Christmas Events for Kids in Maryland (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

16 min read

Maryland has 17 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE! in National Harbor on November 14 to Decorate a Gingerbread House! in Rockville, on December 28. 11 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in every state.

The short version

  • 17 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Maryland for 2026, in Baltimore and Washington
  • First: Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE!, National Harbor, November 14. Runs latest: Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE!, National Harbor, through January 3
  • Free: STEM Explorers: Create Your Own Gingerbread House, Towson University Community Dance Presents The Nutcracker Suite, Hanukkah Snowflakes, Holiday Open House, Kids Holiday Craft: Watercolor Winter Hat, Let's Make: Cardboard Gingerbread Houses, Movie: Elf (PG) and Hot Cocoa Bar, Evening Story Time: Holiday Story Time, Winter Celebration Family Storytime, Movie & Craft: The Grinch (2018) and Decorate a Gingerbread House!
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Watercolor illustration: Rally the corgi stands on a red train seat looking out at falling snow, a lit Christmas tree and a white dove. Text: Choo choo! The train starting could be heard. Hello cute white bird!
Rally watching the snow and a lit Christmas tree, from the pages of Rally Takes the Train.

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Maryland Christmas train rides page.

Maryland Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
17 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Baltimore and Washington
Season
November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027
Free events
11
Kinds of events
holiday crafts, story time with Mrs. Claus, holiday story time and holiday show
Last checked

City guides in Maryland

Plan your December

When each Maryland Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE! in National Harbor on November 14; the last runs to December 28. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Maryland? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Baltimore

12 confirmed events for kids in Baltimore, including nearby Dundalk, Perry Hall, Pikesville, Towson and White Marsh, soonest first.

Baltimore: Meet Santa! at Christmas Village in Baltimore

Santa visitChristmas Village in Baltimore · Baltimore

Host
Christmas Village in Baltimore (opens in a new tab)
Where
Christmas Village in Baltimore, West Shore Park at the Inner Harbor, 501 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21202
When
Fri November 27, Sat November 28 and Sun November 29, 2026
Cost
Market entry and photo prices not stated
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Christmas Village in Baltimore lists Meet Santa holiday photo days on Thanksgiving weekend, November 27, 28 and 29. The village also says Santa photos are available at the Baltimore Visitor Center throughout the season, with walk ins welcome but advance booking recommended. A Black Santa is available on select dates, and leashed, well behaved pets can join the photo.

Other kid friendly extras that weekend include balloon twisting, and Gingy the Gingerbread strolls the market on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 4 pm. A carousel and a 65 foot Ferris wheel run from November 21 to December 27, with height rules for young riders. The page does not list photo prices or Santa hours. Christmas Village also lists a tree lighting on November 21 and the Christkind opening ceremony on November 28, so Thanksgiving weekend is a lively time to visit with children.

Parent tip: Book Santa photos ahead if you can. Children under 42 inches need a paying adult on the carousel.

See dates and details from Christmas Village in Baltimore (opens in a new tab)

Baltimore: Holiday Toddler Time

Story time with Mrs. ClausB&O Railroad Museum (National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation) · Baltimore

Host
B&O Railroad Museum (National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation) (opens in a new tab)
Where
B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21223
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 10:30 am
Cost
Holiday admission: adults $28, seniors $24, children $18; members free
Ages
Toddlers
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The B&O Railroad Museum hosts a holiday edition of its Toddler Time on Thursday morning, December 3. Little ones make their own Santa photo frame, sing carols together, and settle in while Mrs. Claus reads Thomas' Christmas Delivery by Rev. W. Awdry. Families can also take photos with Santa.

The program is included with holiday museum admission: $28 for adults, $24 for seniors and $18 for children, with members free. Tickets are sold through the museum's website. It is a story time inside the museum, not a train ride. The museum is at 901 West Pratt Street in Baltimore.

Parent tip: Buy tickets ahead on the museum site and arrive early to settle toddlers before the 10:30 am start.

