Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

The weather today will be cloudy. Rain, with a slight chance of snow in the morning, then a chance of snow in the afternoon. Blowing snow in the afternoon with visibility one-quarter mile or less at times. Snow accumulation is around an inch. Very windy, with highs in the upper 40s. Temperature falling into the lower 20s in the afternoon. West winds of around 20 to 30 mph, increasing to 30 to 35 mph in the afternoon. Gusts up to 55 mph. The chance of precipitation is 80%. Wind chill values are as low as zero in the afternoon.

Archie’s BBQ is open special hours this week! Today through January 4, 11am-9pm.

Deep Creek Adventure Bureau presents the 3rd Annual Highlands Fat Bike Series, a four-race winter series for all skill levels. Register for the full series by January 9, or join individual races and keep the winter stoke going. Register for the series and save! This is a great time to try fat biking as bikes are available to rent and the community is so supportive! Come ride with us!

Make a splash! Take on the first-ever Super Dunk (12 dunks!) during the 27th annual MSP/NRP Deep Creek Dunk on February 20, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Who’s brave enough to take the plunge?

206 Alder Bistro & Bar will be open Monday – Wednesday (December 29–31) from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, closed on Thursday, January 1, and back to regular hours Friday and Saturday. Enjoy brunch/linner, comfort food, craft cocktails, and local brews!

Check out the Copper Kettle Popcorn Factory’s holiday schedule (linked here) for this week.

The Joy of Christ Celebration features the Joy of Christmas Light Show with over 40,000 synchronized lights and music nightly from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, through January 1, 2026, at the Oakland Community Center. Watch from your car on 87.9 FM or enjoy the interactive dance floor. Free admission.

Here’s the Deep Creek Donuts’ Holiday Hours (linked here)! Stop by and enjoy their freshly made, delicious donuts!

Pittsburgh’s oldest performing rock legends, the Bill Ali Band, hit the stage tonight at 7:00 PM at Honi-Honi Bar, delivering cover songs from the best decades with an in-your-face, guitar-slamming classic rock attitude.

The weather today will be a chance of freezing rain in the morning, then rain with a chance of freezing rain in the afternoon. Ice accumulation of up to one-quarter of an inch. Highs in the mid 40s. Southeast winds of around 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. The chance of precipitation is near 100%.

Still need a gift after Christmas? Bear Creek Traders has you covered with décor, candles, toys, jewelry, clothing, and more, perfect for those last-minute or late-season gifts.

Check out the latest specials at Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations!

The Joy of Christmas Light Show continues as part of the Joy of Christ Celebration, featuring more than 40,000 lights synchronized to music each night through January 1, 2026 at the Oakland Community Center. Shows run nightly from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, beginning at the top of each hour, and can be enjoyed outdoors or from your vehicle by tuning to 87.9 FM, with a free, family-friendly experience that has become a cherished community tradition.

Saturday shopping in Friendsville takes place at Herbal Earth Apothecary & Gardens from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Small Shoppe Saturday in December highlights local businesses, with Friendsville open for business and offering plenty of holiday shopping and gift ideas.

Team Bingo Sundays are a fun way to wrap up the weekend at Mountain State Brewing Co. in Deep Creek Lake, with games starting at 1:00 PM and featuring laughs, prizes, and great food.

The holiday season brings plenty of festive Christmas and holiday events to enjoy this weekend. Make the most of the cheer while it lasts!

The weather today will be mostly cloudy. Showers are likely in the morning. Patchy fog, with highs in the upper 40s. West winds of around 5 to 10 mph, becoming northwest in the afternoon. Gusts up to 25 mph. The chance of rain is 70%.

Merry Christmas! We hope your holiday season is filled with cozy moments, meaningful traditions, and time well spent with the people who matter most. Thank you for reading and supporting Deep Creek Times! We’re grateful for you and wish you a joyful, peaceful holiday season.

