In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the past holiday season, there were many wonderful winter festivities that happened in Montgomery County. It seemed that no town had been untouched by the holiday spirit as families came together to celebrate ‘the most wonderful time of the year.’ Here are some magnificent events that happened.
It is especially important this time of the year to forgo technology in order to spend time with family and appreciate the beautiful outdoors. Brookside Gardens, the perfect sanctuary to admire nature’s beauty, hosted a Winter Solstice Celebration on December 21st in Silver Spring. Families gathered together to make crafts from different cultures, drank hot cider by a warm fire, made lanterns that add an iridescent glow to the gardens, and watched a shadow-puppet show.
A classic favorite for students around the county was the Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg. This event was a remarkable showcase of the most beautiful lights the county had to offer. Throughout December, many took a drive through the scenic 3.5 mile route through Seneca Creek State Park that features different themed lights, including Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Victorian Village, and the North Pole.
Many also chose to give back during the holiday season by attending these events, where the proceeds will benefit different local charities. Amidst the joys of the holidays, it is always important to spread the cheer by donating to the community.
On December 26th, dancers in the Maryland Youth Ballet performed their annual rendition of The Nutcracker at the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center. The audiences were enchanted by a night of wonderful performances, featuring skilled dancers, elaborate costumes, transformative scenery and vibrant music.
Another important tradition during the holiday season is watching classic films. At the American Film Institute Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring, some of America’s most cherished Christmas films were shown, including It’s A Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, and A Christmas Carol, bringing many to enjoy heart-warming holiday tales about family, love, and the magic of believing.
Article by the MoCo Student staff writer Akanksha Girish of Richard Montgomery High School
Graphic by the MoCo Student graphic artist Claudia Espinoza of Richard Montgomery High School