SHOP LOCAL December 2025

Find the Perfect Gift & Celebrate in Style

in Main Street Middletown! Visit for the day, or the weekend and you may even feel as if you have stepped into a holiday movie! Discover a one-of-a-kind mix of local shops with something special for everyone on your holiday gift list. From cozy cafés to upscale dining, Main Street offers the perfect spot for festive get-togethers— whether it’s a casual gift swap with friends or a full-scale company holiday party!

Downtown Eateries

Abbracio Gelato - Aleko's Village Cafe - Asian CaféBeans & Dreams: Nektario’s Place - Deb's Artisan Bakehouse - Dempsey's Grille - The Grill at LDS - The Main Cup - More Ice Cream - Tapia's on Main - Orchid Cellars Meadery & Winery - Willow Oaks Craft Cider & Wine

Holiday Gift Giving

Bug and Jane Skin Sanctuary • Gladhill Furniture Company • Hearth & Home Mercantile • Hello Gorgeous Boutique • Hello Gorgeous Salon - Middletown Sportsland - Middletown Coin Exchange - Phillips Family Vision Center • The Trolley Stop - The Turquoise Trailer Boutique - The Welcome Center

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think outside the box stores

Unique places for holiday shopping

By METRO

Although the holiday season is a relatively brief period, it still can consume months of time in regard to preparation, shopping and hosting.

According to a SWNS Digital survey of 2,000 adults in the United States, the average American spends six weeks preparing for the holiday season. Five weeks are devoted to planning presents, meals and other essentials, while an entire week is just for decorating. Shopping for presents can consume a lot of time, especially for those who aren’t quite sure what to get. Thinking outside of the typical retail box may help with inspiration, and shoppers may encounter smaller crowds and find better deals. Here are some unique places to shop to grab great holiday gifts.

• Pharmacies: While you’re picking up your prescription or medicine cabinet essentials, take a spin around the store to see what else might be available. Typically, pharmacies have entire aisles dedicated to seasonal merchandise, so you might be able to find holiday decorations, gift wrap, candles, pampering items, and even food-related items and gift baskets.

Before a person logs on to the internet for online shopping or heads to the nearest strip mall, he or she can explore various unique places to shop for holiday gifts.

• Farmer’s market: Farmer’s markets pop up in towns on set days of the week. Although plenty of farm-related produce and plants are available, these markets also attract many other small businesses. You can find craftsmen, jewelry makers, niche food sellers, and so much more.

• School (or church) bazaar: In an effort to raise funds for the PTA or other organizations, schools and churches often host holiday fairs and bazaars right before the holidays. Area businesses rent table space and set up booths with an array of different

products for sale. This is a great spot to grab interesting finds all under one roof. Plus, you’re supporting the local community in the process.

• Home improvement retailer:

Plenty of people will appreciate practical gifts that they can use in and around the home. A visit to a hardware store or home improvement retailer offers up aisles of essentials for the do-it-yourselfer. While new shelving for the garage or a set of flashlights may not be the most glamorous gifts, these items can come in handy.

• Craft store: Cater to recipi-

ents’ favorite hobbies by ensuring they’ll be flush with plenty of supplies. Craft stores have a bevy of items for every interest imaginable. They’re also surprisingly good places to grab deals on picture frames, housewares, food-making supplies, and decorative items.

• Specialty food store: Head to small specialty food stores to load up on unique items larger supermarkets might not carry. Ethnic markets may have flavorful and interesting ingredients to group together in a food basket that makes an ideal gift for transplants missing the flavors of home.

Shop Local unique gifts

Frederick County Holiday Gift Guide for Kids and Teens

By TIFFANY MAHANEY Special to The News-Post

A road map for unique stores and boutiques around Frederick County to shop the perfect gift for our kids — from infants to teens

By TIFFANY MAHANEY

Special to The News-Post

Part of the allure of shopping small is finding unique, one-of-akind items that you can’t find online or in big box stores. Luckily for residents and visitors of Frederick County, we have a lot of gift shops and boutiques. But not all stores offer items for kids and young adults though. This is the biggest time of year for parents, grandparents and aunties to search for that perfect gift to wrap. So for the shops that do have a great selection of gifts for teens to tots, let’s highlight them here. Some locations may even surprise you.

BRUNSWICK

BRUNSWICK HERITAGE MUSEUM

40 W Potomac St., Brunswick

Never overlook one of the best places to shop is at a souvenir store. The Delaplaine Arts Cen-

ter is known for having creative gifts handmade by local artists, while the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum has trinkets for the history buff. So for our train-loving children, shop at the Bruns-

wick Heritage Museum. Browse their books, puzzles, model toy trains, whistles and conductor accessories, plus wooden letters on wheels to create your child’s name as a train.

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK

BELLA’S CLOSET

116 N. East St., Frederick

Did you know Frederick has a custom designed children’s clothing store? Shop Bella’s Closet for pretty

STAFF FILE PHOTO BY RIC DUGAN Ralph Hosford of Baltimore plays with a toy at Dancing Bear Toys & Games.

lace-trimmed dresses, onesies, matching sets, pajamas, shoes and bow hair accessories.