Serving Deep Creek Lake for over a decade, Taylor-Made Deep Creek Lake is here to help you buy or sell your dream home. Take a look at this month’s featured listings and reach out today.

Plan your next getaway at Trees Company in Deep Creek, MD, where a dog-friendly mountain cabin awaits with rustic charm and modern comfort. Perfect for both relaxation and adventure!

Dreaming of a White Christmas? Wisp Resort has you covered! Their slopes are perfectly primed for winter conditions, ready for nonstop mountain fun. Whether you’re hitting the runs by day or skiing under the lights at night, we can’t wait to see you out on the slopes.

Garrett 8 Cinemas’ Thursday Movie of the Week features Wicked – For Good, the second part of the film adaptation, following Elphaba and her complicated relationship with Glinda.

Locals, this one’s for you. Every Thursday at Dutch’s at Silver Tree, year-round residents receive a gift card for 20% of their dinner subtotal to use on a future visit as a thank-you for supporting local. Call 301-387-0525 for details or reservations.

The weather today will be mostly sunny, with highs in the lower 40s. Northwest winds 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, becoming west 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph in the afternoon.

Garrett County Public Schools celebrates four teachers receiving National Board Certification: Annalea Burgess, April Fleming, Melissa Pyle, and Leah Shaw. This honor reflects their dedication to student success and professional growth, bringing GCPS’s total NBC teachers to 37. Congratulations!

Celebrate the season at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill (12740 Garrett Hwy, Oakland)! Christmas Eve: 10 :00 AM – 4:00 PM, Christmas Day: closed, New Year’s Eve: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, New Year’s Day: regular hours.

Craving pizza? Fox’s Pizza Den-Oakland offers fresh, hand-tossed pies, gourmet hoagies, wings, and more, all made with 100% real cheese and quality ingredients. Dine in, pick up, or order online! Holiday hours: open today 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, closed tomorrow for Christmas.

Back by popular demand, Amazing Grazing: A Taste of Garrett County returns on May 12, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Ag Hall, Garrett County Fairgrounds. Enjoy an evening of delicious local flavors while supporting a great cause. Tickets are $40 now, $45 after January 1, and $50 the day of. Last year sold out, so get yours early!

It’s Wedgie Wednesday! Enjoy $2 off any Large Wedgie at Fox’s Pizza Den in Oakland!

Garrett County’s Family Caregiver Support Group meets today at Grantsville Senior Center, 10:30 AM–12:00 NN. Free attendance, light refreshments, and coffee provided. All caregivers and loved ones welcome!

Pasta Night is happening every Wednesday at Ace’s Run Restaurant and Pub, 4:00–8:30 PM!

McHenry United Methodist Church is hosting a Christmas Eve service tonight at 6:00 PM at Mosser & Bumblebee Rd, near the fairgrounds. All are welcome to this casual, traditional service ending with candlelit Silent Night. Merry Christmas!

The weather today will be cloudy. Rain is likely, mainly in the morning. Highs in the mid-40s. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph. The chance of rain is 70%.

The firearms season harvest was 10.4% lower than last year but just 3% below the five-year average of 28,467 deer, with the two-week season running statewide from November 29 through December 13.

CPV has announced operations have begun at Maryland’s largest solar project. Situated on a reclaimed, decommissioned coal mine, the 324,000 panels supporting 160-megawatt (MW) farm are designed to produce enough energy to power 30,000 households, repurposing the land and providing needed generation to the state.

Nominations Now Being Accepted for 2026 Sport Fisheries Achievement Award! This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made meaningful contributions to habitat management, conservation, education, research, or other efforts that benefit fish and recreational fishing in Maryland, with nominations open through January 31, 2026.

The Garrett County Health Department is seeking feedback from residents, stakeholders, and partners to understand how its services are meeting the community’s needs. Take just 2 minutes to complete a brief survey about customer service and the department’s efforts to make Garrett County a healthier place to live, work, and play.

