Friday December 8, Saturday December 9, and Sunday December 10, 2023: Happy Hanukkah (Chanukah)! In 2023, the Festival of Eight Candles or the Festival of Lights started at sundown yesterday, December 7 and will end on Friday, December 15.The first night of Hanukkah is celebrated with the lighting of the first candle on the Chanukiah (menorah). The celebration is full of symbolism and traditions.
The weather today will be partly sunny in the morning, then clearing, with highs in the mid-50s and a low of 39. Southwest winds 5 to 10 mph. Saturday will be partly sunny, with highs in the upper 50s and a low of 47. Southwest winds of around 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 20%. Sunday will have showers, with highs in the mid-50s and a low of 27. The chance of rain is near 100%.
As winter arrives, the holiday season unites diverse cultural celebrations like Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, Shen Dan Jieh, and Eid al-Fitr in a festive blend. A survey of 3,000 families revealed that Maryland spends an average of 9 hours and 25 minutes on holiday activities.
New items are added daily to our local holiday gift guide!
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites all residents to join the annual First Day Hike tradition for a healthy start to the New Year. Maryland State Parks will host hiking opportunities from December 31, 2023, to January 2, 2024, as part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks.
Mortgage refinancing offers a chance to lower payments or access funds, yet the rate varies widely across the country. Maryland ranked 15th lowest in mortgage refinances last year.
Visit First United Bank & Trust at the Oakland community office today for a Financial Check-up. Enjoy refreshments, sign up for our 60th Anniversary Wealth Management drawing, and meet the team from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Join the festive fun at Grantsville library today! Enjoy holiday treats, crafts, and a visit from Santa. Wear your ugliest Christmas sweater for a chance to win a prize in our vote!
Experience the magic of A Great Small Town Christmas tonight at the Oakland B&O Museum! The festive fun starts at 5:30 PM with a Walking Holiday Light Parade led by Santa from the Town Parking Lot to the museum. Join in with your own festive entry and dress up your pet for Santa Paws! Enjoy free cookies, cocoa, and sleigh rides—a night of holiday joy awaits!
Participate in crafting an amazing 7-inch wine cork tree with Deep Creek Pottery today. All materials are provided, and you get to keep your creation at the end. It’s a fun project with unique results!
Tonight, experience the magic of a Pink Floyd-themed light show at the Hickory Environmental Education Center planetarium from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Hurry, as only 45 seats are available! Reserve your spot by contacting the lively planetarium director, Jason Shank, at jason.shank@gcps.net. This exclusive event is for adults only—don’t miss out!
Explore Grantsville for a walk through Bethlehem at the Grantsville Plaza on December 8-10, 2023, from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM. A delightful evening for the whole family. Festivities commence at 6:00 PM, with a musical starting at 6:30 PM.
Support the House of Hope, Bucks for Hope Drive during Oakland’s Great Small Town Christmas on Saturday, from 9:00 AM to noon. Contribute cash donations at Second Street in downtown Oakland. Started in 1978 by Chuck Nolan, this drive has raised over $65,000 and 80 pickup loads of food.
Don’t miss the excitement this Saturday at Soup N’ Santa from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM in downtown Oakland. Multiple nonprofits will offer free soup (donations appreciated), and there’s a chance to meet Santa, enjoy kids’ activities, live music, sleigh rides, local shopping with special deals, and more. Bring your furry friend for a visit with Santa too.
Celebrate a Great Small Town Christmas at the Oakland B&O Museum on December 9th and December 16th, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM in the Oakland A&E District. Tailored for ages 4-9, this free event (donations appreciated) invites kids in pajamas or festive attire for photos with Santa, crafts, cookies, and a special Santa visit. Limited space is available, so secure your spot by calling Nicole McCullough at 301-334-2691. Reservations are required!
Catch the “Nashville Legacy: Music City Christmas” concert this Sunday at the Garrett College Performing Arts Center. Guitarist Meagan Taylor and pianist Jason Coleman, accompanied by drums, bass, and keyboard, promise to infuse a touch of Tennessee into your Christmas right here in Garrett County. The performance includes heartwarming photos and videos showcasing their cherished Christmas memories.
This weekend is packed with excitement and entertainment! Check out our schedule of entertainment and state park activities.
