The Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Conference and Visitors Bureau (AAACCVB) wants to make it easy for individuals to enjoy the many exciting events and activities that will be taking place in Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay throughout December 2015. To assist individuals who are making advance plans for business or vacation travel, the AAACCVB has put together a December 2015 Major Events Calendar. For a more comprehensive overview of events large and small, visitVisitAnnapolis.org.
Lights on the BayDecember 1 to January 1
5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. nightly, weather permitting
$14/car; $50/bus
Sandy Point State Park, 1100 East College Parkway, Annapolis
www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/sandypoint.asp
Don't miss this spectacular drive-through holiday lights show beside the Chesapeake Bay. The event features more than 60 animated and stationary displays, including traditional Maryland-themed favorites, holiday and children’s displays. Proceeds benefit Anne Arundel Medical Center.
5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. nightly, weather permitting
$14/car; $50/bus
Sandy Point State Park, 1100 East College Parkway, Annapolis
www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/sandypoint.asp
Don't miss this spectacular drive-through holiday lights show beside the Chesapeake Bay. The event features more than 60 animated and stationary displays, including traditional Maryland-themed favorites, holiday and children’s displays. Proceeds benefit Anne Arundel Medical Center.
Midnight Madness Holiday Shopping Thursdays, December 3 & 10
6:00 p.m. to midnight
Downtown Annapolis
Admission: Free
6:00 p.m. to midnight
Downtown Annapolis
Admission: Free
Lights, garland, action! Historic Annapolis shops throw open their doors in a glorified block party that is open to all. Enjoy musical performances as well as food and refreshments at many stores as you stroll along Main Street, Maryland Avenue, inner West Street, and State Circle in search of that perfect gift. Explore the uniqueness that makes downtown Annapolis so appealing at this magical time of year. Sponsored by Annapolis Partnership.
U.S. Navy Sea Chanters Holiday Concert Friday, December 4
Doors: 7:30 p.m.; Show: 8:00 p.m.
Chesapeake Arts Center, 194 Hammonds Lane, Brooklyn Park
Admission: Free
www.Chesapeakearts.org410-636-6597
The Sea Chanters is the U.S. Navy’s official chorus. The ensemble performs a variety of music ranging from traditional choral music, including sea chanteys and patriotic fare, opera, Broadway and contemporary music. The Sea Chanters chorus is often found at the center of important U.S. events.
Doors: 7:30 p.m.; Show: 8:00 p.m.
Chesapeake Arts Center, 194 Hammonds Lane, Brooklyn Park
Admission: Free
www.Chesapeakearts.org410-636-6597
The Sea Chanters is the U.S. Navy’s official chorus. The ensemble performs a variety of music ranging from traditional choral music, including sea chanteys and patriotic fare, opera, Broadway and contemporary music. The Sea Chanters chorus is often found at the center of important U.S. events.
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play by Joe LandryFridays-Sundays, December 4 to January 3
Fridays, 8:00 p.m.; Saturdays, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; Sundays, 3:00 p.m. No performances on 12/25
Annapolis Shakespeare Company, Studio 111, Suite 114, 111 Chinquapin Round Road, Annapolis
Admission: $25 to $55
http://annapolisshakespeare.org/410-415-3513
This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve.
Fridays, 8:00 p.m.; Saturdays, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; Sundays, 3:00 p.m. No performances on 12/25
Annapolis Shakespeare Company, Studio 111, Suite 114, 111 Chinquapin Round Road, Annapolis
Admission: $25 to $55
http://annapolisshakespeare.org/410-415-3513
This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve.
Illuminated London TownFridays, December 4, 11, 18
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Historic London Town and Gardens, 839 Londontown Road, Edgewater
Admission: $10 for adults; $9 for seniors; $5 for children 7 and over
www.historiclondontown.org410-222-1919
Enjoy the beauty of Historic London Town’s gardens illuminated with lights for the holidays. Fire pits will be scattered throughout the site for s’mores, and other activities will make the evenings enjoyable for the entire family.
