Aquavit This US-made version of the Scandinavian spirit has a few additional fancy touches. It’s barrel-aged for one to three yearsin casks that previously held apple brandy or Chocorua rye whiskey-and sweetened, so it’s almost a cocktail. Plus, the name is fun to say (“Skikloobin”), and the ski club motif makes it a good gift for your favorite powder hound. $45 Ardbeg Anamorphic If you know someone who enjoys smoky Scotch, this newcomer is a standout. The gimmick is that they char the tops of the barrels and score them deeply to expose further wood, so the taste is smoky and sooty with lots of dark chocolate and a chile pepper-like spice. £130

4 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

THE SOFT STUFF

Amante 1530 If you’re not put off by the quickly expanding world of celebrity whiskey and celebrity tequila, how about a celebrity amaro? From Sting and Trudie Styler, this one has bittersweet grapefruit and juicy orange tones.

Bonus points for not naming it Message in A Bottle. $35 Sorel Liqueur This hibiscus-based liqueur has a deep red hue and plenty of holiday spice. It’s good to sip and even better if mixed with whiskey for a Manhattan-style cocktail. Best of all might be if it’s lengthened with ginger beer and a squeeze of lime to create a Hibiscus Mule. $42 Heimat Black Currant Liqueur A new New York-based release brings lots of sweet-tart cranberry and berry compote flavors to the table. Pour a bit into a Champagne flute and top up with sparkling wine for a fizzy, sweet-tart Kir Royale. $30 Meletti Coffee Liqueur The family-run company behind this after-dinner sipper is known for making amaro and anisette.

Arriving in the U.S. this year, it’s got a beautiful pure-espresso flavor tinged with vanilla, so it could also serve as a zippy addition to an espresso martini. $30 Italicus Liqueur Created “by bartenders, for bartenders,” this lowproof aperitivo has ascended in cocktail bars-but it’s one to add to a home bar, too.

Calabrian bergamot and chamomile lend a versatile citrus-floral flavor. Plus, the bottle is pretty and giftworthy. $45

THE RED AND WHITE STUFF

2016 Biondi-Santi (Il Greppo) Riserva Brunello di Montalcino Italian reds are becoming the latest craze in wine investment, and this Brunello is one of Italy’s most famous collectible wines. The 2016 vintage was one of the best in recent years. $650 2019 Clos du Val Yettalil Get a piece of the first vintage of a new Napa icon. Bordeauxinspired winery Clos du Val launched this flagship cabernet blend last year, and it’s a winner.

From the Stag’s Leap District, it has the balance and elegance for which this winery has been known since it was founded in 1972. $215 1970 Graham’s Vintage Port Graham’s is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year; technically it’s the 203rd, but Covid-19 derailed the celebration until now. This is a great vintage for its classic vintage port: Rich, powerful and fullbodied but balanced as well. Surprisingly, it’s reasonably priced. $159 Chateau Leoville Las Cases: Caisse Collection Miroir Millesimes Historiques This incredible boxed set of great Bordeaux holds six bottles from SaintJulien, one of four communes that make up the Haut-Medoc region. Each bottle is from one of the best, most stunning years in recent memory: the legendary 1982, 1990, 1996, 2000, 2005 and 2009 vintages. All are specially selected by the winemaker and ready to drink. $4,300 2002 Louis Roederer Cristal Orfevres Gold MedallionWhen price is no object, sometimes you just need a huge 3-liter bottle of great Champagnethe equivalent of four bottles. $25,000

“N

othing pleases like assorted cheeses” is the motto of Randi Willard, who founded the Frederick-based business Charcuterie by Randi in 2021.

Willard discovered her talent for creating visually appealing grazing platters while attending a family wedding with her nowhusband. She volunteered to handle snacks for the wedding party and soon realized she could turn her skills into a side hustle.

“Something about me is I can’t just dabble in something,” Willard said. “I have to go all-out.”

Now, Willard — also a registered behavioral technician and graduate student at Mount St. Mary’s University — assembles made-to-order charcuterie boards in a shared commercial kitchen in downtown Frederick.

The content of her boards varies by the season and the personal preferences of her clients. In the past, Willard has made traditional charcuterie boards in addition to specialty items like vegan boards, brunch boards and dessert boards. All of her traditional boards include several meat and cheese options, fresh fruit, and some kind of sauce or spread with crackers or bread to go with it.

— Ceoli Jacoby

A charcuterie board, made by Randi Willard, owner of Charcuterie by Randi, is displayed on Nov. 29.

Charcuterie by Randi

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

Randi Willard, owner of Charcuterie by Randi, poses for a portrait on Nov. 29.

Charcuterie by Randi 300 E. Second St., Frederick 240-818-1491 charcuteriebyrandi.com Facebook: facebook.com/charcuteriebyrandi Instagram: @charcuteriebyrandi Price: Individual charcuterie cups start at 10 apiece. An individual charcuterie box, which feeds one or two, costs $40, while a small one that feeds up to four costs $85.

A medium board, which feeds between four and six people, goes for $140 and a large board, which feeds between six and 10 people, goes for $220. Grazing tables for large groups are priced on a case-by case-basis.

Randi Willard recommends: A holiday-themed board featuring seasonal items.

This one includes a cranberry vanilla goat cheese, a balsamic-infused cheese and a classic aged cheddar. The meats featured include black pepper salami, pepperoni and calabrese salami. For accoutrements, Willard chose a mixture of nuts and fruits, sprigs of rosemary, chocolate truffles and a raspberry jam.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 5

MUSIC

Women rule, AI steps up and a ‘sphere’ shines in 2023 music

BY COLIN MCGUIRE

Special to The News-Post

It’s the end of the year. For some, that means lists. Best album. Best song. Best ambient instrumental movement performed by spoons, three oboes and one harp.

The rankings game is real this time of year, and while it was once big business, it kind of/sort of feels like that bubble has deflated in its own apathetic way (along with, well, pretty much everything else once valued in popular culture).

That in mind, instead of offering up yet another best-of collection that will surely get lost within the echo chamber that dominates reading these days, I thought I’d take a quick look back at 10 things that shaped 2023 in the world of music. More than enough stories permeated their way through AP Photo/George Walker IV the noise that was the last 12 months, so let’s get to some of the highlights Taylor Swift performs during “The Eras Tour” on May 5 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn. as we prepare to ring in 2024.

TAYLOR’S WORLD

She’s Time’s person of the year. She won every award imaginable. And, for my money, she redefined the touring algorithm for those who want to work smarter and not harder as the live music landscape evolves. Saying it was anyone other than Taylor Swift’s year when it comes to 2023 music is like saying The Beatles didn’t define the British Invasion. The fun won’t stop as the calendar turns, either — Swift isn’t done bringing her Eras tour to every corner of the world and something tells me the “Taylor’s Version” rereleases won’t stop over the next 12 months. We’re living in a time when one of the all-time transcendent pop stars is at her peak. Why fight it? Why be cynical? If anything, 2023 taught us to bask in the glory of Taylor Swift’s AP Photo/Richard Drew dominance. Not even Walter White had this much success being an antiTina Turner is shown during an interview for NBC’TV “Friday Nite Videos” at the Essex House Hotel hero. in New York on Sept. 14, 1984. Turner died May 24.

WOMEN’S WORLD

And yet even if you resist the Swift Train, Taylor isn’t the only female act dominating music charts far and wide. 2023 was led by acts like SZA, Boygenius and Beyonce (who, in case you missed it, headlined a world tour of her own that didn’t do all that bad). Shoot, even the biggest country 6 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

music hit sung by a male this year was originally written by a female artist some 30 years ago. Joni Mitchell won the Gershwin Prize. Rihanna offered up a very pregnant and very bosslike Super Bowl halftime show. The list goes on and on. 2023 was the year of the woman in music. And God bless it for that.

were at times scary, always impressive and most often captivating. The thing feels like going to see a movie in IMAX, but instead of Spiderman, Bono sings an Elvis song. How long will it last? Word is that the venue is still operating at a loss, but big plans seem to be on the horizon for 2024. Can Phish save the day? We’ll see.

GOODBYE, YELLOW BRICK ROAD

As is the case in most years, a fair share of legendary/classic/ noteworthy musicians called it a day with respective farewell tours in 2023. Elton John insisted he’s done after a July concert in Sweden. Kiss wrapped things up at Madison Square Garden recently … only to reveal that avatars will replace them from here on out, which is pretty on-brand. And Aerosmith launched what they said would be their final run, but then singer Steven Tyler bailed due to sexual assault allega … er … I mean, he said he had vocal cord problems.

Will any of these goodbyes truly stick?

It’s rock and roll, so never say never.

ENSHRINED

Another year, another debate about who should go in, who got in, who didn’t get in and who might someday get in when it comes to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This year’s class was no different. Willie Nelson got the nod (absolutely) while Sheryl Crow (not yet), Missy Elliott (if hiphop is in, she’s gotta be there) and Rage Against The Machine (thanks for not coming, guys!) took their places among popular music’s elite as well.

Love it or hate it, just wait until next year: John Mayer and Lil Wayne lead the artists eligible for the first time. Let the arguing begin.

GUTS

When taken as a whole, we’ve already established how women the main-mainstream when BETTER THAN THE REAL THING? dominated it comes to popular music. But beyond Las Vegas’ shiny new toy, creatively that … man, for my money, the year’s titled “The Sphere,” finally got up and best music came almost primarily running this year and the results were from females. Olivia Rodrigo proved … well, kind of what we thought they’d a sophomore slump doesn’t always be. U2 opened it (sans Larry Mullen, have to exist (and that hell hath no fury which really makes it U1-and-a-half), like a pop star who’s not afraid to use and the cellphone videos that ensued swear words scorned). Janelle Monae

thought was contemporary rock be classified as classic rock, but kudos to the bands for seeing it through. Now, speaking of classic rock …

NOW AND THEN

… Two of the greatest-ever rock bands wound up in the new music conversation this year. The Rolling Stones released “Hackney Diamonds,” which only succeeded on account that it didn’t suck. OK, that’s probably too mean, but really, check it out.

There’s some good stuff in there.

Conversely (and sadly), the same can’t be said for The Beatles’ final-ever song (maybe, probably), “Now and Then.”

A pedestrian Beatles song at best, the entire operation was ruined once that outrageously campy accompanying video hit the internet. As someone wisely pointed out after seeing it, “Why couldn’t Paul just ‘let it be?’”

ALL ARTIFICIAL

James Schaeffer/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP, File

The Sphere is illuminated on July 4 in Las Vegas. The new venue opened in September and bills itself as the largest spherical structure in the world. put out a wildly fun reggae(ish) album that should have received more love than it got. Jenny Lewis released what amounted to one of my two favorite records from front to back all year. And hey: We even got a couple very good new songs from the Chvrches lady.

Music is never qualitatively defined by gender, but damn if the girls didn’t outshine the boys in 2023.