CURIOUS IGUANA

12 N. Market St., Frederick

For the avid reader in the family, you will find cheeky and sweet bookthemed canvas tots, bookmarks, calendars, planners, journals and, of course, books at Curious Iguana.

DANCING BEAR TOYS & GAMES

15 E. Patrick St., Frederick

As the one and only kids toy store in Frederick, Dancing Bear is a must visit — and for good reason. All your battery-free toys are here. They have a huge selection of Jelly Cat stuffed animals, STEM activities and toys, board games, building sets, slime and fidgets. From infant play mats to DIY miniature house kits for young adults, they have it all!

JESSICA JORDAN

25 E. Patrick St., Frederick

If speaking in emojis was a thing, this jewelry store would be all the hearteyes. At Jessica Jordan, her handcrafted earrings and accessories are both trendy and unique. While the Charm Bar (where one can make their own necklace or bracelet, customizing the chain and charms) spans the entire right side of the store. It’s so fun to create your own sparky piece here.

LOU LOU

29 N. Market St., Frederick

Lou Lou is a favorite boutique to shop, with tons of gift ideas with the young and young-at-heart. Find clothing and accessories, but also fun home spa items. Then, there’s the Purse Bar: pick out a tote, crossbody, hand bag or wristlet wallet, then choose the chain or fabric handle, pick out unique charms to decorate your bag, and tada — you’ve got yourself a one-of-a-kind gift.

TIFFANY MAHANEY Shop small businesses this holiday season for unique finds.

KIDS AND TEENS

(Continued from 5)

RELISH DECOR

38 E. Patrick St., Frederick

Shop cute school supplies at Relish Decor. Browse binders, clipboards, stationary and lunchboxes in pretty patterns and designs by Rifle Paper Company. Alternatively, check out their selection of cool framed artwork to update your kid’s bedroom or college dorm.

FREDERICK MADE

130 N. East St., Frederick

You will love shopping for your pre-teen and young adult at Frederick Made. Right in Shab Row, this boutique is a one-stop shop for the holidays because somehow it has trendy clothing and girlie accessories but also DIY sets to keep both your stylish and artsy kids happy. Frederick Made sells a lot of homemade gifts, from their earrings to their color-your-own water bottle stickers to their crewneck sweaters and their to-go art kits. Most popular items sold are their original watercolor and paint-by-number art kits for kids. For the driving teens, the car perfume diffusers and adorable vintage keychains are a hit.

GOLDEN MILE

DUTCH PLANT FARM

151 Baughmans Lane, Frederick

Do your little ones love the outdoors? If your kids love gardening next to you, get them their own set of kid-size gardening gloves and tools. Dutch Plant Farm off Rt. 40 sells colorful rakes, shovels and gardening supplies — perfect for kids to play and help in the backyard. They sell other adorable gifts like

Shop Local unique gifts

TIFFANY MAHANEY

Shop small businesses this holiday season for unique finds.

animal-shaped watering cans, bird houses, bee hotels, plus gardening books and puzzles.

MIDDLETOWN

HEARTH & HOME MERCANTILE

4 E, Main St., Middletown

This new-ish boutique in Middletown has the cutest Kids Corner full of knit sweaters and gift ideas for infants and tots. Shop at Hearth and Home Mercantile for colorful, wooden stackable toys, anatomically correct diverse baby dolls, pretend dress-up wings, soft lovies, wooden dinosaur toys, and the popular mini mice in match boxes.

MOUNT AIRY

MOUNT AIRY COMMONS

118 S. Main St., Mount Airy

If you have time to visit just one gift shop on Main Street, try browsing

Mount Airy Commons where you can browse gifts for the littlest family members like Squishables, DIY bots, board games, science kits, mazes and building toys, and Melissa and Doug toy sets. This is also a great stop for Maryland-themed gear and Baltimore sports gifts.

URBANA

ART & SOUL STUDIO

New address: 8925 Fingerboard Road, Ste. D, Frederick

For the creative child, Art & Soul Studio is the place to take art classes, yes, but it’s also where you can get all your crafty gifts, too. Parents can shop for their elementary-school aged kids, pre-teens and young adults here. Pick up one of their pressed flower kits, coloring sets, on-the-go cards/games, wooden creations to decorate, and more.

If you like giving experience gifts, your child can create at their DIY Make Market where all ages can sit in studio and paint pottery, design their own hat or canvas product, and much more.

CREATIVE SPACES

BOUTIQUE & DESIGN

8995 C Urbana Church Road, Frederick

This is THE personalization store to know! Creative Spaces is a modern boutique full of curated gifts for every occasion and type of person. The bonus here is you can have gift baskets custom packaged, wrapped and made especially for your person. This gift shop offers personalization on many of their items in either a chosen font or your own handwriting (how cool is that?!). Check out their sport-themed keychains and lanyards and personalize it with your teen’s school name or team number. Shop at the Stocking Stuffer Bar for the perfect smaller size gifts like hair accessories, jewelry, teen spa and grooming goodies, travel games in little tins, and mini art kits. Parents can also shop for nursery books and stuffed animals.

