Tara Fischer
Staff Writer
Berlin is celebrating the holiday season this year with beloved and festive traditions, beginning with the planned arrival of the town’s Christmas tree on Monday, Nov. 18.
The Merry Marketplace is returning, and Berlin Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells said that the Berlin Main Street Program is partnering with the Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club this year to bring the tradition back to town.
Local vendors and those from the Berlin Farmers Market will be present on Nov. 30, Dec. 7, Dec. 14, and Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the parking lot next to the Berlin Welcome Center to offer attendees handmade crafts, hot chocolate, freshly roasted chestnuts, and holiday treats. Wells said that there will be more than 20 participating vendors.
“We hope it will bring more visitors to the town, support our local artisans, farmers, and help the Rotary club with fundraising,” she said. “Plus, it creates a festive vibe.”
On Nov. 29, the town will once again host its Ice Ice Berlin and Tree Lighting event. Wells said more than 30 businesses sponsor the holiday-themed ice sculptures, which will be displayed downtown. The night starts at 5 p.m. and continues until about 9 p.m. The tree, which is real and about 25 feet, will be lit at 6 p.m. near the Atlantic Hotel.
Wells said Ocean City Pipes and Drums and Delmarva Chorus will perform, and Santa will be at Kringle Kottage, located on Artisans Green behind the Sterling Tavern, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. She also added that shops will be open late, and leashed pets are welcome.
The Letters to Santa Mailbox is back again this holiday season. Wells said the program, which began nine years ago, allows kids to drop off their letters and Christmas wish lists to the mailbox located in the foyer of the Berlin Welcome Center. The children receive a personalized response and a coupon for a free treat. The initiative will run through Dec. 16. According to Wells, the town receives more than 100 letters every season.
The municipality is also getting ready for its 53rd annual Town of Berlin Christmas Parade. The event is set for Thursday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.
A complete list of upcoming Berlin events can be found on the municipality’s website. The town’s Facebook page also contains additional information and dates for offered carriage rides and Santa visits.