Kennedy Krieger Institute Celebrates 30 Years of Bringing the North Pole to Maryland

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Kennedy Krieger Institute

From Friday, November 29 to Sunday, December 1, the elves from the Kennedy Krieger Institute will transform the Maryland State Fairgrounds into a winter wonderland complete with decorated trees, a gingerbread town, shopping, holiday activities and entertainment for children of all ages.

Not only is Santa coming to town, but Festival of Trees is coming to town for the 30th year in a row, and it will welcome its one-millionth visitor! From Friday, November 29 to Sunday, December 1, the elves from the Kennedy Krieger Institute will transform the Maryland State Fairgrounds into a winter wonderland complete with decorated trees, a gingerbread town, shopping, holiday activities and entertainment for children of all ages.

Guests can also share their wish lists with jolly St. Nick on Sunday, December 1 from 8-10 a.m., while enjoying a delicious meal at the popular Breakfast with Santa. At the breakfast, families will have the opportunity to explore the festival before it opens to the public, experience the rides and games in SantaLand, and children will receive a small gift from Santa himself. Tickets for this event can be purchased online.

Festival of Trees will feature more than 800 uniquely decorated holiday trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses designed by local artists, corporations and schools. While wandering through the winter wonderland, festival-goers will enjoy live entertainment and a visit to SantaLand. Santa’s ultimate theme park includes “reindeer” pony rides, carousel rides, carnival games, a race car simulator ride and a LEGO display, perfect for young engineers and builders. With more than 100 gift boutiques, a raffle and a silent auction, Festival of Trees is a one-stop-shop to check off everything on the holiday gift list.