WALKERSVILLE

CORN

CRIB BOUTIQUE

11037 Liberty Road, Frederick Nestled inside Widespread Country Market, Corn Crib Boutique drops the cutest western clothing, crossbody bags and jewelry but they also have a Kids Corner. If you have a farm loving child (or grandchild), find country-themed onesies and outfits, plus building sets, farm figurines, books, kid sunglasses, tractor toys, plate and cup sets and even Stanley tools for tots.

Let charitable gifts spread joy and benefit

By METRO

Charitable giving increases significantly in the months surrounding the holidays. Approximately onethird of annual giving happens in December, and 10% of all giving occurs in the last three days of the year, according to Charities Aid Foundation America. The surge in donations typically occurs with people’s desire to spread holiday cheer, enjoy tax advantages and help people in the community, says Nonprofit Source.

Some people are compelled to donate in the name of another person. Here are some ideas for charitable holiday gifts that benefit many.

Donate in someone’s name

To honor a loved one who may be living or deceased, or who fought an illness and won, you can donate to a nonprofit in the name of that loved one. Many charities offer printable or physical cards to let the recipient know a donation has been made in his or her name.

Giving back through gifts

Certain products purchased feature proceeds that go toward a charitable cause. For example, every purchase of TOMS® shoes helps fund mental health access and community development, while the body care products from Thistle Farms are made by women survivors of trafficking, prostitution and addiction. Other products may help feed the hungry or support cancer patients.

Supporting animals

A symbolic animal adoption can support conservation efforts around the world. Making a donation to the

Charitable gifts make a recipient feel special and can make many additional people feel good as well.

World Wildlife Fund in someone’s name, for example, enables you to get a plushie, certificate and information on the animal the contribution will be helping.

Fair trade gifts

Making a purchase of fair trade items means you’re often buying handmade and ethically sourced goods. These gifts support artisans in developing countries and help fund community projects. Gift recipients can feel pride in ownership of an item that was designed and purchased with the greater good in mind.

Charity gift cards

Charitable gift cards, like those available from TisBest Charity and CharityChoice, let the gift recipient choose which nonprofit will receive the funds.

Support special businesses

Offer gift cards or take people to dine or shop at businesses that support those with special needs. For example, No Limits Cafe in New Jersey is a full-service restaurant that trains and employs adults with intellectual disabilities. Dining there will help to continue to support these important efforts to give every employee a sense of pride and purpose.

Visit Path�inder Farm Distillery

METRO

By METRO

12 gifts for crafty people Shop Local creative gifts

Craft enthusiasts can be easy people to shop for come the holiday season.

Shoppers can simply fuel their loved one’s passion for crafts by keeping their supplies fully stocked or introduce them to new crafting techniques. There are roughly 85 million active creatives and 30 million sewists in the United States and Canada, according to Customcy, a custom product manufacturer. Millennials account for 41% of consumers in the craft market, according to the Center for Generational Kinetics. These 12 gift ideas will be perfect for creatives who want to enjoy their passion for crafting to the fullest.

1. Organizers: Craft supply organizers can keep people’s gear neat and tidy in bins or compartmentalized boxes.

2. Gift cards: A spending spree at a nearby craft retailer can help crafters get everything they need.

3. Rotary cutters: While quality scissors are a necessity, a rotary cutter can make fast work of slicing through materials.

4. Cutting mat: A self-healing cutting mat is ideal for model-making, sewing and paper crafts.

5. Cutting machine: A cutting machine, like those offered from

Crafting is a popular hobby with scores of enthusiasts. Catering to their hobbies with special gifts will keep crafters busy and happy throughout the year.

Cricut® or Silhouette®, can help people complete a vast number of projects. These machines can cut vinyl, paper, labels, and even fabrics and foam for certain models.

6. Pattern books: Those who enjoy needlework, crocheting or knitting can benefit from books that offer patterns or digital sewing ideas.

7. Yarn and thread: High quality yarns and threads can elevate completed projects.

8. Paper or canvases: Fine artists

and painters will need places to display their creative visions. A stock of mixed media paper and canvases means art can be made whenever inspiration strikes.

9. Resin supplies: Resin products have become more popular and crafters who enjoy such projects will benefit from epoxy resin and molds or acrylic pouring kits.

10. Clay: Those who enjoy making clay-based creations can always use more clay in a variety of colors and new clay sculpting tools.

11. Floral supplies: Whether live flowers or artificial, foam, floral tape, stem snips, and ribbons can help people create beautiful designs.

12. Home improvement: Many crafters can benefit from having a dedicated space to engage in their projects. A gift of minor home renovations to create a crafting room or area in an existing spot can make a crafter very happy.

METRO

BEAVER CREEK ANTIQUE MARKET

Top video games for holiday gifting Shop Local entertainment

By METRO

Gaming remains a wildly popular pastime.

According to TechJury, more than 3.3 billion people worldwide played video games in 2025, and gaming is a mainstream hobby across all generations.

