Christmas Village in Baltimore press release:
Christmas Village in Baltimore presented by Chase will return to the Inner Harbor to celebrate its 11th season with new surprises and more Christmas cheer! Charm City’s beloved holiday tradition is back to transform Inner Harbor’s West Shore Park (501 Light Street) into a traditional, authentic indoor and outdoor German Christmas Market from November 28 through December 24, 2024 with a special preview weekend scheduled for November 23 and November 24, 2024. For the first time ever, Christmas Village in Baltimore will feature a presenting sponsor – Chase – adding even more excitement and support to Baltimore’s beloved holiday tradition.
For 2024, look for the largest footprint ever, a record number of vendors, an improved outdoor winter bar, the addition of new Christmas cocktails and mocktails, more Glühwein (mulled wine) flavors and more festive light decorations. Look for big holiday vibes with the 30-foot-tall Christmas Pyramid from the German Ore Mountains, the 65-foot-tall illuminated Ferris Wheel, and the Christmas Village Carousel with horses and festive reindeer.
Nearly 70 vendors will offer gifts for everyone on Santa’s shopping list. This year’s event boasts the most vendors in its history, with wooden booths expanding again along the Inner Harbor Promenade. Vendors will be located outside in traditional festively-decorated wooden huts, plus inside the big heated festival tent. Famous German vendor Käthe Wohlfahrt will return with an array of exquisite glass ornaments, nutcrackers, pyramids and limited-edition holiday decorations.
Experience the magic of thousands of twinkling lights until 8:00pm on Sundays through Thursdays, and until 9:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Other highlights will include an expanded selection of Glühwein (mulled wine) flavors, expanded food and drinks options, an expansive outdoor seating area, the Hofbräu Beer Garden, appearances by Gingy the Gingerbread Man, theme weekends with live entertainment, and the opening ceremony with the original German Christkind. Foodies will find Raclette Cheese sandwiches, Bacon on a stick, wine tastings, a wide German brat selection and new Corn on the Cob.
“We are counting down the days to the most magical time of year in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. We’re so grateful that Baltimore continues to make Christmas Village presented by Chase a part of their holiday traditions year after year,” said Nancy Schmalz, Project Manager of Christmas Village. “From the delicious food to the unique vendors, festive atmosphere and our signature mugs, it’s an honor to see the community return every season. Our market not only brings festive flair to the city but also supports Baltimore’s local tourism and local small businesses. This year, we are proud to showcase a mix of local artisans and international vendors, offering something unique for every visitor.”
Schmalz continues, “We’re also thrilled to add a new twist to our food lineup with roasted Corn on the Cob, alongside our crowd favorites including Raclette cheese sandwiches, Belgian fries, our different German Brats and so much more. This year, we’ve listened to feedback and are excited to offer even more non-alcoholic drink options to the Winter Wunder Bar, which we first introduced in 2023. Plus, make sure to keep an eye out for this year’s boot mug and its new color. We can’t wait to celebrate the holiday magic in Charm City with all of you.”
“We are thrilled to support the Christmas Village in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor – a cherished tradition that brings joy and unity to visitors from near and far,” said Tim Berry, Chairman of the Mid-Atlantic Region and Global Head of Corporate Responsibility, JPMorganChase. “At JPMorganChase, we are committed to fostering vibrant and inclusive communities, and the Christmas Village is a perfect example of the festive spirit and togetherness that we strive to promote as we continue to grow our presence in Greater Baltimore with 29 Chase branches serving customers across the region. We look forward to seeing families and friends come together to celebrate.”
Christmas Village is located in West Shore Park, right between the Maryland Science Center and the Baltimore Visitor Center. Follow the smell of gingerbread and fresh charcoal-grilled brats to the authentic wooden huts and grand heated tent which features a full menu of European food, sweets and drinks.
New food offerings this year will include a vegetarian and vegan friendly freshly roasted Corn on the Cob at the “Charm City Street Corn” booth. Visitors can indulge in the smoky flavors of freshly fire-roasted corn with different seasonings and toppings. The vegan bratwurst, which started as a limited trial in 2023, has officially joined the full-time menu at the market. Due to popular demand, visitors can now enjoy a delicious vegan bratwurst every day of the season at the “Best of Wurst” booth. Best of all, there is no upcharge – the vegan brat will be available at the same price as the non-vegan options! The plant based option will be cooked and handled separately from meat offerings. The new vegan addition highlights the Village’s commitment to offering diverse, delicious options for all visitors!
For returning foods, look for German brats and smoked sausages at the German charcoal swivel grill, including the 2023 crowd favorite spicy Bratwurst. For the ultimate cheese experience, the Raclette Cheese Stube is back featuring freshly melted Swiss cheese on a locally baked baguette, with optional prosciutto, salami, cornichons, Dijon mustard, and scallions as toppings. Other crowd favorites will include mouthwatering bacon on a stick, authentic German schnitzel and potato pancakes, double fried Belgian fries and much more.