See dates and details from B&O Railroad Museum (National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation) (opens in a new tab)

Baltimore: Holiday Toddler Time

Story time with Mrs. ClausB&O Railroad Museum · Baltimore

Host
B&O Railroad Museum (opens in a new tab)
Where
B&O Railroad Museum, 901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21223
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 10:30 am
Cost
Museum admission: $28 adults, $18 children, members free
Ages
Toddlers
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The B&O Railroad Museum closes out its year of Toddler Time with a holiday edition on a Thursday morning. Little ones make their own Santa photo frame, sing carols, and get a visit from Mrs. Claus, who reads Thomas' Christmas Delivery by the Rev. W. Awdry. The museum also mentions photos with Santa.

The program is included with holiday museum admission, listed at $28 for adults, $24 for seniors and $18 for children, and members get in free. Tickets are booked through the Get Tickets link on the event page. The museum offers a Toddler Time social narrative PDF for families who like to preview what will happen, and after the program kids can explore the historic roundhouse full of locomotives.

Parent tip: Book tickets ahead through the event page. A social narrative PDF is available to prepare children.

See dates and details from B&O Railroad Museum (opens in a new tab)

Towson: Towson University Community Dance Presents The Nutcracker Suite

Holiday story timeFreeBaltimore County Public Library · Towson

Host
Baltimore County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Towson Branch Library, 320 York Rd, Towson, MD 21204 (near Baltimore)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10:30 to 11 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Toddlers through teens and adults
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Dancers from Towson University Community Dance bring The Nutcracker Suite to the Towson Branch Library. The performance follows Clara from a festive Christmas Eve party into a magical world, with favorite scenes such as the Dolls, the Spanish Dance, the Russian Dance and the Sugarplum Fairy. Along with the dancing, there is a live reading from the classic Nutcracker storybook.

The show runs a half hour on a Saturday morning, a perfect length for young children who may be seeing ballet for the first time. The library lists it for toddlers, preschoolers, grade schoolers, teens and adults. It is free and no registration is listed. Since the performance is short and free, it is an easy first holiday show for little ones, and families can browse the children's section for holiday books afterward.

Parent tip: Only 30 minutes long, so arrive on time to catch the start.

See dates and details from Baltimore County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Pikesville: Hanukkah Snowflakes

Holiday showFreeBaltimore County Public Library · Pikesville

Host
Baltimore County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Pikesville Branch Library, 1301 Reisterstown Rd, Pikesville, MD 21208 (near Baltimore)
When
Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 10 to 11 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Toddlers to early elementary
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Beale Street Puppets present Hanukkah Snowflakes, a whimsical winter program performed with their merry marionettes, at the Pikesville Branch Library. The library describes it as great for families and children of all ages, and it is tagged for toddlers, preschoolers and early elementary kids.

The show runs one hour on a Wednesday morning, a good fit for preschool families and younger siblings. It is free and no registration is listed. Beale Street Puppets is touring several Baltimore County branches this winter with a snowflake themed show, but this Pikesville date is the one with a Hanukkah focus. Other branches host a separate Winter Snowflakes show, featuring Jack Frost, a penguin, a walrus and a snowman, including Hereford on December 12 and Randallstown on December 19.

Parent tip: A weekday morning show, ideal for preschoolers and caregivers.

See dates and details from Baltimore County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

White Marsh: Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's White Marsh

Breakfast with SantaDave & Buster's · White Marsh

Host
Dave & Buster's (opens in a new tab)
Where
Dave & Buster's White Marsh, 8200 Perry Hall Blvd, White Marsh, MD 21236 (near Baltimore)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9 to 11 am
Cost
$27.94 food only, $33.01 food plus play, per person
Ages
All ages; children must be with an adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Dave & Buster's White Marsh opens before regular hours on Saturday, December 12, for a breakfast with Santa. The buffet includes pancakes, eggs, bacon and fruit with unlimited soda and juice, and kids can take a photo with Santa, make holiday crafts and write letters to Santa.

The food only ticket is $27.94 per person, and the food plus play ticket is $33.01, adding a $10 Power Card with three hours of unlimited video games. Prices include tax and gratuity. Children must be with an adult, and tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. The restaurant is at 8200 Perry Hall Boulevard, and the breakfast runs from 9 to 11 am before the store opens to the public.