Espresso Alley is bringing festive cheer this Christmas week. With the holiday rush in full swing, stop by for fun, seasonal drinks to keep you going, a perfect treat for the season.

Community Works volunteers spread holiday cheer by preparing cookie kits for the Dove Center, collecting donations for the House of Hope, and stocking the 360 Access Hub, making a real impact in Garrett County.

The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation funds projects that protect and preserve the Deep Creek Watershed, keeping it healthy and beautiful for future generations. Explore their upcoming activities and ways to get involved!

Firewater Kitchen & Bar is serving up holiday cheer with its Annual Holly Jolly Holiday Cocktail Menu. Featuring festive cocktails crafted to brighten the season, the menu is available now through the end of the year alongside all seasonal favorites. Stop by to get a little festive!

The Western Maryland Forage Conference will be held January 21, 2026, at the Grantsville VFD from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Producers and livestock owners can attend sessions on forage management, earn certification credits, enjoy refreshments and lunch, and register for $25 by January 13 ($30 after). Sign up now!

What a great Christmas present! Amazing Grazing: A Taste of Garrett County returns May 12, 2026, from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM at The Ag Hall at the Garrett County Fairgrounds, featuring incredible local flavors—tickets are $40 now, increase after January 1, and this sell-out event is also available as a gift certificate in any amount.

Catch the Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Club Annual Boat Auction on June 6, 2026, at 9:00 AM! See auction details, photos, and the complete boat lineup.

Hit the trail today at 10:00 am with Ranger Noah for a challenging 4-mile hike that highlights the energizing benefits of outdoor exercise.

The weather today will be sunny in the morning, then mostly cloudy, with highs in the lower 40s. Southwest winds of around 5 mph.

Over 555,330 trees were planted in Fiscal Year 2025, according to a new annual report to the Maryland General Assembly. Plantings by non-state organizations and individuals were more than five times higher than the previous year.

See the holiday hours for Dutch’s at Silver Tree!

Start your Deep Creek Lake home search with Railey Realty! Explore this month’s listings for lakefront, lake access, Wisp Resort, ski-in/ski-out, and Garrett County properties.

Take the plunge! Try the first-ever Super Dunk with 12 daring dips at the 27th annual MSP/NRP Deep Creek Dunk on February 20, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Are you brave enough?

Reptile Encounter today at 1:00 pm at the Discovery Center is a hands-on learning experience featuring gentle reptile ambassadors, perfect for curious kids and adults alike.

Joy of Christmas Light Show brightens the Oakland Community Center each night with over 40,000 synchronized lights and music. Enjoy the show outdoors or from your vehicle by tuning to 87.9 FM, with hourly shows from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM and an interactive outdoor dance floor. This free, family-friendly celebration runs through January 1, 2026.

Christmas Blessing 2025 takes place today at 6:00 pm with drive-thru meal pick-ups at Brodak’s Banquet Hall. Stay in your vehicle while volunteers bring a complete holiday meal to your car, including a turkey and all the fixings, for anyone who could use a little extra help this season.

Friday, December 19, Saturday, December 20, and Sunday, December 21, 2025: The weather today will be snow likely, with a chance of rain in the morning, then a chance of snow in the afternoon. Snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches. Blustery, with highs in the upper 30s. Temperature falling into the lower 20s in the afternoon. West winds of around 15 to 25 mph. Gusts up to 50 mph, increasing to 60 mph in the afternoon. The chance of precipitation is 70%. Saturday will be mostly sunny, with highs in the mid 40s. South winds of around 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Sunday will be mostly sunny, with highs in the lower 30s.

A new study finds that 117,768 Marylanders are expected to spend Christmas alone this year, making Maryland the 5th loneliest state at Christmas. Based on a survey of 3,000 adults who live alone, the findings highlight how the holiday season can intensify year-round loneliness, turning a day meant for togetherness into one many quietly face on their own.