For seating options, patrons will find extended outdoor seating on German Oktoberfest benches under the charming bistro lights where they can take in the view of the massive Glühwein Pyramid, the centerpiece of the entire Village.
The Glühwein Pyramid, at the heart of the entire Village, will feature a large variety of imported German mulled wines by Gerstacker mulled wines from Nuremberg, Germany. The 2024 Glühwein (mulled wine) lineup features the classic bestselling traditional red along with exciting flavors like Cherry, Blueberry and the winter special, Baked Apple. Glühwein-lovers can take a bit of the mulled wine magic home as all on-site flavors are now available in bottles. Perfect for gifting or savoring the holiday spirit long after their visit!
Christmas Village’s iconic Glühwein Pyramid is even more efficient this year with the addition of a fourth register, designed to reduce wait times for thirsty visitors. For those looking to avoid crowds altogether, weekdays remain the best time to enjoy the market with shorter lines.
Additional beverages at the Pyramid will include Hot Cocoa with marshmallows. Throughout the Village, visitors can warm up with spiked or non-spiked hot chocolate, regular and Irish Coffee, plus, of course, cold Hofbräu beers on draft.
For tastings, wine enthusiasts should come ready to unwind and savor the taste of perfection at weekly wine tasting events in partnership with long time partner Boordy Vineyards! Tastings are every Thirsty Thursday (December 5th, 12th, and 19th) from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. They are perfect for the wine novice to the wine connoisseur – and those looking for a charming evening out (including a date night). Tickets will soon go on sale for the 2024 season. Stay tuned on social media for early bird specials!
Cocktail lovers should keep an eye out for the new alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at the Winter Wunder Bar. The Village’s first-ever menu of signature holiday cocktails will be offering an expansive selection of hot and cold cocktails and mocktails, perfect for those who prefer alcohol-f ree options or just want to try something new. The expanded drink menu ensures there’s something festive for everyone. The Winter Wunder Bar is located outdoors in the Christmas Village food lane next to the Carousel.
The iconic Christmas Village boot mug is back this season in a brand new color! Be sure to visit early as these collector’s items tend to sell out quickly. This year also features fresh designs for both the traditional blue Glühwein (mulled wine) mug and the other classic cream-colored beer stein – perfect for adding to your holiday collection. Plus, explore our new merchandise available at the Information Booth, including Christmas Village ornaments, shot glasses and other festive surprises. Don’t miss out on these limited-edition treasures, available while supplies last.
For family fun, look for the return of the Village’s largest attractions that are sure to bring a smile to kids and adults of all ages! The charming old-school Christmas Village Carousel brings with it horses, reindeer and whimsical lights for trips round-and-round. The 65-foot-tall Christmas Village Ferris Wheel will again offer breathtaking birds-eye views over the busy holiday festivities and stunning views of the water. The Christmas Village Tree will return at Rash Field Park. Other family-friendly activities including appearances by Gingy the Gingerbread Man, family-friendly vendors with gifts for the kids, and surprises yet to be announced.
For special events, save the date for the following family-friendly programs:
* Christmas Village Tree Lighting Ceremony
Saturday, November 23rd, 4:30pm
Look for music and carols, a countdown to light the tree and more!
* Christmas Village Christkind Arrival and Ceremony
Saturday, November 30th, Christkind Arrival at 3:30pm and Ceremony begin at 4:00pm
Welcome the German Christkind as she arrives on the Majesty Vessel by City Cruises by water, walk the market with her and hear her famous prologue, and watch for little treats for the kids!
* German American Weekend
Saturday, December 7th, starting 1:00pm, and Sunday, 8th, starting 2:00pm
Experience German culture, dances, and traditions and compete in a German Games contest which includes popular Oktoberfest-style competitions such as Bierstein lifting (‘Bierkrugstemmen’), a Bratwurst Eating Contest, and Brezelschnappen.
* Family Weekend
Saturday, December 14th, starting 12:00pm, and Sunday, 15th, starting 12:00pm
Enjoy two days loaded with live music on the stage and kids’ activities from Potato Sack Races and Cornhole to Egg and Spoon Races. Snap a picture with our mascot Gingy and take a ride on our carousel!
For shopping, visitors should come ready to find something special for everyone on Santa’s list, as nearly 60 local and international vendors will offer toys, apparel, jewelry, decorations, home décor, artwork, and more. In 2024, local vendors like Wildry will be showcasing their one-of-a-kind, sustainable floral art and goods, while Baltimore-based Cane Mixers returns with their cocktail mixers, perfect for both non-alcoholic drinks and DIY cocktails. Fairy Greens also returns with microgreens and lavender products, and Myroslava’s Creations, a Ukraine vendor from Silver Spring, will offer handmade products crafted by Ukrainian artists. The famous German vendor Käthe Wohlfahrt will be back with thousands of ornaments, pyramids, and limited-edition holiday decorations, drawing shoppers from all over the East Coast to experience this unique holiday market run by one of Germany’s most beloved Christmas specialists!
