Campus may be quiet for Thanksgiving break, but Baltimore is already in full holiday mode. Saturday is packed with choices from shopping local at Bazaart to exploring Festival of Trees before ending the night with improv mayhem at Bah Humbug. On Sunday, Hampden turns on the lights for Miracle on 34th Street, and the Grinch takes over the Hippodrome for one last burst of cheer.
Saturday
Bazaart, American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
AVAM’s annual holiday marketplace returns with original work from 50 regional artists and makers offering jewelry, clothing, artwork and one-of-a-kind gifts. Free to the public, this Baltimore favorite draws crowds of shoppers looking to kick off the season with something handmade and local.
Sunday
Festival of Trees, Maryland State Fairgrounds Cow Palace, 2200 York Rd., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The 36th annual Festival of Trees transforms the Cow Palace into a holiday wonderland filled with decorated trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses, as well as kids' rides, carnival games, face painting and local vendors. The three-day event supports Kennedy Krieger Institute and offers plenty of fun to kick off the season. Tickets are $20.
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St., showtimes at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Celebrate the season in Whoville with the hit musical that brings the Grinch to life through colorful sets, classic songs and plenty of holiday cheer. Max the Dog narrates as the Grinch schemes to steal Christmas before learning its true meaning in this family-friendly production. Tickets start at $54.50.
Bah Humbug, Baltimore Theatre Project, 45 W. Preston St., 2 p.m.
MidAtlantic Improv rewrites Dickens on the spot with a choose-your-own Scrooge performance built from audience suggestions. Expect fast character flips, unpredictable comedy and a version that will never be repeated. Tickets are $20 for students.
Miracle on 34th Street, 726 W. 34th St., lights on at 6 p.m.
Hampden’s famous block lights up for the season as Miracle on 34th Street returns with over-the-top displays, glowing rowhouses and crowds strolling past holiday shops, food and drinks. The street closes to cars most nights to make room for visitors, and the lights stay on until New Year’s Day. Admission is free.