HANGIN’ AROUND

While their albums celebrate 20year, 25-year or 30-year anniversaries on what seems like a weekly basis anymore, alt rock bands from the midto-late 1990s laid blueprints for how bands long removed from their heydays can still have a prominent space in the music landscape. You don’t need to hear me fail at waxing poetic about Matchbox Twenty yet again (though they did put out a great album, got some “Barbie” love and embarked on a surprisingly successful summer tour), but even with them removed, consider their contemporaries. Counting Crows headlined amphitheaters with Dashboard Confessional. Bush is comfortably touring off little more than their greatest hits. And even bands like Creed and Hootie & The Blowfish announced major tours for 2024. Sure, it’s unsettling to hear what you once

From magazine stories to poemwriting to song-crafting, nothing is safe from AI technology these days, but it sure felt like the conversation surrounding Artificial Intelligence ramped up in a big way over the past 12 months. Consider the Grammys, who actually had to come out and state that only human creators can win one of the awards — but a work containing AI is eligible as long as human input is meaningful … whatever that means.

Ugh. Settle in, friends. The AI debate is only going to get murkier as the means become more available and the finances make more sense. And thus, it should be said again: Ugh.

SUNDOWN

And finally, a lot of very noteworthy musical personalities passed away in 2023. That’s not unusual, but this year’s deaths felt particularly heavy at times. Just check out this list: Jeff Beck, Gordon Lightfoot, Wayne Shorter, Burt Bacharach, David Crosby, Harry Belafonte, Tina Turner, Tony Bennett, Sinead O’Connor and Jimmy Buffett, among many, many, many others who left an impact. The mark they left with their music shouldn’t soon be forgotten, and so as we bid adieu to 2023, maybe pour a drink, spin a few of their records, and reflect on what meant the most to you in the past 12 months of music.

Colin McGuire has been in and out of bands for more than 20 years and also helps produce concerts in and around Frederick. His work has appeared in Alternative Press magazine, PopMatters and 72 Hours, among other outlets. He is convinced that the difference between being Washington Post file photo by Bill O’Leary in a band and being in a romantic relationship is less than minimal.

From left, Merle Haggard and Willie Nelson perform a duet at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Contact him at mcguire.colin@gmail. com.

Columbia in 2007.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 7

THE LONG BOX

Another year of comics controversy

BY CLIFF CUMBER

nience if I stray beyond the stated mission of The Long Box (to cover regional small press and indie publications) into some of the broader, more global ere we are again at the end issues of the industry. It’s been a hectic of another year, and as 2024 year, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t touch beckons, what better time to on some of the wider developments, review the past 12 months in comics?

At a personal level, though, I had a the ripples of which are being felt all the way through the indusgreat year, albeit a little less try, small presses included. productive than I’d hoped.

From the viewpoint of The highlight was the mad my little promontory withdash through a September in the industry, despite the weekend attending the Baltifrequent online indignamore Comic-Con and Small tion, the state of comics is Press Expo, two of Maryland’s strong, overall. Indie and premiere industry convensmall-press comic productions — visits that were made tion is especially robust and particularly special by being growing ever more so and able to pal around with my increasingly diversifying and good friends Tony Esmond innovating. and Matt Strott. I met so many CLIFF CUMBER Of course, there’s always good people in the field, some furor happening in the comics shook the hands of some legendary teapot, mostly centered around the figures and, dare I say it, made some larger publishers and almost entirely new friends along the way. pursued through social media (where (Organizers, if you could perhaps fans are dedicated and passionate, not put both events on in the same if at times a little extreme about their weekend, I’d appreciate it.) ownership over the medium).

I hope you will allow me a little le-

Special to The News-Post

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At its core, debate within the industry has and will continue to swirl, mirroring the ongoing wider argument about representation and diversity and its impact in the comics medium.

This shows no signs of abating soon, as neither side seems able or even willing to form a consensus, much like the broader political culture wars impacting politics and other media.

The premise of this seemingly perennial debate is the balance between storytelling quality and the overt inclusion of political or social themes in comic books e.g., LGBTQ and racial diversity, and how much is too much — or even too little — in the major comic publishers’ output.

[Public Service Notice: Remember, social media and the internet do not portray real life or the opinions held by actual people therein.]

Two other related debates reignited this year, one of which I touched on in my last column, where I talked a little about the difficulties comics retailers are facing.

The direct market distribution model, in which monthly print issues are sent directly to specialty stores and which led to comics becoming a luxury subscription item for dedicated comic readers and collectors, is still a point of contention in the industry.

Pricing for individual print issues, now at around five bucks for 24 pages, has become a massive bone of contention.

(Comics retailers have been speaking out in this latter part of the year about how the lackluster new output of the big comics companies have led to declining monthly sales, even as back issue sales of pre-21st century comics remain strong. Manga, too, is a robust market.)

Adjacent to the direct market debate and the economy of comic publication, creator compensation and the treatment of individuals who make comic books came to the fore once again with comics megastar writer Mark Millar arguing for a more equitable compensation model.

Historically, larger publishers in the field have treated creators poorly, even when they were awash in cash in the “good” old days.

All of these topics are, of course, interconnected. One basic economic fact: comics need to appeal to the broadest audience at a price point they can afford, and which allows comics retailers to remain viable.

Sadly, that relies on the viability of the products they sell, which, in the North American market, rely on the cornerstone of Marvel and DC. If the

readers aren’t picking up what you’re laying down, and if you aren’t enticing new readers into the fold to account for audience attrition, the future looks bleak.

Personally, my prediction is the market’s reliance on monthly serials will eventually erode in favor of complete runs collected in a trade paperback, but ending the traditional weekly Wednesday release of those monthlies will be a tumultuously slow and painful death. My fear is Marvel and DC will fail to adequately embrace that change, because, as businesses, they’ve shown little motivation to kill the cash-cow model that is central to how they operate, no matter how sick that cow appears. I can imagine as well the outcry from monthly collectors will be fierce, even though the overall quality of those monthlies has been subpar for years.

What troubles me most is that the Big Two, as they’re known, are so central to what make comics comics, their collapse would have significantly damaging ramifications across the board for the entire industry.

Something needs to change. That’s the only thing that all sides in this debate seem to agree on.

••• None of these contentious issues will likely be resolved as we move into the New Year, and certainly not through social media. I’m sensing wide fatigue with the constant (and frequently manufactured) online outrage factories. I know I’m experiencing that myself.

Remember: Comics are a wonderland. Comics uniquely blend visual art and storytelling, creating immersive narratives that can convey complex ideas and emotions. It’s a medium that transcends age and language, with multifaceted genres; comics stimulate your imagination, promote literacy and provide cultural commentary, all through an accessible form that encourages creativity and allows a window into different perspectives and experiences.

It’s art, people, and will ever remain so.

From my family to yours, I hope 2024 is blessed and someone in your life puts a ton of dirty old paper under your tree this gift-giving season.

••• Have a recommendation?

Let’s have it. Shoot me a note at cgcumber@gmail.com. You can follow along with the daily art struggle via Instagram or TikTok: @cgcumber.

HOLIDAYS

See Frederick’s spires up close at the Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship

BY ERIK ANDERSON

Special to The News-Post

As downtown Frederick prepares for its annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship, some of the event organizers and volunteers are taking time to reflect on the importance of the city’s churches to local history and identity.

For the past 15 years, Marcia Hahn has volunteered for the event in various capacitates with the Evangelical Lutheran Church on East Church Street. As the parish’s selfappointed historian, she has learned that the historic churches were integral to the original street grid plan for downtown Frederick in the 1740s.

“It’s my understanding that when proprietor Daniel Dulany laid out the town of Frederick, he intentionally reserved lots for the various church denominations,” Hahn said. “He reserved them away from the creek, because the creek was the industrial section of town, and he knew that wherever the churches would be, that’s where people would want to build their houses.”

She said the establishment of the Lutheran church parish actually predates the founding of Frederick.

A small community of German immigrants who were en route to Virginia decided to stop in an area near Thurmont and founded their Lutheran parish there in 1738 before moving to its current location in downtown Frederick in 1746, a year after the town was founded.

A limestone church completed in 1762 replaced the original log church built on the site. A part of the limestone church still functions as a parish hall. The current church structure with twin spires, which will be featured on the candlelight tour, was completed in 1855.

It served as a hospital for Union soldiers in the aftermath of the 1862 Battle of Antietam. A large picture of the church full of wounded men from the battle hangs in the window of The National Museum of Civil War Medicine.

“That’s a thing we always like to share — a little bit about our piece of the Civil War,” Hahn said.

Hahn noted that the churches of

Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship When: 4 to 9 p.m. Dec. 26 Where: Throughout downtown Frederick Tickets: Free Info: visitfrederick.org/events/ annual-events/historic-houses-ofworship-tour do with how they liked the pastor of whatever church they were in.”

This year’s self-guided tour will include nine historic churches and the carillon in Baker Park. When visitors reach each church, they will encounter knowledgeable docents who can answer questions about the history. Visitors can also stop at 19 E. Church St. in downtown Frederick to pick up a brochure that details the history of each site.

The churches and carillon will have hours’ worth of holiday music programing.

“It’s just a constant stream of choral music, horn, organs, harps, you name it,” said John Lustrea, visitor services manager of Visit Frederick. “It’s a smorgasbord of musical programing and an opportunity to see some really beautiful places.”

Programing at the Lutheran church will feature several dozen volunteer musicians, including a handbell choir, a traditional vocal choir, a modern praise ensemble and the Frederick Flute Choir. In the last hour of programing, the parish organist will lead visitors in a hymn singalong.

The current church organ is only the fourth one in the church’s history.

It was installed by the M.P. Möller Staff photo by Bill Green Inc. Pipe Organ Co. of Hagerstown in 1950 and rebuilt in 1982. With All Saints Episcopal Church on West Church Street at the 36th annual Candlelight Tour of Historic 2,824 pipes and 53 ranks, the parish Houses of Worship. believes it’s one of the largest in the county. different denominations have always the Evangelical Reformed United “People love to come to our Church of Christ and is also on the interacted with each other, recalling church just to hear our organ,” she candlelight tour. a diary entry of Jacob Engelbrecht, said.

“It’s clear that people would move a 19th-century Frederick mayor who Hahn said the candlelight tour back and forth between those two described the relationship between is one of the church’s most popular churches,” she said of the diary entry. events of the year, seeing between the Lutheran church and the “I think a lot of the movement back German Reformed Church on West (See CANDLELIGHT 26) and forth might have had a lot to Church Street, which is now called 72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 9

Hagerstown hosts its annual Historic Houses of Worship Tour

Photos courtesy of World Ballet Series

‘The Nutcracker’ comes to the Weinberg Center as part of World Ballet Series

The beloved holiday classic “The Nutcracker” will come to Weinberg Center for the Arts for two performances as part of World Ballet Series’ 202324 U.S. tour.

The family-friendly production is brought to life by an international cast of 40 professional dancers from the world’s premier ballet institutions, with beautiful sets and costumes and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music.

One of the most beloved holiday family traditions, “The Nutcracker” tells the tale of a young girl who receives the gift of a nutcracker doll at her family’s Christmas party. In her dreams that night, the nutcracker doll comes to life as a handsome prince who joins her on a magical journey. Together, they travel to lands filled with dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, a mouse army and other exotic characters, all brought to vivid life on stage in this magical production.

