Grab your cocoa and cue the twinkle lights: Berlin, Maryland, is officially a Hallmark Christmas Town! The Hallmark Channel named Berlin one of just 25 official Hallmark Christmas Towns nationwide, and the only one in Maryland. At the Berlin, MD Chamber of Commerce, we’ve always known our Eastern Shore downtown shines brightest at the holidays. Here’s how Berlin made the list, plus family-friendly winter activities near Main Street in Berlin, MD and where to stay.

Recognized Among Top Holiday Towns from Across the Country

Hallmark invited Berlin to enter its Merriest Christmas Towns Contest, and in August, Berlin was named one of 25 finalists from roughly 1,500 communities. Our community rallied fast. The Town handed out QR code postcards, Berlin Arts & Entertainment cheered on supporters online, and neighbors voted daily through September 4.

Berlin didn’t win the grand prize of hosting a Hallmark movie, but as an official Hallmark Christmas Town, it will be featured on the Hallmark Channel’s website. Not bad for the town where Runaway Bride and Tuck Everlasting were filmed!

Family-Friendly Winter Activities in Berlin, Maryland

Berlin’s holiday calendar reads like a Hallmark movie montage. Mark these dates and bring the whole family:

• Christmas Tree Arrival, Wednesday, November 18, at 2 p.m.: Watch the town’s Christmas tree make its grand entrance at the historic Atlantic Hotel.
• Ice Ice Berlin & Tree Lighting, Friday, November 27, from 5 to 8 p.m.: The Mayor lights the tree at 6 p.m., and more than 30 ice sculptures sparkle all around town. Hosted by the Berlin Main Street A&E District.
• Merry Marketplace, Saturdays, November 28 and December 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Browse local art and warm up with freshly roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate at the Berlin Welcome Center parking lot, 14 S. Main Street. Hosted by the Berlin OC Rotary Club.
• Berlin Christmas Parade, Thursday, December 3, from 7 to 9 p.m.: Around 80 local businesses, schools, fire companies and nonprofits light up Main Street.

Between events, little ones can visit Santa at Kringle Kottage and drop off their letters to the North Pole. Keep an eye out for horse-drawn carriage rides, and don’t miss the town tree, trimmed with oyster shells decorated by the community.

Shop Small on Main Street in Berlin, Maryland

Of course, the real magic happens on Main Street, where our member shops make downtown merry and bright. Pop into a few local favorites:

• British Rose: Fun, casual home decor from a shop known for its eye-catching window displays.
• Honeywater Candles: Candles for cozy winter nights at home.
• Beach Memories Glassworks: A working glass studio with handmade jewelry, art glass and glass classes.
• East and Main Shore Supply and Apparel: Men’s clothing, accessories, books, games and gifts.
• Fathom & Co.: Clothing, jewelry and accessories in the center of downtown.

Find even more shops to stroll, sip and shop local in our member business directory.

Where to Stay in Winter in Berlin, Maryland

One evening of Christmas magic is nice, but a cozy overnight is even better. Berlin’s inns and bed and breakfasts make it easy to wake up in a real-life holiday movie set:

• The Atlantic Hotel: Stay in the heart of downtown at the same historic hotel where the town tree makes its arrival.
• The Inn Berlin: A boutique inn on Harrison Avenue, a short walk from Main Street.
• Holland House Bed & Breakfast: A family-owned bed and breakfast welcoming guests since 1986.
• The Inn on Turville Creek: A waterfront inn for guests who want a quiet retreat just outside downtown.

From all of us at the Berlin, MD Chamber of Commerce, thank you to everyone who voted, shared and cheered Berlin on this year. Whether you’re a longtime local or planning your first visit, there’s no better time to experience America’s Coolest Small Town than the holiday season.

Start planning your merry little getaway by browsing our member business directory, and follow the Berlin Chamber on Facebook and Instagram for the latest holiday happenings. We’ll see you on Main Street!