Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

The weather today will be mostly cloudy. A chance of rain in the afternoon, with highs in the lower 50s. Southwest winds of around 5 to 10 mph. Gusts up to 25 mph in the afternoon. The chance of rain is 50%.

Garrett Regional Medical Center welcomed Hadden Andrew Worth as the first baby of 2026, born January 1 at 3:11 PM. to Reese and Andrew Worth of Westernport, Md. Delivered by Dr. Juan Ramos, Hadden weighed 8 pounds, 12 ounces and measured 19.5 inches long, with the family celebrating the milestone alongside a special gift basket from GRMC staff and local businesses.

Maryland ranks 6th in cancer research for 2026, strong in NIH funding and research charities per capita, but with fewer research universities and a high cancer incidence rate.

All Earth Eco Tours, LLC offers guided nature experiences around Deep Creek Lake, making it easy to relax, unwind, and enjoy the outdoors.

Help create memorable outdoor experiences as a Camp Host at Deep Creek Lake State Park. Support campers, assist visitors, and enjoy life in nature while giving back to the park you love! Apply today or email Ranger Kaitlyn Mitchell to get started!

Start the new year with a fresh look at Green Oak Salon, specializing in hair color, precision cuts, and waxing. Call 240-849-7096 to book your spot.

Here is the December 2025 Record of River and Climatological Observations.

Plan today for a stronger tomorrow. The Estate & Succession Planning Workshop on January 13 in Oakland, MD, offers practical tools to help protect your farm and plan for the next generation. Lunch is provided, and registration is free. Register now!

Take a Hike Tuesday is happening today at 10:00 AM with Ranger Noah leading a challenging 4-mile hike starting at the New Germany Lake House. This weather-dependent hike on January 6 offers a great opportunity to get moving and enjoy the refreshing benefits of outdoor exercise.

Ruth Enlow has several programs happening today with something for everyone, including children’s story time, the Garrett County Department of Social Services Assistance Program, and the Maryland Food Bank’s Mobile Market.

The weather today will be mostly sunny, with highs in the mid 40s. Southwest winds of around 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph.

Garrett County Business Development has released its FY 2025 Annual Report, showcasing key projects and community improvements. The report highlights the department’s role in driving economic growth, supporting businesses, creating jobs, and boosting innovation in Garrett County.

Applications are now open for the 2026 Leadership Garrett County Program, a professional development partnership between Garrett College and the Garrett County Department of Business Development. Open to emerging and established professionals, the program builds informed, connected leaders through hands-on learning, with sessions beginning February 5, 2026.

Four Garrett County projects have received statewide Community Revitalization and Economic Development Awards as part of $69.5 million in FY 2026 funding announced by Governor Wes Moore, supporting revitalization efforts across Maryland.

Garrett Regional Medical Center is proud to be one of four WVU Medicine hospitals recognized on Forbes’ first-ever Top Hospitals 2026 list. The ranking highlights hospitals with outstanding patient outcomes, best practices, and overall quality of care, with GRMC earning a four-star rating for its commitment to excellence.

The Maryland Department of Labor and American Job Centers are offering free online job-seeking workshops in January. Advance registration is required.

New year, new opportunities. With more than a decade of experience serving the Deep Creek Lake area, Taylor-Made Deep Creek Sales is here to help you buy or sell with confidence. Contact them today to get started.

Shannon brings energy and balance to Garrett College with Yoga Strength on Thursdays, All-Levels Yoga on Fridays, and Weekend Wake-Up on Saturdays at the CARC. Classes are $5 for members and $7 for non-members. For details, contact Shannon Tomac at 202-641-5567.

The Fur Ball Online Auction runs through January 10! Bid on great items like travel experiences, Capitals tickets, gift cards, wine, golf packages, and more while supporting HART for Animals and helping save the lives of homeless animals.

Friday, January 2, Saturday, January 3, and Sunday, January 4, 2026: The weather today will be mostly cloudy, with a chance of freezing rain, with a slight chance of snow in the morning, then mostly sunny in the afternoon. Little or no snow accumulation. Highs in the upper 20s. West winds of around 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of precipitation is 50%. Saturday will be cloudy, with highs in the lower 30s. West winds of around 5 mph. Sunday will be partly sunny, with highs in the mid 20s.

A fresh year means a fresh start at Sylvan Learning of Garrett County in McHenry, MD, where personalized support helps students rebuild confidence or move ahead and sets the tone for a year of feeling capable, motivated, and ready.

Pick of the Litter will be on winter hours from January 8 through March 26, closed on Thursdays and open Fridays 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturdays 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and Sundays 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

Mark your calendars for the 2nd Annual Deep Creek Boat Show! Bill’s Marine Service is teaming up with the local marinas on February 14-15, 2026, from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Enjoy local vendors, food, and drinks from Brenda’s, and plenty to see and do. More details coming soon.

Flash deal at Naylor’s Ace Hardware in Oakland, this weekend, January 2-4. Winter tip: cover your outdoor spigots before the freeze.

The Fur Ball Online Auction is happening now through January 10, with HART for Animals, Inc. offering an exciting mix of items to bid on from home, including travel experiences, Capitals tickets, gift cards, wine and spirits, golf and fly fishing packages, and more, all supporting HART’s mission to save the lives of homeless animals.

