Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

The weather today will be sunny in the morning, becoming partly sunny later. Highs will be in the mid-30s with southeast winds around 5 mph.

As property values rise faster than inflation, property taxes are increasingly impacting homeowners. A new analysis shows Maryland homeowners pay a median of $3,936 annually in property taxes, highlighting where the tax burden is highest by state, county, and city.

The USDA announced a $4.5 million investment to fund three new Nutrition Hubs. These hubs will promote food security and reduce diet-related diseases, especially in underserved communities.

Finding the right Christmas gift for the woman in your life can be tricky, and men often miss the mark. From clothes in the wrong color or style to perfume that isn’t her favorite, mistakes are common. In Maryland, women agree that diet books are the ultimate Christmas gift fail from their partners.

A survey of 3,000 people reveals that Marylanders are among the least optimistic about their finances for 2025, scoring just 5 out of 10—below the national average of 6/10. Rising interest rates and global economic uncertainty have heavily influenced their outlook, while Hawaii residents reported a much higher optimism score of 9/10.

Take a look at the Holiday Schedule for Garrett Regional Medical Center.

Deep Creek Pottery will hold a painting event on December 28, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Paint a 13-inch tree with a base and light kit! Book your tickets now!

Bring your family and friends to Smoke N Mirrors Photography for a cozy holiday experience with cookies, cocoa, and a Christmas portrait. The $25 package includes a 15-minute session and a 5×7 matted print, perfect for capturing festive memories!

Skate at JTF Ice Rink this week! Public sessions are $6 per skater, with weekday 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM sessions including skate rental. The rink is closed on Wednesdays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Group rentals are available!

The Joy of Christmas Light Show returns to the Oakland Community Center through January 1, 2025. The one-hour show features over 38,000 lights and runs hourly from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with the last show at 9:00 PM. Watch from your car on 87.9 FM or enjoy the interactive dance floor and light-up sofas outside.

The weather today will likely bring snow, with accumulation around an inch—highs in the mid-30s. Southeast winds around 5 mph, becoming west in the afternoon. Chance of snow: 70%. Saturday will be mostly cloudy with a 40% chance of snow—highs in the lower 20s. Northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph. Sunday will be mostly sunny, with highs in the lower 20s. Wind chill values are as low as zero. Chance of rain: 15%.

🚤 Ready for a new adventure on the water? We’ve got two boats listed in our online marketplace: a 2007 Sun Tracker Regency 27 Party Barge and a 2000 Cobalt 206 Bowrider! Find all the details under the “Boats” category!

Will we have a white Christmas? I’m measuring the snowfall totals in Oakland.

It’s the Final 2024 Nourishing Neighbors Mobile Market! Food distribution at Grantsville Town Park starts at 11:00 AM on a first-come, first-served basis, with 100 boxes available. To receive a box, participants will need to complete a screener.

Take a break from the holiday rush and enjoy a cozy cup of cocoa and tasty holiday cookies at Cashmere Clothing Co. this afternoon! Don’t miss out on special holiday deals — the perfect chance to grab those last-minute gifts for the ladies on your list!

The Live Nativity & Caroling at Salisbury Church of the Brethren will be held this weekend at 71 Grant St (in front of Kline’s Auto). See live animals, and children dressed as Christmas story characters, and enjoy caroling around the campfire. Bring a chair and celebrate the holiday season!

Get ready to skate with the big guy at Skate with Santa at JTF Ice Rink today before he heads off to deliver presents! All skaters will receive a ticket for a free cup of cocoa. Skate and chat with Santa for some festive fun!

The 2nd Annual Deep Creek Coffee Crawl Meet Up is this Saturday at Cashmere Clothing Co. in McHenry! Enjoy coffee, conversation, and shopping. Place your order with Espresso Alley by 8:00 AM, and pick it up at Cashmere Clothing Co. by 10:00 AM.

