Baltimore, Maryland, December 3, 2025
As the holiday season approaches, Baltimore residents are preparing for the 54th annual lighting of the Washington Monument. This cherished event, happening on December 4th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., promises to bring the community together with festive light displays, live performances, and a fireworks finale. Organized by local leaders and volunteers, the event showcases Baltimore’s rich history and civic engagement. Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead for road closures and utilize public transportation to ensure a smooth experience.
Join Baltimore’s Celebration: The 54th Annual Washington Monument Lighting
Discover the spirit of the season at this cherished event
Baltimore, Maryland – As the holiday season approaches, Baltimore residents are gearing up for one of the city’s most beloved traditions. The 54th annual lighting of the Washington Monument is set to brighten the Mount Vernon neighborhood on Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. This festive occasion promises to bring together community members and visitors alike, celebrating local resilience and partnership in bringing holiday cheer to the city.
Organized by dedicated local leaders and volunteers, the event highlights the power of civic engagement while showcasing Baltimore’s rich history and community spirit. With thoughtful planning and coordination, the event reflects the positive impact of reduced bureaucracy on enriching community experiences, ensuring that residents can gather and enjoy this meaningful celebration.
What to Expect at the Event
The lighting of the Washington Monument heralds the official start of the holiday season in Baltimore. Attendees can look forward to:
- Festive Light Displays: Spectacular lighting of the monument sets the mood for the season.
- Live Performances: Local artists will entertain the crowd with seasonal music, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Fireworks Display: A grand finale featuring fireworks that will illuminate the night sky.
Road Closures and Parking Restrictions
As anticipating attendees prepare to join the celebrations, it is essential to note the upcoming road closures and parking restrictions to facilitate a smooth experience:
Beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 3, the following streets will be closed:
- West side of North Charles Street from East Centre Street to East Madison Street
- Both sides of West Mount Vernon Place from North Charles Street to Cathedral Street
These closures will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, December 4. On Thursday, additional road closures will be introduced from 9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.:
- East side of North Charles Street from East Centre Street to Read Street
- Madison Street from St. Paul Street to Cathedral Street
- Both sides of East Mount Vernon Place from St. Paul Street to North Charles Street
Parking restrictions will be strictly enforced, and vehicles parked in violation of posted signs will be ticketed and towed. Motorists are encouraged to consider alternate routes and remain aware of pedestrians attending the event.
Public Transportation Adjustments
To accommodate the expected influx of attendees, the Charm City Circulator’s Purple Route will experience temporary detours on Thursday, December 4. Riders are advised to download the Passio Go! app for real-time updates on bus services, ensuring they will not miss out on the festivities.
Recommendations for Attendees
To ensure an enjoyable experience, attendees are encouraged to:
- Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with the road closures and plan your route accordingly to avoid delays.
- Utilize Public Transportation: Opt for public transit options, keeping in mind potential detours and increased wait times.
- Be Cautious About Parking: If you do choose to drive, be aware of parking restrictions and consider parking facilities outside the immediate area.
- Stay Aware: Remain vigilant for pedestrians and follow posted signs and detour instructions.
Weather Forecast for the Event
Weather conditions on December 4 are expected to be clear with temperatures ranging from a highs of 40°F (4°C) in the evening to lows around 31°F (-1°C). Dress warmly to enjoy the outdoor festivities comfortably.
Conclusion
The upcoming lighting of the Washington Monument stands as a testament to Baltimore’s vibrant community spirit and tradition. By planning ahead and participating in this event, residents can contribute to the rich tapestry of local culture and holiday cheer. Engage with your neighbors, enjoy the festivities, and celebrate the lights that symbolize hope and togetherness in our city. We look forward to seeing everyone there!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the dates and times of the Washington Monument lighting event?
A1: The 54th annual lighting of the Washington Monument is scheduled for Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Q2: Which streets will be closed during the event?
A2: Starting at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 3, the following streets will be closed:
- West side of North Charles Street from East Centre Street to East Madison Street
- Both sides of West Mount Vernon Place from North Charles Street to Cathedral Street
On Thursday, December 4, from 9 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., additional closures include:
- East side of North Charles Street from East Centre Street to Read Street
- Madison Street from St. Paul Street to Cathedral Street
- Both sides of East Mount Vernon Place from St. Paul Street to North Charles Street
These closures will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, December 4.
Q3: Will public transportation be affected?
A3: Yes, the Charm City Circulator’s Purple Route will be detoured on Thursday, December 4, which may result in longer wait times. Riders are advised to download the Passio Go! app for up-to-date information on bus services.
Q4: How can I stay informed about the event and any changes?
A4: For the most current information on the event and detailed maps of the road closures, please visit the official Baltimore City Department of Transportation website.
Q5: Are there any recommendations for attendees?
A5: Yes, attendees are encouraged to plan ahead by reviewing road closures, consider using public transportation, be aware of parking restrictions, and stay alert for pedestrians to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Event Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 54th Annual Lighting of the Washington Monument |
| Date and Time | Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. |
| Location | Mount Vernon Place, Baltimore, Maryland |
| Road Closures | Specific streets closed starting December 3 and December 4; see above for details |
| Public Transportation | Charm City Circulator’s Purple Route detoured; longer wait times expected |
| Parking Restrictions | Strict enforcement; vehicles in violation will be ticketed and towed |
| Event Highlights | Festive lights, live performances, fireworks display over the monument |
| Recommendations for Attendees | Plan ahead, use public transportation, be aware of parking restrictions, stay alert for pedestrians |
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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