Parent tip: Tickets cannot be refunded or transferred, so book once your weekend plans are set.

See dates and details from Dave & Buster's (opens in a new tab)

Baltimore: Holiday Open House

Holiday showFreeEnoch Pratt Free Library · Baltimore

Host
Enoch Pratt Free Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Canton Branch, Enoch Pratt Free Library, 1030 S Ellwood Ave, Baltimore, MD 21224
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 2 to 4 pm
Cost
Free, no registration
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Friends of the Canton Library invite families to a festive winter open house at the Canton Branch, the oldest branch in the Enoch Pratt Free Library system. The afternoon includes holiday themed decorations, activities and refreshments, along with music performances by a Peabody Live ensemble.

The open house runs two hours on a Saturday afternoon, so you can drop in at any point. It is free and no registration is required. The historic branch is tucked into a residential block in Canton, and the event makes a relaxed stop before or after a holiday walk around the neighborhood. Music, crafts and refreshments make it a festive, easygoing afternoon for families with kids of mixed ages. Bring the whole family and stay as long as you like.

Parent tip: No registration required; drop in any time between 2 and 4 pm.

See dates and details from Enoch Pratt Free Library (opens in a new tab)

Dundalk: Kids Holiday Craft: Watercolor Winter Hat

Tree lightingFreeBaltimore County Public Library · Dundalk

Host
Baltimore County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
North Point Branch Library, 1716 Merritt Blvd, Dundalk, MD 21222 (near Baltimore)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 4 to 5 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 6 to 13
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The North Point Branch Library in Dundalk is hosting a kids holiday craft on a Saturday afternoon, making a watercolor winter hat. The listing is tagged for early elementary, late elementary and tween ages, so it suits kids roughly 6 to 13.

The library suggests heading across the street afterward to the Poplar Place tree lighting organized by the Eastern Regional Lions Club, which makes this a nice way to build a full holiday evening for the family. The craft is free and no registration is listed. Dress for the weather if you plan to stay for the outdoor tree lighting. North Point also hosts a Winter LEGO Design Pageant on Sunday, December 6, where kids build a winter themed design and vote for favorites, if your family wants another visit.

Parent tip: Pair it with the Poplar Place tree lighting across the street afterward, as the library suggests.

See dates and details from Baltimore County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Baltimore: Let's Make: Cardboard Gingerbread Houses

Holiday craftsFreeEnoch Pratt Free Library · Baltimore

Host
Enoch Pratt Free Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Johnston Square Branch, Enoch Pratt Free Library, 1132 Greenmount Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202
When
Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 4 to 5 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Children
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Miss Allie at the Johnston Square Branch invites children to turn small cardboard boxes into DIY gingerbread houses, decorated with polymer clay and resin candies. The library notes this is a completely inedible craft, a fun way to get ready for the winter season without the sticky mess of real icing.

Kids can take their creation home or leave it behind to help decorate the library. The workshop runs one hour on a Tuesday after school, and Pratt Library programs are free. Because polymer clay and small decorations are involved, it is best for school age children who can work with small pieces. Check the Pratt calendar closer to the date for any updates, and arrive on time since craft supplies are prepared for the session.

Parent tip: The decorations are not edible, so remind little ones not to taste them.

See dates and details from Enoch Pratt Free Library (opens in a new tab)

Perry Hall: Evening Story Time: Holiday Story Time

Holiday story timeFreeBaltimore County Public Library · Perry Hall

Host
Baltimore County Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Perry Hall Branch Library, 9685 Honeygo Blvd, Perry Hall, MD 21128 (near Baltimore)
When
Monday, December 21, 2026, 5:30 to 6:15 pm
Cost
Free, tickets handed out 30 minutes before
Ages
Toddlers and preschoolers
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Perry Hall Branch Library is holding a special holiday edition of its evening story time. Families will share stories, songs and rhymes inspired by winter holidays from around the world, with themes of kindness, light and togetherness. After story time, children make a simple holiday craft to take home.