The Nutcracker features Lev Ivanov’s original choreography, with additional staging by George Birkadze and Marina Kessler. Sergey Novikov is the scenic and costume designer, and

Mark Stavtsev is the lighting designer. This show is produced by GorskayaHartwick Productions.

Based in Los Angeles, Gorskaya-Hartwick Productions is led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, who have created, produced and toured original productions of some of ballet’s most cherished ballets as part of World Ballet Series.

Through their work, Gorskaya and Hartwick aim to foster the development of new audiences

10 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

for ballet and ensure that all have access to the art form.

To date, World Ballet Series has travelled to more than 280 cities reaching an audience of more than 250,000, many of whom are first time attendees to a ballet.

Shows are at 3 and 7 p.m.

Dec. 22. Tickets are $55 and are available at weinberg center.org, by calling the box office at 301-600-2828, or in person at 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick.

After the hustle and bustle of the holiday, it’s nice to have a little time of quiet and reflection.

And that’s the kind of experience attendees of the annual Historic Houses of Worship Tour in Hagerstown will receive. The free, self-guided tour will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Dec. 26 at 12 sites throughout downtown Hagerstown.

This year marks the Historic Houses of Worship Tour’s 10th anniversary, as well the return of the tour since 2019, due to the pandemic.

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church is the lead host of the event this year in partnership with Trinity Lutheran Church and HARC. “St. Mark’s is delighted to present this to our community. It invites participants of the tour to see what’s inside and enjoy the diversity of our faith partners during a sacred time of year,” said Pat Kelly, this year’s tour organizer.

The tour this year features a variety of denominations, and most of the stops are within walking distance from one another. Attendees can enjoy the sights and sounds of the season while learning about the history and customs of each congregation. At several locations, docents will be available for historical and architectural interpretation.

Additionally, many of the houses of worship will have refreshments, music and historical displays. All sites are handicap accessible.

A Holiday Tour photo contest will take place with a $200 prize for best original photograph and $50 for the runner-up, sponsored by the City of Hagerstown.

Anyone may submit a photo taken during the 2023 tour for a chance to win. Learn more and submit your entry

via the Washington County Arts Council website at washingtoncountyarts.com/ holiday-worship-tour.

TOUR STOPS

• Grace United Methodist Church, 712 W. Church St., Hagerstown; music.

• Washington Square United Methodist Church, 538 W. Washington Ave., Hagerstown; music and historical display.

• Saint Mark’s Lutheran Church, 601 Washington Ave., Hagerstown; music.

• Hagerstown Church, 15 High St., Hagerstown; refreshments • Saint John’s Episcopal Church, 101 S. Prospect St., Hagerstown; music.

• Congregation B’nai Abraham, 53 E. Baltimore St., Hagerstown; music.

• Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 141 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown; music.

• Otterbein United Methodist Church, 108 E. Franklin St., Hagerstown; music and refreshments.

• Trinity Lutheran Church, corner of North Potomac Street and Randolph Avenue, Hagerstown; music and refreshments.

• Zion Reformed United Church of Christ, 201 N. Potomac St., Hagerstown; music, refreshments and historical display.

• John Wesley United Methodist Church, 129 N. Potomac St., music.

• Christ’s Reformed Church, 130 W. Franklin St. In case of inclement weather and to see if the tour will continue, visit harccoalition.org or listen to WJEJ radio station, 104.3 FM and 1240 AM. Snow date is Dec. 27. For more information about the Historic Houses of Worship Tour, go to the harccoaltion.org.

GETAWAYS ROGUE & VAGABOND

Secrets in the Transylvanian mist

BY TREVOR DAVIS

Special to The News-Post

Once I crossed the Moldovan border into Romania, I took an eight-hour train ride through the Carpathian mountains, surrounded by rustic countryside near the Ukrainian border, to the city of Cluj-Napoca — a city that has been designated the “Silicon Valley of Eastern Europe.”

But it was there that I met two filmmakers who suggested I visit a castle over an hour away in a rural and eerily beautiful part of Transylvania.

Initially, I lacked interest in visiting any castle because of Transylvania’s infamously overplayed Dracula tourism.

However, this particular castle wasn’t a tourist hotspot. I was allured by the thought of finding a quiet space to write amid centuries-old stone walls steeped in history. I figured it wouldn’t hurt me to spend the weekend at the castle to soak in some inspiration.

As we drove the twisting country roads, the route unfolded like scenes from a suspenseful horror movie. Fog permeated the mountain landscape, dotted with ghostly trees and tiny villages emerging through the haze.

They dropped me off before noon.

No one in sight. I walked in through the large, heavy door to an expansive, silent and cold room. The fireplace wasn’t lit. Long, empty tables filled the large hall, surrounded by lifelike suits of armor clutching various medieval weapons.

I walked up to a reception area, and a young man quickly arrived to guide me to my room on the third floor. I had the entire castle to myself.

Like any sensible man would, I ordered a bottle of their homemade red wine, tucked my laptop under my arm and headed over to the antique library.

If there were any part of the castle that could embrace both my intellectual curiosity and leisurely indulgences, it would certainly be found in the haunting ambience of the archaic library.

roaring fireplace and immediately handed ţuică, a famous Romanian liquor.

There was an entire group of people that had come to celebrate a special occasion together. And then there was me. I wasn’t sure why they chose to be so hospitable, but I seem to be a magnet for interesting people. The remainder of the evening was spent dancing, singing, eating amazing food cooked outside on an oversized grill and drinking red wine. There was a language barrier, but we managed to communicate. The warmth I felt from these complete strangers was palpable, their gestures of friendliness weaving an unexpectedly inviting atmosphere.

Sure, I’ve been told I’m lucky, but this was a completely different level of hospitality. People were inviting me to their homes the following week and making plans to spend more time with me in Romania before I left the country.

Before I retired for the night, I was told to show up at 8 a.m. for breakfast and that there would be a special event at 9 a.m. I was explicitly instructed to leave my phone behind, with no other details provided.

The next morning, I walked downstairs to find everyone in the large hall listening to music and drinking wine with breakfast. Did these people sleep? After a heavy meal, everyone left briefly and came back dressed in white cloaks. Some were holding swords. I was ushered into the next room, where candles were lit, toward the front of the room, where it looked like a panel of Trevor Davis judges sat behind an altar with a hefty book. I asked a heavy-set gentleman A Romanian castle. what was happening. He looked at me Well into the afternoon, my stomach I sat at the table farthest from the directly in my eyes and with a smile begged for some delicious Romanian group, attempting to maintain my said, “We are the Knights Templar.” food. I made my way to the large hall clandestine appearance. Within 60 Trevor Davis, former cidermaker and found music playing and a group seconds, three members of the group and working musician from Frederick, of people gathered around a now-lit approached me and invited me to join is a writer, content creator and cultural fireplace. They had managed to sneak in them for dinner, and I agreed. I was traveler. Follow his adventures at without making a sound. escorted to the couch in front of the roguevagabond.com.

COLORADO HISTORIC TRAINS GROUPS | LAND TOURS RIVER CRUISES | CRUISES

BARB CLINE TRAVEL 240-575-5966 barbclinetravel.com

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 11

FAMILY

Courtesy photo

Enchant Christmas is an immersive winter wonderland that is open through Dec. 31 inside Nationals Park.

An ‘Enchanting’ event at Nationals Park

BY GINA GALLUCCI-WHITE

about the way it is laid out so that everyone can have a really unique experience and there is something for Growing up, many of us were everyone. What is nice about Enchant is loaded into a car during the holiday you can do it at your own pace. You can season to go in search of incredible enjoy things as much as you like for as light displays and decorations. long as you like.”

Sometimes you would find some pretty The event offers arrival windows for spectacular displays, and other times, guests, in order to space out crowds, it seemed like endless driving for little but folks can stay for as long as they payoff. like. There are seven locations across There is a seasonal event in the the country this year with D.C. and St. nation’s capital where folks are Petersburg, Florida, being the only guaranteed to see a ton of holiday ones on the East Coast. This is the lights — 4 million, to be precise. fourth straight year the nation’s capital Enchant Christmas is an immersive, has hosted the seasonal event. illuminated winter wonderland that is “Every year, we bring a new story open through Dec. 31 inside Nationals and a new experience to Nationals Park.

Park,” Birch said. “It has been a “Enchant is really great for anyone of phenomenal venue for us. We’ve really any age,” said Jordan Birch, Enchant’s embraced the community.” general manager. “We hosts lots of Featuring lit statues, like a snowy multi-generational events where the owl and moose that stand up to 100 grandparents are there with their kids feet tall, this year’s light maze is called and their grandkids, and everyone can Reindeer Games. enjoy it together. It is very intensional Each statue is specifically created for Special to The News-Post

12 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

the event and tied to the story, which focuses on Santa’s reindeers trying to find their magical sleigh bells that were borrowed by forest creatures who wanted to fly the sleigh.

The event also features a village market where guests can get some names checked off their holiday lists by shopping local artisan vendors, speciality crafters and boutiques.

For those looking to keep warm during the festivities, grab a pair of skates and head to the ice skating trail, where you are transported into a forest of Christmas lights as you meander through the area.

Head to Santa’s Landing to meet everyone’s favorite gift giver in person and tell him what you are hoping for under the tree on Christmas morning.

The event also offers a Kids Zone for children up to age 7, featuring fun activities separate from the main events.

If you go with a large group of people, Enchant offers private party

spaces and suites. They also have speciality nights with different themes, such as Paws n’ Claus, where folks can bring their four-legged friends; College Night, where you can wear your alma mater for the chance for a prize; Military Night, where those in the armed forces are honored; and Holiday Ugly Sweater Night, where guests wear those beloved knitted monstrosities.

When getting ready for Enchant, Birch encourages folks to plan ahead.

Get tickets for the event and ice skating before you arrive, so you know your arrival window entry time and when you need to be at the rink. A map is sent after booking, so if there are certain statues you’d like to see, you can plan your route accordingly.

One mistake Birch sees participants make is not planning for the weather.

Enchant is an outdoor event, held rain or shine. Guests are encouraged to wear warm clothing as temperatures can dip below freezing.

After leaving Enchant, Birch hopes

‘A Christmas Carol’ adaptation will screen at Shepherdstown Opera House

Courtesy photo

Enchant Christmas is an immersive winter wonderland that is open through Dec. 31 inside Nationals Park. guests take away an unforgettable experience.

“What we are hoping to do is create memories for our guests and make traditions for people and for their families to come back year after year,” he said.

Gina Gallucci-White is a freelance

writer based in the Frederick area. Her bylines have appeared in a number of publications, including USA Today’s 10Best, the Maryland Daily Record and Northern Virginia Magazine. She worked for The Frederick News-Post from 2004 to 2010 as a police and fire and rescue reporter.

When Emmy-award winning videographer Mike Baker suggested that the Shepherdstown Opera House screen his original adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” the Opera House quickly agreed.

In 30-plus years on both sides of the camera, Baker’s productions have appeared on BRAVO Cable Network, NBC, Comcast Sport Network and public television. His “Christmas Carol,” which was filmed at the Little Theater of Alexandria during the pandemic, features Baker himself in the role of Scrooge.

Bring your family to enjoy the timeless story of how a greedy miser is transformed into a generous and kind person after

visits by the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future.

