From Railway Exhibit to Winter Ice Show: Holiday Events at County Parks

While you could just stay indoors and enjoy the warmth of the fireplace, wrap last-minute gifts or sit down with some eggnog or hot chocolate, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday season outdoors in Montgomery County.

Montgomery Parks, part of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, has planned activities throughout the county this holiday season.

Garden Railway Exhibit: Sights, Sound, Action!: The exhibit in the South Conservatory at Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Ave., Silver Spring, is running for its 10th year, featuring trains, trolleys and detailed miniature models of iconic landmarks such as Germantown’s famous Cider Barrel, the Dentzel Carousel at Glen Echo Park and the historic Red Door Store in Sandy Spring. The exhibit is completely free and open from now through Jan. 11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Christmas.

Annual Winter Cheer Exhibit: Also at Brookside Gardens, the free exhibit of poinsettias, fireworks flowers, silver and blue plectranthus and white snapdragons will be on display in the North Conservatory. If you decide to check out the railway exhibit, swing by and see these colorful flowers too. The exhibit is also open from now through Jan. 11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Christmas.

Winter Ice Show: Stop by Cabin John Ice Rink, 10610 Westlake Dr., Rockville, on Saturday, Dec. 20, at 6:30 p.m. to watch some talented figure skaters from the area in action. The show is completely free and features individual and group performances.

Winter Hike at Little Bennett Regional Park: This event takes place on Sunday, Dec. 21, from 10 a.m to 11:30 a.m. at Little Bennett Regional Park, 23701 Frederick Road Clarksburg. Hikers can explore the natural beauty of Little Bennett’s park trails and search for local wildlife, winter berries and maybe even crystal ice formations — weather permitting. The cost for the hike is $7. Register here (course #301949).

Otus’ Rockin New Year Celebration: Here’s a fun New Year celebration for the kids. Children can celebrate with other kids ages 2 to 12 at Meadowside Nature Center, 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville. Beginning at noon, participants can make party hats, noise makers and other crafts. There will also be music, dancing, cider and a visit from Otus the Owl mascot. Cost for the event is $5. Register here (course #301949).

Montgomery Parks is also offering a selection of winter break camps to keep kids busy while they’re off from school during the holiday.

Camps include:

Locust Grove Winter Adventure Camp: This camp is open to children ages 5 to 11. The first session runs from Dec. 29 to 31, and the second session runs on Jan. 1 and 2. Hours for the camp are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Campers will go on scavenger hunts, build campfires, meet live animals and learn about wildlife. Cost for the camp per session is $232. Register here (course #304049). Extended care is available for an additional fee.

Park Play Days at Cabin John Ice Rink and Wheaton Ice Rink: This camp is open for children ages 6 to 12. Children will have the opportunity to ice skate, play team games and sports and do arts and crafts. This camp also runs from Dec. 29 to 31 and Jan. 1 and 2. Hours for the camp are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the cost is $40 per day. Register here.

>>Montgomery County Parks are offering holiday events throughout the season. Photo screenshot from Montgomery Parks Facebook.

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