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Historic London Town and Gardens, 839 Londontown Road, Edgewater
Admission: $10 for adults; $9 for seniors; $5 for children 7 and over
www.historiclondontown.org410-222-1919
Enjoy the beauty of Historic London Town’s gardens illuminated with lights for the holidays. Fire pits will be scattered throughout the site for s’mores, and other activities will make the evenings enjoyable for the entire family.
Holiday Candlelight Stroll Fridays and Saturdays, December 4-5, 11, 18-19
7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Admission: $20/adult; $12/children under 12
Tours depart from the Information Booth at City Dock, Annapolis
www.watermarkjourney.com
410-268-7601
Learn about the origin of holiday traditions – including the significance of evergreens, Yule logs, Christmas trees and Santa Claus. The stroll along festive Annapolis streets is a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Admission: $20/adult; $12/children under 12
Tours depart from the Information Booth at City Dock, Annapolis
www.watermarkjourney.com
410-268-7601
Learn about the origin of holiday traditions – including the significance of evergreens, Yule logs, Christmas trees and Santa Claus. The stroll along festive Annapolis streets is a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
BrigadoonFriday, December 4 to Sunday, December 20
Fridays, 8:00 p.m.; Saturdays, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; Sundays, 2:00 p.m.
Compass Rose Theater, 49 Spa Road, Annapolis
Admission: Adults, $38; Military and Senior, $33; Students and children: $23
http://www.compassrosetheater.org/shows/
410-980-6662
A place of wonderment and adventure, the town of Brigadoon emerges from the mists of Scotland just once a century. The musical love story beguiles the audience as it leads two American travelers into the world of long ago. The outstanding score by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe that thrilled Broadway audiences long ago now graces the Compass Rose stage.
Fridays, 8:00 p.m.; Saturdays, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; Sundays, 2:00 p.m.
Compass Rose Theater, 49 Spa Road, Annapolis
Admission: Adults, $38; Military and Senior, $33; Students and children: $23
http://www.compassrosetheater.org/shows/
410-980-6662
A place of wonderment and adventure, the town of Brigadoon emerges from the mists of Scotland just once a century. The musical love story beguiles the audience as it leads two American travelers into the world of long ago. The outstanding score by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe that thrilled Broadway audiences long ago now graces the Compass Rose stage.
Jolly Express CruiseFridays, Saturdays* & Sundays in December, Plus Thursdays, December 24 & 31
*No Cruises Saturday, December 12th due to Parade of Lights
Admission: $23, adults; $13, children under 12
www.cruisesonthebay.com410-268-7600
Enjoy a 45-minute, holiday-inspired, “sleigh ride” cruise aboard the reindeer-bedeckedMiss Anne. Cruise includes holiday music, hot cocoa, and Captain Santa at the helm.
*No Cruises Saturday, December 12th due to Parade of Lights
Admission: $23, adults; $13, children under 12
www.cruisesonthebay.com410-268-7600
Enjoy a 45-minute, holiday-inspired, “sleigh ride” cruise aboard the reindeer-bedeckedMiss Anne. Cruise includes holiday music, hot cocoa, and Captain Santa at the helm.
Transparency w/MessengerSaturday, December 5
8:00 p.m.
Chesapeake Arts Center, Studio 194 Theatre, 194 Hammonds Lane, Brooklyn Park
Admission: $10
www.Chesapeakearts.org410-636-6597
The Transparency Band performs contemporary Christian music with a blend of harmonies and several members singing the lead at any given time. Messenger is a four-piece Hard Rock band with a strong message. Their sound arises from Hard Rock, Heavy Metal and Progressive Rock. Come prepared to enjoy a dynamic show with good music and loud guitars.
8:00 p.m.
