Illustration of a family gazing at houses and trees covered in string lights on a snowy street at dusk (Ellicott City Holiday Train Garden)

Ellicott City Holiday Train Garden

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

The Ellicott City Volunteer Fire Department presents its 29th Annual Holiday Train Garden, a beloved local tradition. Constructed by over 50 dedicated volunteers, this intricate display features mesmerizing model trains winding through festive holiday scenes. It's a magical experience for all ages, showcasing community spirit and holiday cheer.

Map It Details

🎄 If you like this, try:

Illustration of Santa posing with a family on a bench under string lights for a photographer (Holiday Festival of Trains) Holiday Festival of Trains Illustration of Christmas light displays in Ellicott City 15 Christmas light displays in Ellicott City
Advertisement

See more Christmas lights near Ellicott City

Illustration of a crowd looking up at a town hall lit in coloured light as snow falls (Symphony of Lights) Symphony of Lights Columbia · 4 mi Illustration of a couple and children walking through a tunnel of twinkling white lights in the snow (Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens) Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens Wheaton · 18 mi Illustration of a knitted family in hats and mittens in a snowy street with a snowman and glowing string lights (Jeff's Christmas Light Show Spectacular) Jeff's Christmas Light Show Spectacular Linthicum Heights · 9 mi Illustration of a dog in a scarf sitting on Santa's knee for a photo while its owner laughs (The Magic of Merryland) The Magic of Merryland Baltimore · 12 mi Illustration of a knitted family in hats and mittens in a snowy street with a snowman and glowing string lights (Holly Jolly Trolley Tours) Holly Jolly Trolley Tours Baltimore · 11 mi

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

$

Ages

All ages

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Ellicott City Volunteer Fire Department · 4150 Montgomery Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, train enthusiasts, holiday tradition seekers

Vibe

Festive, community-oriented, nostalgic

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Visit during the construction phase in mid-October to see the dedication of the volunteers and the early stages of the display.
  • Check local news outlets like WBALTV and The Baltimore Sun for specific opening dates and hours as they are announced each year.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday evening to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed viewing experience.
  • Look for the 'Big Cheese' and 'Miss Fit' characters within the display, often highlighted in photos and news articles.
  • The event is hosted by the fire department, so consider making a donation to support their services.

Special Events & Promotions

  • 29th Annual Holiday Train Garden
  • Construction begins mid-October
  • Built by 50+ volunteers

Links & Contact

Contact

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

When does the Holiday Train Garden typically open?

While construction begins in mid-October, the train garden usually opens to the public in November and runs through December.

Is there an admission fee for the train garden?

Admission is generally free, but donations to the Ellicott City Volunteer Fire Department are greatly appreciated.

Who builds and maintains the train garden?

The display is a community effort, built and maintained by over 50 volunteers from the fire department and local community.

What can I expect to see at the train garden?

Visitors can expect to see intricate model train layouts, festive holiday decorations, and detailed miniature scenes.

Where is the Ellicott City Volunteer Fire Department located?

They are located at 4150 Montgomery Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043.

Featured Video

Browse Christmas in Ellicott City

Illustration of knitted felt figures in sweaters raising mugs of cocoa around a small table near a lit holiday tree Parties13 events Illustration of felt figures in Santa hats giving wrapped presents to felt children beside a decorated Christmas tree Giving Opportunities1 event Illustration of a house and yard glowing with string lights beside a snowman at dusk Lights15 events Illustration of a Christmas market stall with ornaments, wooden toys and a smiling vendor Markets24 events Illustration of felt snowman figures in red scarves and hats on a small snowy stage with red curtains and Christmas trees Shows16 events Illustration of neighbours chatting with cocoa in a community hall decorated with paper chains and wrapped gifts Unique & Unusual32 events MapNearby

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.

✏️ Suggest a correction to this listing

Contributors & Updates

Last checked: