Lights, Boats, and Cheer: Explore Downtown Frederick This Season

By Audrey Ze//

Whether you are a Hood College student looking for a cozy night out or a local hoping to soak up the festive spirit, here’s your guide to Downtown for the Holidays.

Sailing Through the Winter Solstice

Through March 14, 2026

A fleet of about 28 creatively decorated boats — plus two landlocked ones — lights up Carroll Creek in a luminous display. Each boat is designed by a local organization or group, and visitors can vote for their favorite with a small donation. Proceeds benefit local nonprofits.

Downtown Frederick Light Walk

Through March 9, 2026

Take a self-guided stroll through downtown Frederick’s most scenic corners, now enhanced by seven creative lighting installations, including two new ones this season. The Light Walk blends art, architecture, and holiday whimsy, inviting residents and students to wander and snap photos.

December Saturdays

Dec. 6, 13, and 20 | 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

Each Saturday in December turns downtown into a lively holiday playground. Streets fill with carolers and musicians performing classic tunes, fire pits pop up for marshmallow roasting, and storefronts sparkle with decorations.

• Dec. 6: The Holiday Recipe Trail begins. Pick up a recipe ring at 102 N. Market St. and collect holiday recipes from downtown business owners.
• Dec. 13: A holiday scavenger hunt organized by Surelocked in Escape Games runs through local shops.
• Dec. 20: Gift wrapping (noon–5 p.m.) and photos with Santa (1–4 p.m.).

Love Local Tour

Dec. 9  | 5–8 p.m.

Shop local without the weekend rush, sip festive drinks, and enjoy winter lights in a cozy atmosphere. For every $20 spent, shoppers earn a Frederick-exclusive gift. Share your favorite moments on social media with #LoveLocalTour for a chance to win a $25 Downtown Frederick gift card.

Kris Kringle Procession

Dec. 12  | 6:30–8 p.m.

This beloved annual parade winds through downtown Frederick and ends in Baker Park. The procession starts at South Carroll and East Patrick streets, moves along Market Street, turns left on West Second Street, and culminates near the Baker Park Bandshell. Children dressed as elves, angels, reindeer, and snowflakes march alongside costumed characters from classic Kringle figures to modern favorites like Frosty and Rudolph. The closing ceremony includes carols, a holiday message, and the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree.

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