The program is aimed at toddlers and preschoolers and runs 45 minutes on a Monday evening, which suits working parents. It is free, but seating is limited and first come, first served. The library hands out tickets 30 minutes before the program starts, so plan to arrive early. The multicultural focus makes it a welcoming choice for families who celebrate different winter holidays. It is one of the last library story times before Christmas, so it makes a nice family tradition.

Parent tip: Seating is limited; free tickets are given out 30 minutes before start time.

See dates and details from Baltimore County Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Baltimore: Winter Celebration Family Storytime

Holiday story timeFreeEnoch Pratt Free Library · Baltimore

Host
Enoch Pratt Free Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Northwood Branch, Enoch Pratt Free Library, 4420 Loch Raven Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21218
When
Monday, December 21, 2026, 6 to 7 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Families
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Northwood Branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library is hosting a special winter celebration evening storytime on the Monday before Christmas. It is billed as a family storytime, so siblings of different ages can come along together.

The program runs one hour in the early evening, which works well for families after school and work. Pratt Library programs are free. The listing is short on detail, so expect a classic library storytime with a seasonal theme. Earlier in December, Northwood also offers a paper gingerbread house craft on December 10, if your family wants a second visit. Come a few minutes early to settle in, since evening programs can fill the room with families. Check the Pratt calendar for any updates closer to the date.

Parent tip: An evening option the week before Christmas; Northwood also has a paper gingerbread house craft on Dec 10.

See dates and details from Enoch Pratt Free Library (opens in a new tab)

Baltimore: Movie & Craft: The Grinch (2018)

Holiday craftsFreeEnoch Pratt Free Library · Baltimore

Host
Enoch Pratt Free Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Orleans Street Branch, Enoch Pratt Free Library, 1303 Orleans St, Baltimore, MD 21231
When
Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 3:30 to 5 pm
Cost
Free
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Two days before Christmas, the Orleans Street Branch is screening the 2018 animated How the Grinch Stole Christmas, rated PG and about 90 minutes long, while kids make their own Grinch ornament. In the film, the Grinch tries to ruin Christmas in Whoville with help from his loyal dog and a reindeer, until a kind young girl gets in the way.

The program runs an hour and a half on a Wednesday afternoon during winter break, a handy indoor plan when school is out. Pratt Library programs are free. Children can take their ornament home to hang on the tree. Check the Pratt calendar closer to the date for any updates, and arrive a little early to get settled before the movie starts.

Parent tip: The movie is rated PG and runs about 90 minutes.

See dates and details from Enoch Pratt Free Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Washington

5 confirmed events for kids in Washington, including nearby Gaithersburg, Hyattsville, National Harbor and Rockville, soonest first.

National Harbor: Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE!

Story time with Mrs. ClausGaylord National Resort & Convention Center · National Harbor

Host
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Gaylord National Resort, 201 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD 20745 (near Washington)
When
Saturday, November 14, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (daily season)
Cost
Ticketed; prices at ChristmasatGaylordNational.com
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Christmas at Gaylord National runs November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027, with an ICE exhibit themed to Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Kids can meet Santa for a keepsake photo, and Mrs. Claus' Christmas Traditions is a storytelling show where she retells 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, followed by a cookie.

Other family options include the Grinch's Wonderful Awful Idea scavenger hunt with a stocking stuffer prize, holiday decorating classes with the pastry team, indoor snow tubing on Snow Flow Mountain, a Christmas Village, and the Cirque: Frost stage show. Activities are booked at ChristmasatGaylordNational.com or 301-965-4000. The resort is at National Harbor, Maryland, and family packages that bundle a room with admission start at $364 per night.

Parent tip: Book the Mrs. Claus storytelling and Santa photos ahead online, since many experiences are ticketed separately.

See dates and details from Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center (opens in a new tab)

Gaithersburg: STEM Explorers: Create Your Own Gingerbread House

Holiday craftsFreeMontgomery County Public Libraries · Gaithersburg

Host
Montgomery County Public Libraries (opens in a new tab)
Where
Quince Orchard Library, 15831 Quince Orchard Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (near Washington)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to 12:30 pm
Cost
Free, no registration
Ages
Ages 3 and up; under 8 with an adult
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Quince Orchard Library is running its fourth annual gingerbread house STEM program. Children use critical thinking and problem solving to design and build their own gingerbread house, and the library provides all the materials, so families only need to bring creativity and ideas.