Head to the Oakland B&O Museum this Saturday night for a magical Meet & Greet with Santa Claus! Bring the family for festive fun, photos, and holiday cheer. Don’t miss the chance to share your wishes with Santa!

Every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, warm up at the Mountain Fresh Farmers Winter Market with fresh winter produce, handcrafted goods, and festive cheer.

Get ready for an exciting Team Bingo Sunday at Mountain State Brewing, starting at 1:00 PM!

Bring your little ones this Sunday afternoon for a magical story time experience and cookie decorating with Santa Claus. Children will have the chance to share their holiday wishes with Santa, decorate a delicious cookie, and enjoy the festive atmosphere filled with joy and wonder. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories!

Sing We Now of Christmas is happening this Sunday at 3:00 PM in the Offutt Theatre at Garrett College’s Performing Arts Center. The choir, directed by Debi and Dr. Sean Beachy, who has led the group for 7 years, will perform a mix of classic carols and some new holiday tunes. The singers have been rehearsing since September to bring you a festive and memorable performance.

Santa is coming back to Accident! He’ll be making his way through town and handing out treat bags this Sunday at 6:00 PM.

Find a variety of holiday activities on our Holidays at Deep Creek Lake page, with something for everyone! For a full list of state park events and weekend entertainment, check out the complete schedule and plan your holiday fun.

The weather today will be rain with a slight chance of freezing rain in the morning, then rain in the afternoon. Patchy fog in the afternoon–highs in the lower 40s. South winds 5 to 10 mph. The chance of precipitation is near 100%.

Deep Creek Fitness is here to help you crush your goals with 24/7 access and a community that makes fitness fun — it’s Where Fit Happens!

Mrs. Hazelwood’s 4th grade class at Accident Elementary has programmed a holiday greeting!

The second segment of Maryland’s split muzzleloader deer hunting season runs from December 21 to January 4. See the linked article for details.

Tri-County Council for Western Maryland welcomes Elizabeth Stahlman as its new Executive Director. With over 12 years of experience, including five as Frostburg’s Administrator, she brings extensive expertise in both private and public sectors.

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

The Board of Public Works meeting takes place today at the State House. Check the linked article for the full details and agenda.

The DCL Pickleballers invite you to play America’s fastest-growing sport! Sessions are held at the Ag Hall, Garrett County Fairgrounds, from 10:00 AM to noon every Wednesday through March 19 and most Fridays. Get the full schedule and updates on the “Team Reach” app using code GSPG23!

All are welcome to the annual Holiday Open House at Hickory Environmental Education Center today from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM! Enjoy a nature hall tour, a planetarium show, and light refreshments. Free event at 604 Pride Parkway, Accident, MD.

The weather today will be partly sunny in the morning, then clearing—highs in the lower 50s, except in the mid-40s at higher elevations. West winds 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of rain is 95%.

Welcome to our newest advertiser! Revamp your home with BILT Construction, where they bring your vision to life with quality craftsmanship and personalized design solutions.

This holiday season, plan to use Deep Creek Shuttle for a safe ride!

Maryland’s Atlantic Population Canada goose hunting season begins Friday, December 20. The season has two segments: December 20 to January 4, 2025, and January 15 to February 1, 2025. See the linked article for details.

U.S. News & World Report, a global leader in hospital rankings and consumer advice, has recognized the maternity care services at six WVU Medicine hospitals in its 2025 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care ratings.

The Garrett County Health Department assures Medicaid clients that out-of-county trips for approved medical appointments through the Medical Assistance Transportation Program are unaffected by Garrett Transit Service’s policy change.

The Deep Creek Farmers Market team wants to hear about visitors’ experiences as they plan for the 2025 season. They’re seeking input on favorites, suggestions for improvements, and thoughts on a potential location change. Visitors can help by filling out the Customer Experience Survey, and as a thank-you, participants will be entered into a raffle for Market Bucks to spend with local farms and businesses next season—simply enter an email in the last field.

The Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County is excited to announce 100 completions of its 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program, just ahead of the initiative’s 5th anniversary on January 2, 2025.

The GCMHAC December meeting is set for today at 9:30 AM and will take place virtually on Google Meet.

It’s 10 for $10 Tuesday’s at The Greene Turtle (Deep Creek)! Grab 10 bone-in wings for just $10, plus enjoy $2 drafts.

Visit Uno today to share your list with Santa and let him check it twice!

Photo by Dot Sisler

The weather today will be mostly cloudy, with patchy fog in the morning. There is a chance of rain and freezing rain in the morning, followed by likely rain showers in the afternoon. Ice accumulation around a trace. Highs in the mid-40s. South winds 5 to 10 mph. The chance of precipitation is 70%.

Identity theft is increasing, especially during the holidays. Stay alert and monitor your finances. Check out these tips to keep your personal information safe.

Gather your family, friends, and loved ones for a warm and festive holiday experience at Smoke N Mirrors Photography! Enjoy cookies, cocoa, and a special Christmas portrait with a printed keepsake. For just $25, you’ll get a 15-minute session and a 5 x 7 standing matted print.

Lace up for Skate Sessions at JTF Ice Rink today! Weekday sessions from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM are just $6, including skate rental. Secure your spot now!

Garrett Transit Service will hold a public hearing today at 9:00 AM at the GTS Office to discuss a proposed major service reduction, limiting transportation to in-county routes only starting January 1, 2025. This hearing provides information and invites public input on the changes.

It’s Learning Beyond the Classroom this week! Don’t miss out on the fun and learning. Check out the full schedule!

The Maryland Park Service invites the public to an open house at Savage River Lodge today from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Share your input on the newly acquired Maryland Department of Natural Resources property.

Don’t miss the Joy of Christmas Light Show tonight at the Oakland Community Center! This one-hour show with 38,000+ lights runs from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM (last show at 9:00 PM) until January 1, 2025. Watch from your car on 87.9 FM, use the PulseMesh app, or enjoy the interactive dance floor and light-up sofas outside!

Friday, December 13, Saturday, December 14, and Sunday, December 15, 2024: The weather today will be mostly cloudy with a chance of flurries in the morning, then partly sunny in the afternoon, with highs in the lower 30s and west winds around 5 mph. There’s a 20% chance of precipitation. Saturday will be mostly sunny, with highs in the lower 30s and southeast winds at 5 to 10 mph. Sunday will bring snow, rain, and freezing rain, with highs in the lower 30s and a 90% chance of precipitation.

Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc. is accepting sealed bids for roof repairs at the Grantsville Senior Center. Bids should include removal of old materials, installation of new roofing, and necessary sealing/insulation. Submit bids by 3:00 PM on December 19, 2024, at 104 E Center St, Oakland, MD, where they will be opened publicly.

🎄✨’Tis the season for Dirty Sodas at Espresso Alley (Christmas Edition)! Enjoy holiday flavors, available for a limited time only!

Visit J.A. Greenlea Designs at Englanders Antiques-Grill and Soda Fountain, open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Pick of the Litter Thrift Shop is open this weekend with plenty of items perfect for Christmas gifts, jingle gifts, or something special for yourself. Stop by and check out their selection!

Garrett Regional Medical Center will hold a ribbon-cutting today at 10 AM for the renovated Health & Wellness Services Regional Behavioral Health Center at 69 Wolf Acres Drive, Oakland.

Celebrate the holiday season at the Grantsville Library’s Holiday Open House today! Enjoy crafts, activities, refreshments, a holiday gift basket drawing, and a special visit from Santa.

The Greater Friendsville Business Association is hosting its first Winter Market today from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM! Vendors will line the route from Friendsville Pharmacy Uphold, LLC to The Root Café.

