BERLIN, MD. (WBFF) — Berlin, Maryland, is showcasing its historic downtown and holiday traditions as a top-25 finalist in Hallmark’s “Merriest Christmas Town” contest, saying Christmas is “part of who we are.”
The town says its holiday season begins with a locally grown Christmas tree placed on Main Street. Schoolchildren decorate the tree with hand-painted oyster shell ornaments honoring the area’s coastal heritage, followed by an annual tree lighting with pipes and drums.
Berlin’s holiday events also include “Ice Ice Berlin,” featuring hand-carved ice sculptures, late-night shopping and a marketplace with handmade gifts. Families can also take free horse-drawn carriage rides on weekends.
Children can visit Santa at “Kringle Cottage,” where they sit beside him on a bench. The town says the setup creates a more comfortable experience for children and families, encouraging “conversations, laughter, and memories that families treasure for years.”
Berlin also highlights what it calls Maryland’s largest nighttime Christmas parade, featuring more than 85 illuminated floats, marching bands and community groups along Main Street.
The town points to several past honors, including being named one of America’s most charming Christmas towns by Travel + Leisure and one of the best small towns for Christmas by Country Living. Budget Travel also previously named Berlin America’s Coolest Small Town.
Berlin has also served as a filming location for Runaway Bride and Tuck Everlasting, which the town says demonstrates its experience hosting productions while maintaining its small-town character.
Voting in Hallmark’s contest is limited to once per person each day.
Local Story