The screening is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22. Admission is pay-what-you-will, with ticket proceeds going to nonprofit Shepherdstown Shares’ services for those in need.

Before the film starts, there will be a brief live interview with Baker, who lives part-time in Shepherdstown.

Online ticketing will be available until two hours before showtime. Advanced reservations are encouraged. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Shepherdstown Opera House is at 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown, West Virginia.

See operahouselive.com for more information.

WINTER SHOWCASE & ARTIST MARKET WEEK SEVEN

DECEMBER 23RD, 11A-3P, 5 E 2ND ST

Featuring Work from Rose Heinhoff, Sheryl Southwick, Elleen Schippert, Joann Kandell, Heaather Ravenscroft, Patrick Todd, Michelle Venaable,, and Fran Byrne

Weekend pop p-up markets will house artists at the FAC Art Center to o sell their work on a rotating ba asis over the course of 7 weeks from November 10 - December 23 on Saturdays and Sundays.

info@frederickarttscou uncil.org www.frederickarttscouncil.org

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 13

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

Christmas decorations are shown in the home of Laurie Gavitt-Smith, known locally as the “Christmas Queen,” in Frederick on Dec. 5.

Queen of Christmas Laurie Gavitt-Smith shares the magic of the season with everyone she meets

BY LAUREN LAROCCA llarocca@newspost.com

An upside-down Christmas tree, decorated by Laurie Gavitt-Smith, at her home in Frederick. The tree is turned over to help fit within the room.

14 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Perhaps no one embodies the Christmas spirit quite like Laurie GavittSmith.

The holiday season has been magical for her since she was a small child, and spreading that awe, wonder and joy to others each year — well beyond her own children — has become a mission for her, a labor of love.

Friends and neighbors call her “The Christmas Queen” and her house “The Christmas House” — names rightfully deserved.

From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, Gavitt-Smith’s house in Frederick “goes on tour,” as she puts it — open for visitors who want to stop by and see it. Christmas decor fills every room, floor to ceiling, 33 trees total (five alone in the master bedroom), life-size Santas and a 6-foottall nutcracker, snow globes, a fully-set Christmas dinner table with a buffet of candies and cakes and other sweets (all made of glass and crafting materials), vignettes of evergreen trees, others of glass trees, shelves set up with handmade wooden villages, nativity scenes, snowmen, reindeer, and all of it aglow with twinkling lights. It’s an elaborate display that’s more akin to a museum than something you’d find inside a suburban home.

Laurie Gavitt-Smith, known locally as the “Queen of Christmas,” poses for a portrait within the “Christmas

Gavitt-Smith has been collecting Christmas items from around the world for decades, and most of them are vintage or antique and handmade. Some date back to the Victorian era.

Her “World War II” tree tells the story of that time period through its ornaments.

Changing styles of glass bulb ornaments move upward on the tree, from the beginning of the war to its end. When

various materials, such as the metal used for hanging them, suddenly became scarce and/or available, production lines altered the way they created ornaments accordingly throughout those years, GavittSmith explained. A history lesson in a Christmas tree.

Then there’s the Czech tree, decorated with hand-blown glass

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

store” at her home in Frederick on Dec. 5.

the country is known for.”

Behind every tree, every ornament and every display is a story.

And behind all of that is the story of, as Gavitt-Smith put it, “why I am like this.”

She traces it back to a specific Christmas Eve she remembers vividly.

She was just 7 years old and waiting excitedly for her dad to get home from his job at a department store some 90 minutes away. Instead, the phone rang, and it was him on the other line, asking took apart and repurposed. And on and for Gavitt-Smith’s mother. She handed off from a small town in the Czech on. the phone to her mom who, after a few Republic. Behind it, a handmade “When I go to Europe, I always try minutes, collapsed to the floor. The young nativity scene from France. In another to find out about how other countries Gavitt-Smith ran next door to get help room, a nativity from Italy that celebrate Christmas,” Gavitt-Smith said. from neighbors, who whisked her and her depicts the traditional shepherds “I just believe joy and hope is the one younger brother away, with her mother as peasants. There’s an Egyptian thing people have in common, and to me, just lying there. He’d called to tell their tree and another tree covered in Christmas represents joy and hope. I try mother he was having an affair, wanted a Swarovski crystal ornaments from divorce, and he wasn’t coming home for to find that common ground, and then I Austria and filled out with crystals buy something that reflects it, something Christmas. from old chandeliers Gavitt-Smith

“What happened, though, is our neighbors at the time gave us Christmas.

They took us to their house, took my mother shopping, and we woke up the next day with presents,” Gavitt-Smith said.

Her mother soon moved the family to a small apartment in Conyngham, Pennsylvania, where Gavitt-Smith shared a room with her brother until college.

The children were essentially raised by the community, Gavitt-Smith said, while their mother worked full-time as a private duty nurse. Her grandparents were local, and Gavitt-Smith was very close to her grandmother.

“We grew up in poverty,” she said. “My mom would take one packet of oatmeal and cut it three ways, and that was our breakfast. Or one can of soup, cut three ways.”

(See CHRISTMAS 16) 72 HOURS

| Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 |

15

CHRISTMAS (Continued from 15)

From top, vintage figurines, decorations and ornaments and garland with Swarovski crystals.

16 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

But Christmas was always a magical time of the year. Gavitt-Smith would be treated to things like chocolate (her favorite) and new school clothes through Lions Club food baskets and other donations, and her family always had a kitchen full of food that had been given to them.

“No matter what my family went through, nobody ever made Christmas bad because of it. My mom didn’t dwell on it.”

Meanwhile, her best friend growing up hosted Christmas Eve parties at her family’s house each year, so GavittSmith’s family would walk to church on Christmas Eve, then go to the Huff house for a party — “my favorite thing in the world to do,” GavittSmith said.

VISIT The tradition If you’d like a tour of inspired the house during the Gavitt-Smith Christmas season, want to to host host a small gathering (20 her own people or less) to benefit Christmas Eve a local charity, or if interparties with ested in purchasing comher husband, ponents of the collection, Alistair Smith. email Laurie Gavitt-Smith “We’ve been doing at gavittsmith@comcast. it for 20net. Donations for the some years Frederick City Food Bank for neighbors or a local charity of choice and friends,” are welcome. Please note, GavittGavitt-Smith starts putting Smith said. away the decorations for “Sometimes the year on Jan. 2. we have 70 people; sometimes we have 200 — we don’t care. If friends have relatives here who are celebrating with them, they come.”

“Even the older kids who have grown up will come back every year for the Christmas Eve party,” Smith added.

“You go from getting juice boxes to beer and wine.”

They also host open houses and collect donations (nonperishable food, hygiene products, monetary donations) for the city of Frederick’s food bank. One year, they also collected donations for SHIP of Frederick County, which they might continue in the future. Gavitt-Smith has also hosted several work parties at her home and asked for food bank donations in lieu of hostess gifts.

“I just try to give it back,” GavittSmith said. “I could’ve spent all that money on therapy. Instead, this is my therapy, curated over the years, giving joy to others during the season.”

Gavitt-Smith’s season officially starts

Laurie Gavitt-Smith’s dining room display. on Oct. 1, when she and her husband begin unpacking about 100 boxes and bins, which are neatly arranged and organized by room in their basement.

Then Gavitt-Smith starts decorating each floor of the house, room by room, including the basement. With an impeccable eye and a background in marketing, Gavitt-Smith is very intentional about each item, even the placement of each ornament on a tree.

“It gives her so much joy to do this,” Smith said. “I’m just the maintenance guy and do the heavy lifting.”

Upstairs, meanwhile, is the “pretend Christmas store,” as GavittSmith calls it. She’s always had the dream of opening a brick-and-mortar

A Christmas tree decorated by Laurie GavittSmith, dedicated to her grandmother.

A tree decorated with White House ornaments.

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

Christmas shop, but for the time being, she creates one in a spare bedroom.

Vintage items with original price tags line shelves. A huge glass case is filled with hundreds of vintage glass figurines — Santas, angels, little drummer boys.

Scrapbooks are filled with Christmas cards, postcards, trading cards and other paper ephemera that date back to the 1800s. She has a box of string lights from 1927, bubble lights from the 1940s and ’50s, and mid-century Christmas advertisements and posters.

Vintage “knee-hugger” elves sit on shelves, predating the now-famous Elf on the Shelf.

“This is my chill room,” Gavitt-Smith said. She recounted a time when a

neighborhood teen was stressed out about school and life and asked if she could sit in the “Christmas store” to write a paper for school.

“It just has this calming effect on people,” Gavitt-Smith said.

Neighborhood kids also come to the house each morning to open a door on Gavitt-Smith’s Advent calendar. And up until the pandemic, she and her husband hosted yearly cookie bakeoffs — making sugar, gingerbread and peanut butter cookies and chocolate snowflakes with family and neighbors.

The house’s exterior gives some indication of what’s inside. A “Letters to Santa” drop-off box sits at the end of the driveway, and a huge inflatable

Santa stands in the woods behind their house. But these little hints pale in comparison to the jaw-dropping, whimsical wonderland inside.

“People who come here are always saying, ‘Oh, I remember that from when I was little!’ And to see the look of joy on their faces — it fuels me forever,” Gavitt-Smith said. “My friends who are Jewish and Muslim love it just as much or more than my Christian friends, because it’s that common ground — that love and hope and joy that it evokes.”

Lauren LaRocca is the editor of 72 Hours. You can reach her at llarocca@ newspost.com, or follow her on Instagram @karmarocca.

Gavitt-Smith holds a vintage Christmas card catalogue in her “Christmas store”room.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 17

Steven Dobbin solo exhibition — through Dec. 22, Allegany Arts Council’s Saville Gallery, 9 N. Centre St., Cumberland. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

301-777-2787.

“Ninety Degrees” — through Dec. 31 at Gaslight Gallery, 118 E. Church St., Frederick. Work by painter by Isabel Manalo. Hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

“BUBBLES: Awareness is the First Step” — through Dec. 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Artist Cynthia Scott-Johnson’s watercolor and mixed-media paintings in this series looks at how belief, memory, imagination and visual sensory input effect levels of perception. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

“Chasing Flies: The Satirical Art of Christopher Madden” — through Dec. 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. In the tradition of artists like Goya and Daumier with a bit of Mad magazine thrown in, Madden uses satire in his oil paintings to evoke and create dialogue about contemporary cultural constructs. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

“The Weathered Inch” — through Dec. 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Michael Douglas Jones’ mixed-media assemblage work utilizes books, writing accoutrement, photography and other ephemera as metaphors for the stories we carry — through the books we’ve read, experiences we’ve had and the lessons we’ve learned. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org. ”Of the Angels” — through Dec. 31, Riverworks Gallery at Locals Farm Market, 19929 Fisher Ave., Poolesville.

Featuring 17 oil paintings paired with excerpts from Sheryl Massaro’s translations of the poetry of Rainer Maria Rilke, “Of the Angels” explores vivid imagery and subtle emotions that help us recognize and affirm our universal experience. 301-922-8507 or riverworksart.org.