Chesapeake Arts Center, Studio 194 Theatre, 194 Hammonds Lane, Brooklyn Park
Admission: $10
www.Chesapeakearts.org410-636-6597
The Transparency Band performs contemporary Christian music with a blend of harmonies and several members singing the lead at any given time. Messenger is a four-piece Hard Rock band with a strong message. Their sound arises from Hard Rock, Heavy Metal and Progressive Rock. Come prepared to enjoy a dynamic show with good music and loud guitars.
State House Holiday ConcertSaturday, December 5
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Maryland State House, State Circle, Annapolis
http://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdstatehouse/html/home.html
Come and experience the beauty of Maryland’s historic State House as you enjoy the sounds of youth choruses and musicians by the glow of the State’s official Christmas tree.
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Maryland State House, State Circle, Annapolis
http://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdstatehouse/html/home.html
Come and experience the beauty of Maryland’s historic State House as you enjoy the sounds of youth choruses and musicians by the glow of the State’s official Christmas tree.
An A Cappella Holiday with the Capital Hearings Saturday, December 5
7:30 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
Admission: Non-member, $20; Member, $15; Child, $15
http://www.marylandhall.org/410-263-5544
7:30 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
Admission: Non-member, $20; Member, $15; Child, $15
http://www.marylandhall.org/410-263-5544
The Capital Hearings return to Maryland Hall with their signature holiday concert. They’ll be making spirits bright with a festive, family-friendly program of beloved carols, smooth vocal jazz and sparkling contemporary arrangements.
Messiah Concerts Saturday-Sunday, December 5-6
Saturday, 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, 3:00 p.m.
USNA Chapel, 108 Blake Road Annapolis, (off Maryland Avenue)
www.usna.edu/music410 293 8497
Continuing a long-standing tradition, the U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club joins with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra and soloists from the Metropolitan Opera Company to present selections from Handel’s beloved Messiah on Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon conducted by Dr. Aaron Smith, U.S.N.A. director of musical activities. This beautifully elegant concert has been broadcast on public television stations both regionally and nationwide.
Saturday, 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, 3:00 p.m.
USNA Chapel, 108 Blake Road Annapolis, (off Maryland Avenue)
www.usna.edu/music410 293 8497
Continuing a long-standing tradition, the U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club joins with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra and soloists from the Metropolitan Opera Company to present selections from Handel’s beloved Messiah on Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon conducted by Dr. Aaron Smith, U.S.N.A. director of musical activities. This beautifully elegant concert has been broadcast on public television stations both regionally and nationwide.
Ann Arrundell County Historical Society’s 29th Annual Holiday Open House Saturday and Sunday, December 5-6
Historic Benson-Hammond House, Aviation Blvd. and Andover Road, Linthicum
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
www.aachs.org410-987-0268
The Benson-Hammond House will be decorated in vintage style for the holidays. Share punch and cookies with old friends and new as you travel back in time to celebrate Christmas in the 1820’s farmhouse.
Historic Benson-Hammond House, Aviation Blvd. and Andover Road, Linthicum
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
www.aachs.org410-987-0268
The Benson-Hammond House will be decorated in vintage style for the holidays. Share punch and cookies with old friends and new as you travel back in time to celebrate Christmas in the 1820’s farmhouse.
ALS Artisan Boutique Sunday, December 6
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Crowne Plaza Annapolis, 173 Jennifer Road, Annapolis
Admission: Free
https://www.facebook.com/AlsArtisanBoutique
410-991-4959
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Crowne Plaza Annapolis, 173 Jennifer Road, Annapolis
Admission: Free
https://www.facebook.com/AlsArtisanBoutique
410-991-4959
More than 55 regional artists will be offering handcrafted jewelry, original children’s clothing and accessories, pottery, paintings and more at the 13th annual fundraiser for the ALS Association. The event will include door prizes, raffles, a silent auction, refreshments and an appearance by Lisa McCue, an illustrator of children’s books, including the Corduroy series. The ALS Association is the only national not-for-profit volunteer health organization whose sole mission is to find a cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).