The Entertainment Software Association’s 2025 Facts About the U.S. Video Game Industry report indicates the average player is 26 years old and female and male gamers are nearly evenly split (47% versus 52%). Baby Boomers and even older generations also play video games each week and benefit from the mental stimulation and relaxation the hobby offers.

Given the popularity of gaming, gifting video games for the holidays can be a smart tactic. The following are some 2025 releases that can be wrapped up as gifts this year.

• Donkey Kong Returns HD: Players will blast out of barrels, ride mine carts, stomp enemies, and more in this popular game newly imagined for the Nintendo Switch. Players join Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on their wild adventures to retrieve their

METRO

Video games are popular gift ideas, and 2025 doesn’t disappoint with its newest crop of exciting releases perfect for gamers of all ages.

stolen banana horde.

• Split Fiction: In this game, a player and partner become Mio and Zoe, two writers who are trapped in a simulation of their own imaginations after a

high-tech attempt to steal their creative ideas goes awry. This unlikely duo will need to work together in order to escape with their memories intact from a world filled with dragons, trolls,

cyber ninjas, and robo-parking attendants. The game is available for PlayStation 5.

• Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles: Video games often tap into nostalgia, which is perhaps why gamers were excited to find out that this popular Star Wars game was being remastered for modern consoles. This enables players to enjoy the original experience with only minor updates that include a simpler control scheme.

• Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector: This role-playing game is a sequel to the popular game from 2022. Players control an escaped android with a malfunctioning body, a price on its head and no memory of the past. The goal is to get a ship, find a crew and take on contracts.

• Doom: The Dark Ages: This game is a prequel to the popular Doom experience, including Doom and Doom Eternal. It tells an epic story, and players inhabit the boots of the Doom slayer in this medieval and sinister war game.

• Elden Ring: Nightreign: This game is a standalone adventure within the Elden Ring universe. It’s crafted to offer players a new gaming experience by reimagining the core attributes of play. Players join forces with others to battle the creeping night and become heroes.

Which two are exactly alike?

ANSWER: 3 AND 5

CHRISTMAS COOKIE WORD SEARCH

Words can be found in any direction (including diagonals) and can overlap each other. Use the word bank below.

BATTER BISCOTTI BUTTER CHILL CHIPS CHOCOLATE COOL CRUMBS

CUTTER DOUGH DROP EXTRACT FLOUR GINGERBREAD ICING KNEAD NUTS OVEN PEANUT BUTTER SPRINKLES

SPRITZ SUGAR

(11A)

(16A)

(18A)

SNOWMAN – Carrot-nosed

SNOW – Frozen rain (10D)

SLEIGH – Santa’s ride (24A)

SCROOGE – Mean or miserly person (4D)

RUDOLPH – Lead reindeer (21D)

REINDEER – Rudolph and friends (19D)

ORNAMENT – Tree decoration (23A)

NUTCRACKER – An opener or a famous ballet (8A)

NORTH – _____ Pole (1D)

NOEL – The First Christmas, “The First ____” (29A)

MISTLETOE – Christmas “kissing” plant (12D)

MERRY – ____ Christmas; A season’s greeting (17D)

KRINGLE – Kris _____ (22D)

JINGLE – _____ Bells (26A)

HOLLY – Plant with red berries (28A)

GRINCH – Green Christmas thief (27A)

GINGERBREAD – Treat used to build miniature houses (6D)

FROSTY – Famous snowman (2A)

ELVES – Santa’s helpers (25A)

EGGNOG – Traditional dairy drink (5A)

DRUMMER – Little ______ Boy (15D)

DECEMBER – Christmas month (20A)

CHRISTMAS – Gift giving holiday (13D)

CHIMNEY – How Santa gets in (7D)

CAROL – Christmas song (13A)

CANDYCANE – Striped sweet (9D)

ANSWERS:

in Frederic k Holiday Happenings

find the perfect way to spend the holiday season with friends and family

Saturday, Dec. 13

Bountiful Boughs:

A Winter Greenery Workshop:

2-4 p.m., Middletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Get ready to deck the halls and trim the evergreens this season in style. Join Master Gardener Courtney Ward to learn the history of winter greenery and its presence in our holiday celebrations. Following the lecture, make your own A-Frame evergreen swag to take home! 301600-7560. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Preschool Holiday Shop:

10 a.m.-noon., Scott Key Community Center, 1050 Rocky Springs Road, Frederick. Join us for a special opportunity for your child to shop for a loved one for a holiday gift. Registration fee includes gift and gift wrapping. Limit to 4 gifts per child. Trained staff will be there to assist your child with hand picking from a variety of gifts. Then our holiday helpers will assist your child in our workshop with wrapping your gift. Included in fee. Pre-registration required.Light refreshments will be provided in the lobby while you remain

Feng, 8, and

onsite so that your child can enjoy their shopping experience.A questionnaire will be sent out a week before regarding questions on who your kiddo will be shopping for. Fee Includes: gifts and gift wrapping. Frederick County Parks and Recreation, ParksandRecreation@FrederickCoun -

tyMD.gov, 301-600-2936.$19. bit.ly/FCPRHolidayShop.