The program is family friendly and suited for ages 3 and up, with siblings, tweens and teens welcome too. Children under 8 must be supervised by an adult. No registration is needed for this Saturday morning session, which is sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Montgomery County. The library suggests bringing a container or box so you can carry the finished house home without damage. Questions can go to the Quince Orchard Library at 240-777-0200.

Parent tip: Bring a box or container to carry the gingerbread house home.

See dates and details from Montgomery County Public Libraries (opens in a new tab)

Gaithersburg: All Aboard with Santa

Santa visitCity of Gaithersburg Parks & Recreation · Gaithersburg

Host
City of Gaithersburg Parks & Recreation (opens in a new tab)
Where
Gaithersburg Community Museum, 9 S Summit Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 (near Washington)
When
Sunday, December 6, 2026
Cost
$10
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

At the Gaithersburg Community Museum, Santa greets families from inside a historic 1918 locomotive parked on the plaza. Kids step up and talk with him through the cab window. It is a visit, not a train ride, and Santa speaks Spanish.

After the visit there are cookies and hot chocolate by a campfire, plus crafts inside the 1884 railroad station, and families can look around the museum's other exhibits. The city describes it as a sensory friendly holiday visit. Spots are $10 and booked by time slot, with check-in 10 minutes before your reserved time. Visitors can explore the rest of the museum's exhibits during the event.

Parent tip: Reserve a time slot in advance and check in 10 minutes early.

See dates and details from City of Gaithersburg Parks & Recreation (opens in a new tab)

Hyattsville: Movie: Elf (PG) and Hot Cocoa Bar

Holiday showFreePrince George's County Memorial Library System · Hyattsville

Host
Prince George's County Memorial Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Hyattsville Branch Library, 6502 America Boulevard, Hyattsville, MD 20782 (near Washington)
When
Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 5:30 to 7:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Ages 5 to 12, teens and adults
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Hyattsville Branch of the Prince George's County Memorial Library System is hosting a holiday movie night featuring Elf, the PG rated comedy about a human raised at the North Pole who believes he is one of Santa's elves and sets out to find his family. The film runs 97 minutes, and the library is adding a hot cocoa bar to make the evening feel festive.

The screening is listed for elementary age kids, teens and adults, so it works as a family night out on a school evening. It runs from 5:30 to 7:30 pm on a Tuesday in mid December. Library programs are free, and the new Hyattsville branch on America Boulevard is easy to reach by car.

Parent tip: The movie is rated PG and runs about an hour and 40 minutes; arrive a little early to grab cocoa before it starts.

See dates and details from Prince George's County Memorial Library System (opens in a new tab)

Rockville: Decorate a Gingerbread House!

Holiday craftsFreeMontgomery County Public Libraries · Rockville

Host
Montgomery County Public Libraries (opens in a new tab)
Where
Aspen Hill Library, 4407 Aspen Hill Road, Rockville, MD 20853 (near Washington)
When
Monday, December 28, 2026, 3 to 4 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Elementary school; children must be with an adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Aspen Hill Library offers a gingerbread decorating program during the week after Christmas, a handy plan for the long stretch of winter break. The library provides blank gingerbread houses, and kids and their families decorate them into a holiday creation to take home.

The program is aimed at elementary school children, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required, so sign up through the library calendar before spots fill. It runs for one hour on a Monday afternoon and is sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Montgomery County. For questions, call the Aspen Hill Library at (240) 773-9410. Requests for captioning or sign language interpretation should be made at least five days before the program.

Parent tip: Register in advance on the library calendar; an adult must stay with each child.

See dates and details from Montgomery County Public Libraries (opens in a new tab)

Near a state line? Our guides to Christmas events for kids in Washington, DC, Christmas events for kids in Delaware and Christmas events for kids in Pennsylvania list more confirmed events, and the national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Maryland Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Maryland in 2026?