Birders of all levels can take part in the annual Audubon-led Christmas Bird Count from mid-December to early January. This event helps track bird populations and supports conservation efforts. Enjoy the outdoors, tally species within a 15-mile radius, and connect with fellow birders—often ending with a potluck to share stats and stories.

Every Saturday in November, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, visit the Mountain Fresh Farmers Winter Market’s Small Town Christmas. Enjoy fresh produce, handmade goods, and seasonal treats while supporting local artisans.

Visit “A Great Small Town Christmas” in Oakland, Maryland this Saturday! Enjoy meeting Santa, festive photo spots, sleigh rides, a holiday market, and Soup and Santa supporting local non-profits. Bring your family and friends to enjoy the holiday spirit!

Deep Creek Pottery is hosting a festive family holiday paint party on Saturday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM! Enjoy 25% off all holiday pottery painting, along with holiday treats and music to get into the spirit. This is a walk-in event!

Sponsored by Mountain Lake Partners, Santa is coming to town! He will be at Mountain Lake Park Town Hall on Saturday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Enjoy self-taken photos with Santa, cookies, hot chocolate, and treat bags!

Deep Creek Pottery is hosting a holiday mosaic event on Saturday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM! Create a Christmas tree mosaic or choose from other designs. The project includes a 5×7 board and all materials, plus coffee and cookies.

Mountain State Brewing Co.’s Deep Creek Lake Christmas Party is this Saturday at 6:00 PM, featuring a gingerbread house-making contest, food and drink specials, and the chance to dress as your favorite holiday character.

The Oakland B&O Museum is hosting a magical Meet & Greet with Santa Claus on Saturday! Bring the family for festive fun, photos, and holiday cheer. Don’t miss the chance to share your wishes with Santa!

The Deep Creek Lake State Park is hosting a Winter Waterfowl Walk on Sunday. Take a stroll by the waterfront to search for ducks, geese, and swans, many of which are only found in the region during the colder months. Be sure to dress for the weather!

The Deep Creek Adventure Bureau and Trial Labs kicking off the 2024/2025 Winter Season at the 2nd Annual Highlands Fat Bike Series this Sunday at Sweetwater Farm, WV, ! On-site registration available!

The weather today will be sunny and blustery, with highs in the mid-20s. West winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph. Wind chill values as low as 10 below. The chance of rain is 60%.

Check out our local holiday gift guide!

Also, wouldn’t this Deep Creek Lake color pallet design look great on your wall?

A recent survey reveals Maryland investors are among the worst performers in the U.S., with only a 16% gain. While many investors across the country are seeing strong returns, turning every $100 into $124, Maryland’s average return so far in 2024 lags behind the national trend.

Two Holiday Open Houses are happening today at Ruth Enlow Library branches! The Accident Library kicks off at 12:30 PM with refreshments, crafts, and activities for all ages. At 1:30 PM, the Friendsville Library offers cookies, popcorn, and hot cocoa, along with holiday music, crafts, and door prizes for kids and adults. Come celebrate the season!

PennDOT, in partnership with SHA, FHWA, USACE, and MDE, announces the availability of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for public comment on the US-219 project. A public hearing will be held today from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Grantsville Volunteer Fire Department Social Hall, with an Open House Plans Display from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM and a Formal Public Hearing from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.

Blizzard or not, it’s Steak Night at Firewater Kitchen & Bar! Starting at 4:30 PM, enjoy steak with house-made onion rings, a baked potato, and salad — the perfect way to warm up!

Suites at Silver Tree and Railey Vacations are hosting the December Business After Hours today from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Tonight, experience a 1-mile hike through the forest at New Germany Lake House under the full moon, led by Ranger Noah. The “Cold Moon” is the last full moon before the winter solstice, providing a special opportunity to enjoy a peaceful night. Be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp!

Mountain State Brewing DCL hosts TEAM TRIVIA every Thursday at 6:30 PM! Test your knowledge while enjoying cold brews and great company.

