Holiday Festival and Events

The holiday season is a magical one here in Mountain Maryland, with events, festivals, shopping extravaganzas and more. Take part in the beloved Storybook Holiday event, with the Elf Olympics, Breakfast with the Elves, Storybook holiday Parade, Author Presentations, and so much more; attend a tree-lighting ceremony in downtown Frostburg or Cumberland; or shop during the Shop Small holiday events or any time throughout the season for a chance to win cash prizes. These celebrations and events will jingle you all the way through the New Year with the annual Ball Drop in downtown Cumberland.

Calendar of Events

The Polar Express Train Ride Nov 21

A Holiday Favorite Comes To Life At The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad! “All Aboard” The Polar Express Train Ride™ this Christmas Season. Inspired by the run-away hit movie, this holiday favorite comes to life when you and your family ride The Polar Express™. Set to the music…

Family Holiday Paint Night Nov 26

Join us for a holiday-themed evening that's all about family, creativity, and festive togetherness. Let's paint, decorate, and make this holiday season truly unforgettable. Spots are limited, so don't wait! Reserve your family's place at our Holiday Family Paint Night today. 🎨…

Cumberland's Annual Tree Lighting Celebration Nov 28

Join Mr. and Mrs. Claus for the annual tree lighting ceremony in Cumberland Historic City Center! The city turns into a Hallmark movie with its incredible lights and decor. Shop our large list of locally owned retailers and boutiques, enjoy dinner and drinks at our many local…

Elves Night Out Nov 28

Drop your kids off and let the hoppy elves at Mr. Toad's Pottery transfrom their holiday gift giving list into a magical handmade creation made especially for them! Your kiddo will work along side our hoppy elves as they paint their treasures, which will be wrapped and ready for…

Breakfast with Santa Nov 29

🎄 Get ready to make your holidays a little brighter at our magical Breakfast with Santa Event! 🎨 🎅 Santa's Arrival: Santa Claus himself will make a grand entrance to our enchanting holiday wonderland, ready to spread joy, listen to wishes, and pose for photos with all of the…

Elves Day Out Camp Dec 01

Drop Your Kids Off for a Day Full of Holiday Cheer and Crafting! School’s out, and it’s time to craft! Bring your kids to our holiday workshop where they’ll create personalized, handmade gifts for their loved ones. Guided by experienced elves, they’ll enjoy making ornaments, and…

Christmas at the Rosenbaum Dec 03

Get into the holiday spirit and shop local at Holiday Shopping Night at The Rosenbaum! Join The Holding Hands for Haley Foundation for an evening of festive fun, featuring a curated selection of home décor, seasonal crafts, handmade quilts, wood furniture, holiday trees, and…

Lights by the Mountainside Dec 05

Experience the magic of the season at Lights by the Mountainside, a dazzling drive-through holiday light display at the Allegany County Fairgrounds. Formerly known as Lights on the Lake, this beloved community tradition is bigger and brighter than ever in its new location.Guests…

22nd Annual Storybook Holiday Dec 06

Mark your calendars! The 22nd annual Storybook Holiday will be held on December 6, 2025. This year’s featured author is Kristin Kladstrup with her book “The Gingerbread Pirates”. The 22nd Storybook Holiday will feature all of the experiences we have come to know and love!…

Breakfast with Santa at Culinaire Cafe Gateway Center Dec 06

Bring the kids & join Santa Claus for a holiday breakfast & fun! Make it a holiday tradition! Two seatings: 9 am & 10:30 am Adults/$14; Children 12 and under/$7 Reservations are required and may be made beginning November 1. Payment due at reservation. Please contact…

Rhythm of the Arts Presents Seán Heely’s Celtic Christmas Dec 09

A Yuletide Celebration of Celtic Music and Dance Kilts and tartan abound in a joyous musical celebration of ancient Gaelic carols, lively Irish tunes and heartwarming seasonal melodies. Join U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion and Gaelic singer Seán Heely and an ensemble of…

2025 Coney Christmas Dec 13

Spend a day along Main Street in Lonaconing and experience what our small-town Christmas is all about. Enjoy a full day of family fun including Santa and Mrs. Claus, story time, crafts, vendors, food, bounce houses and games, pictures, cookie decorating, local business open…

Breakfast with Santa at Mezzos Dec 20

Bring the kids & join Santa Claus for a holiday breakfast & fun! Make it a holiday tradition! Four Seatings - 10 am, 10:45 am, 11:30 am, and 12:15 pm Adults/$12; Children 12 and under/$7. Reservations are required, 301-777-7750. The menu includes: Scrambled Eggs Sausage…

Annual Favorite: A Festival of Lessons & Carols Dec 21

On Sunday, December 21, at 5pm at Emmanuel Episcopal Parish on Washington Street, Mountainside will revisit a seasonal community event–the ecumenical "Annual Favorite: A Festival of Lessons and Carols.” Featuring the Scholars of St. Cecilia, Mountainside Baroque’s resident…