Grand Illumination

Lighting the Holiday Season in Annapolis

the Sunday after Thanksgiving

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The Downtown Annapolis Partnership joins the City of Annapolis as they ring in the holiday season in downtown Annapolis.  The Grand Illumination annual tree lighting takes place near the Market House every year on the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

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The celebration begins at 3:00 pm with dancing and carols by local groups. The annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony will include carolers, music, and general merriment! This event is free and open to the public. Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Elfie as they arrive to light the Christmas Tree.

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For downtown Annapolis holiday parking specials, click here.

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Grand Illumination Event Schedule November 30, 2025

• 3:10–3:40 p.m. – Annapolis Symphony Academy Aquarius Youth Wind Ensemble

• 3:45–3:55 p.m. – Edge Dance Complex Company Performance

• 4:00–4:30 p.m. – Naptown Sings & Plays Performance

• 4:00–4:30 p.m. – Storytime, cookies, hot chocolate, and nutcrackers for kids inside Zachary’s Jewelers

• 4:30–4:50 p.m. – Chesapeake Ballet Performance (outside Zachary’s)

• 4:50–5:15 p.m. – The Talent Machine Company Performance

• 5:15 p.m. – Remarks by guests followed by Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Elfie arrive to light the tree.

 

Downtown road closures during Grand Illumination:

Fleet Street, Cornhill Street, and Market Space

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​This year's Grand Illumination is sponsored by:

Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis

The City of Annapolis

Zachary's Jewelers

Chesapeake Ballet Company

Naptown Sings and Plays

Talent Machine Company

Edge Dance Complex Company

Palmer's Towing

Where in Annapolis

Frances Marketing Group

WRNR Radio

Downtown Annapolis Partnership

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To sponsor community events like this, contact

The Downtown  Annapolis Partnership