The Garrett County Health Department has confirmed a third case of pertussis (whooping cough) in less than a month. Public health officials are actively investigating and notifying close contacts to help prevent further spread of this highly contagious illness.

Expect 100% of lifts spinning, with additional terrain opening on all three sides of the mountain: Front Side, East Ridge, and North Camp. Get in laps on your favorite trails today and check out even more tomorrow! Stay up to date on current conditions and terrain by visiting the Wisp Resort mountain report webpage.

ARCHIE’S BBQ VALUE MEAL! Enjoy a ¼ lb sandwich with your choice of Pulled Pork, Chicken, Rib Meat, Brisket, or a Hot Dog, plus a side like Green Beans, Mac & Cheese, Fries, and more, all served with a drink for just $14.95.

We’ve got a new marketplace listing! A refrigerator, smooth-top stove, microwave, and dishwasher—all in very good condition. Priced for a quick sale and sold as a complete set. Take a look in the Kitchen Equipment category.

There’s still time to place your holiday dinner order with Arrowhead Market! Visit arrowheadmarket.com or call 301-387-4020 to order today. All orders must be picked up by 2 PM on Christmas Day.

D&H Paving serves MD, Northern VA, WV, and Southern PA, providing trusted paving, grading, seal coating, resurfacing, and excavating services.

Enjoy the Annual Holiday Lights Hike along the 1-mile Orchard Loop, glowing with candlelight and holiday lights on this self-guided walk. Stop by the Nature Center to see the train display, and warm up with free hot cocoa provided by the Friends of New Germany State Park on December 19 and 20 from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Lake House.

Spread warmth this season by donating to the Christmas Coat Drive at David Jochynek State Farm until Saturday. Scarves, gloves, boots, and gently used coats are welcome to help those in need.

Saturday Shopping in Friendsville continues in December at Herbal Earth Apothecary & Gardens, with Friendsville open for business and full of holiday shopping and gift ideas.

Build your own Christmas Cookie Box at Mullenax Bakery with their first-ever Christmas Cookie Buffet this weekend! Mix and match classic and specialty holiday cookies, choosing a small (5×5) box for $15 or a large (9×6) box for $25, perfect for gifts, parties, teacher treats, or a holiday treat for yourself.

Wisp Resort is packed with holiday fun this weekend! Warm up at Santa’s Hot Chocolate Bar on Saturday from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM at McHenry Lodge, and customize your cup with marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles. Enjoy winter crafts for the whole family at the same time, including snowman building, ornament designing, and holiday keychain making.

Curious about how the snow you love is made? Behind-the-scenes snowmaking tours take place on Saturday at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM with General Manager Ron Hawkes and Director of Mountain Operations John McCracken. Learn the science, strategy, and tools behind Wisp’s winter magic, then experience the snow on the mountain yourself. Tours last about an hour, and spots are limited.

Deep Creek Pottery is hosting a fun and festive family holiday paint party on Saturday from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Enjoy 25% off all holiday pottery painting, along with holiday goodies and music to get you in the spirit. This is a walk-in event!

Santa Sunday begins at 10:00 AM. Suit up in your best Santa outfit and spread holiday cheer on the slopes! Guests dressed as Santa will receive an Any Day 2025–26 lift ticket. Meet at the base of Chairs 2 and 3.

Sugar Cookie Decorating on Sunday from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM is a festive, hands-on experience for all ages. Decorate classic sugar cookies with colorful icing, sprinkles, and seasonal flair at McHenry Lodge.

Team Bingo Sundays are a fun way to end the weekend. Head to Mountain State Brewing Co. in Deep Creek Lake at 1:00 PM for laughs, prizes, and great food.

