Get Ready for Christmas at Ellicott City Midnight Madness

Mark your calendars! Ellicott City Midnight Madness and its magic is back this year on December 4th, 2015. Start a new family tradition and enjoy the first Friday in December shopping until you drop. Shops will be open late, until midnight, to help you get your Christmas shopping done early.

What is Ellicott City Midnight Madness?

For the 37th year, Historic Ellicott City is putting on their annual holiday event. At Ellicott City Midnight Madness, there is fun for the whole family. Spend a night shopping and enjoying the magic that the holiday season brings. While you stroll through town, the Christmas spirit will definitely be in the air. Shops in town are open until midnight. Admission prices vary for events, but parking is always free!

What You Can Expect at Ellicott City Midnight Madness 

Based on previous years’ schedules, this is what you can expect. Grab a mug of hot cider and check out what Ellicott City Midnight Madness has to offer.

Santa’s Workshop

Bring the kids and stop by Santa’s Workshop! They’ll be excited to tell him exactly what they want for Christmas and you’ll get the perfect picture of them with the Jolly Old Elf. He might even have an early Christmas present for them if they have been good! Do not forget to bring their letters as there is an outdoor mailbox where they can send him letters until Christmas Eve!

Tree Lighting Ceremony

After visiting Santa, head over to the Howard County Tourism Center where they are hosting an enchanting tree lighting ceremony. Whether you love the magic in the air or the colorful lights, there is no better way to start your holiday season. This annual ceremony puts many of our residents and visitors in the holiday spirit.

Festival of Trains

Remember the train that used to circle around your Christmas tree as a kid? At the Festival of Trains, you can reminisce and show your children what Christmas’ were like for you as a kid. This festival features both toy and model train layouts. You can see toys like Thomas the Tank Engine G-scale layout and specialty custom layouts. Last year featured a multi-level 360-degree LEGO layout and an O-scale model train layout. Bring a brand new unwrapped toy to support Toys for Tots to receive 50% off of admission into the festival!

Strolling Entertainers

Throughout town, you may see different caroling groups as well as Frosty the Snowman. With so many events and things to see, this will be one night you will never forget!

Historic Ellicott City is beautiful, especially during the holidays. Spend a night in Historic Ellicott City, get your shopping done, and enjoy the holiday magic. After the fun events, complete your visit with a stay at the remarkable Wayside Inn. We would love to have you. Plan a trip and check out our Vacation Guide to find out what else Howard County, MD has to offer! We can’t wait to see you soon!

Photo Credit: Michael Knowles / Flickr