“Impression to Abstract” — through Dec. 31 at Blanche Ames Gallery, 4880 Elmer Derr Road, Frederick. More than 35 new paintings by Barbara Kenny are featured in this solo show. 301-4737689, frederickuu.org.

“Patterns of Life” — through Dec. 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. 18 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Courtesy photo

Shown here, “Into the Fog,” by Valerie Dyer, a piece in Frederick Camera Clique’s Members Exhibition, on view through Dec. 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center in Frederick.

Carroll St., Frederick. This exhibition features mixed media work by Ellen Hill that celebrates the constancy found in natural cycles and the ties that bind us to each other. The richly textured artworks are assembled from panels and fragment of carved, painted and inked wood. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

Frederick Camera Clique: Members Exhibition — through Dec. 31 at the Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. For more than 30 years, the Frederick Camera Clique has dedicated itself to improving the skills of its members, who range from beginners to semi-professionals. Vote for your favorite photo during the exhibition.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine. org.

Frederick County Art Association — through Jan. 5, Frederick Health Crestwood Medical Building, 7211

Bank Court, Frederick. Original artwork including oil, acrylic, photography, mixed media and wood carvings by Frederick artists. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 240-2151460, frederickhealth.org/crestwoodart. ”Deck the Walls — A Small Works Show” — through Jan. 28, Gallery 322, 322 N. Market St., Frederick. Small paintings, sculpture and assemblages for gifting. Art can be taken home on the day purchased. Fridays 4 to 7 p.m., noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays or by appointment. 240-815-7777 or gallery322.com.

“Reflections on the Human Condition” — through Feb. 1 at FAC’s Al and Helen Hurwitz Gallery, 1 N. Market St., Frederick. Mixed-media sculpture “Lamentation” and other works by Esperanza Alzona. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with extended hours on First Saturdays to 7 p.m. and during First Sunday Art Walks from 1 to 4 p.m. 301-662-4190, frederickartscouncil.org. ”Dreamscapes Unveiled” — through

February, FAC Hurwitz Gallery, 1 N. Market St., Frederick. Artworks by FAC studio artists explore the multifaceted aspects of the dreamworld, inviting viewers to contemplate the mysterious and enigmatic landscapes of the mind.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. First Saturdays of each month. 301-662-4190 or frederickartscouncil.org. ”Picasso on Paper: The Artist as Printmaker 1923-72” — through March 3, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown.

This is the first exhibition at the museum in over 50 years of the work of Pablo Picasso (1881-1973), one of the most influential masters of the 20th century.

Often considered the most innovative printmaker since Rembrandt, Picasso ultimately created more than 2,400 prints over his long career. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

301-739-5727 or wcmfa.org.

#THROWBACKTHURSDAY

SPON SORE D C ON TE N T

‘Moonlighting’ introduced the world to Bruce Willis, dramedy WAREHOUSE and the true art of witty banter CINEMAS

Most importantly, it missed everyWhen veteran actress Cybill Shepthing that made it “Moonlighting.” herd and an unknown Bruce Willis hit the TV screen in 1985 with “Moonlight- Where was Al Jarreau singing the theme song at the beginning? (I did ing,” it was television gold. find that it was played at the end, but I And now, 34 years after its last epwas asleep by then.) It also wasn’t that isode in 1989, “Moonlighting” has rewell acted, especially by Willis. It was turned to TV, thanks to the wonders of like I was watching a bad school play, streaming on Hulu. and I should know — I’ve been in bad The show follows the lives of a forschool plays. Their chemismer model Maddie Hayes try was off, and their deliver(Shepherd), who wakes up ies were awkward, as if their one morning to find her staff timing was almost like a beat gone and her bank accounts behind. I kept asking, “What empty. The only asset she has is this show? This is not the left is Blue Moon Detective ‘Moonlighting’ I rememAgency, which she needs to bered!” The show would unload for cash, and it’s run by have never made it past the David Addison (Willis). pilot in today’s market.

After she fires the agency’s The good news is that staff, David is determined to it wasn’t long before Willis keep the business going, and eventually the two form an un- CRYSTAL SCHELLE got his legs under him, and Shepherd showed that she relikely private eye duo. Joining ally had a knack for comedy, too. The the crew are Blue Moon secretary Agdialogue got snappier, the banter witnes DiPesto (Allyce Beasley) and Blue tier, and the storylines became quicker Moon temp — who later turned into a and quirkier. regular staffer — Herbert Viola (Curtis One of my favorite episodes was Armstrong).

There were already plenty of detec- season 3’s “Atomic Shakespeare,” which tive or private eye duos on TV by then, was their version of Shakespeare’s “Taming of the Shrew.” In that episode, such as “Hart to Hart,” which ended its David’s usual line of “Do bears bear? five-season run in 1984, and “RemingDo bees bee? Hell, yes!” was turned ton Steele,” which ran from 1982 to into “Do bears bear-th? Do bees bee’87, but there was something different th? Hell-th yes!” about “Moonlighting.” On a side note: “The Dream Sequence Always Rings Glenn Gordon Caron, one of the proTwice” in season 2 was ranked No. 34 ducers of “Remington Steele,” created “Moonlighting.” In season three, Pierce in 1997’s “TV Guide’s 100 Greatest Episodes of All Time.” Maddie and DaBrosnan, aka Remington, made an apvid have a dream sequence filmed in pearance. black-and-white in the 1940s to solve ABC aired 67 episodes of “Moona murder. It was a perfect way to bring lighting” during its run. The show was known for its witty and fast-based ban- film noir to the Blue Moon Detective ter, the use of breaking the fourth wall, Agency.

“A Womb with a View,” the first epithe sexual tension between top stars, and its stellar writing. And because the sode of its final season, is arguably one writers liked a combination of storylines of its best episodes, as well as its most controversial. By this time, the will-they/ that included comedy and drama, the term “dramedy” was arguably used for won’t-they question between Maddie and David is answered (spoiler: they the first time when discussing “Moondid). Maddie is pregnant and the child lighting.” in utero isn’t happy about the fighting The full run of “Moonlighting” is included on Hulu, but I suggest just skip- between them. The weirdest aspect is that all of a sudden, Maddie sleeps with ping the pilot. I forgot that the pilot another man, played by Mark Harmon, clocked in at two hours and slept my and marries a third man, all while carway through the tail end of it. It was rying David’s child. This is one of the boring, the timing between Shepherd darkest and saddest episodes in its run. and Willis was off, and there was an I have to admit, I developed a little entire subplot that didn’t make much celebrity crush on Willis. I mean, who sense.

didn’t? I was also a proud owner of his 1987 album “Return of Bruno” on cassette until it broke. It was all because of the smooth delivery of Willis on “Moonlighting.”

The real-life fighting between Shepherd and Willis behind the scenes wasn’t helpful to the show’s run. Neither was the 1988 writers’ strike. The 1988 Writers Guild of America strike canceled the filming of the “Moonlighting” season finale. The first new episode of season 5 didn’t even air until Dec. 6, 1988.

In 1986, the show won a Golden Globe for Best Television Series — Musical or Comedy, the same year Shepherd would earn a Golden Globe for Best Actress — Television Series Musical or Comedy. The next year, Shepherd and Willis both walked away with individual Golden Globes.

It’s amazing that the show lasted that long, because, by the last season, Willis had become a bonafide action star with the July 1988 release of “Die Hard.” For Shepherd, it showed that she could act in drama and comedy, and it was the start to her long, respectable TV career. She later earned another Globe in 1995 for her sitcom, “Cybill.”

This year, Willis’ family announced that he was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. It has taken away his ability to not only remember lines but recite them. I am happy that Hulu was willing to stream the entire series, so we get to see him starting off with his slanted smile and twinkling-eyed deliveries.

Shepherd has claimed they buried the ax a while ago, and she has shared stories about their “Moonlighting” days.

She even appeared to roast him for his 2018’s “The Roast of Bruce Willis.”

Although “Moonlighting” is slightly stuck in the ‘80s with its sexist and sexual overtones, it is meant to be watched as a product of its time. It helped to change how shows were written, directed, filmed and even acted. Is “Moonlighting” worth a binge watch? In the words of David Addison, “Do bears bear? Do bees bee? Hell, yes!”

Crystal Schelle is a journalist whose work has been published locally, regionally and nationally. She enjoys trivia, cats and streaming movies.

NEWS AND EVENTS: $7 TUESDAYS

Any movie, including Dolby Atmos. All day. Anytime.

MAGIC MOVIE EVENT: THE POLAR EXPRESS Sunday, December 24 at 9:00am

All aboard the Polar Express!

Get your golden ticket for only $1 to take a magical movie adventure to the North Pole.

We have limited tickets available for the morning of Christmas Eve only. Get yours now!

TRIVIA NIGHT WITH BP TRIVIA Monday, January 4th, 2024 at 7:00pm UPCOMING FILMS THIS WEEKEND:

“Poor Things”, “Migration”, and “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom”

Warehouse Cinemas is an independently owned cinema that offers a unique, premium movie going experience by providing first-run movies + retro films, leather recliner seating w/ seat warmers, high-quality picture and sound, including Dolby Atmos, a modernindustrial décor, and premium food and drink options, including movie themed cocktails, wine and a 28-tap self-serve beer wall. Visit us at warehouscinemas.com or scan the QR Code for this week’s feature films.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 19

Local Mentions

Local Mentions

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN ORCHARD Apples: Gala, Empire, Fuji, Gold Rush, Evercrisp, Crimson Crisp, Staymen, Pink Lady & Golden Delicious.

Bosc & Seckel Pears.

Kale, Turnips, White & Sweet Potatoes.

Fresh Apple Cider, Fresh Baked Fruit Pies, Apple Cider Donuts, Jams & Jellies.

Christmas Wreaths 301-271-2737 Open Daily 9am-5pm 15036 North Franklinville Rd. Thurmont MD www.catoctinmountain orchard.com

CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE

Dec. 24th at 7pm St. John’s Lutheran Church Creagerstown in the Union Church Building with light refreshments following the service in the Parish Hall 8619 Blacks Mill Rd. Creagerstown, MD

COUNTRY BUTCHERING Burkittsville Ruritan Club 500 E Main St, Burkittsville MD Fresh Pork on Sale.

Fri. Jan. 12 (8am-5pm) Sat. Jan. 13 (8am-12pm) Pre-order by Jan. 6 Call 301-371-7795

COUNTRY BREAKFAST Sat, January 13 (6-10am) Adults $10; Children -$5

NEW YEAR’S EVE BINGO & BUFFET

December 31, 2023 New Midway Vol. Fire Co. Doors Open: 5:00 Games Start: 7:30 Admission: $50.00 by 12/16/2023, After 12/16/2023 $60.00 includes 30 Reg. Games $100 Minimum - $1000 Jackpot Free Party Favors Extra Cards Available Only 250 Tickets Sold ATM Available For Info Call 301-898-7985 or 301-271-4650

20 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Local Mentions

NEW YEAR'S EVE BINGO 12-31-2023

Thurmont Event Complex Over $15,000.00 of Cash Payouts $50.00 Per Ticket Available Friday Night Bingo, www.eventbrite.com Ticket Includes: 9 Pack of 27 Games ($300.00ea.), 3 Games ($1,000ea.), 3 50/50 Games & 2 Jackpots at $1,250 & 1 Jackpot ($1,500), (1 sheet of 3 for each 50/50’s & 3 Jackpots) Doors Open @ 5:00 p.m., Bingo Starts @ 8:00 p.m.

