Things to Do During Christmas, New Year 2026

 Christmastime offers an ideal opportunity to build priceless memories with loved ones at home and on the go. Spending the holiday at home can include baking treats, cooking, playing games, listening to festive music, decorating Christmas trees, catching up with family and friends, attending church services, taking road trips, or having a little fun. You may find a festive event or two on this list to add to your holiday calendar. Check websites for details and updates. 

B&O Railroad Museum

December 27 & 29, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

901 West Pratt St., Baltimore, Maryland 21223

Climb aboard for some holiday magic and ride the rails where history began. The Reindeer Railway will trot down the B & O’s tracks at 7 p.m. on December 27 and 29, 2025, and December 31 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Children in attendance will even receive light-up antlers. All will receive a sweet treat. During Night In The North Pole at the B&O Railroad Museum, come see the Roundhouse in all its winter wonder and enjoy crafts for children. The Candy Cane Café will serve food and holiday drinks, and the S’mores Corner will be in full effect with the fire pits ablaze. Visit https://www.borail.org/events/night-in-the-north-pole to read more information.

 Christmas at Gaylord National

November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026

201 Waterfront Street National Harbor, Maryland 20745

Experience “So Much Christmas” with dazzling displays, tempting treats, holiday shows, colossal ice sculptures and festive activities throughout the resort. ICE! featuring The Polar Express™ is the Gaylord Nationals’ signature attraction. Visitors can ice tube. Come watch Cirque: Spirit of Christmas, a spectacular holiday show featuring world-class acrobatics, awe-inspiring stunts, and dazzling production, set against the backdrop of 19 stories of atrium glass. Visit https://www.christmasatgaylordnational.com/ to obtain more information.

 Festival of Lights

Friday, November 28, 2025 – Thursday, January 1, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Watkins Regional Park 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Bring the family to experience dazzling scenes that celebrate the magic of the holiday season at the annual Festival of Lights from your car. Tickets can be ordered online. Contact 301-218-6700/wsoinfo@pgparks.com to obtain more information. Visit https://www.pgparks.com/event_list/festival-of-lights-2 to learn more about the Festival of Lights.