As finals creep closer, Baltimore offers a welcome pause with a weekend full of holiday spirit. Enjoy twinkling markets, a beloved ballet and a movie night with a live orchestra before heading into the last stretch of the semester. Wishing everyone rest, warmth and a happy holiday season.
Friday
Christmas Village in Baltimore, 501 Light St., 12–9 p.m.
Kick off the season at Christmas Village, the Inner Harbor’s holiday market inspired by the traditional German Christkindlesmarkt. Wander through more than 60 wooden booths glowing with lights, try festive treats like Bratwurst and hot Glühwein, and visit the heated tent, beer garden and rides including the carousel and Ferris wheel. Admission is free, and the market runs through December 24.
Saturday
Nutcracker! Magic of Christmas Ballet, Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The Nutcracker returns to the Hippodrome with an international cast, lavish costumes and hand crafted sets that bring Tchaikovsky’s score to life. Featuring whimsical puppetry and classic holiday magic, this production offers a warm escape into a world of snowflakes and sugarplums. Tickets range from $44 to $219.
Holiday Makers Market, Harborplace Light Street Pavilion, 2–8 p.m.
Harborplace transforms into a festive shopping hub as dozens of Baltimore artists and makers set up for a weekend of handmade gifts and local creativity. Browse everything from jewelry to ceramics to zines while enjoying food vendors and pop up performances, all under the holiday lights of the Inner Harbor. Admission is free.
Art Market Holiday Edition, MICA Brown Center, 1301 W. Mt. Royal Ave., 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
MICA’s three floor holiday market returns with work from students, alumni, faculty and staff selling prints, ceramics, jewelry and handmade pieces of every kind. Visitors can meet the artists, shop local and support creative entrepreneurs, with a suggested $5 donation benefiting MICA’s Entrepreneurship Scholarship Fund. Admission is free.
Sunday
Elf in Concert, Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St., 3 p.m.
Celebrate the season with Buddy the Elf as the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra performs John Debney’s magical score live while the full film plays on the big screen. Expect big laughs, bigger holiday spirit and festive lobby activities before the show. Tickets range from $31 to $109.
