Discover Local Holiday Events in Annapolis and Surrounding Areas

The Annapolis area is bustling with a variety of events from December 7 to December 14, offering residents and visitors opportunities to engage with the community and celebrate the holiday season. These activities encompass everything from artistic productions to local markets, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Engaging Community Activities

On Sunday, December 7, St. Anne’s Episcopal Church will host the Advent Adult Forums, focusing on themes of motherhood and women in the New Testament. Dr. Jennifer McNeel, author of “Under Her Wings: Women and Motherhood in the New Testament,” will lead discussions from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

Later that day, the Holiday MarketPlace will take place at the Severna Park Community Center from noon to 4 p.m., offering a chance to shop for local holiday gifts. Additionally, the Odenton Heritage Society will hold an open house featuring a special display commemorating the anniversary of Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can enjoy wartime recipes and personal stories related to the historical event.

At 2 p.m., attendees can catch a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s classic, “Pride & Prejudice,” at the Compass Rose Theater in Annapolis. Tickets for the performance range from $25-$55.

The day concludes with the ENCORE Creativity Holiday Concert at South River High School, featuring both traditional and contemporary holiday songs from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are priced at $30.

Support and Learning Opportunities

On Tuesday, December 9, the community can participate in a Poinsettia & Holiday Sale at Tawes Garden from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can explore fresh arrangements and greenery while enjoying local food options.

For those interested in mental health support, the Chesapeake Life Center will offer a support group, “Navigating Grief,” from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. This monthly gathering welcomes anyone coping with the loss of a loved one, providing a safe space for sharing and healing. Registration is required via phone or email, and the session is free.

The week continues with various activities, including a holiday-themed art salon and a square dance lesson on December 10. The Annapolis Watercolor Club will host a meeting and holiday party at Seelos Hall from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., while square dance lessons will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Glen Burnie Improvement Association.

Festive Celebrations and Performances

The excitement builds as Christmas in St. Michaels kicks off from December 11 to December 14. This festive celebration features a gingerbread house contest, parades, and a tour of historic homes. The Talbot Street Parade is set for Saturday at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Lighted Boat Parade at 6 p.m.

On December 12, the Almost 7:30 Democratic Breakfast Club will welcome author Thomas Guay, who will discuss his book, “Chesapeake Bound: An Annapolis Novel.” The event starts at 7:30 a.m. at the Eastport Democratic Club for a nominal fee of $5.

The weekend culminates with the performances of “The Nutcracker” by the Ballet Theatre of Maryland, taking place on December 13 at 7 p.m. and continuing with shows on December 14 at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. This world premiere promises to weave local historical narratives into the classic story, with tickets ranging from $47-$72.

For music lovers, the Naptown Philharmonic Orchestra will debut their holiday concert, “Songs of the Season,” on December 14 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Eastport United Methodist Church. Tickets cost between $0-$10.

As the holiday season progresses, these events highlight the vibrant community spirit in Annapolis and its surroundings, providing ample opportunities for residents and visitors alike to celebrate together.