The weather today will be rainy, with snow in the afternoon. Snow accumulation is around an inch. Breezy, with highs in the upper 40s and temperatures falling into the lower 30s by the afternoon. Northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph, becoming west at 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph in the afternoon. The chance of precipitation is near 100%.

A new study reveals that natural hazards cost Maryland farms $38.8 million annually, impacting the state’s food supply and driving up prices. Droughts, floods, and hurricanes are increasingly critical factors in food price inflation.

Check out this month’s Featured Listings from Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales! 🏡

Get $2 off any large Wedgie on Wedgie Wednesday at Fox’s Pizza Den in Oakland!

Paint with Barb today at Big Sandy Brews – this class was rescheduled from 11/20/24 due to a power outage.

The weather today will be rainy in the morning, then rain continuing in the afternoon. Highs in the lower 50s. South winds at 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 90%.

Check out the NEW Ace’s Learn to Ski or Ride program! It’s FREE!

A new study reveals crypto scams are surging this holiday season. Maryland ranks 13th nationwide in total losses, with a record $93.9 million lost last year, and 9th for the highest number of victims, with 22.5 per 100,000 residents.

Garrett Regional Medical Center welcomes Morgan Rush, PA-C, as the new physician assistant at WVU Medicine Garrett Medical Group in McHenry.

The Environmental Health Office of the Garrett County Health Department reminds residents that home heating appliances can be a source of harmful carbon monoxide gas. They encourage everyone to follow these key tips to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Garrett 8 Cinemas’ Tuesday Movie of the Week is Red One! All tickets are just $6!

It’s 10 for $10 Tuesday’s at The Greene Turtle (Deep Creek)! Enjoy 10 bone-in wings for $10 and $2 drafts!

The Garrett County Board of Education’s monthly meeting is today at the Dennett Road Educational Complex Community Room. Open to the public and live-streamed.

The weather today will be rainy, mainly in the morning, with highs in the upper 40s. Southwest winds around 10 to 15 mph. The chance of rain is near 100%.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is seeking angler feedback on Maryland’s striped bass fishery through two surveys: the Striped Bass Management 2025 survey, which must be completed by December 12, and the Striped Bass Science survey, which will be open until December 18.

Firewater Kitchen & Bar is ready for the holiday season! They’ll be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day but open with extended hours from December 26–31. Stop by and celebrate the season!

🎄🍪 Did you order your holiday cookie orders at Traders Coffee House?! 🍪🎄 Place your orders by December 22nd! Add a tray with a beautiful bow for just $5 extra.

Deep Creek Wine Tastings is offering a selection of fantastic new wines. Book an in-home wine-tasting experience with them for a unique and enjoyable way to explore these wines in the comfort of your own home.

‘Tis the season for holiday dinner parties, and Dutch’s At Silver Tree has you covered with their Bake & Serve Holiday Family Meal! Simply give them a call to place your order and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free holiday meal. ☃️🎅

🍕 Featured Flatbread at Mountain State Brewing Co.: The North Camp! Perfect for the holiday season, enjoy 15% off a small North Camp flatbread all December long.

In response to numerous requests, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Parish is adding a second Mass for the Holy Day of Obligation, the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The updated Mass schedule for Monday, December 9, is noon at St. Peter at the Lake Center in McHenry, and 6:30 PM at the Church in Oakland.

Come to the Holiday Open House at the Oakland Library for an evening of holiday treats, crafts, and activities for both kids and adults. Enjoy a door prize and a visit from Santa!

The Northern Advisory Committee will present a draft report at Garrett County Public Schools’ public meeting today, which will be held from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM in the Northern Middle School cafeteria.

The weather today will be mostly cloudy, with a 50% chance of snow. Little or no additional snow accumulation–highs in the lower 20s and a low of 15. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. Wind chill values are as low as 1 below. Saturday will be mostly sunny, with highs in the upper 20s. West winds of around 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. Wind chill values are as low as zero in the morning. Sunday will be sunny, with highs in the mid-40s.