Frederick County Federated Garden Clubs Holiday Tree Display:

10 a.m.-4 p.m., Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Enjoy the Frederick County Fed-

erated Garden Clubs (i.e. Greenwalled Garden Club, Tasker’s Chance Garden Club and the The Garden Club of Frederick) decorated holiday tree, in partnership with and displayed at Heritage Frederick, an historical and cultural organization that includes the Museum of Frederick County

STAFF FILE PHOTO BY KATINA ZENTZ

Mia

her mother Ru Yan walk up a hill while sledding at Urbana District Park in January 2025.

history. Adults, $10; Seniors, Students and Children, $5. By appointment only, Sunday through Wednesday. Call 301-363-8221 for additional information. Patricia Louison, grlpgl1974@ comcast.net, 301-363-8221.$10 adults, $5 seniors, students and kids. https://frederickhistory.org.

“Junie B. in Jingle Bells Batman Smells”:

10:30-11:30 a.m. and 1:302:30 p.m., Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. She’s back! Follow the feisty and irrepressible Junie B. Jones as she plays Secret Santa to her least favorite classmate, Tattletale May. Will Junie B. give Tattletale May exactly what she thinks she deserves, or will the holiday spirit force a change of heart? With plenty of laughs and life life lessons, it’s the perfect holiday treat for the whole family. Sam White, contact@marylandensemble.org, 301-694-4744. $20 adult, $17 child, senior, military. marylandensemble.org/junie-bjones-2025.

Museums by Candlelight

Snook Farmstead:

12-7 p.m., Utica District Park, 10200-B Old Frederick Road, Frederick. The Snook Family Agricultural Center will feature exhibits open for self-guided tours as part of Frederick County’s Museums by Candlelight. Be sure to stop by to learn about the history of holiday treats and candies. Explore history of the Snook family and how agriculture plays a role in creating sweet treats. No registration required. Frederick County Parks and Recreation, ParksandRecreation@FrederickCountyMD.gov, 301-600-2936. bit.ly/FCPRMuseumsbyCandlelight.

Youth Holiday Shop:

1-3 p.m., Scott Key Community Center, 1050 Rocky Springs Road, Frederick. Join us for a special opportunity for your child to shop for a loved one for a holiday gift. Registration fee includes gift and gift wrapping. Limit to 4 gifts per child. Trained staff will be there to assist your child with hand picking from a variety of gifts. Then our holiday helpers will assist your child in our workshop with wrapping your gift. Pre-registration required.Light refreshments will be provided in the lobby while you remain onsite so that your child can enjoy their shopping experience.A questionnaire will be sent out a

COURTESY PHOTO

The MET’s Fun Company presents “Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells Batman Smells.”

COURTESY PHOTO

Museums by Candlelight tour visits Catoctin Furnace.

week before regarding questions on who your kiddo will be shopping for. Fee Includes: gifts and gift wrapping. Frederick County Parks and Recreation, ParksandRecreation@FrederickCountyMD.gov, 301-600-2936. $19. bit.ly/FCPRHolidayShop.

Museums by Candlelight:

12-7 p.m., Throughout Frederick County, Frederick. Once a year, Frederick County’s numerous historic sites and museums provide visitors with a living reminder of this area’s remarkable past. During Museums by Candlelight, special programming and hands-on fun will delight visitors of all ages, and special children’s activities are featured at most locations. Self-guided event.Visit many locations, or just a few, in any order. Enjoy period demonstrations, living history vignettes, hands-on crafts, refreshments, tours, music, holiday decorations and historic settings by candlelight as night falls. Jake Wynn, jwynn@fredco-md.net, 301-6004023. visitfrederick.org/events/ annual-events/museums-by-candlelight.

Holi-Improv at MET Comedy Night:

10-11 p.m., Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. A MET Comedy Night Holiday tradition! The annual Holi-improv show. A brand new holiday classic brought to life right in front of your eyes. Sam White, contact@marylandensemble.org, 301-694-4744. $15. CWSO Annual Holiday Play & Sing-Along: 2-6 p.m., Two Twisted Posts Winery, 12944 Harpers Ferry Road, Purcellville. The Charles

Washington Symphony Orchestra invites the public to its annual holiday concert featuring a selection of beloved holiday music, including a traditional singalong and a special opportunity for attendees to bring their own instruments and join the orchestra for a unique play-along experience.Under the direction of Conductor Doug Thompson, the orchestra will perform a variety of holiday classics, along with smaller ensemble performances by orchestra members. This family-friendly celebration is free and open to the public, with

donations warmly accepted.The concert will run from 2-4 p.m. In addition to the music, the winery will host raffles, and guests over 21 are invited to enjoy the winery’s offerings(Event open to all ages, raffles and winery activities are limited to those 21 and over).

Holly Alessi, info@cwsymph.org, 716-909-1765. wsymph.org.