A Celebration of ChristmasFriday, December 11
8:00 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
http://liveartsmaryland.org/410-263-1906
8:00 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
http://liveartsmaryland.org/410-263-1906
Join Live Arts Maryland for a Celebration of Christmas with the Annapolis Chorale and Annapolis Chamber Orchestra conducted by J. Ernest Green.
33rd Annual Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade Saturday, December 12
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Annapolis Harbor and Spa Creek
Admission: Free
www.eastportyc.orgParade hotline: 410-263-0415
Every year in December, magic happens on the waters of the Annapolis Harbor. Dozens of boats of all shapes and sizes illuminated with thousands of colored lights and crewed by jolly revelers suddenly appear in the cold wintry night. Families and friends gather at their favorite viewing spots along the waterfront to enjoy the yearly tradition. Sponsored by the Eastport Yacht Club.
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Annapolis Harbor and Spa Creek
Admission: Free
www.eastportyc.orgParade hotline: 410-263-0415
Every year in December, magic happens on the waters of the Annapolis Harbor. Dozens of boats of all shapes and sizes illuminated with thousands of colored lights and crewed by jolly revelers suddenly appear in the cold wintry night. Families and friends gather at their favorite viewing spots along the waterfront to enjoy the yearly tradition. Sponsored by the Eastport Yacht Club.
West Annapolis Holiday Magic Saturday Saturday, December 12
West Annapolis – Annapolis Street
http://westannapolisbusinessaffiliation.org/410-295-5157
West Annapolis – Annapolis Street
http://westannapolisbusinessaffiliation.org/410-295-5157
Don’t miss the family-friendly shopping event in West Annapolis. Take advantage of free parking. Sponsored by the West Annapolis Business Affiliation.
Annapolis Striders’ 37th Anniversary 15K RunSunday, December 13
Quiet Waters Park, 600 Quiet Waters Park Road, Annapolis
Registration: 8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.; Race: 10:00 a.m.
Admission: Free/members who have pre-paid for the Championship Series; $5/non-members; Race Day: $10/all runners, including Striders
www.annapolisstriders.org/2015/RaceSchedule.html
The eighth leg of the championship series is a double-loop course on paved trails at Quiet Waters Park. A few hills and a winding path through the woods make for an interesting run. Registration, refreshments and the finish line are located in or adjacent to the Blue Heron Room.
Quiet Waters Park, 600 Quiet Waters Park Road, Annapolis
Registration: 8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.; Race: 10:00 a.m.
Admission: Free/members who have pre-paid for the Championship Series; $5/non-members; Race Day: $10/all runners, including Striders
www.annapolisstriders.org/2015/RaceSchedule.html
The eighth leg of the championship series is a double-loop course on paved trails at Quiet Waters Park. A few hills and a winding path through the woods make for an interesting run. Registration, refreshments and the finish line are located in or adjacent to the Blue Heron Room.
Ballet Theatre of Maryland Presents “The Nutcracker” Saturdays and Sundays, December 12-13 and 19-20
Saturdays, 7:00 p.m.; Sundays, 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
www.balletmaryland.org
410-263-8289
Saturdays, 7:00 p.m.; Sundays, 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
www.balletmaryland.org
410-263-8289
We invite you to the most famous Christmas Party of all time – “The Nutcracker,” where the possibility of dreams, the magic of Christmas, and the wonder of children merge through young Clara’s adventures with mechanical dolls, life-size rats, and whirling Kingdoms of Snowflakes and Sweets. Help Clara rescue her beloved Nutcracker from the Rat Queen’s evil spell and discover her true destiny. This year, the audience will enjoy a brand new set in the Kingdom of Sweets as they experience Tchaikovsky’s musical score one more time. Join members of the Ballet Theatre of Maryland for a complimentary Sugar Plum Party one hour prior to each Sunday performance.