Furry companions are welcome at Christmas Village, with well-behaved leashed dogs invited to explore both outside and inside most of the giant heated tent. Dog lovers can look forward to local Maryland based My Canine Cucina and their specially prepared, natural and wholesome dog food and treats, made with locally sourced ingredients from Harford County and surrounding areas. Keep an eye out for even more vendors catering to your four-legged friends throughout the season!
For admission, the outdoor area is always no charge to visit and experience. Admission to the heated festival tent is complimentary admission on November 23rd and 24th for Preview Weekend and all weekdays throughout the season. For the remaining weekends, tickets to the festival tent are five dollars for adults 18 and over, while kids under 18 are complimentary. All purchased tickets act as a season pass for the entire 2024 season, allowing visitors to return anytime throughout the season without paying admission again.
“Christmas Village in Baltimore presented by Chase continues to evolve, and we’re so proud and grateful to offer a vibrant holiday tradition for our returning and new visitors,” said Schmalz. “With our tickets serving as a season pass for the weekends, we make it easy for visitors to return throughout the entire season. This is a holiday tradition from my home country, where it is common to visit the local holiday market over and over again during the holidays. Whether it’s savoring a warm bite to eat, shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts, or collecting this year’s mugs, we can’t wait to see the community gather together once again to celebrate the season.”
Christmas Village in Baltimore presented by Chase dates and hours for the 2024 season are listed below:
Preview Weekend: Saturday, November 23rd and Sunday, November 24th
First Day: Thursday, November 28th (Thanksgiving)
Last Day: Sunday, December 24th (Christmas Eve)
Closed: November 25th, 26th, 27th and December 2nd,3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th
HOURS:
Sunday to Thursday, 12:00pm to 8:00pm
Friday to Saturday, 12:00pm to 9:00pm
Thanksgiving Day, 12:00pm to 5:00pm
Christmas Eve, 12:00pm to 5:00pm
LOCATION
West Shore Park, Inner Harbor
501 Light Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
Follow @bmorechristmas on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn or visit www dot baltimore-christmas dot com for more information. Final vendor lists, food and drink menus, themed weekends and special event details, stay tuned to the website in mid-November.
JPMorganChase IN THE GREATER BALTIMORE REGION
JPMorganChase has served the Greater Baltimore community for more than 130 years. The firm has supported the placement of more than 12,000 local residents into apprenticeships, full-time, or part-time positions and the participation of nearly 6,000 individuals in job training programs aligned with high-demand industries. Since 2021 the firm has committed $13.4 million in philanthropic capital to the region where it serves as the bank of choice for more than 35,000 small business clients and 565,000 consumer banking customers. To support wealth-building and economic development, JPMorganChase committed to investing $20 million in philanthropic capital and flexible-low cost loans in Baltimore by 2027.
ABOUT HOLIDAY DISTRICT IN INNER HARBOR
Baltimore’s Christmas Village, now in its tenth season, is a leading partner in the Holiday District. Charm City’s Holiday District will provide visitors from the Baltimore and D.C. metro areas with shopping, entertainment, and family fun activities. The district will stretch from the Christmas Village Tree at Rash Field Park, to Christmas Village proper in West Shore Park and along the promenade, to downtown Inner Harbor, including the Inner Harbor Ice Rink, and nearby attractions, shopping destinations, and museums.
Come and enjoy the festive holiday atmosphere with the beautiful Christmas Tree, thousands of twinkling lights, live music, children’s activities, and Christmas gifts. Shop for high-quality international and local gifts and decorations. Warm up with a glass of warm Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate while enjoying a wide variety of European food and drinks. Sing along to holiday tunes from around the world. Go for a spin on the ice, add some spice to a date night, and teach your children how to glide on the ice. Bring the whole family, make some memories, and celebrate the most festive holiday destination in Baltimore.
Participants in the Holiday District include but are not limited to:
Christmas Village in Baltimore
Waterfront Partnership
Inner Harbor Ice Rink
Visit Baltimore
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore
The holiday season on the waterfront kicks off with the opening of the Inner Harbor Ice Rink by Waterfront Partnership as part of “Winter on the Waterfront” (dates to be announced by Waterfront Partnership). The festivities continue with Christmas Village’s Preview Weekend on Saturday, November 23rd, and Sunday, November 24th, leading up to the Christmas Village Tree Lighting at Rash Field Park on November 23rd at 4:30pm.
For more information about the Inner Harbor Ice Rink, visit Waterfront Partnership at http://innerharboricerink.org/
ABOUT RASH FIELD PARK
Rash Field Park is the new home of the Christmas Village Tree. This park has received numerous awards, including the People’s Choice Award at the ULI Wavemaker award ceremony and the 2022 MD ASLA Honor Award for Phase I Built. Therefore, it perfectly reflects the Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore’s mission to create a clean, green, safe, sustainable, and thriving urban waterfront that all Baltimore City residents can enjoy.
Photo credit Christina Kalff
Photos courtesy of Christmas Village of Baltimore