“A Marshmallow Christmas”: 3-4:50 p.m., Frederick Church of the Brethren, 201 Fairview Ave., Frederick. Join the Frederick Catoctones for their holiday show a fun acapella show featuring the Catoctones, the Clustered Spires

Chorus and special guest quartet and international quarterfinalists “Best Wishes.” You’ll also enjoy selections from the Chordians of the Galaxy and Remnants barbershop quartets from Frederick in a show sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit. Plus, there may even be a special guest making an appearance! Chuck Boteler, catoctonesgigs@aol.com, 240-3154409. $10-$19. www.catoctones. com.

FCC Jazz Big Band: Swingin’ Holidays:

7:30-9 p.m., Frederick Community College, Visual & Performing Arts Center, 7932 Opossumtown Pike (JBK Theater, Parking Lot 9), Frederick. You’re invited to enjoy an evening of festivities as Director Howard Burns directs this premiere jazz ensemble with a presentation of classic and contemporary holiday music. This performance continues to wow audiences with tight harmonies, virtuosic solos, and swingin’ style! Tickets are free but a $15 donation per attendee is suggested to support the FCC Music Program.Please join us to celebrate music with family, friends, and community guests during this special evening concert. $15 donation. mgersten@frederick.edu, 301-846-2566. https://2025BigBandHolidays.eventbrite.com.

Sunday, Dec. 14

No-Bake Holiday Treats (Ages 13-Adult, Adaptive Friendly):

2-3 p.m., Middletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. Make three easy no-bake recipes for the perfect holiday get-together a mocktail, appetizer and dessert that require no baking. Teens and adults welcome, recommended for ages 13

METRO

and up. Adults and teens with developmental disabilities and their caregivers are welcome and encouraged to attend this program. 301-600-7560. https://frederick. librarycalendar.com.

Emmitsburg Community Chorus Holiday Concert:

7-8:15 p.m., Homewood At Crumland Farms, 7407 Willow Road, Frederick. Get into the holiday spirit listening to Christmas music through the ages. Under the direction of Peggy Flickinger, the group of 30+ vocalists includes members from Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. They are accompanied by pianist Lisa Mattia.The concert features holiday favorites from different decades. Songs include: “All On a Starry Night,” “As It Fell Upon a Night,” “A Christmas Blessing,” “Come On, It’s Christmas,” “Creation Will Be at Peace,” “For Unto Us a Child Is Born,” “Gaudete,” “Gesu Bambino,” “Gettin’ in the Mood,” “Glory to God in the Highest,” “Nutcracker Jingles,” “O Holy Night,” “On a Frosty Winter’s Night,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Someday at Christmas” and “Still, Still, Still.”The nonprofit Emmitsburg Community Chorus was founded in 1966. Their concerts are made possible in part through a grant from the Frederick Arts Council. jnbgraham@ gmail.com, 301-606-7488. EmmitsburgCommunityChorus.org.

Monday, Dec. 15

Winter Break Game Plan: How to Use the Holidays to Stay Ahead:

6:30-7:30 p.m., Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Winter break is the perfect time to recharge and refocus. In this session, we’ll show families how to make the most of the holidays with practical strategies for academic catch-up, previewing next semester’s material, or getting a jump-start on test prep. For teens.Bonus: Attendees will receive a winter planning worksheet and a limited-time offer for a free academic evaluation. 301600-7000. http://fcpl.org.

Tuesday, Dec. 16

Step into the Holidaze: Beginner Line Dancing (Ages 18 and Up):

6-7:30 p.m., Emmitsburg Branch Library, 300A S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg. Kick up your boots and shuffle away the seasonal stress. Whether you’re two-stepping for the first time or just looking to add some jingle to your boots, this festive and funfilled class is the perfect way to dance through the holidaze. Flannel and holiday flair encouraged!No experience? No problem! Laughter guaranteed coordination optional!Join us this December for an upbeat hour

and half of toe-tappin’, smilesharin’, and community-spirited fun. Let’s dance our way through December one grapevine at a time! Emmitsburg Branch Library, 301-600-6329. https:// www.fcpl.org.

Thursday, Dec. 18

Holiday Storytime & Sing-A-Long:

10 a.m., Town Hall, 110 S. Main St., Mount Airy. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear! The Town, in partnership with the Carroll County Public Library Mount Airy Branch, host with Mount Airy’s First Lady Mary Hushour. The event, geared toward children ages up to 8, is free and open to the public. No registration is required.After the event, participants are welcome to come on a short walk to the B & O Caboose (2 N. Main St.) to come inside to see the train car’s holiday decorations. Nancy Hernandez, nhernandez@mountairymd.gov. www. mountairymd.gov.

“The Bishop’s Wife” (1947):

7:30-9:30 p.m., Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. This charming holiday classic blends romance, comedy, and a touch of the divine. Starring Cary Grant as a suave angel sent to help a troubled bishop and his wife, “The Bishop’s Wife” explores themes of faith, love and rediscovering what truly matters during the Christmas season. With its heartfelt performances and gentle humor, the film has become a perennial favorite among classic holiday movies. Dorian Young, dyoung@cityoffrederickmd.

gov, 301-600-2828. $7. https:// weinbergcenter.org/shows/thebishops-wife-1947-movie.

