Guide to Celebrating the Holidays in Annapolis, MD

We all know Annapolis, MD is the state capitol of Maryland, and it's the home of the United States Naval Academy. In addition, this city is a beautiful historical seaport situated along the Chesapeake Bay. While everyone knows about the Holiday Festivities in DC, the holiday festivities in Annapolis are worth checking out.

Lights on the Bay: Entering its 12th year, it's one of the most popular holiday events in Annapolis. The family can check out some amazing holiday displays like a colonial village, Noah's Ark, pirates, elves, a giant teddy bear, a North Pole train station and even reindeer that appear to leap over the roadway. It's all done in the comfort of your heated ride. Admission to this popular event is $12 per car and $50 per bus. Proceeds from this holiday event go to the Anne Arundel Medical Center. Light The Bay runs from November 17, 2006 - January 1, 2007 at Sandy Point State Park from 5-10 p.m.
Sandy Point State Park
1100 East College Parkway
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 481-3161

William Paca House Candlelight Tour: Once a home to Declaration of Independence signer and former Maryland Governor William Paca, his house is one of Annapolis's and 's most impressive restored 18th-century mansions. On December 1st, the mansion holds its Candlelight tour. It's more than just a tour of the Paca House; it's also a celebration with live music and refreshments. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for children ages 6-12, but it's free for Paca House members, volunteers and children under age 6.

William Paca House Holiday Decoration: From December 2-30, The Paca House will showcase the finest decorations for the holiday season. This special holiday exhibit is about "Centuries of Holiday Celebrations." Learn about Annapolis
yuletide traditions of the past as your visit rooms adorned for the holidays. Admission is $8for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for youths ages 6-17, and free for children under age six.

William Paca House & Garden
186 Prince George Street
Annapolis, MD 21401

Midnight Madness in Downtown Annapolis: Since holiday shopping isn't a joyous occasion, the shops along Maryland Avenue, Main, and West Streets have something for shoppers and non-shoppers alike. Midnight Madness is block party where shops are open until midnight. It also includes musical performances, food and refreshments, and enjoy some holiday cheer! This block party is open to the public, and free parking in Hillman and Gotts Court garages and Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, free shuttle service. The event takes place on December 7th and 14th, and it's sponsored by the Annapolis Business Association.

The Messiah Performance: You and your family can celebrate the holiday season with the live music show. You can catch performances by USNA Glee Club, Hood College Choir and the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra. The show takes place at the Main Chapel of the U.S. Naval Academy. Tickets won't go sale until November 6th. You can get your tickets at tickets.com.

Eastport Yacht Club Parade of Lights: Entering its 24th season, the parade of light is an Annapolis holiday tradition. Boat owners show off their best holiday decoration while sailing it down the river for parade goers to see. Over 70 boats have a part of this holiday parade. It can be viewed from Spa Creek, City Dock or

Eastport Bridge. The parade happens on December 9th from 6-8 p.m., and it's free to the public.
Annapolis Carriage Historic Tour: How would you like to see Annapolis in a different way? You can do that on a horse and carriage. You can explore the history and beauty of Annapolis. The best part is that you won't have any stress on the ride. The street tour takes place on the weekend. Each tour can run for 30 minutes to an hour.

Christmas Decorator Show House: It's called "that big house on the hill." This spacious 20-room house from the 1850s is now located in the Springhill Center for Family Development, and it plays host of the second annual CHRISTMAS HOUSE DESIGNER SHOWCASE. It's a 90 minute tour of this beautiful house. The Holly Trolley takes you to this amazing holiday event. The cost of admission and transportation is $35.

The Holly Trolley: This isn't your parents' trolley. This mode of transportation is latest Christmas tradition in Annapolis. The inside is decorated with swags of holly and berries, bells, and white lights. It's classic vehicle with updated features. Now, you and your loved ones can check some many of the holiday events in Annapolis.

First Night Annapolis: Entering its 14th year, First Night Annapolis is a New Year's Eve party for the whole family. It features live music, dance, and comedy in 5 different zones. It showcases the history and drama of Annapolis, and it's held in 40 different venues throughout. In previous years, it attracted over 20,000 visitors to celebrate a drug-free and alcohol free New Years on the streets of Annapolis.

To check out more holiday events in Annapolis, you can visit these websites:
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cal_lively.html
http://www.discover-annapolis.com
http://www.visitannapolis.org
http://www.annapolis.org/