We confirmed 17 Christmas events for kids in Maryland for 2026 on each host’s own page: Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE! in National Harbor (November 14), Meet Santa! at Christmas Village in Baltimore in Baltimore (November 27), Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore (December 3), Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore (December 3), STEM Explorers: Create Your Own Gingerbread House in Gaithersburg (December 5), Towson University Community Dance Presents The Nutcracker Suite in Towson (December 5), All Aboard with Santa in Gaithersburg (December 6), Hanukkah Snowflakes in Pikesville (December 9), Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's White Marsh in White Marsh (December 12), Holiday Open House in Baltimore (December 12), Kids Holiday Craft: Watercolor Winter Hat in Dundalk (December 12), Let's Make: Cardboard Gingerbread Houses in Baltimore (December 15), Movie: Elf (PG) and Hot Cocoa Bar in Hyattsville (December 15), Evening Story Time: Holiday Story Time in Perry Hall (December 21), Winter Celebration Family Storytime in Baltimore (December 21), Movie & Craft: The Grinch (2018) in Baltimore (December 23) and Decorate a Gingerbread House! in Rockville (December 28). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Baltimore, Maryland?

For families in and around Baltimore, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Meet Santa! at Christmas Village in Baltimore (Fri to Sun, Nov 27 to 29, market entry and photo prices not stated); Holiday Toddler Time (Thu, Dec 3, 10:30 am, holiday admission: adults $28, seniors $24, children $18; members free); Holiday Toddler Time (Thu, Dec 3, 10:30 am, museum admission: $28 adults, $18 children, members free); Towson University Community Dance Presents The Nutcracker Suite (in Towson, Sat, Dec 5, 10:30 to 11 am, free); Hanukkah Snowflakes (in Pikesville, Wed, Dec 9, 10 to 11 am, free); Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's White Marsh (in White Marsh, Sat, Dec 12, 9 to 11 am, $27.94 food only, $33.01 food plus play, per person); Holiday Open House (Sat, Dec 12, 2 to 4 pm, free, no registration); Kids Holiday Craft: Watercolor Winter Hat (in Dundalk, Sat, Dec 12, 4 to 5 pm, free); Let's Make: Cardboard Gingerbread Houses (Tue, Dec 15, 4 to 5 pm, free); Evening Story Time: Holiday Story Time (in Perry Hall, Mon, Dec 21, 5:30 to 6:15 pm, free, tickets handed out 30 minutes before); Winter Celebration Family Storytime (Mon, Dec 21, 6 to 7 pm, free); Movie & Craft: The Grinch (2018) (Wed, Dec 23, 3:30 to 5 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Baltimore section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Washington, Maryland?

For families in and around Washington, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE! (in National Harbor, Nov 14, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027, ticketed; prices at christmasatgaylordnational.com); STEM Explorers: Create Your Own Gingerbread House (in Gaithersburg, Sat, Dec 5, 11 am to 12:30 pm, free, no registration); All Aboard with Santa (in Gaithersburg, Sun, Dec 6, reserved time slots, $10); Movie: Elf (PG) and Hot Cocoa Bar (in Hyattsville, Tue, Dec 15, 5:30 to 7:30 pm, free); Decorate a Gingerbread House! (in Rockville, Mon, Dec 28, 3 to 4 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Washington section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Maryland?

Yes. 11 of the 17 events here are free: STEM Explorers: Create Your Own Gingerbread House in Gaithersburg, Towson University Community Dance Presents The Nutcracker Suite in Towson, Hanukkah Snowflakes in Pikesville, Holiday Open House in Baltimore, Kids Holiday Craft: Watercolor Winter Hat in Dundalk, Let's Make: Cardboard Gingerbread Houses in Baltimore, Movie: Elf (PG) and Hot Cocoa Bar in Hyattsville, Evening Story Time: Holiday Story Time in Perry Hall, Winter Celebration Family Storytime in Baltimore, Movie & Craft: The Grinch (2018) in Baltimore and Decorate a Gingerbread House! in Rockville. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Maryland this December?

Santa appears at Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE! in National Harbor (November 14), Meet Santa! at Christmas Village in Baltimore in Baltimore (November 27), Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore (December 3), Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore (December 3), All Aboard with Santa in Gaithersburg (December 6) and Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's White Marsh in White Marsh (December 12). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Maryland?