Friday, Dec. 19

Holiday Light Spectacular Hosted by the Maryland State Fair: 5:30-10 p.m., Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium. Continues daily through Dec. 30. Over a million lights, larger-than-life holiday scenes, including Mistletoe Marina, Jinglebell Junction Farm, Symphony of Illumination and a Winter Wonderland Carnival complete with a Ferris wheel and other rides and attractions. Holiday Village with shops and food trucks, special performances nightly. Some activities have additional cost. $15-$25 general admission. http://mdholidaylights.com.

Grinch-A-Mals:

Noon to 6 p.m., Fountain Rock Park & Nature Center, 8511 Nature Center Place, Walkersville. Winter is the time to cele-

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

The 1947 film “The Bishop’s Wife” will screen at Weinberg Center for the Arts on Dec. 18.

brate friends and family. Let the nature center animals tell you about different holiday traditions around the world! There will be Grinch inspired crafts & games. (Price is for parent and child pair.) Pre-registration required. Frederick County Parks and Recreation, ParksandRecreation@FrederickCountyMD.gov, 301-600-2936.$10. http://bit.ly/ FCPR-GrinchAMals.

Eric Byrd Trio Performs

“A Charlie Brown Christmas”: 8-10 p.m., Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. The magic of the season returns as “A Charlie Brown Christmas” lights up the Weinberg Center with a heartwarming screening of the cherished Peanuts film, followed by a live performance of Vince Guaraldi’s iconic score. Led by Frederick County’s own Eric Byrd, the Eric Byrd Trio brings soulful jazz, nostalgic charm, and holiday cheer to this timeless tradition. Dorian Young, dyoung@cityoffrederickmd.gov, 301-600-2828. $30, $25, $20. weinbergcenter.org/shows/ eric-byrd-trio-performs-a-charlie-brown-christmas-2025.

Saturday, Dec. 20

Brunch with Santa and Grinch: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Ceresville Mansion, 8529 Liberty Road, Frederick. Celebrate the season with a delightful buffet brunch spread, perfect for all ages. Kids can enjoy the magic of meeting Santa and drop off their letters at our special writing station. There’s also holiday crafts for little hands and a fun-filled story time with The Grinch himself! It’s a heartwarming event sure to create joyful memories for the whole fami-

ly. Professional photos with Santa are included in your ticket price. Don’t miss this festive experience! Pre-registration is required. Ceresville Mansion Team, info@ceresville.com, 301-694-5111. $44.

Clustered

Spires Holiday Show:

2-3 p.m., Middletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown. The Clustered Spires Chorus of Frederick will be singing a variety of holiday/seasonal favorites with a couple of

surprises thrown in! 301-6007560. frederick.librarycalendar. com/event/clustered-spires-holiday-show-174264.

The Spires at Christmas: 7:30-9:30 p.m., Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Join the Spires for our 31st annual Christmas Concert! All your merry favorites and more, plus twinkling lights, dazzling visuals, and lots of holiday cheer. Always a popular event for all ages. Secure your tickets via EventBrite ahead of time: https://bit.ly/XmasSpires25 or see our website www.SpiresBrassBand.org for link and more information. Based on availability, tickets will also be sold at the door 45 minutes prior to performance (cash/credit). We hope you can join us — thank you for your

support! SpiresBrassBand, Info@ SpiresBrassBand.org. $20 adult; $5 student. www.spiresbrassband. org/concerts.

“Home for the Holidays” 2025: 7-9 p.m., The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. The Maryland Symphony Orchestra will perform timeless favorites, including Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” along with a special sing-along led by Santa Claus. This heartwarming concert will feature special guests performing alongside the orchestra. Elizabeth Schulze | Conductor Celebrate the holiday season at the Maryland Theatre in Hagerstown with an evening of festive music and cheer. “Home for the Holidays” is a beloved tradition that brings families and friends together to enjoy classic holiday

FILE PHOTO BY BILL GREEN

The Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship is held on Friday, Dec. 26. The inside of Evangelical Lutheran Church is shown.

songs and the joy of the season. Join us for a memorable night that captures the spirit of the season, creating a perfect opportunity to share the warmth and joy of the holidays with those you love. Nathan Lushbaugh, nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony.org, 301-797-4000. $45. https://tinyurl.com/5j2mxp2c.

Irish Christmas in America:

7:30-9:30 p.m., New Spire Arts, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Bringing Irish spirit to the holidays since 2005, celebrate the season with the internationally acclaimed Irish Christmas in America, celebrating its 20th year! This family-friendly holiday favorite brings the spirit of Ireland to life with world-class music, traditional dance, heartwarming stories, and rich cultural history all delivered with warmth, wit and festive cheer. Featuring some of the Emerald Isle’s finest traditional performers, the show blends vibrant tunes, soulful ballads, and spirited step dancing with evocative imagery that highlights Ireland’s holiday customs and folklore. A joyful, cultural experience perfect for all ages, this is a holiday tradition that captures the magic of Christmas, Irish style. Dorian Young, dyoung@cityoffrederickmd.gov, 301-600-2868. $35. https://weinbergcenter.org/ shows/irish-christmas-in-america-2025.

