5 Ways To Enjoy Hampden Christmas Parade

The Hampden Christmas Parade, a beloved tradition in Baltimore, Maryland, is a spectacle that brings joy to people of all ages. This festive event is a celebration of the holiday season, featuring colorful floats, lively marching bands, and of course, the jolly old elf himself, Santa Claus. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting the area, there are many ways to enjoy this special occasion. Here are five ways to make the most of your Hampden Christmas Parade experience.

Get into the Holiday Spirit with Festive Food and Drink

One of the best ways to enjoy the Hampden Christmas Parade is by indulging in the delicious food and drink options available along the parade route. From traditional holiday treats like hot chocolate and cookies to savory delights like burgers and fries, there's something for every taste and craving. Be sure to arrive early to grab a spot at one of the many local eateries or food trucks, and don't forget to try some of the specialty holiday drinks, like peppermint mochas or eggnog lattes.

Arrive Early to Secure a Prime Viewing Spot

To ensure you get a great view of the parade, it's essential to arrive early and stake out a spot along the route. Bring some comfortable folding chairs, blankets, and snacks to make your wait more enjoyable. If you're planning to bring the kids, consider arriving even earlier to give them a chance to get settled and excited for the festivities.

Participate in the Pre-Parade Activities

Before the parade kicks off, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy in the area. Take some time to explore the local shops and boutiques, which often offer special discounts and promotions during the holiday season. You can also participate in some of the pre-parade festivities, such as decorating cookies, making holiday crafts, or singing carols with the community.

Meet Santa and His Friends

No Christmas parade would be complete without a visit from the big man himself, Santa Claus. After the parade, be sure to stick around to meet Santa and his friends, including Mrs. Claus, the elves, and even some of your favorite holiday characters. This is a great opportunity to take some special photos and make some magical memories with the kids.

Show Your Holiday Spirit with Creative Costumes

One of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit is by dressing up in a festive costume. Whether you're going for a classic look, like a Santa hat and reindeer antlers, or something more creative, like a gingerbread man or a snowman, there are plenty of options to choose from. Don't be afraid to get creative and show off your holiday style!

Bring the Whole Family and Make it a Special Day

The Hampden Christmas Parade is a special event that's fun for the whole family. Bring the kids, grandparents, and even the family dog to enjoy the festive atmosphere and holiday cheer. Make it a special day by combining the parade with some other holiday activities, such as decorating the house, baking holiday treats, or watching a favorite holiday movie.

Capture the Magic with Photos and Videos

The Hampden Christmas Parade is a special event that you'll want to remember for years to come. Be sure to bring your camera or phone to capture all the magic and excitement of the day. Take photos and videos of the floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa and his friends. You can even share your favorite moments on social media using the official parade hashtag.

Make it a Annual Tradition

The Hampden Christmas Parade is a beloved tradition that's been going strong for many years. Make it an annual tradition by marking your calendar for the first Saturday in December and planning to attend the parade every year. You can even make it a special family tradition by combining the parade with some other holiday activities, such as decorating the house or baking holiday treats.

Support Local Businesses and Vendors

The Hampden Christmas Parade is a great opportunity to support local businesses and vendors. Be sure to check out the many food and craft vendors that line the parade route, offering a wide range of unique and festive holiday gifts and treats. You can also show your support for the local community by shopping at some of the many boutiques and shops in the area.

Get Involved and Volunteer

If you're looking for a way to get involved and give back to the community, consider volunteering for the Hampden Christmas Parade. There are plenty of opportunities to help with setup, crowd control, and even assisting with some of the pre-parade activities. This is a great way to meet new people and make some special holiday memories.

Enjoy the Post-Parade Celebration

After the parade, stick around to enjoy some of the post-parade festivities. Many of the local businesses and vendors offer special discounts and promotions, and there are often live music performances and other activities to enjoy. This is a great way to cap off the day and make some special holiday memories.

Share Your Experience with Others

Finally, be sure to share your Hampden Christmas Parade experience with others. Whether it's through social media, email, or good old-fashioned word of mouth, spread the word about this special event and encourage others to attend. This is a great way to help build the community and make the parade an even bigger success in the years to come.

If you've enjoyed this article, be sure to share it with your friends and family, and don't forget to mark your calendar for the next Hampden Christmas Parade!