Festive Fun in Downtown Frederick: A guide to holiday activities and traditions

by Alaina Reilly and Reporter

January 15, 2025

Discovering the magic of the season with downtown Frederick’s holiday events

As the holiday season nears, the historic streets of Downtown Frederick, Maryland, come alive with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a vibrant community spirit. Among the city’s cherished holiday traditions, the Double Decker Holiday Bus and the stunning Carroll Creek Floating Lights stand out as must-see experiences that capture the magic of the season.

These events don’t just celebrate the beauty of the holidays. They also bring people together, blending history, festivity, and community-driven initiatives. Whether it’s enjoying a scenic tour through Frederick’s illuminated streets, exploring the serene charm of its historic churches, or supporting local charities through the Sailing Through the Winter Solstice fundraiser, the city offers something special for everyone during this magical time of year.

Festive Fun in Downtown Frederick: A guide to holiday activities and traditions

The cheerful community poses in front of the festive Double Decker Holiday Bus. https://www.instagram.com/p/DC6iSJpNyqh/

Double Decker Holiday Bus

As the holiday season approaches, Downtown Frederick, Maryland, transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights and festive decorations adorning its streets. One of the most charming holiday traditions in the city is the Double Decker Holiday Bus, an annual event that offers a magical way to experience the sights and sounds of the season.

The Double Decker Holiday Bus is exactly what it sounds like: a classic double-decker bus, beautifully decorated with holiday lights and ornaments, that takes visitors on a scenic tour of the city's most festive areas. From the comfort of the bus, passengers can enjoy a cozy ride through the downtown streets, which are illuminated by dazzling light displays, holiday-themed storefronts, and charming decorations. It’s a unique experience that brings together both locals and visitors for a heartwarming adventure through the historic district.

The tour typically includes seasonal music, festive commentary, and sometimes even special holiday treats, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration. Whether you are admiring the lights along Market Street or taking in the festive window displays, the ride offers a perfect opportunity to soak in the holiday spirit without braving the cold.

The Double Decker Holiday Bus has become a must-do activity for families, friends, and couples, offering a memorable way to kick off the holiday season. It is also an excellent way to discover the charm of downtown Frederick, a city known for its rich history and vibrant community spirit.

So, if you are looking for a fun, festive, and family-friendly activity this holiday season, be sure to check out the Double Decker Holiday Bus in Downtown Frederick.

Brightly lit boats drift along Carroll Creek, adding a festive glow to the waters. https://downtownfrederick.org/event/sailing-through-the-winter-solstice-by-color-on-the-creek/

Sailing Through The Winter Solstice

Downtown Frederick, Maryland becomes a glowing spectacle of light, and one of the most magical displays is the Carroll Creek Floating Lights. Located along Carroll Creek Park, this seasonal installation features a series of illuminated, floating boats that drift serenely along the water, creating a breathtaking reflection against the creek's surface. It is a must-see experience for anyone visiting Frederick during the holidays.

But this year, the floating lights are more than just a beautiful visual experience — they are also part of a unique charitable event known as Sailing Through the Winter Solstice.

What makes this event even more special is that visitors can vote on their favorite boat with a donation. All contributions support local non-profit organizations throughout Frederick County, making the experience not only visually stunning but also meaningful. Each year, the fundraiser draws crowds of all ages, eager to see the creativity on display and contribute to a good cause.

"Seeing the boats light up Carroll Creek during the winter is beautiful. Each one tells a story, and knowing it supports local charities makes it even more meaningful." said Rowan Grob

For the 2023-2024 season, the Sailing Through the Winter Solstice fundraiser raised more than $133,000 for local charities—an incredible testament to the generosity of the community. This generous sum will support a variety of important initiatives across the county, from education to health services, arts programs, and more.

The Sailing Through the Winter Solstice fundraiser will continue to be a highlight of the holiday season, as it brings light to both the creek and the lives of those in need.

Soft candlelight illuminates the historic architecture of the church, casting a warm glow over its intricate details during the Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship. https://www.visitfrederick.org/events/annual-events/historic-houses-of-worship-tour/

Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship

Frederick offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the beauty of its historic churches and houses of worship through the annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship. This cherished event invites visitors to explore several of the city’s most iconic religious buildings, each beautifully illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight, creating a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere.

The tour features a selection of Frederick's most treasured places of worship, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. From grand, Gothic-inspired churches to simpler, yet equally historic, chapels, each location offers a glimpse into the city’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage. As guests wander through the halls, they can admire stunning stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, and sacred spaces that have stood the test of time.

In addition to the visual splendor, many of the houses of worship feature live music, with choirs and carolers filling the air with festive tunes. Some even offer brief historical presentations, providing insight into the significance of each church and its place in Frederick’s development. The combination of history, holiday spirit, and the tranquility of candlelight makes this event a memorable experience for all who attend.

"Walking through these historic houses of worship by candlelight feels like stepping back in time," says Aisha Patel. "It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the season and honor the history of Frederick."

Whether you're a history buff, a lover of architecture, or simply looking for a peaceful way to celebrate the season, the Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship is a wonderful way to connect with Frederick’s past while enjoying the festive spirit of the holidays.

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