Get into the holiday spirit with the Garrett Choral Society’s Christmas Flourish: Songs for the Season on Sunday at 3:00 PM in the Daniel Offutt III Theatre at Garrett College. Enjoy a festive mix of favorites like Jingle Bells, O Magnum Mysterium, and Dan Forrest’s Carol of Joy, brought to life with brass, percussion, and piano. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for students, and free for kids 5 and under. Hurry, only a few left!

Don’t miss out on all the festive Christmas and holiday events happening this weekend!

The weather today will be mostly sunny. A chance of rain in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. Southeast winds of around 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. The chance of rain is 50%.

Copper Kettle Popcorn Factory’s Holiday Popcorn Buckets are filled with festive flavors and make the perfect gift for the season.

Fox’s Pizza Den–Deep Creek Lake is family-owned and operated, specializing in delivery and to-go orders around Deep Creek Lake! Call 240-442-5590 to order!

Check out the latest specials at Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations!

Even as the years go by, these winter views never get old. Celebrate 70 years on Maryland’s mountain top and lock in the Mission Affordable 4-Pack–four transferable, no-restriction lift tickets for just $309. Available through Friday the 19th!

Consider riding with Deep Creek Shuttle to and from the Holiday Light Hikes at New Germany State Park on December 19 and 20! Skip the driving and let Deep Creek Shuttle handle the ride. Visit DeepCreekShuttle.us to download the scheduling app. Round-trip is $30 per person, and kids 12 and under ride free!

Garrett 8 Cinemas’ Thursday Movie of the Week today is Wicked: For Good. Experience the magical journey of Elphaba and Glinda on the big screen at 5:30 PM, with all tickets just $6.

The weather today will be partly sunny, with highs in the upper 30s. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph.

Mullenax Bakery invites you to their first-ever Christmas Cookie Buffet! Build your own box with a mix of classic and specialty holiday cookies. Small box $15, large box $25. Perfect for gifts, parties, teacher treats, or just spoiling yourself. Bring friends, family, or come enjoy the cookie magic!

Wisp Resort Snowmaking Tours give you a behind-the-scenes look at how the resort makes its snow, with a one-hour tour on December 20 at 1:00 PM or 3:00 PM led by GM Ron Hawkes and Director John McCracken. Spots are limited, so call (855) 990-0262 to reserve your place.

Settle Estate Sale – White Tail Ridge is a 3,100 SF custom log home just 1.5 hours from the Metro, set on 15 private acres with 3 potential bedrooms, open beam ceilings, 2 stone fireplaces, a loft, and custom finishes. The property includes a garage, full basement, workshop, and some furnishings, making it perfect as a retreat or full-time home with abundant wildlife. The executor is seeking a quick sale. Make an offer!

Commercial Buildings: 2 for 1 – Two high-visibility buildings on US Rt 220 in Cresaptown, formerly a daycare, could be converted into apartments, offices, or retail. Features include T-111 siding, metal roofing, full security, and a sprinkler system. Building #1 has two floors plus a basement; Building #2 has two floors and a balcony overlooking Warrior Run Creek. Small yard for potential parking. Unique opportunity. Call to view!

3.318 Unrestricted Acres – Ready to build your vacation home or full-time residence in the Deep Creek Lake resort area. Fully wooded with mature hardwoods and level topography, the property is close to all resort amenities and just a short drive to a nearby boat launch.

Mountain Top Property with Privacy – Near Davis and Thomas, WV, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath custom raised rancher with a 30 x 40 garage offers breathtaking views, a spring-fed pond, new well, low WV taxes, and no HOA or restrictions. Easy access to a recreational lake. Priced at $469,500. Call 304-788-5540.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll reach out to a cleaner once I get things under control,” you’re not alone. Nicole Bennett with Citrus Sweet Clean can help be the one to get things under control. Have Nicole come help get the house ready for guests or do a deep clean before the family sleeps over this holiday season. Call or text 301-616-4092 and get on her schedule.

Your Deep Creek getaway, uncorked. A private culinary journey at home with Deep Creek Wine Tastings.