11th Hour DowntownThursday, December 17
6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Maryland Avenue/State Circle and Downtown Annapolis Shopping Districts
Just days until Christmas…and downtown merchants are ready to help you wrap up your shopping with gifts your family and friends will love! Need something for that hard-to-please brother? Shops along Maryland Avenue/State Circle and Main Street/City Dock are sure to have just the right gift. Enjoy musical performances as well as food and refreshments at many stores. Organized by the Annapolis Partnership.
6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Maryland Avenue/State Circle and Downtown Annapolis Shopping Districts
Just days until Christmas…and downtown merchants are ready to help you wrap up your shopping with gifts your family and friends will love! Need something for that hard-to-please brother? Shops along Maryland Avenue/State Circle and Main Street/City Dock are sure to have just the right gift. Enjoy musical performances as well as food and refreshments at many stores. Organized by the Annapolis Partnership.
Handel’s Messiah Friday-Sunday, December 18-20
Friday and Saturday, 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, 3:00 p.m.
St. Anne’s Church, 199 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis
Admission: Non-Member, $45; Member, $40; Student, $17
http://liveartsmaryland.org/http://marylandhall.org/handels-messiah
410-263-1906
The Annapolis Chorale Chamber Chorus, the Annapolis Chamber Orchestra and soloists return to historic St. Anne’s Church for Handel’s powerful and timely masterpiece. Nothing equals hearing this piece live, complete with its famous “Hallelujah” chorus. Four extraordinary soloists join us for this beautiful concert. Seating is limited, so get your tickets now.
Friday and Saturday, 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, 3:00 p.m.
St. Anne’s Church, 199 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis
Admission: Non-Member, $45; Member, $40; Student, $17
http://liveartsmaryland.org/http://marylandhall.org/handels-messiah
410-263-1906
The Annapolis Chorale Chamber Chorus, the Annapolis Chamber Orchestra and soloists return to historic St. Anne’s Church for Handel’s powerful and timely masterpiece. Nothing equals hearing this piece live, complete with its famous “Hallelujah” chorus. Four extraordinary soloists join us for this beautiful concert. Seating is limited, so get your tickets now.
2015 Military Bowl Monday, December 28
2:30 p.m. Kickoff
U.S. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, 550 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis
Admission: Tickets start at $25
Tickets: 888-841-2787
http://www.militarybowl.org/
The Military Bowl® presented by Northrop Grumman, benefiting the USO, will match a team from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) against an opponent from the American Athletic Conference (AAC). If they are not selected to participate in one of New Year’s six bowl games, Navy will represent the American Athletic Conference. For the sixth consecutive bowl season, the Military Bowl will provide at least $100,000 to the USO and complimentary tickets to troops and their families for the game.
2:30 p.m. Kickoff
U.S. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, 550 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis
Admission: Tickets start at $25
Tickets: 888-841-2787
http://www.militarybowl.org/
The Military Bowl® presented by Northrop Grumman, benefiting the USO, will match a team from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) against an opponent from the American Athletic Conference (AAC). If they are not selected to participate in one of New Year’s six bowl games, Navy will represent the American Athletic Conference. For the sixth consecutive bowl season, the Military Bowl will provide at least $100,000 to the USO and complimentary tickets to troops and their families for the game.
City of Annapolis New Year's Eve CelebrationThursday, December 31
Admission: Free
Susan Campbell Park, City Dock, Annapolis
www.annapolis.gov410-263-7997
Admission: Free
Susan Campbell Park, City Dock, Annapolis
www.annapolis.gov410-263-7997
Family activities fill the day and dancing fills the night. Traditionally, a first round of fireworks begins at 7:30 p.m. and the evening concludes with midnight fireworks.
The AAACCVB is a nonprofit, membership-based destination marketing organization that generates revenues for the local economy by promoting Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay to leisure and business travelers across the country and around the world.