Meal Served: 6-8 p.m.

Meal: Roast Beet, Fried Shrimp, Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy, Green Beans and Applesauce TIP JARS Cash Bar - Kitchen Open During Break No Reserved Seating - First Come, First Served Basis Only No Exceptions! **We reserve the right to lower payouts if less than 300 tickets sold** Tickets: 301-748-5359 or 301-271-3820 Benefits The Thurmont Community Ambulance Company 13716 Strafford Drive Thurmont, MD 21788

SOUP SALE CHICKEN CORN SOUP AND VEGETABLE BEEF SOUP Quart $9.00 each Stock up your freezer Cash or check only Orders due by Sunday, January 7, 2024 Call Karen at 410-775-7627 Soup pick-up on Monday, January 15 from 2-5pm JUMC Parish Hall 11106 Green Valley Road (RT.75), Union Bridge MD 21791

VIGILANT HOSE COMPANY NEW YEAR'S EVE BINGO

17701 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg, MD Sunday, 12/31/Doors Open @ 5pm/Games @ 8pm All Inclusive 9 pk/$50 for 50 games incl.

4 $1000 Jackpots All other games $200/Incl. Dinner Platter!

Reserved seating if tickets purchased by 12/15.

Tickets purchased after 12/15 will be $60.

No checks mailed after 11/24. For info: Pam @ 240-472-3484 or @ Marylou @ 240-285-3184 Reserve right to change payouts if 200 are not sold.

Services !!FATHER AND SONS!!!

HANDYMAN HANDYMAN

INTER. PAINTING

Home Repair & Improvements 301-694-9630 LIC #74117 Serving Frederick for 34 Years!

LANDSCAPING

TOWN HALL New Market (Frederick East) December 19, 7:00pm The Grange 14 South Alley New Market, MD 21774 Brunswick (Frederick West) December 20, 7:00pm City Park Building 655 East Potomac St. Brunswick, MD 21716

Leave the hard work to us!

Spring Cleaning, Mulching, Mowing Hardscaping Call J & R Cornerstone at 301-473-0449 Expecting calls any time!

FREE ESTIMATE

POOL WATER

We fill any size pool Call Nolan Hubble 240-315-1762

BOB'S LIGHT HAULING

Myersville January 2, 2024, 7:00pm Town of Myersville 301 Main Street Myersville, MD 21773

Fall Yard Clean-Up, Light-Hauling from Attic, Garage, Bsmt, Senior Citizen Help, GutterCleaning. Reasonable Rates. Short Notice.

Fred. & Mont. Co. 301-606-6316.

All events hosted by: Legislative District 4 Representatives Senator William G. Folden Delegate Barrie Ciliberti Delegate April Miller Delegate Jesse Pippy

BUSSARD BROTHERS Dbl, Trpl & Dyed Mulch, Screened Top Soil, Leaf Compost, Wood Chips, Sand, Stone. Will deliver.

301-865-3925

“How much will new replacement windows & doors cost me?”

Renewal by Andersen has a phone line dedicated to that question.

Call our 48 Hour Price Quote line at 240-575-6099, and we’ll provide a quote within 48 hours of your call. Most other companies take weeks to produce their estimate. Within 48 hours, a Renewal by Andersen Project Manager will precisely measure your home’s windows and doors, help you choose your window styles, colors, grilles and hardware, and then we’ll provide a down-to-the-penny price quote that will be good for one full year. No hidden charges and no more wondering, “How much will new windows and doors cost?”

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1 DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 12/31/2023. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Buy one (1) window or entry/patio door, get one (1) window or entry/patio door 40% off, and 12 months $0 down, 0 monthly payments, 0 interest when you purchase four (4) or more windows or entry/patio doors between 11/28/2023 and 12/31/2023. 40% off windows and entry/patio doors are less than or equal to lowest cost window or entry/patio door in the order. Additional $200 off your purchase, minimum purchase of four (4) required, taken after initial discount(s), when you purchase by 12/31/2023. Military discount applies to all active duty, veterans and retired military personnel.

Military discount equals $300 off your entire purchase and applies after all other discounts, no minimum purchase required. Subject to credit approval. Interest is billed during the promotional period, but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid before the expiration of the promotional period. Financing for GreenSky® consumer loan programs is provided by federally insured, federal and state chartered financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. Savings comparison based on purchase of a single unit at list price. Available at participating locations and offer applies throughout the service area. See your local Renewal by Andersen location for details. MHIC #121441. VA License #2705155684. DC License #420215000125. Some Renewal by Andersen locations are independently owned and operated. “ENERGY STAR” is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2See limited warranty for details. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of their respective owners. ©2023 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. ©2023 Lead Surge LLC. All rights reserved.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 21

Thursday Dec. 21

a night of fun, low-stakes Super Smash Bros. battling.

301-600-7250.

Crochet Your Heart Out — noon to 1:30 p.m. at Carroll County Public Library, Mount Airy Branch, 705 Ridge Ave., Mount Airy. For adults. Join us for a weekly roundtable of crochet, conversation and fun. Feel free to bring a snack or lunch. All experience levels are welcome.

410-386-4470. ask@carr.org. ccpl.librarymarket.com/event/ crochet-your-heart-out-179263.

FILM

CLASSES

ETCETERA Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration , 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and make new, like-minded friends. All are welcome, no membership requirements. $7. 301-254-4727. sharonwcox@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Allview Holiday Lights Contest for Food Banks — 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Allview Holiday Lights Contest for Food Banks, Allview Drive, Frederick. Residents of Allview Drive in Mount Pleasant are asking visitors to pick their favorite Christmas light display during selected dates in December. Voters can place a “vote” with one or more canned or non-perishable food items in one of 23 stockings attached to the mailboxes of participating houses – by selecting the stocking (or stockings) of their favorite lighted display on the street. All collected nonperishable food donations, depending on quantities received, will be distributed to the Libertytown Food Pantry, Frederick County Food Bank, and Glade Valley Food Bank.

This event is held 6-10 p.m. on Dec. 1, 16 and 20 to 23.

240-506-5759. eric.anderson@frederickhabitat.org.

FAMILY Holiday Sing-along — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Carroll County Public Library, Finksburg Branch, 2265 Old Westminster Pike, Finksburg. For all ages. Join us for a holiday sing-a-long, where we’ll read stories, sing and dance.

410-386-4505. ask@carr.org. ccpl.librarymarket.com/event/ holiday-sing-long-170115.

Totally Teen Time: Super Smash Bros — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick.

It’s game time! Come to the library for

“White Christmas” and Holiday Social — 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at The Capitol Theatre, 159 S. Main St., Chambersburg, Pa. Second show at 6:30 p.m. Running time: 2 hours, Rated G. Patrons are welcome to stay after the 3 p.m. showing or come before the 6:30 showing for a visit from Santa, social mingling and festive holiday treats! Adult beverages, non-alcoholic drinks and concessions will be available for purchase. $5. 717-263-0202. vperry@thecapitoltheatre.org. thecapitoltheatre.org/ shows-movies-events/live-shows-2023.

MUSIC Winter Solstice Organ and Piano Recital — noon to 1 p.m. at Calvary Unted Methodist Church, 131 W. Second St., Frederick. Dr. Adela Peeva, director of music, will perform an organ and piano recital of sacred music celebrating the longest day of the year. Open to all.

301-662-1464. office@calvaryumc.org. calvaryumc.org.

Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thursday night for live jazz and your favorite craft cocktails. 21 and older.

301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com/events.

THEATER “Inebriated Holiday” — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Laugh your way through the holidays in this original show from the team who brought you “Inebriated History.” Some of your favorite holiday stories are told on screen by actors imbibing in holiday cheer, while a team of actors acts out the antics live on stage. 18 and older. $6.50-$37.50. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org.

Friday Dec. 22 ETCETERA

Make-It Market — Workshops and Shopping — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Give Rise

22 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Studio, 125 S. Carroll St., 101, Frederick. A fun and unique event hosted by a handful of local makers to inspire you to make some handmade gifts this holiday season — with their guidance. Each maker will have their own handmade gifts for sale while doing drop in/ticketed mini workshops. up to $20. giverisestudio@gmail.com. giverisestudio.com.

Allview Holiday Lights Contest for Food Banks — 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Allview Holiday Lights Contest for Food Banks, Allview Drive, Frederick. Residents of Allview Drive in Mount Pleasant are asking visitors to pick their favorite Christmas light display during selected dates in December. Voters can place a “vote” with one or more canned or non-perishable food items in one of 23 stockings attached to the mailboxes of participating houses – by selecting the stocking (or stockings) of their favorite lighted display on the street. All collected nonperishable food donations, depending on quantities received, will be distributed to the Libertytown Food Pantry, Frederick County Food Bank, and Glade Valley Food Bank.

This event is held 6-10 p.m. on Dec. 1, 16 and 20 to 23.

240-506-5759. eric.anderson@frederickhabitat.org. facebook.com/AllviewHoliday LightsforFoodBanks.

FAMILY

Christmas at the Roundhouse Featuring the Trains of Christmas — noon to 4 p.m. at Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum, 296 S. Burhans Blvd., Hagerstown. See the trains of Christmas on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Feb. 25. New and revised this year is an N-scale train layout.

Three-rail layout on the second floor where kids can conduct and control and trains in O-, N- and HO-scale. Special train displays include the Midwood Junction layout, Polar Express, and HO layout that features Western Maryland, including a replica of the original Western Maryland Hagerstown Roundhouse. $6 for adults, $1 for ages 4 to 15, free for ages 3 and younger.

301-739-4665. roundhouse.org.

FILM

“A Christmas Carol”by Michael J. Baker Jr. — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 W. German St., Shepherdstown , W.Va. Bring your family to enjoy the timeless story of how a greedy miser is transformed into a

generous and kind person after visits by the ghosts of Christmas past, present & future. Admission is Pay-What-You-Will.

Ticket proceeds go to support Shepherdstown Shares’ services for those in need.

Before the film starts, there will be a brief live interview with the filmmaker. Snacks available for purchase.

304-876-3704. contact@OperaHouseLive.com. shepherdstownoperahouse.thundertix. com/events/221878.

GALLERY Holiday Gift Mart — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. The gallery is filled with original artwork, forged steel sculpture, fused glass, photography, book art and jewelry, as well as original notecards, gifts and ornaments. eastsidearts313@gmail.com. eastsideartistsgallery.com.

MUSIC Irish Christmas in America — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. This family-friendly performance features lively instrumental tunes on fiddle, flute, uilleann pipes and harp, along with thrilling Irish old-style dancing.

In addition, evocative photographic images provide a backdrop to some of the rich historical traditions of Ireland. Take a memorable glimpse into the enchanting spirit of Christmas, as the finest traditional artists from Ireland, bring you on a funfilled start to the holiday season of 2023. $30 to $35.

301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org.

Live Music at the Cocktail Lab — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Every Friday in the Cocktail Lab we’ll be servin’ up our deliciously wild concoctions and some sweet tunes to get your weekend started off right! 21 and older.

