Harford County, Maryland, November 28, 2025
Harford County is preparing for a vibrant holiday season featuring various festive events, including tree lightings, parades, and family-friendly festivals. From ‘Harford Holidays’ at Ripken Stadium to the Bel Air Christmas Parade, these celebrations underscore community involvement and local pride. Residents can enjoy a range of activities that highlight the spirit of collaboration and joy during this festive time, allowing families to connect and celebrate together.
Harford County Celebrates the 2025 Holiday Season with Festive Events
Join the Fun with Tree Lightings, Parades, and More
Harford County, Maryland, is gearing up for an exciting holiday season in 2025, featuring a variety of community events that promise to bring joy and cheer to residents and visitors alike. Local organizers have shown remarkable resilience and creativity in curating these celebrations, which include tree lightings, parades, and festive festivals. As these events flourish, they exemplify how community-led initiatives can thrive with minimal bureaucratic oversight, encouraging public participation and enhancing local pride.
This holiday season, many events reflect a spirit of collaboration among local businesses, civic groups, and the community at large. Each event not only serves as an opportunity to celebrate but also highlights the power of community involvement. By supporting local initiatives, residents can play a vital role in fostering a vibrant and resilient culture in Harford County.
Harford Holidays at Ripken Stadium
From December 4 to December 6, Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen will host “Harford Holidays,” transforming the ballpark into a winter wonderland. The event features dazzling light displays, s’mores-making stations, sleigh rides, Santa’s workshop, and a vendor village. Activities run from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM each day, with tickets starting at $10. This event encapsulates the holiday spirit while promoting family-friendly activities for all ages.
Bel Air Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
On December 7, Bel Air will hold its 35th Annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Celebration. The parade begins at 3:30 PM and showcases local high school bands, floats, performers, and costumed characters. Following the parade, community members will gather for the tree lighting ceremony, marking a cherished tradition in Bel Air. This free event encourages community engagement and provides a wonderful opportunity for residents to come together in celebration.
Winter Wonderland in Bel Air
From November 29, 2025, to January 3, 2026, downtown Bel Air will be illuminated with thousands of warm white lights on Main Street, encompassing the Bel Air Armory, Harford County Courthouse, and Bel Air Town Hall. On select Saturdays—November 29, December 6, and December 13—from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, visitors can enjoy live musical performances, horse-drawn carriage rides, and visits with Santa. Main Street will close on December 6 for Winter Wonderland festivities, further enhancing the charm of Bel Air’s holiday celebrations.
Havre de Grace Holly Jolly Parade and Tree Lighting
Havre de Grace will kick off the holiday season with its Holly Jolly Parade and Tree Lighting on December 5. The parade starts at 6:00 PM, proceeding from Union Avenue at St. John Street to Washington Street, concluding at Congress Avenue. Following the parade, Santa Claus will assist Mayor Martin in lighting the tree at the corner of Washington, St. John, and Green Streets. This gathering is a heartwarming way for families to connect and celebrate the joy of the season.
Mistletoe Mayhem Happy Hour & Toy Drive
On December 2, the Harford County Chamber of Commerce will host the Mistletoe Mayhem Happy Hour & Toy Drive at the Fallston Barrel House from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This festive evening includes an ugly sweater contest, a free appetizer buffet, live music, and a $500 door prize giveaway. Attendees are encouraged to donate a new, unwrapped toy for local families in need, showcasing the spirit of giving during the holiday season.
Yuletide in Harford: Holiday Experience
The Hays House Museum in Bel Air will offer a special holiday experience on November 29 and December 27 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The event consists of holiday crafts, games, music, and photo opportunities for all ages. Tickets are priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children, making it an accessible event for families to enjoy quality time together while celebrating the season.
Conclusion
Harford County is poised for a holiday season filled with community spirit and joyous celebrations. Events ranging from the stunning displays at Ripken Stadium to the cherished traditions in Bel Air provide wonderful opportunities for residents to engage with their community. It’s a time to rally around local initiatives, support businesses, and celebrate together as a vibrant community. So, bundle up, attend these events, and partake in the spirit of the season in Harford County!
FAQ
What are the main holiday events in Harford County for 2025?
The main events include Harford Holidays at Ripken Stadium, Bel Air Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting, Winter Wonderland in Bel Air, Havre de Grace Holly Jolly Parade and Tree Lighting, Mistletoe Mayhem Happy Hour & Toy Drive, and Yuletide in Harford: Holiday Experience.
When and where is Harford Holidays taking place?
Harford Holidays will take place from December 4 to December 6 at Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen.
Is there a cost for attending the events?
Most events, like the Harford Holidays, have ticket prices starting at $10, while others, such as the Bel Air Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting, are free.
How can I participate in the Mistletoe Mayhem Happy Hour & Toy Drive?
To participate, attend the event on December 2 at Fallston Barrel House from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and bring a new, unwrapped toy for donation.
What ages are suitable for the Yuletide in Harford event?
The Yuletide in Harford: Holiday Experience is designed for all ages, offering holiday crafts, games, and photo opportunities.
| Event | Date | Location | Highlights | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harford Holidays | Dec 4 – Dec 6 | Ripken Stadium, Aberdeen | Light displays, sleigh rides, s’mores | Starts at $10 |
| Bel Air Christmas Parade | Dec 7 | Bel Air | Parade, tree lighting ceremony | Free |
| Winter Wonderland | Nov 29 – Jan 3 | Downtown Bel Air | Live music, carriage rides | Free |
| Holly Jolly Parade | Dec 5 | Havre de Grace | Parade, tree lighting | Free |
| Mistletoe Mayhem | Dec 2 | Fallston Barrel House | Ugly sweater contest, music | Free with toy donation |
| Yuletide in Harford | Nov 29, Dec 27 | Hays House Museum, Bel Air | Crafts, games, music | $20 for adults, $10 for children |
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