NOTE: Garrett County Public Schools will open two (2) hours late today, December 6, 2024. Administrative Offices will open on time.

Garrett County Government and Ruth Enlow Libraries offer free Chromebooks to income-qualifying households in Maryland. Over 1,400 of the 1,900 available Chromebooks have been distributed. Limit one per household; visit any Ruth Enlow Library branch during open hours to claim yours while supplies last!

The festive season brings part-time opportunities filled with holiday cheer, from playing Santa or a cheerful elf to helping at tree farms or with festive portraits. In Maryland, “Seasonal Decorator” tops the list of holiday gigs!

Young business ownership is on the rise across the U.S., with younger Americans embracing self-employment. In Maryland, just 24.9% of business owners are under 40, ranking 6th lowest in the nation. Check out the article to learn more!

Garrett Regional Medical Center will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM, to celebrate the renovated Health & Wellness Services Regional Behavioral Health Center at 69 Wolf Acres Drive, Oakland. RSVP by December 10.

Garrett County Public Schools has received updated report card data, star ratings, and resources for the 2023-24 school year from the Maryland State Department of Education, showing a slight change in star ratings.

Here’s this week’s ad from Trout’s House Seafood! Hope everyone is enjoying the early snowfall. If you’re planning a holiday party, be sure to call in your orders early!

Take a look at Dutch’s At Silver Tree’s Holiday Hours for 2024! 🎅🎄

Garrett 8 Cinemas is making movie nights better with FREE POPCORN! Enjoy a large popcorn with every ticket purchase—perfect for starting the weekend right.

Interested in restoring or improving a historic property? Learn more about MHT’s Historic Preservation Capital Grants by joining a webinar or workshop to explore the application process, deadlines, and more. The General Overview Webinar will be held today from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM via Google Meet.

Celebrate the season at Spruce Forest Artisan Village’s Christmas in the Village! Enjoy art, music, and fun for the whole family in a festive, candlelit setting. Today, catch the tree lighting and caroling at 7:00 PM, and return on Saturday, December 7th, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM for more holiday fun, including performances and unique shopping. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the holiday spirit! 🌲

‘Tis the season at Dutch’s At Silver Tree downstairs at the Inner Harbor Bar! 🎄🎁🎉 Tonight at 6:00 PM, enjoy Tito’s drink specials, groove to DJ Connor Norman’s beats, score some Tit’o’s SWAG, and don your best ugly sweater for a chance to win the Sweater Contest!

Every Saturday in November, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Mountain Fresh Farmers Winter Market offers a cozy, festive atmosphere with fresh winter produce and handcrafted goods. It’s a celebration of the season with twinkling lights, local artisans, and delicious treats. A perfect way to savor the flavors of winter and support the community!

Deep Creek Pottery will host a festive holiday open house this Saturday with special guest artist Connie Pardini of Wirestorm Creations! Discover new pottery, handmade jewelry, metalwork, and more—perfect for holiday gifts. Enjoy refreshments, door prizes, pottery wheel demos, and great company in a beautifully decorated shop!

Santa is coming to Deep Creek Lake State Park’s Holiday Open House this Satuday! Meet Santa, get your picture taken, enjoy sweet treats, and crafts, and explore the Discovery Center with reptile ambassadors!

This Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, participate in the worldwide celebration of Global Fat Bike Day! Everyone is welcome, including kids ages 8 and up! Note: If there’s snow, a fat bike is required; otherwise, any mountain or trail bike will work.

Enjoy Pictures and Cookies with Santa and Firetrucks at the Deep Creek Volunteer Fire Company.

Get ready for an exciting Team Bingo Sunday at Mountain State Brewing, kicking off at 1:00 PM!