301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com/events.

THEATER World Ballet Series: “Nutcracker” — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Step into the magical world of “The Nutcracker,” a mesmerizing edition of the World Ballet Series, that showcases a diverse cast of 50 professional ballet dancers, who come together to breathe new life into this classic holiday tradition. Join Clara and the

Nutcracker on a thrilling Christmas night adventure to the Land of Sweets, and experience the excitement of the World Ballet in this family-friendly performance, featuring Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music, over 150 radiant hand-crafted costumes, lavish hand-painted sets, and the iconic Lev Ivanov choreography. $50 to $85.

301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org.

“Jingle Jingle All the Way” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. Way Off Broadway’s new all-ages Christmas production blends songs from Christmases past and present.

Free. 301-662-6600.

WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

World Ballet Series: “Nutcracker” — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Step into the magical world of “The Nutcracker,” a mesmerizing edition of the World Ballet Series, that showcases a diverse cast of 50 professional ballet dancers, who come together to breathe new life into this classic holiday tradition. Join Clara and the Nutcracker on a thrilling Christmas night adventure to the Land of Sweets, and experience the excitement of the World Ballet in this family-friendly performance, featuring Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music, over 150 radiant hand-crafted costumes, lavish hand-painted sets, and the iconic Lev Ivanov choreography. $50 to $85. 301-6002828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org.

“Inebriated Holiday” — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Laugh your way through the holidays in this original show from the team who brought you “Inebriated History.”

Some of your favorite holiday stories are told on screen by actors imbibing in holiday cheer, while a team of actors acts out the antics live on stage. 18 and older. $6.50-$37.50. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/ inebriated-holiday.

Saturday Dec. 23

cocktail specials and the infamous Festivus pole.

301-233-4817. francie@tenthwarddistilling.com.

Christmas Eve Services — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Damascus Road Community Church, 12826 Old National Pike, Mount Airy. Dec. 23 — special children’s program runs concurrently with world champion Juggler for Jesus David Kain for age 4 through grade 5. Ages up to 3 years will be classrooms. Dec. 24 — Care for children 3 and under only at 1 and 3 p.m.

The Damascus Road band will provide contemporary Christmas worship music as well as favorite Christmas classics. Tickets to save your seat launch Dec. 13.

301-829-3722. damascus@damascus. com.

Christmas Eve Services — 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Damascus Road Community Church, 12826 Old National Pike, Mount Airy. Dec. 23 — special children’s program runs concurrently with world champion Juggler for Jesus David Kain for age 4 through grade 5. Ages up to 3 years will be classrooms. Dec. 24 — Care for children 3 and under only at 1 and 3 p.m.

With the hurry and the distractions of everyday life, we welcome a pause - an interruption - to point us to the One who is Life itself. Prepare to be interrupted this Christmas season as we revisit the story of how one baby turned the world upside down with the Damascus Road band leading worship and the life-changing message, “Interrupted: Joy Broke In! The Damascus Road band will provide contemporary Christmas worship music as well as favorite Christmas classics. Tickets to save your seat launch Dec. 13.

301-829-3722. damascus@damascus. com.

Allview Holiday Lights Contest for Food Banks — 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Allview Holiday Lights Contest for Food Banks, Allview Drive, Frederick. Residents of Allview Drive in Mount Pleasant are asking visitors to pick their favorite Christmas light display during selected dates in December. Voters can place a “vote” with one or more canned or non-perishable food items in one of 23 stockings attached to the mailboxes of participating houses. 240-506-5759. eric.anderson@frederickhabitat.org.

Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant and Brewery, 124 N. Market St., Christmas Shopping with Alpacas — 10 Frederick. Journey through Frederick’s a.m. to 5 p.m. at Shepherd’s Purse Alpaca, 7971 Bennett Branch Road, Mount Airy. The gruesome and bloody past. Nearly 300 years of war, executions and revenge. barn as well as the It’s Alpaca! boutique True documented stories of the parawill be open, and shoppers will have the opportunity to meet the alpacas and shop normal with Maryland’s oldest operating Ghost Tour. Uncover political savvy and in a low-key environment. The boutique offers a variety of alpaca products, includ- defiant citizens, patriots from the Revolutionary War, beckoning soldiers from the ing sweaters, hats, gloves, yarn, stuffed Civil War. Reservations recommended. animals, and other toys and accessories. $16. 301-668-8922.

301-452-1874. info@marylandghosttours.com. info@shepherdspursealpacas.com. marylandghosttours.com. shepherdspursealpacas.com/ whatsnew.htm.

ETCETERA

Festivus — noon to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Come out for Tenth Ward’s favorite holiday, air your grievances and test your feats of strength. Enjoy Seinfeld-inspired

FAMILY

Free Photos with Santa — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Frederick Fit Body Boot Camp, 5634 Buckeystown Pike , Frederick . Just bring your own phone and get a few

great shots with Santa with a nice backdrop, some festive treats and a gift from us to you.

240-397-1312. tommy@frederickfbbc.com.

the Vince Guaraldi masterpiece score. $15 to $30. 3016002828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org.

Christmas at the Roundhouse Featuring the Trains of Christmas — noon to 4 p.m. at Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum, 296 S. Burhans Blvd., Hagerstown. See the trains of Christmas on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Feb. 25. New and revised this year is an N-scale train layout.

Three-rail layout on the second floor where kids can conduct and control and trains in O-, N- and HO-scale. Special train displays include the Midwood Junction layout, Polar Express, and HO layout that features Western Maryland, including a replica of the original Western Maryland Hagerstown Roundhouse. $6 for adults, $1 for ages 4 to 15, free for ages 3 and younger. 301-739-4665. roundhouse.org.

GALLERY Holiday Gift Mart — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. The gallery is filled with original artwork, forged steel sculpture, fused glass, photography, book art and jewelry, as well as original notecards, gifts and ornaments. eastsidearts313@gmail.com. eastsideartistsgallery.com.

MUSIC Grateful Dead tribute: Dead for One Night — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Steinhardt Brewing , 340 E. Patrick St., Frederick .

What started out as a single performance of Grateful Dead tribute has turned into a full year of walkin’ up Shakedown Street. This events lineup includes Andrew Roulette, Cyrus TJ, Max Vendetti, Dan Kehoe, Adrienne Smith and Tyler Golsen.

Eric Byrd Trio: “A Charlie Brown Christmas” — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. For years now, Washington-native Eric Byrd has been performing the iconic soundtrack from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” with his trio at venues across D.C., Maryland and Virginia. The show begins with a screening of the Peanuts holiday classic followed by a live performance of

THEATER “Santa Claus - The Musical” — 11:30 a.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. It’s Christmas Eve! After 1,000 years of faithful service, Santa and Mrs. Claus announce their decision to hang up the big red suit and train a replacement. Enter Nick: a website designer and single dad to tech-savvy daughter, Bee. With pressures mounting — and a jealous, naughty elf thwarting their every move — will everyone in Santa’s Workshop come together in time for Nick to take the reins? Doors open for lunch at 11:30 a.m. Show begins at 12:30 p.m. A special evening performance has been added on Dec. 20 with the doors opening at 6 p.m. and the show beginning at 7 p.m. $24. 301-662-6600.

WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

ESP Theatre Company Presents “Bah Humbug” — 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Michael Harris & Friends bring the fully improvised version of “A Christmas Carol” to Frederick! Yes, you get to “choose your own Scrooge” as four brilliant improvisers turn your suggestions into a never seen before, never to be seen again reboot of the Dickens’ classic. Hilarious, unpredictable, and full of audience participation, “Bah Humbug” is everything you never knew was in the story of Scrooge. If you love “A Christmas Carol,” if you hate “A Christmas Carol,” then “Bah Humbug” is for you. $10 to $20. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ bah-humbug-2023.

“Jingle Jingle All the Way” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. Way Off Broadway’s new all-ages Christmas production blends songs from Christmases past and present.

Free. 301-662-6600.

WOB@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

Trail Mansion Open House

Dec. 26, 2023 4:00 - 8:00 PM

Tour Mansion for Free

106 East Church St. Frederick, MD 21701 72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 23

ESP Theatre Company Presents “Bah Humbug” — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Michael Harris & Friends bring the fully improvised version of “A Christmas Carol” to Frederick! Yes, you get to “choose your own Scrooge” as four brilliant improvisers turn your suggestions into a never seen before, never to be seen again reboot of the Dickens’ classic. Hilarious, unpredictable, and full of audience participation, “Bah Humbug” is everything you never knew was in the story of Scrooge. If you love “A Christmas Carol,” if you hate “A Christmas Carol,” then “Bah Humbug” is for you. $10 to $20. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ bah-humbug-2023.

Three-rail layout on the second floor where kids can conduct and control and trains in O-, N- and HO-scale. Special train displays include the Midwood Junction layout, Polar Express, and HO layout that features Western Maryland, including a replica of the original Western Maryland Hagerstown Roundhouse. $6 for adults, $1 for ages 4 to 15, free for ages 3 and younger. 301-739-4665. roundhouse.org.

GALLERY Holiday Gift Mart — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. The gallery is filled with original artwork, forged steel sculpture, fused glass, photography, book art and jewelry, as well as original notecards, gifts and ornaments. eastsidearts313@gmail.com. eastsideartistsgallery.com.

“Inebriated Holiday” — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Laugh your way through the holidays in this original show from the team who brought you “Inebriated History.” Some of your favorite holiday stories are told on screen by actors imbibing in holiday cheer, while a team of actors acts out the antics live on stage.

18 and older. $6.50-$37.50. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org/ inebriated-holiday.

Monday Dec. 25 ETCETERA

Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration , 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and make new, like-minded friends. All are welcome, no membership requirements. $7. 301-254-4727. sharonwcox@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Sunday Dec. 24 ETCETERA

HEALTH

Christmas Eve Candlelight Services — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Calvary Church, 8234 Woodsboro Pike, Walkersville. “Heaven on Earth” candlelight services at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.

301-898-7811. info@calvarymd.com. calvarymd.com.

Christmas Eve Services — 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. at Damascus Road Community Church, 12826 Old National Pike, Mount Airy. Dec. 23 — special children’s program runs concurrently with world champion Juggler for Jesus David Kain for age 4 through grade 5. Ages up to 3 years will be classrooms. Dec. 24 — Care for children 3 and under only at 1 and 3 p.m.

The Damascus Road band will provide contemporary Christmas worship music as well as favorite Christmas classics.

Tickets to save your seat launch Dec. 13.

301-829-3722. damascus@damascus. com.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service — 7 p.m. at Mount Moriah Lutheran Church, 15116 Foxville Church Road, Sabillasville.

For information, call 240-405-2173.

Christmas Eve Service with Holy Communion — 9 p.m. at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 13025 Greensburg Road, Smithsburg. For information, call 240-405-2173.

240-405-2173. facebook.com/StPaulsGreenburgMD.

FAMILY

Annual Train Garden Display — noon to 5 p.m. at Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Co.,

“Boats on the Creek,” by Paul Tooley, this year’s winning piece.

