The mountains glow a little brighter during the holidays in Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland. Crisp winter air, twinkling lights, and small-town magic come together to create unforgettable moments—whether you’re planning a festive getaway or looking for a cheerful evening close to home. Across Frostburg, Cumberland, Lonaconing, and beyond, you’ll find holiday light displays that reflect the charm, creativity, and community spirit that make our region shine.
Discover some of the best Christmas lights and holiday displays in Mountain Maryland, and start planning your next winter tradition.
Fayette Street Holiday House
Heritage Parklet • Corner of Baltimore & Canal Streets, Downtown Cumberland
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This beloved Cumberland tradition has a new home for 2024! The creators of the Fayette Street Holiday House have moved their dazzling Christmas display downtown to the Heritage Parklet, offering visitors an immersive, walk-through experience in the heart of the city. Wander among twinkling lights, festive scenes, and charming animatronic characters—now set against the nostalgic backdrop of Cumberland’s historic holiday window displays.
The parklet is open 24/7 to the public, with lights and animatronics running nightly from 5 PM–7 AM, inviting guests to return again and again for a little extra holiday magic. It’s the perfect seasonal stop before or after exploring downtown shops, restaurants, and the city’s beautifully decorated streets.
When to Visit: The walk-through display is open 24/7, with lights and animatronics running nightly from 5 PM to 7 AM throughout the holiday season.
Downtown Holiday Magic
Frostburg • Cumberland • Lonaconing
Our historic downtowns come alive with festive brilliance, offering the perfect backdrop for holiday strolls, shopping, and seasonal events.
Frostburg:
Main Street becomes a glowing winter wonderland, complete with sparkling lamppost wreaths, evergreen baskets, and the beloved Christmas tree at St. Michael’s Plaza. Visitors love discovering the charming hidden animal displays inspired by Noah’s Ark—an annual Frostburg holiday tradition.
Cumberland:
The beautifully revitalized downtown district shines with decorated storefronts, festive lampposts, and a magnificent Christmas tree anchoring Baltimore Street. It’s the perfect setting for evening shopping, dining, or a leisurely winter walk. Just steps away, the Heritage Parklet at Baltimore and Canal Streets adds an extra touch of nostalgia, recreating the feel of Cumberland’s beloved Christmas windows and inviting visitors to experience a bit of hometown holiday magic.
Lonaconing:
This cozy mountain town lights up its Main Street with homespun displays that radiate small-town holiday charm—an inviting stop for anyone exploring Western Maryland’s holiday routes.
Mountainside Christmas Lights Delight with Tracks and Yaks
Frostburg Depot - Frostburg, MD
Experience holiday magic in a whole new way with the Mountainside Christmas Lights Delight, a brand-new illuminated railbike adventure from Tracks and Yaks in Frostburg. Pedal through the crisp mountain air along the historic Western Maryland Railway as the forest comes alive with sparkling lights, glowing scenes, and festive surprises tucked along the route.
This family-friendly excursion blends the scenic beauty of Mountain Maryland with the joy of the holiday season—making it one of Allegany County’s most unique winter experiences.
Lights by the Mountainside
Allegany County Fairgrounds
11490 Moss Avenue, Cumberland, MD
A beloved Allegany County holiday tradition returns—bigger, brighter, and in a brand-new location. Lights by the Mountainside, presented by the Western Maryland Jaycees, now illuminates the Allegany County Fairgrounds with an expanded drive-thru display that celebrates the magic of the season. This glowing journey features twinkling light scenes, festive surprises, and joyful moments perfect for families, couples, and holiday explorers.
Beyond the sparkle, every visit supports a meaningful cause. Proceeds help fund local scholarships and nonprofit organizations, making this event a celebration of community and giving.
Admission: $5 per car, with proceeds supporting the Western Maryland Jaycees.
When to Visit: The event runs throughout the holiday season, with special guests and performances every weekend.
Frostburg Holiday House: Christmas Town & The Nightmare Before Christmas Tour
11330 Upper George’s Creek Road, Frostburg, MD
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The Frostburg Holiday House transforms into a glowing Christmas village each year—but this season, they’re taking the magic to a whole new level. Wander through Christmas Town, a free walk-through experience featuring a full-size sleigh, nine life-size animated reindeer, themed photo ops, and a twinkling pathway that wraps around the property. Guests are welcome to stroll, snap photos, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
This year also brings two special evenings with Santa Claus, visiting December 19 & 20 from 6–8 PM. For a $10 donation benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, families can take their own photos with Santa and create memories to treasure.
For the first time ever, the owners have completely transformed their popular Halloween haunt into the Nightmare Before Christmas Holiday Tour of Mazes, a whimsical, family-friendly walk-through inspired by Tim Burton’s classic film. With more than 20 themed scenes, colorful characters, and plenty of festive photo opportunities, this holiday maze blends Christmas charm with just a touch of Halloween fun.
Admission: $8 per person and includes unlimited entry
When to Visit: The display is open for visits from 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm on December 6-7, 10-14, 17-23, 26-28
*Pictured is last year's display.
Wrap Up Your Holiday Season in Mountain Maryland
From glowing downtowns to immersive walk-through wonderlands and brand-new illuminated adventures, Allegany County shines with holiday magic at every turn. Whether you’re discovering a new tradition or revisiting a cherished favorite, these festive light displays offer the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends.
Bundle up, hit the road, and let the mountains guide you to unforgettable holiday moments.