Annapolis, November 27, 2025
The annual Grand Illumination event in Annapolis marks the start of the holiday season, featuring a 20-foot Fraser fir Christmas tree and various festive activities. Scheduled for November 30, the event includes performances, Santa’s arrival via fire truck, and free entertainment for families. Additionally, Annapolis offers many other seasonal festivities, ensuring a cheerful holiday atmosphere in the community.
7 Things to Do in Annapolis: Christmas Tree Lighting Kicks Off Holiday Fun
ANNAPOLIS, MD – The holiday season in Annapolis is set to begin with the annual Grand Illumination on Sunday, November 30, 2025. This cherished event will feature a live 20-foot Fraser fir Christmas tree, adorned with festive decorations, and is free and open to the public. Festivities will commence at 3:00 p.m. near the Market House, with the tree lighting ceremony scheduled for 5:15 p.m., led by Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Elfie, who will arrive on a fire truck.
Event Schedule
- 3:10–3:40 p.m. – Annapolis Symphony Academy Aquarius Wind Ensemble performs a selection of holiday orchestral music.
- 3:45–3:55 p.m. – Edge Dance Complex Company Performance.
- 4:00–4:30 p.m. – Naptown Sings & Plays Performance.
- 4:00–4:30 p.m. – Storytime, cookies, hot chocolate, and nutcrackers for kids inside Zachary’s Jewelers.
- 4:30–4:50 p.m. – Chesapeake Ballet Performance (outside Zachary’s).
- 4:50–5:15 p.m. – The Talent Machine Company Performance.
- 5:15 p.m. – Remarks by guests followed by Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Elfie arriving to light the tree.
Additional Holiday Events in Annapolis
Beyond the Grand Illumination, Annapolis offers a variety of holiday activities for residents and visitors alike. Here are some notable events to consider:
18th Annual Tree Lighting at Annapolis Town Center
Date: November 20, 2025
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Annapolis Town Center, 1906 Towne Centre Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401
Details: Enjoy dinner at local restaurants, a performance by the Greater Annapolis Ballet, holiday tunes from a DJ, and giveaways for children. Santa is scheduled to arrive to light the tree at approximately 7:00 p.m.
The Magic of Merryland – Tree Lighting
Date: November 22, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Harbor East, Aliceanna Street 800, Baltimore, MD 21202
Details: Features music, holiday treats, and festive fun for the entire family, including pet photos with Santa, Merryland Express rides, carolers, carnival games, crafts, caricature and balloon artists, a complimentary hot chocolate and mug giveaway, and the Magic of Merryland Tree Lighting at 5:30 p.m.
Glen Burnie Town Center Tree Lighting
Date: December 3, 2025
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Glen Burnie Town Center, 101 Crain Hwy N, Glen Burnie, MD
Details: A free, family-friendly event to kick off the holiday season.
Santa Speedo Run
Date: December 13, 2025
Location: Downtown Annapolis
Details: A festive run where participants dress in holiday attire to collect toys for less fortunate children. Whether you run or cheer, it’s pure Annapolis holiday energy.
Midnight Madness
Dates: December 4, 11, and 18, 2025
Location: Historic downtown Annapolis
Details: Experience late-night holiday shopping with twinkle lights, carolers, pet alpacas, and special deals as shops stay open late. Grab a hot cocoa, browse local boutiques, and enjoy festive bites at nearby restaurants.
Annapolis Gingerbread Houses
Dates: November 22 – December 19, 2025
Location: Visitor’s Center on West Street, Annapolis, MD
Details: Downtown Annapolis transforms into a sugary wonderland with gingerbread houses crafted by families, bakers, and chefs. It’s free to explore and makes for magical holiday photos. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite gingerbread house when you visit.
Annapolis Chocolate Binge Festival
Date: December 7, 2025
Location: Annapolis, MD
Details: Sample truffles, fudge, and cocoa creations from local artisans while enjoying live music and the annual Grand Illumination tree lighting at City Dock.
Background
These events reflect Annapolis’s rich tradition of celebrating the holiday season with community-focused activities. From tree lighting ceremonies to festive runs and shopping events, the city offers a variety of experiences to create lasting memories with family and friends.
FAQs
What is the Grand Illumination in Annapolis?
The Grand Illumination is the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in downtown Annapolis, marking the official start of the holiday season. It features a live 20-foot Fraser fir tree, festive decorations, and free family-friendly entertainment.
When is the Grand Illumination event?
The Grand Illumination is scheduled for Sunday, November 30, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., with the tree lighting ceremony at 5:15 p.m.
Where is the Grand Illumination held?
The event takes place near the Market House in downtown Annapolis, MD.
Is there a cost to attend the Grand Illumination?
No, the Grand Illumination is free and open to the public.
What other holiday events are happening in Annapolis?
Other events include the 18th Annual Tree Lighting at Annapolis Town Center on November 20, 2025, The Magic of Merryland – Tree Lighting on November 22, 2025, and the Glen Burnie Town Center Tree Lighting on December 3, 2025.
Key Features
| Event | Date | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Illumination | November 30, 2025 | Downtown Annapolis, near the Market House | Annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony with free family-friendly entertainment. |
| 18th Annual Tree Lighting at Annapolis Town Center | November 20, 2025 | Annapolis Town Center, 1906 Towne Centre Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401 | Includes dinner, a ballet performance, holiday music, and Santa lighting the tree at 7:00 p.m. |
| The Magic of Merryland – Tree Lighting | November 22, 2025 | Harbor East, Aliceanna Street 800, Baltimore, MD 21202 | Features music, holiday treats, pet photos with Santa, and the tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. |
| Glen Burnie Town Center Tree Lighting | December 3, 2025 | Glen Burnie Town Center, 101 Crain Hwy N, Glen Burnie, MD | Free, family-friendly event to kick off the holiday season. |
| Santa Speedo Run | December 13, 2025 | Downtown Annapolis | Festive run where participants dress in holiday attire to collect toys for less fortunate children. |
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