If you want a taste of patriotism, Baltimore makes the ideal Christmas destination.

The city has a long history as an important American seaport. Fort McHenry sits at the mouth of Baltimore’s inner Harbor and is home to “The Star-Spangled Banner”, America’s national anthem. Its harbor area is a great place for eating and shopping and visitors can view cultural attractions like the Civil War era warship, the National Aquarium and the USS Constellation.

If Baltimore sounds like your ideal Christmas vacation, here are some things you can check out when you’re in town.

Merriment & Melodies

Merriment & Melodies is a live performance featuring some of Baltimore’s best choral groups. This open-air concert will include street entertainment like acrobats and holiday characters. Guests can enjoy warm drinks and sweets during Hot Chocolate Happy Hour. The event takes place on three different dates throughout the holiday season.

Old Tyme Celebration

The Old Tyme Celebration is a one-day event at Historic Fells Point. Visitors can come to shop the many vendor booths to find holiday gifts and treats. There’s also an eggnog contest, breakfast with Santa and horse drawn sleigh rides. Adults can participate in the Reindeer Run Pub Crawl which includes 20 pubs and bars offering a variety of specials into the wee hours of the morning.

Christmas Village at Inner Harbor

The Christmas Village at Inner Harbor aims to recreate traditional German markets. Vendors will be located in traditional woodsheds serving Gluhwein (German mulled wine), sausages, gingerbread and other treats. Its an ideal location for finding unique gifts.

Christmas and the City

Christmas and the City is a year-round Christmas store that sells every type of ornament you can think of including those that pay homage to the city of Baltimore and state of Maryland. While there, be sure to stroll the nearby waterfront area that’s home to many historical sites, shops and museums.

Shop for Nutcrackers now at Schmidt Christmas Market

Pandora Ice Rink at Inner Harbor

Ice skating is the perfect holiday activity, and the Pandora Ice Rink at Inner Harbor is a great place to do it. The newly renovated rink features 6,000 square feet of ice and it’s ideal for getting in some holiday fun and physical fitness.

Spirit of Baltimore Santa Lunch Cruise

This lunch cruise offers delectable gourmet food and terrific views of the Patapsco River and the Inner Harbor. Kids can enjoy live entertainment, a children’s buffet, and, of course, a visit with Santa.

Rock the Dock Family Holiday Bash

Rock the Dock promises fun for the whole family. Gather under a heated tent to take part in activities including arts and crafts, cookie making, face painting and train rides on the promenade. Food and drink will be available for purchase from local restaurants and vendors.

12 Days of Science at Maryland Science Center

If your child is a science buff, you can’t miss out on a visit to the Maryland Science Center. The trip will be especially fun from Dec. 20 to Dec. 31 when they ring in the 12 Days of Science. Each day has a different theme that may include constructing a gingerbread house, participating in the Winter Games or learning about liquid nitrogen and dry ice on Frostbite Day. There is kid friendly live entertainment on the last day of the event.

The Polar Express 4D Experience at the National Aquarium

Escape from the cold by enjoying The Polar Express 4-D Experience. The event takes place at the National Aquarium. Guests will experience multi-sensory effects such as feeling the wind and snow and even smelling the hot cocoa when it appears on the screen.

Pet Photos with Santa in Harbor East

Bring your pet down to the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Center to get their photo taken with Santa. After the picture is taken, you will get a link where it can be downloaded. Be sure to bring a toy or food item to help animals in need.

Miracle on 34th St

It just so happens that Baltimore has its very own 34th St. Every year, the block lights up for an event that has been drawing thousands of visitors for over 70 years.

Dollar or Less Days

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have the money to check out all the sights Baltimore has to offer. That’s why the city hosts Dollar or Less Days. These typically take place over a weekend at the beginning of December and provide admission to places like the Christmas Village, the Port Discovery and the National Museum for $1 or less. Some facilities even open their doors for free.

Sounds of the Season

The Inner Harbor area will be alive with the sound of music. Stroll through to find musicians and carolers playing holiday tunes as a part of the Sounds of the Season event. They will be located at key areas like the White Marsh Mall, the skating rink, the German Christmas market and other sections of the neighborhood.

Annual Parade of Lighted Boats

The Annual Parade of Lighted Boats involves festively decorated boats making their journey from Fells Point to Inner Harbor. The best place to view the procession is from the promenade at Inner Harbor and at Tidepoint and Broadway Pier at Fells Point. This is a one-day event that occurs in early December and lasts over two and a half hours.

Baltimore is full of cultural and metropolitan attractions that make it the perfect place to visit during the holiday season. Which of these sights and activities will you be taking in when you’re in town?

Read more ofA Christmas Blog orShop Now at Schmidt Christmas Market