First Friday from the Garrett County Arts Council is happening this month with a virtual twist, featuring Digital Art Streaming that viewers can watch online by following the Arts Council on Facebook or signing up for their email list, offering a free and welcoming after-hours art gathering for ages 16 and up with no experience required.

New Year Renewal at Herbal Earth Apothecary & Gardens takes place on Saturday with a full Wolf Moon celebration, featuring a custom renewal tea experience during shop hours and a calming Wolf Moon Sound Bath at 2:00 PM, offering a chance to relax, reset, and reconnect under the full moon.

Behind-the-scenes snowmaking tours take place on Saturday at 4:00 PM, offering a firsthand look at the technology and planning behind winter operations, led by General Manager Ron Hawkes and Director of Mountain Operations John McCracken, with limited spots available and reservations required.

Archie’s Barbeque welcomes locals every Sunday from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM with 30% off your meal!* Come grab some delicious BBQ and enjoy a great deal! *Excludes holiday weekends.

Start the New Year weekend right! Stay updated on all the entertainment and park activities happening this weekend!

The weather today will be mostly cloudy, with numerous showers in the morning, then partly sunny in the afternoon. Patchy fog, with highs in the upper 40s. West winds of around 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. The chance of rain is 70%.

Today kicks off HART for Animals’ Fur Ball Online Auction, running until January 10! Bid from the comfort of home on amazing items like travel experiences, Washington Capitals tickets, a gift card tree, wine and spirits, golf packages, fly fishing opportunities, and more, all while supporting HART’s mission to save the lives of homeless animals. Preview the auction and get ready to bid!

One of the best ways to start the new year is with a First Day Hike. Choose a ranger-led hike, join a group, or head out on your own to explore the scenic trails of Garrett County, the surrounding region, and the Deep Creek Lake area. Grab your boots, bring friends or family, and welcome 2026 with fresh air, adventure, and stunning views in Garrett County’s state parks.

Garrett 8 Cinemas’ Thursday Movie of the Week on January 1 features The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, as SpongeBob dives into a new adventure to face the Flying Dutchman and uncover ocean mysteries.

Today is the last day to experience the Joy of Christmas Light Show at the Oakland Community Center, featuring over 40,000 lights synchronized to music. Shows run nightly from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, starting at the top of each hour, and can be enjoyed outdoors or from your vehicle on 87.9 FM, with an interactive outdoor dance floor adding to the fun.

The weather today will likely be snowy. Additional snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches. Highs in the mid-20s. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph. The chance of snow is 60%. Wind chill values are as low as zero.

New Year’s Eve pizza night made easy. Stay in, stay warm, and let us deliver. Call Fox’s Pizza Den-Oakland at 301-334-3212 to order. Open today 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

Back by popular demand, Amazing Grazing: 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 incredible local flavors while supporting a great cause. Tickets are $40 today ($45 after January 1; $50 day of). Last year sold out, so don’t wait!

The perfect way to close one chapter and welcome the next is with an incredible meal and even better company. Join this New Year’s Eve for dinner at Ace’s Run. Reservations are filling fast, so call 301-387-6688 to book.

Celebrate NYE with Let’s Go at Honi-Honi Bar tonight at 7:00 PM. This high-energy party band brings punk, pop, and rock favorites for a fun night of live music.

The weather today will be mostly cloudy. A chance of snow showers in the morning. Blowing snow in the morning, with visibility one-quarter mile or less at Times. Additional snow accumulation up to 1 inch is possible. Very windy and much cooler, with highs around 19. West winds of around 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph, diminishing to 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph in the afternoon. The chance of snow is 40%. Wind chill values are as low as 7 below in the morning.

Begin your Deep Creek Lake home search with Railey Realty. Local experts offering the largest selection of lakefront, lake access, Wisp Resort, ski-in/ski-out, and Garrett County properties.

Furry Friends Boutique & Spa provides gentle brushing, nail trims, wash-and-dry services, and full grooming to keep your pup looking and feeling amazing. Call 240-321-5552 to schedule an appointment. Your furry friend will thank you!

Ever wanted to try the pottery wheel? January is the perfect time to get your hands muddy at Deep Creek Pottery. Book a “Try It” wheel class, make up to two pots, and enjoy glazing and firing included.

Welcome the New Year with intention at Herbal Earth Apothecary & Gardens. Celebrate the full Wolf Moon on January 3rd with a renewal tea experience and a calming sound bath at 2:00 PM.

Curious about Fat Biking? We hold a series of fat bike races each year — sign up now for the series and save! The first race of the series is January 11th, and it is an excellent time to try fat biking! There are bikes available for rent!

Get your gear slope-ready at the Ski and Snowboard Tuning Workshop on January 26, 2026, from 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM. This 3-hour hands-on clinic covers equipment inspection, edge sharpening, waxing, binding checks, and basic adjustments. Bring your own skis or board, or use provided equipment. Register by January 26.

The Oakland Youth Football & Cheerleading League successfully completed its first holiday toy drive, collecting over 100 new toys for the local Toys for Tots program. Thanks to the generosity of players, families, and the community, children of all ages will have more to smile about this Christmas, and the league plans to make the drive an annual tradition.

The 1980s delivered neon pop anthems and powerhouse rock, and 1985 brings it all to life. Catch the fun, energy, grit, and edge of the era tonight at 7:00 PM at Honi-Honi Bar.

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?

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.