Illustration of an indoor Christmas market hall with tables of candles, wreaths and ornaments under garlands (Bethesda's Winter Wonderland & Holiday Market)
Christmas Markets

Bethesda's Winter Wonderland & Holiday Market

Celebrate the holiday season in downtown Bethesda with live ice sculpting demonstrations, visits with Santa Claus, and choral performances by local student groups. Browse handcrafted gifts, holiday ornaments, and vintage finds from dozens of artisan vendors at the URBNmarket. Families can also enjoy face painting, children's craft activities, and food from local Bethesda restaurants.

All ages

Plan Your Visit

Hours

12pm–4pm; live ice sculpting demo 12–1:30pm; visit with Santa Claus 2–4pm.

Neighborhood

Woodmont Triangle

Food & Drink

Bethesda restaurants Cubano’s, Olazzo, and The Red Bandana will be onsite.

Location

Norfolk & Cordell Avenues, Bethesda, MD Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and lively

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Bring a new toy for Toys for Tots, as visitors are asked to contribute one.
  • Leave time to browse the holiday market, which brings around 50 artisans selling handmade and vintage goods.
  • Visit Santa during the scheduled Santa session and catch the ice sculpting demonstration during its listed session.
  • Plan to buy food from one of the onsite Bethesda restaurants if you want a meal during the event.
  • Bring children ready for face painting, games and arts and crafts offered by participating local organizations.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Santa Claus will be at the event on December 5.
  • The Winter Wonderland now includes a holiday market.

Links & Contact

Run by Bethesda Urban Partnership

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during the ice sculpting presentation?

An ice sculptor uses chainsaws, ice picks, and other specialized tools to carve blocks of ice into works of art before a live audience.

What items are available at the holiday market?

The URBNmarket features local artisans selling handcrafted and vintage goods, such as crocheted toys, Christmas tree ornaments, vintage clothing, purses, art prints, soaps, knitted items, and jewelry.

What activities are available for children?

Children can visit with Santa Claus, get their faces painted, play games, and take part in arts and craft activities presented by local arts and educational organizations.

Who performs during the student concert?

Choral groups and students from local schools and arts organizations perform seasonal and winter-inspired music.

What can attendees donate at the event?

Visitors are encouraged to bring a new toy to contribute to the Toys for Tots toy drive.

Browse Christmas in Bethesda

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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