Celebrate Frederick

Paul Tooley wins this year’s Holiday Art Competition “Frederick During the Holidays” is a delightful exhibition of original artwork created by Frederick artists, on display at the Delaplaine Arts Center’s Gardiner Gallery through Dec. 30.

From the exhibit submissions, a panel of judges selected the winning work of art, “Boats on the Creek,” by Paul Tooley, which will be featured in Celebrate Frederick’s 2024 “The Holidays” event series marketing campaign and merchandise.

The Delaplaine Arts Center is at 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick.

Learn more at celebratefrederick.com/events/holidays/ holiday-art-competition.

702 N. Main St., Mount Airy. Stop by the station and check out this year’s train garden. The display will be open weekends through Dec. 30.

301-829-0100. info@mavfc.org. mavfc.org.

24 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

Christmas at the Roundhouse Featuring the Trains of Christmas — noon to 4 p.m. at Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum, 296 S. Burhans Blvd., Hagerstown. See the trains of Christmas on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Feb. 25. New and revised this year is an N-scale train layout.

Meditative Dance Movement — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at FAC Art Center, 5 E. Second St., Frederick. The dance experience starts with a brief, guided meditation involving breathing, stretching, shaking and gentle yoga-like movements to help everyone become more heart-centered and “embodied,” or fully conscious of their senses. Then the dance music starts, gentle and slow at first. $10 donation. 301-662-4190. info@frederickartscouncil.org.

Tuesday Dec. 26 ETCETERA

Hagerstown Historic Houses of Worship Tour — 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 601 Washington Ave., Hagerstown. Self-guided tour of 12 worship sites. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church is the lead host, in partnership with Trinity Lutheran Church and HARC. 301-791-3246, ext. 14. visithagerstown.com.

Pride On The Patio — 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Showroom, 882 N. East St., Fredrick.

Weekly LGBTQ social mixer. Relaxed an casual. Happy hour pricing, full menu available; drink special Gender Fluid. 21 and older.

240-409-8858. prideonthepatio@gmail.com. facebook.com/PrideOnThePatio.

Wednesday Dec. 27 FAMILY

Jenn’s Uncommon Critters — 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. These awesome animal ambassadors will be visiting the library for a show, tell and touch experience. This is an educational presentation that focuses on general facts, unique characteristics, and animal stewardship.

The program will feature a variety of unique animal ambassadors. Please note: Interaction with the animals at the end of the show if time allows (this will be dependent on group size and interactions). 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com/event/ jenns-uncommon-critters.

Thursday Dec. 28 CLASSES

Totally Teen Time: Jar Lanterns — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Light up the winter nights with a lantern made from a jar, decorated with a cool stained-glass tissue paper effect! For teens.

301-600-7250.

ETCETERA

Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration , 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills and make new, like-minded friends. All are welcome, no membership requirements. $7. 301-254-4727. sharonwcox@gmail.com. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Spirit Reunion: Calling All Angels — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Canapes Catering, 550 Highland St, Suite 100, Frederick. If you have ever wondered if miracles are real and if our loved ones still have a significant role in our lives, come to this event ready to have a life changing experience.

Everyone will have the opportunity to participate. This is a dinner event. $65. 240-772-1273. authorsharonprice@gmail.com. thespiritprogram.com.

MUSIC

Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thursday night for live jazz and your favorite craft cocktails. 21 and older.

301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com/events.

Friday Dec. 29 ETCETERA

See What Sticks Open Stage — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at FAC Art Center, 5 E. Second St., Frederick. Performance artists, musicians, poets, actors — meet Frederick’s newest performance workshop and open stage.

Artists are welcome to workshop emerging projects in the space and see what sticks. Stay after the performances for a brief discussion and debrief as participating artists continue to fine-tune their work. Artist setup at 7 p.m., performances start at 8 p.m.

301-662-4190. info@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org.

FAMILY Christmas at the Roundhouse Featuring the Trains of Christmas — noon to 4 p.m. at Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum, 296 S. Burhans Blvd., Hagerstown. See the trains of Christmas on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Feb. 25. New and revised this year is an N-scale train layout.

Three-rail layout on the second floor where kids can conduct and control and trains in O-, N- and HO-scale. Special train displays include the Midwood Junction layout, Polar Express, and HO layout that features Western Maryland, including a replica of the original Western Maryland Hagerstown Roundhouse. $6 for adults, $1 for ages 4 to 15, free for ages 3 and younger. 301-739-4665. roundhouse.org.

MUSIC Festive Favorites with Appalachian Chamber Music Festival — 7 p.m. to 8 a.m. at St. James the Greater Catholic Church, 49 Crosswind Drive, Charles Town, W.Va. In the beautiful setting of St. James Church in Charles Town, featuring special guest baritone Bill Townsend, there will be something for everyone in this one-hour, family-friendly concert. The show will feature selection of jolly and uplifting music to celebrate the yuletide season. $0 - $28. info@appalachianchamber.org. appalachianchamber.org/ 2023-winter-residency.

Live Music at the Cocktail Lab — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Every Friday in the Cocktail Lab we’ll be servin’ up our deliciously wild concoctions and some sweet tunes to get your weekend started off right! 21 and older.

301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com/events.

Saturday Dec. 30 CLASSES

Freedom BANG class — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. A pre-choreographed fusion of boxing, HIIT, hip hop, world dance, optional weighted gloves and just a touch of attitude. Offering a wide range of intensity options to help you customize your workout. 21 and older.

301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

ETCETERA Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 7

p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant and Brewery, 124 N. Market St., Frederick. Journey through Frederick’s gruesome and bloody past. Nearly 300 years of war, executions and revenge.

True documented stories of the paranormal with Maryland’s oldest operating Ghost Tour. Uncover political savvy and defiant citizens, patriots from the Revolutionary War, beckoning soldiers from the Civil War. Reservations recommended. $16. 301-668-8922. info@marylandghosttours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

FAMILY Noon Year 1, 2, 3 Celebration — 11:30 a.m. to noon at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Tomorrow is a special day — it’s 1-2-3-1-2-3! Ring in the new year with our special Noon Year Celebration. This year we will ring in the Noon (New) Year with a special numbers storytime! Enjoy stories, rhymes, songs and a special craft.

301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com/event/ noon-year-1-2-3-celebration.

Annual Train Garden Display — noon to 5 p.m. at Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Co., 702 N. Main St., Mount Airy. Stop by the station and check out this year’s train garden. The display will be open weekends through Dec. 30.

301-829-0100. info@mavfc.org. mavfc.org.

Sunday Dec. 31 ETCETERA

IHC New Years Eve Bingo — 5 p.m. at Independent Hose Co., 310 Baughmans Lane, Frederick. To support Independent Hose Co., Station #1! Doors open at 5 p.m. and games start at 7:30 p.m! BYOB! Dinner/snacks available for purchase.

Tickets are $50 each before Dec. 15; $65 each after Dec. 15 and can be purchased online or at the IHC Christmas Tree Lot (Mon-Thurs 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) All winners must be 18 or older. $50. 240-429-1441.

FAMILY

Family Movie Night — 5 p.m. at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 13025 Greensburg Road, Smithsburg. Family Movie Night featuring Cary Grant and Myrna Loy dancing fantastic. There will be festive food, hats, and streamers. Free admission.

240-405-2173. prjulie@verizon.net. facebook.com/StPaulsGreenburgMD.

MUSIC

Winter Warmers with Appalachian Chamber Music Festival — 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at War Memorial Building (2nd floor), Christmas at the Roundhouse Featuring 102 E. German St., Shepherdstown, W.Va. the Trains of Christmas — noon to 4 p.m. Join us for an evening of works to warm at Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum, 296 your heart in the cozy and golden acousS. Burhans Blvd., Hagerstown. See the tics of Camp Hill-Wesley United Methodtrains of Christmas on Fridays, Saturdays ist Church in Harpers Ferry. A beautiful and Sundays through Feb. 25. New and place to experience with family, friends revised this year is an N-scale train layout. and loved ones, come visit Harpers Ferry Three-rail layout on the second floor and enjoy a poignant yet upbeat perforwhere kids can conduct and control and mance designed for reflection and joy. trains in O-, N- and HO-scale. Special train displays include the Midwood Junc- $13 to $28. info@appalachianchamber.org. tion layout, Polar Express, and HO layout that features Western Maryland, including appalachianchamber.org/ a replica of the original Western Maryland 2023-winter-residency.

Hagerstown Roundhouse. $6 for adults, $1 for ages 4 to 15, free for ages 3 and younger. 301-739-4665.

Tuesday Jan. 2 roundhouse.org.

MUSIC Duo Delights: Holiday Treats with Appalachian Chamber Music Festival — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at The Station at Shepherdstown, 111 Audrey Egle Drive, Shepherdstown, W.Va. String musicians will perform in a round robin of pairings, offering musical “treats and morsels” in this intimate venue. Enjoy a cup of coffee and tasty sweet treat with your ticket.

Featuring works by Mozart, Debussy and ACMF artists, as well as some inspired holiday offerings from Swedish and Scottish folk and Tchaikovsky’s beloved holiday classic, “The Nutcracker,” arranged for two. $13 to $28. info@appalachianchamber.org. appalachianchamber.org/ 2023-winter-residency.

ETCETERA

Pride On The Patio — 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Showroom, 882 N. East St., Fredrick.

Weekly LGBTQ social mixer. Relaxed an casual. Happy hour pricing, full menu available; drink special Gender Fluid. 21 and older.

240-409-8858. prideonthepatio@gmail.com. facebook.com/PrideOnThePatio.

FILM Bijou Film Screening — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at FAC Art Center, 5 E 2nd St., Frederick. Curated films presented by Falling Squares. Meets the second, third and fourth Tuesdays of the month.

301-662-4190. info@frederickartscouncil.org.

72 HOURS | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 25

Staff file photos by Bill Green

The inside of Evangelical Lutheran Church during the 36th annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship.

CANDLELIGHT (Continued from 9)

churches. “This is a chance for folks to really see them up close.”

2,000 and 3,000 people each year.

The other churches participating “It’s just a great opportunity are All Saints’ Episcopal Church, to welcome people and show off Asbury United Methodist Church, our sanctuary,” she said. “It’s still Calvary United Methodist Church, decorated in its Christmas splendor. Frederick Presbyterian Church, I think for a lot of families, they Centennial Memorial United use this as an annual tradition. It’s Methodist Church, Grace United the day after Christmas. It’s a great Church of Christ and St. John the opportunity and get out of the house, especially if you have visiting Evangelist Catholic Church.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church, relatives.”

All Saints Episcopal Church, St. John Lustrea said that combined the Evangelist Catholic Church and visitors reported by the churches from last year’s event topped 14,000, Evangelical Reformed UCC Church will serve light refreshments. but that number likely includes a lot Erik Anderson is a freelance of repeated visitors. writer in Frederick who cares about “Frederick is known as the city few things more than the history of clustered spires,” Lustrea said, of his community. Email him at referring to the tall steeples that adorn four of the historic downtown erikanderson07@gmail.com.

26 | Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023 | 72 HOURS

The bell choir at All Saints’ Episcopal Church during the 36th annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship.

The alter at Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ of West Church Street was lit up with candles during the annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship in 2022 in downtown Frederick.

Staff file photo

by Bill Green

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