With over 40 years of experience, Don Nemith Builders creates custom, architecturally designed homes in Deep Creek Lake and nearby West Virginia, building lasting relationships through integrity and craftsmanship.

The 2025 Garrett County Stuff the Bus campaign exceeded expectations, raising $2,499.03 and collecting 8,831 school supply items and backpacks for GCPS students. Thanks to the generosity of our community and partners, local students are starting the school year prepared, confident, and ready to learn.

Founded in 2024 by Jeff and Kristyn Kuhn Eckel, the Appalachian Laboratory Investors Network (TALIN) provides critical early-stage funding for innovative environmental research at UMCES Appalachian Laboratory. Philanthropic coalition renews major investment in AL science for a second year, supporting projects that advance conservation, train future scientists, and help build a healthier, more resilient central Appalachian region.

GCPS is inviting community feedback on the 2026–27 school calendar, including options for snow make-up days such as Presidents’ Day, Easter Monday, or days after school ends, as well as potential graduation dates. Input can be submitted by January 4, 2026, ahead of the calendar committee’s update at the January 13 Board Meeting.

It’s Wedgie Wednesday! Enjoy $2 off any large Wedgie at Fox’s Pizza Den in Oakland.

Don’t miss Pasta Night at Ace’s Run Restaurant and Pub, every Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

Check out Wednesday Night Features at Dutch’s at Silver Tree from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

The weather today will be mostly sunny, with highs in the mid-30s. Southwest winds of around 5 to 10 mph. Gusts up to 25 mph in the morning.

The Garrett County Health Department has confirmed a second pertussis (whooping cough) case in less than a month in a 14-year-old resident, with no link between the two cases; officials are investigating, notifying close contacts, and urging residents, especially those around infants and young children—to check vaccination status and watch for symptoms such as cold-like signs followed by severe, persistent coughing, noting that vaccination (DTaP/Tdap) remains the best protection against this highly contagious illness.

GCPS Update: The Garrett County Health Department confirmed a second case of pertussis (whooping cough) linked to Northern High School and Accident Elementary School. Schools remain open, and families should monitor students for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider if needed.

Serving the Deep Creek Lake area for more than a decade, Taylor-Made Deep Creek Sales helps clients achieve their real estate goals. Interested in buying or selling? Check out this month’s featured listings and contact the team today.

Five WVU Medicine skilled nursing facilities earned U.S. News & World Report’s highest “High Performing” rating for 2026, ranking them among the top 19% nationwide, including Garrett Regional Medical Center’s Subacute Rehabilitation Unit in Oakland.

Craving the perfect pizza? Fox’s Pizza Den-Oakland serves fresh, hand-tossed pies, wings, hoagies, and more! Dine in, pick up, or order online!

Planning a December getaway to Deep Creek Lake? Trees Company in Deep Creek, MD offers a dog-friendly mountain cabin with rustic charm and modern comforts, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Back by popular demand, Amazing Grazing: Taste of Garrett County returns May 12, 2026, from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Ag Hall, Garrett County Fairgrounds, featuring a delicious showcase of local restaurants, chefs, and food vendors celebrating the region’s culinary talent while supporting a great cause; tickets are $40 now ($45 after January 1, $50 day of), and since last year sold out, early purchase is encouraged.

Meet Ranger Noah for a challenging 4-mile hike today at 10:00 AM at the New Germany Lake House (weather dependent) and experience the revitalizing effects of outdoor exercise.

The Hickory Environmental Education Center’s annual holiday open house is today from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, featuring Nature Hall tours, a short planetarium program, and light refreshments. This is the only public open house of the year.

The weather today will be mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly sunny. Highs in the lower 20s. West winds of around 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. Wind chill values are as low as 13 below in the morning.

Garrett County Public Schools are closed today.

We received over 11 inches of snow here in Oakland over the weekend.

Have you tried out fat tire biking? Last week was perfect but the 11-inches proved to be too much fluffy snow.

