Autumn breezes are only now arriving in Baltimore, but just around the corner, Winter on the Waterfront will return for the 2025 season.
Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore announced that from November through January, the city’s Inner Harbor and surrounding waterfront neighborhoods will again be transformed into a winter wonderland.
Residents and visitors will be able to choose from a huge lineup of festive events, family activities, and seasonal traditions to enjoy across Baltimore’s waterfront district.
“One of the great joys of winter in Baltimore is seeing families and visitors come together along our waterfront to celebrate the season,” said Dan Taylor, president of Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore, in a statement. “From cherished traditions like the Inner Harbor Ice Rink and Christmas Village to new experiences across the city, Winter on the Waterfront offers something for everyone and showcases the vibrancy of our waterfront neighborhoods.”
Beginning Saturday, Nov. 7, Winter on the Waterfront kicks off with the Inner Harbor Ice Rink Grand Opening. The Magic of Merryland in Harbor East begins on Nov. 22, and the opening of the Christmas Village in Baltimore takes place on Nov. 27.
As always, the season will have opportunities to shop local for the holidays, including the Bazaart Holiday Craft Marketplace at the American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) on Nov. 28–29, with local makers and artists.
“AVAM is the perfect creative hub to bring family and friends this holiday season,” said Ellen M. Owens, executive director of the American Visionary Art Museum, in a statement. “Our Bazaart Holiday Craft Marketplace celebrates the creativity of local artists and makers, offering everything from hand-stitched quilts to fun jewelry and colorful paintings. We’re thrilled to join our Waterfront and Downtown Baltimore neighbors in creating joyful, meaningful experiences for all during Winter on the Waterfront.”
Baltimore’s Most Festive Weekend takes place on Dec. 6–7, with dozens of holiday events across the city, including Waterfront Partnership’s annual Makers Market.
“The Maker’s Market has quickly become one of our favorite traditions of the season,” said Leanna Wetmore, director of events at Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore, in a statement. “It’s a vibrant showcase of local talent, bringing together more than 60 homegrown brands, artists, and small businesses. We love seeing the community come out to shop local, enjoy live music, and experience the festive spirit that makes Baltimore so special.”
A highlight of the Most Festive Weekend is one of Baltimore’s longest-running winter traditions, the Lighted Boat Parade. Benefitting the Southeast Exchange Club Toy Drive, the parade celebrates Baltimore’s maritime heritage. It is presented by Sail Baltimore, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and other local organizations.
“We are honored to once again sponsor and support the Inner Harbor Ice Rink, a beloved Baltimore tradition that brings joy and excitement to the heart of the city during the holiday season,” said Amy Elias, on behalf of the Pearlstone Family Fund, and Elizabeth R. ‘Buffy’ Minkin, president of the Joseph & Harvey Meyerhoff Family Charitable Funds. “Our support helps ensure families and visitors can come together to celebrate, create lasting memories, and experience the magic of winter in Baltimore.”
A partial rundown of Winter on the Waterfront season-long events and activities includes:
- Inner Harbor Ice Rink: Nov. 7, 2025–Jan. 19, 2026; top of amphitheater between the two Harborplace pavilions.
- Christmas Village in Baltimore: Nov. 27–Dec. 24, 2025; West Shore Park at the Inner Harbor; Sunday–Thursday, noon–8 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, noon–9 p.m.
- Bazaart: Holiday Craft Marketplace: Nov. 28–29, 2025; American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM).
- Most Festive Weekend: Dec. 6–7, 2025; Entire waterfront, including Fells Point, Harbor Point, Harbor East and Inner Harbor.
- Harbor Point Winter Ice Festival: Jan. 24, 2026; Central Plaza, Harbor Point.
For much more information about events, programs, and season highlights connected to Winter on the Waterfront, please visit the Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore’s website.
