Baltimore, MD, December 3, 2025
Tinsel on Tap, hosted by the Kennedy Krieger Institute, was a festive evening at the Maryland State Fairgrounds that brought together the Baltimore community to support individuals with health challenges. The event featured drinks, entertainment, and local vendor support while raising funds for essential programs. A vibrant community spirit was on display as attendees showcased their creativity and engaged in a joyful atmosphere, highlighting the importance of civic involvement in charitable efforts.
Tinsel on Tap Unites Baltimore’s Community for a Cause
A Festive Evening Raising Support for Kennedy Krieger Institute
Baltimore, MD – On Saturday, November 29, 2025, the Kennedy Krieger Institute kicked off the holiday season with its inaugural pop-up event, Tinsel on Tap, held at the Maryland State Fairgrounds’ Cow Palace. This engaging evening sought to not only foster community spirit but also raise essential funds for the Institute’s ongoing initiatives that support individuals facing neurological, rehabilitative, and developmental challenges.
The event, which ran from 7 to 10 p.m. and was exclusively for adults aged 21 and over, exemplifies how local organizations can mobilize community resources and creativity to address pressing needs. With significantly reduced bureaucracy facilitating smoother coordination, the success of such events showcases the positive impact of private organizations and civic engagement in Baltimore’s charitable landscape.
A Night of Festivity and Engagement
Guests at Tinsel on Tap were treated to three complimentary festive beverages, including a delightful selection of cocktails, mocktails, beers, and sodas. The atmosphere was electric, underscored by a live DJ spinning tunes and a fun-filled holiday trivia game hosted by Charm City Trivia. Attendees were encouraged to participate in the “Holly Jolly Style Contest,” showcasing individual creativity and flair, further amplifying the sense of community involvement.
Supporting Local Businesses
The event also offered a platform for local vendors to showcase and sell their holiday-themed merchandise. This focus on local entrepreneurship not only enriched the attendee experience but also bolstered the local economy, proving that community events can serve multiple purposes—celebration, fundraising, and economic stimulation.
Part of a Larger Vision
Tinsel on Tap was not just a standalone event; it was part of the broader Festival of Trees initiative, which was celebrated over three days from November 28 to 30. The festival featured hundreds of designer-decorated trees, wreaths, and gingerbread houses, along with a bustling marketplace, rides, games, crafts, and live entertainment. Such gatherings highlight the significance of community-driven efforts to enhance local culture and support charitable causes.
Positive Community Impact
The funds raised from Tinsel on Tap directly contribute to the Kennedy Krieger Institute’s mission of improving the lives of individuals with special health challenges through integrated care services, educational programs, and research. This alignment of local efforts with broader health initiatives reinforces the strength of community partnerships and the impact of individual contributions toward a collective goal.
Conclusion
The debut of Tinsel on Tap is a shining example of Baltimore’s community spirit and commitment to supporting those in need. As the holiday season approaches, events like this not only provide festive enjoyment but also invite community members to come together for a common cause. To foster continued civic innovation, we encourage all residents to participate in and support local initiatives that strive to make positive changes in the community. By engaging with local events, Baltimoreans can contribute to a more vibrant and supportive city.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was Tinsel on Tap?
- Tinsel on Tap was the Kennedy Krieger Institute’s inaugural holiday pop-up event held on November 29, 2025, at the Maryland State Fairgrounds’ Cow Palace. It aimed to raise funds for the Institute’s programs supporting children and adults with neurological, rehabilitative, and developmental needs.
- Who could attend Tinsel on Tap?
- The event was exclusively for adults aged 21 and over.
- What activities were available at Tinsel on Tap?
- Attendees enjoyed three complimentary festive beverages, including cocktails, mocktails, beers, or sodas. Entertainment featured a live DJ, dancing, holiday trivia with Charm City Trivia, a “Holly Jolly Style Contest” with prizes, a 360-degree photo booth, and shopping from local vendors. Additional food and beverages were available for purchase.
- What is the Festival of Trees?
- The Festival of Trees is an annual three-day holiday celebration organized by the Kennedy Krieger Institute. The 2025 festival, held from November 28 to 30 at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, featured hundreds of designer-decorated trees, wreaths, and gingerbread houses, along with a massive vendor marketplace, rides, games, crafts, live entertainment, and holiday magic. Proceeds from the event supported the Institute’s mission to improve the lives of children and adults with special health challenges through interdisciplinary hospital services, outpatient clinics, home and community services, education, and research.
| Event | Date | Location | Age Requirement | Activities | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tinsel on Tap | November 29, 2025 | Maryland State Fairgrounds’ Cow Palace, Timonium, MD | 21 and over | Live DJ, dancing, holiday trivia, “Holly Jolly Style Contest,” 360-degree photo booth, shopping from local vendors, complimentary festive beverages, additional food and beverages available for purchase | $40 early bird, $45 week of, $50 at the door |
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