C’est Noel! – Christmas Around the World is the Garrett Community Concert Band’s annual holiday concert. This year, the band will play festive music from Spain, France, Brazil, Russia, Germany, and Cowboy Country. The concert takes place on Sunday at 3:00 PM in the Offutt Theatre at Garrett College’s Performing Arts Center. Grab your tickets now!

Find more holiday activities on our Holiday at Deep Creek Lake page! For a full schedule of state park events and entertainment this weekend, check out the complete list.

Save the Date!

The weather today will be mostly cloudy. There will be snow showers, mainly in the morning. There will be blowing snow in the morning, then patchy blowing snow in the afternoon, with visibility one-quarter mile or less at times. There will be an additional snow accumulation of around an inch. The weather will be windy, with highs around 19. West winds will be around 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph. The chance of snow is 80%. The wind chill values are as low as 5 below.

The National Weather Service defines a blizzard as a storm with large amounts of snow or blowing snow, winds greater than 35 mph, and visibility of less than ¼ mile for at least three hours. This is why school was cancelled today: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14fYWxGuVe

Look up! The Garrett County skies have forecasted meteor showers and more!

Maryland Fishing Report: As of December 4, anglers at Deep Creek Lake are enjoying chilly yet productive fishing. Walleye are near deep structures and rocky edges, with jerk baits and crankbaits working well. Smallmouth bass strike on rocky points and mid-depth structures, northern pike cruise near coves, and chain pickerel hold close to shoreline wood.

Maryland hunters harvested 10,889 deer during the 2024 firearm season’s opening weekend (November 30 – December 1), nearly matching last year’s total of 10,905. The count included 4,947 antlered and 5,605 antlerless white-tailed deer, plus 337 sika deer. The season continues through December 14.

Don’t miss the December Specials at McHenry Beverage Shoppe! Stock up while supplies last—offers end December 31!

Every Thursday at 6:30 PM, Mountain State Brewing DCL hosts TEAM TRIVIA! Gather your friends, grab a cold brew, and put your knowledge to the test!

Blizzard or not, Thursdays mean Steak Night at Firewater Kitchen & Bar! The inaugural Steak Night kicks off today at 4:30 PM, featuring steaks served with house-made onion rings, a baked potato, and salad. For those braving the snow, it’s the perfect way to warm up!

The weather today will be partly sunny in the morning, then mostly cloudy, with a chance of snow showers in the afternoon. Snow accumulation up to 1 inch possible–highs in the mid-30s and a low of 17. Southwest winds of around 15 to 20 mph. Gusts up to 35 mph in the afternoon. The chance of snow is 40%.

Here is the November 2024 Record of River and Climatological Observations.

FYI – the new Snowy Creek Bridge will open with one lane and two-way traffic beginning this afternoon. The bridge will remain one lane while the remainder of the construction is completed. The project should be completed and both lanes opened to 2 way traffic on or before May 2025.

The Maryland Hospital Association’s new campaign, “Healthy Hospitals, Healthy Communities,” highlights the vital role of Maryland hospitals, celebrates their workers, and informs stakeholders about their positive impact on communities.

Wisp Resort is excited to open skiing and snowboarding operations this Friday, December 6, 2024, from 9 am to 4 pm. Services such as lift ticket sales, equipment rental, and lessons will be available at the McHenry Lodge and Yurt Village Learning Center. For details on opening day and new offerings, including the Ace’s Free Learn to Ski + Ride Program, please see the attached tip sheet.

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

Oakland Library presents Story Time @ Oakland for Ages 3 & Up, a special program designed for children ages 3 and up. This engaging activity fosters creative expression, social skills, listening comprehension, and school readiness through stories, STEM activities, games, music, and crafts.

DEEP CREEK: IT’S YOUR TURN! Soundcheck Music Bingo is coming to MoonShadow tonight at 7:00 PM! Enjoy great music, food, drinks, and fun! Listen to 30 music clips from various genres, mark them on your bingo card, and win prizes when you hit bingo! Don’t miss out—join us tonight and on December 18th!