Holiday story times on this page: Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE! in National Harbor, Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore, Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore, Towson University Community Dance Presents The Nutcracker Suite in Towson, Evening Story Time: Holiday Story Time in Perry Hall and Winter Celebration Family Storytime in Baltimore. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in Maryland?

Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's White Marsh in White Marsh (Sat, Dec 12, 9 to 11 am). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.

Which Maryland Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore (Toddlers), Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore (Toddlers), Towson University Community Dance Presents The Nutcracker Suite in Towson (Toddlers through teens and adults), Hanukkah Snowflakes in Pikesville (Toddlers to early elementary) and Evening Story Time: Holiday Story Time in Perry Hall (Toddlers and preschoolers).

Are there kids' Christmas events in Maryland on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE! in National Harbor (through January 3) and Decorate a Gingerbread House! in Rockville (through December 28).

How much is Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE! in National Harbor?

Ticketed; prices at ChristmasatGaylordNational.com. Christmas at Gaylord National with ICE! is on Saturday, November 14, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (daily season) at Gaylord National Resort. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Meet Santa! at Christmas Village in Baltimore in Baltimore?

Market entry and photo prices not stated. Meet Santa! at Christmas Village in Baltimore is on Fri November 27, Sat November 28 and Sun November 29, 2026 at Christmas Village in Baltimore, West Shore Park at the Inner Harbor. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore?

Holiday admission: adults $28, seniors $24, children $18; members free. Holiday Toddler Time is on Thursday, December 3, 2026, 10:30 am at B&O Railroad Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Toddler Time in Baltimore?

Museum admission: $28 adults, $18 children, members free. Holiday Toddler Time is on Thursday, December 3, 2026, 10:30 am at B&O Railroad Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is STEM Explorers: Create Your Own Gingerbread House in Gaithersburg?

Free, no registration. STEM Explorers: Create Your Own Gingerbread House is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to 12:30 pm at Quince Orchard Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Towson University Community Dance Presents The Nutcracker Suite in Towson?

Free. Towson University Community Dance Presents The Nutcracker Suite is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 10:30 to 11 am at Towson Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is All Aboard with Santa in Gaithersburg?

$10. All Aboard with Santa is on Sunday, December 6, 2026 at Gaithersburg Community Museum. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Hanukkah Snowflakes in Pikesville?

Free. Hanukkah Snowflakes is on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 10 to 11 am at Pikesville Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's White Marsh in White Marsh?

$27.94 food only, $33.01 food plus play, per person. Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's White Marsh is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9 to 11 am at Dave & Buster's White Marsh. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Open House in Baltimore?

Free, no registration. Holiday Open House is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 2 to 4 pm at Canton Branch, Enoch Pratt Free Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Kids Holiday Craft: Watercolor Winter Hat in Dundalk?

Free. Kids Holiday Craft: Watercolor Winter Hat is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 4 to 5 pm at North Point Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Let's Make: Cardboard Gingerbread Houses in Baltimore?

Free. Let's Make: Cardboard Gingerbread Houses is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 4 to 5 pm at Johnston Square Branch, Enoch Pratt Free Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Movie: Elf (PG) and Hot Cocoa Bar in Hyattsville?

Free. Movie: Elf (PG) and Hot Cocoa Bar is on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Hyattsville Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Evening Story Time: Holiday Story Time in Perry Hall?

Free, tickets handed out 30 minutes before. Evening Story Time: Holiday Story Time is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 5:30 to 6:15 pm at Perry Hall Branch Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Celebration Family Storytime in Baltimore?

Free. Winter Celebration Family Storytime is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 6 to 7 pm at Northwood Branch, Enoch Pratt Free Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Movie & Craft: The Grinch (2018) in Baltimore?

Free. Movie & Craft: The Grinch (2018) is on Wednesday, December 23, 2026, 3:30 to 5 pm at Orleans Street Branch, Enoch Pratt Free Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Decorate a Gingerbread House! in Rockville?

Free, registration required. Decorate a Gingerbread House! is on Monday, December 28, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at Aspen Hill Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Maryland?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Maryland Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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