Start your Deep Creek Lake home search with Railey Realty. The area experts offering the largest selection of lakefront, lake access, Wisp Resort, ski-in/ski-out, and Garrett County properties. Check out this month’s listings and find your place at the lake.

The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation is excited to launch the new Water Wise Kids Zone on the website, an engaging and educational space for elementary-aged kids to learn about protecting our water, wildlife, and natural habitats through fun activities like coloring pages, scavenger hunts, videos, and more. Helping inspire curiosity and environmental stewardship at home, in the classroom, or at Deep Creek Lake.

Mark your calendar for the Fur Ball Online Auction, January 1–10! Bid on travel, Capitals tickets, wine, golf, fly fishing, and more, all to support HART for Animals and help save homeless pets.

Make a splash at the first-ever Super Dunk with 12 dunks during the 27th annual MSP/NRP Deep Creek Dunk on February 20, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Are you brave enough to take the plunge?

Friday, December 12, Saturday, December 13, and Sunday, December 14, 2025: The weather today will be mostly cloudy, with a slight chance of snow in the morning, then partly sunny, with a chance of snow in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 20s. South winds of around 5 mph, becoming southeast in the afternoon. The chance of snow is 40%. Saturday will be mostly cloudy with a 50% chance of snow. Highs in the lower 30s. West winds of around 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. Sunday will be mostly cloudy, with a 40% chance of snow. Cold, with highs 10 to 15. Wind chill values are as low as 10 below.

Garrett County Business Development’s 2025 Annual Report highlights key economic growth initiatives, including the Garrett Property Tax Incentive, Small Business and Agriculture Marketing Grants, and major developments at Keysers Ridge Business Park, including a new Amazon distribution center. Agriculture programs like Nourishing Neighbors served thousands and boosted the local economy. The report emphasizes Garrett County’s business appeal with strong support, safety, recreation, and strategic location.

Mark your calendar for the Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Club annual Boat Auction on June 6, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM!

D&H Paving proudly serves MD, Northern VA, WV, and Southern PA, providing expert paving, grading, seal coating, resurfacing, and excavation with reliable service you can count on. Contact them today!

Watch the Global Fat Bike Day video!

The Community Flu Clinic is happening today from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Grantsville Clinic.

Share some warmth this season! Drop off scarves, gloves, boots, and gently used coats for the Christmas Coat Drive at David Jochynek State Farm now through December 20.

Support Deep Creek Pottery at the Red Barn Inn Christmas Market this Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, featuring fine art and crafts from Appalachian artisans, plus local food and holiday gifts.

A Great Small Town Christmas is set for Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, featuring sleigh rides, Santa visits, treat bags, a photo booth, live performances, character appearances, hot soups by local non-profits, and a 1:00 PM reading of The Night Before Christmas. Kids can also drop their Santa letters in his special mailbox.

The Wise Ones’ Salve Workshop takes place Saturday at 2:00 PM at Herbal Earth Apothecary & Gardens, offering a peaceful winter space to explore the Magi’s gifts through plant medicine while creating a 1 oz healing salve with calendula, frankincense, and myrrh. Enjoy cozy storytelling, guided salve-making, sensory herbal moments, and warm tea. The cost is $25 and includes all materials.

Team Bingo Sundays are a fun way to wrap up the weekend, with Mountain State Brewing Co. in Deep Creek Lake welcoming everyone at 1:00 PM for laughs, prizes, and great food.

Create a beautiful candy cane crushed glass and resin suncatcher with Deep Creek Pottery on Sunday at 1:00 PM! Choose your colors, and they’ll pour the resin to bring your holiday design to life. Cost is $35 per person.

VFW Post 10077 hosts Christmas for the Kids on Sunday from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Bring the kids and their Christmas lists for a special visit with Santa, along with plenty of holiday cheer, smiles, and lasting memories.