Sunday, Dec. 21

Eileen Ivers “A Joyful Christmas”: 2-4 p.m., Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Celebrate the season with Grammy-winning fiddle virtuoso Eileen Ivers as she brings

“A Joyful Christmas” to life with heart, soul and soaring music. Blending her deep Irish heritage with American roots, Ivers and her dynamic ensemble deliver a spirited evening of traditional tunes, poetic Wren Day songs, and joyful storytelling.Filled with warmth, wit, and a rich tapestry of instruments and voices, this festive performance captures the magic of the holidays through the lens of Celtic tradition. Experience a soul-stirring night that’s as heartfelt as it is high-energy, perfect for the whole family and sure to become your new holiday favorite. Learn more about Eileen Ivers on her official website. This show is part of the Weinberg Center’s LIVE! Series, celebrating iconic music and exceptional musicianship. The Weinberg Center,

located in the heart of Downtown Frederick, offers a historic backdrop and excellent acoustics for an unforgettable concert experience. Dorian Young, dyoung@ cityoffrederickmd.gov, 301-6002828. $35, $30, $25. https://weinbergcenter.org/shows/eileen-ivers-joyful-christmas.

“Home for the Holidays” 2025:

3-5 p.m., The Maryland Theatre, 21 S. Potomac St., Hagerstown. The Maryland Symphony Orchestra will perform timeless favorites, including Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” along with a special sing-along led by Santa Claus. This heartwarming concert will feature special guests performing alongside the orchestra.Elizabeth Schulze | ConductorCelebrate the holiday season at the Maryland Theatre in Hag-

erstown with an evening of festive music and cheer. “Home for the Holidays” is a beloved tradition that brings families and friends together to enjoy classic holiday songs and the joy of the season.

WALTER T. PETRULE

“Irish Christmas in America” will be performed New Spire Arts on Saturday, Dec.20.

Join us for a memorable night that captures the spirit of the season, creating a perfect opportunity to share the warmth and joy of the holidays with those you love. Nathan Lushbaugh, nlushbaugh@marylandsymphony. org, 301-797-4000. $45. https:// tinyurl.com/5j2mxp2c.

Tuesday, Dec. 23

“White Christmas” Movie and Holiday Social:

3-5 p.m., The Capitol Theatre, 159 S. Main St., Chambersburg. Check out the movie at 3 p.m. (sing-along version) or 6:30 p.m. (or both if you’re a huge fan), and enjoy the social hour in between starting at 5 p.m. The White Christmas Movie & Holiday Social will include a Social Hour in between each movie screening with festive treats, adult-themed beverages, non-alcoholic drinks, & concessions! Everyone will also have a chance to meet Santa! General concessions and drinks will also be available before the start of each screening. Each White Christmas movie screening will slightly differ, with the sing-a-long version at 3pm followed by the classic movie at 6:30pm.Tickets are only sold at the door on the

date of the show Vernell Perry, vperry@thecapitoltheatre.org, 717-263-0202. $5 at the door only. www.thecapitoltheatre. org.

Holiday Concert:

A Celtic Christmas:

7:30-9 p.m., Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church, 100 W. Washington St., Shepherdstown. This exciting trio, features some of the brightest lights in the area’s traditional music community in a concert that will include songs and instrumental music from Celtic lands that will

get you into the mood for your own holiday celebration. Joanie Blanton, upperpotomac@gmail. com, 304-263-2531. $25 adults, $22 seniors, $20 members, $15 students, cash or check. http:// smad.us.

Friday, Dec. 26

Holiday Light Spectacular Hosted by the Maryland State Fair:

5:30-10 p.m., Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium. Continues daily through Dec. 30. Over a million lights, largerthan-life holiday scenes, including Mistletoe Marina, Jinglebell Junction Farm, Symphony of Illumination and a Winter Wonderland Carnival complete with a Ferris wheel and other rides and attractions. Holiday Village with shops and food trucks, special performances nightly. Some activities have additional cost. $15-$25 general admission. mdholidaylights.com.

Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship:

3-8 p.m., Downtown Frederick, Frederick. This special open house celebrates Frederick’s stunning architecture, local history and the holiday season. This is Frederick’s most popular church tour and is a great opportunity to step inside some of its most beautiful buildings.As the sun begins to set, visitors can tour many of Frederick’s famous clustered spires and other historic houses of worship by candlelight. Guests will be welcomed with special programs, angelic choirs, and nativity scenes. Stop by the Information Center at 19 E. Church St. to pick up a printed map of participating sites and other information about Frederick including dining, shopping, and lodging guides. Jake Wynn, jwynn@fredco-md.net, 301-600-4023. www. visitfrederick.org/events/annual-events/historic-houses-of-worship-tour.

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye in “White Christmas.” Screened at The Capitol Theatre, 159 S. Main St., Chambersburg on Dec. 23.