The weather today will be mostly cloudy. A chance of snow showers, with a slight chance of freezing rain this morning. Blowing snow this morning with visibility one-quarter mile or less at times. Little or no additional snow accumulation. Ice accumulation around a trace. Cooler, with highs in the lower 20s. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph. The chance of precipitation is 40%.

Maryland Fishing Report as of December 10: Good winter action for smallmouth and walleye on the upper Potomac. Deep Creek Lake anglers can target northern pike and walleye, with possible ice fishing if cold weather continues. Trout stocking may begin in January, depending on conditions. Largemouth bass are holding deep near structure, and chain pickerel remain active statewide around sunken wood.

Please note that Garrett County Public Schools are operating on a 3-hour delay this morning.

The blizzard warnings yesterday were cause for caution (and it was certainly windy) but, by my measurements, we only received 4.25″ of snow in Oakland.

Maryland ranks as the 5th loneliest state at Christmas, with an estimated 117,768 residents expected to spend the holiday alone, according to a new study based on a survey of more than 3,000 adults who live alone, highlighting how the season of togetherness can be especially difficult for many across the state.

The Maryland State Department of Education has released a draft regulation to establish the state’s first transparent funding formula for public charter schools, aligning funding with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and clarifying long-standing commensurate funding rules, with a 30-day public comment period open after publication.

The Rural Maryland Council held its 2025 Annual Meeting and Rural Impact Awards on November 19 in Annapolis, celebrating seven outstanding advocates for rural communities. Honorees included John and Ann Richards for volunteer service, BAAM and Community Behavioral Health for community development, the Frederick County Agricultural Innovation Grant Program for economic impact, Delegate Steven J. Arentz as Rural Champion, and the late Delegate Charles J. Otto with the Rural Legacy Award. RMC continues to support strong, connected, and thriving rural communities across Maryland. Also, the Rural Maryland Council re-elected its 2026 officers and welcomed new board members, continuing its mission to support thriving and sustainable rural communities across Maryland.

Garrett County Public Schools is now accepting public feedback on the proposed 2026–27 school year calendar, including an August 31 start date and a June 3 end date, with built-in professional development and inclement weather make-up days—review the full calendar and submit your input by January 1, 2026, before the Board votes on January 13, 2026.

Garrett 8 Cinemas’ Thursday Movie of the Week features Now You See Me 3. Enjoy a night of magic, mystery, and mind-bending twists with tickets just $6.00.

The weather today will be snow and rain likely in the morning, then snow with a slight chance of rain in the afternoon. Blowing snow. Visibility is one quarter mile or less at times. Snow accumulation up to 1 inch. Highs in the lower 40s. Southwest winds 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph. The chance of precipitation is near 100%.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is seeking comments on a proposed regulation for trout and black bass in nontidal waters. Details and submission instructions are on the Changes to Fishing Regulations page. Comments are due by 11:59 PM on January 2, 2026.

It’s Wedgie Wednesday! Take $2 off any Large Wedgie at Fox’s Pizza Den in Oakland.

Learn how Maryland communities value, manage, and interact with forests today, from noon to 1:00 PM EST. Dr. Daniel Pratson of the University of Maryland will lead the 2025 Forestry and Natural Resources webinar, covering the basics of Maryland’s forests and the research guiding their stewardship.

The Garrett County National Family Caregiver Support Groups offer caregivers a welcoming space to connect and share today at the Mary Browning Senior Center in Oakland, 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM. Free refreshments and coffee provided. All caregivers and loved ones are welcome.

Enjoy Pasta Night at Ace’s Run Restaurant and Pub every Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

Big Sandy Brews hosts a Gelatin Printing Card-Making Workshop on Wednesday from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. For $30, create one-of-a-kind prints using gelatin, water-based inks, and natural elements like leaves. All materials are provided, and no experience is needed. Just come ready to sip, create, and enjoy!

Beautiful sunset. Thanks for sharing, Chip!