Park and Recreation - Prince Georges County MD

The 37th Annual Prince George's County Juried Exhibition
2025-11-08 10:00 - 2026-01-03 17:00 (America/New_York)
* This exhibition runs Nov. 8, 2025–Jan. 3, 2026, with a public reception on Sat., Dec. 6. *

The 37th Annual Prince George’s County Juried Exhibition draws on the vast corps of visual artists who live, work, attend college, or maintain a studio in Prince George’s County. The exhibition fosters an inclusive, community spirit among the participating artists and showcases their varied talents, skills, and diverse media uses.

Artist Exhibition: Caroline MacKinnon: Eye on the Sky
2025-11-10 09:00 - 2026-01-04 17:00
* This exhibition runs Nov. 10, 2025–Jan. 4, 2026, with a public reception on Thu., Nov. 20. *

Artist Caroline Mackinnon explores our place in the cosmos using various materials, including ceramic sculpture and embroidery, gouache, acrylic paint, and ink. Crystal raindrops glimmer and plunge. Vibrant fogs lift, revealing undulating chasms and teeming oceans. Celestial bodies hang in a tense atmosphere. The moment is past, present, and future. The place is everywhere.

This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from November 10, 2025-January 4, 2026 and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.

Keith Kreuger: What You See Is What You Get
2025-11-10 10:00 - 2026-01-03 16:00
This exhibition runs Nov. 10, 2025-Jan. 3, 2026, with an opening reception on Sat., Nov. 15 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., Dec. 20.

In What You See Is What You Get, artist Keith Kreuger presents a striking collection of found object assemblages that challenge perceptions of art, value, and transformation. Using everyday materials and discarded objects, Kreuger crafts intricate, thought-provoking sculptures that invite viewers to reconsider the beauty and potential of what is often overlooked. Each piece tells a story of reclamation and reinvention, offering a fresh perspective on the power of artistic expression through the art of assemblage.

Hits Different: 5 Under 35
2025-11-10 10:00 - 2026-01-03 16:00
* This exhibition runs Nov. 10, 2025–Jan. 3, 2026, with a public reception on Sat., Nov. 15 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., Dec. 20. *

Curated by Emily Fussner, Hits Different: 5 Under 35 spotlights the fresh perspectives and bold creativity of five emerging artists—Milan Warner, Marisa Stratton, Madyha Leghari, MK Bailey, and Ara Koh. This exhibition showcases innovative approaches to material, form, and storytelling, reflecting the dynamic voices shaping the next generation of contemporary art. With a focus on experimentation and personal narrative, Hits Different captures the energy and evolution of young artists redefining the visual landscape.

David Brosch: My Maryland
2025-11-11 10:00 - 2025-12-14 17:00
* This exhibition runs Nov. 11–Dec. 14, with a public reception on Sun., Dec. 14. *

Painter and printmaker David Brosch has lived in Maryland for decades and raised his family in Prince George’s County. He takes inspiration from his surroundings for the works in this latest exhibition, featuring oil paintings, prints, and drawings. The landscapes in this show include representations of both natural and urban areas.

Berchel Douglas: Portraits of a City
2025-11-13 10:00 - 2026-01-04 17:00
This exhibition runs Nov. 13, 2025-Jan. 4, 2026, with a public reception on Sun., Dec. 14.

Berchel Douglas celebrates the diversity and creativity of Washington, D.C., through street photography and portraiture, focusing on friends, local creatives, business owners, and fellow artists. Together, the images are a tribute to the spirit of community, highlighting the complexity of urban life through stories that often go unnoticed but are vital to the city’s identity.

Darren Smith: Human/Nature
2025-11-17 10:00 - 2026-01-10 16:00
* This exhibition runs Nov. 17, 2025–Jan. 10, 2026, with a public reception on Sat., Nov. 22. *

As a species, our unbridled exploitation of nature’s finite resources leads us to the brink of environmental catastrophe. We have never been so separated from nature, from the essential rhythms and flows which have sustained us. When did we lose our connection, and can we get it back? Walking in the woods, our blood pressure drops, stress hormones decrease, and our breathing eases. We belong. Human/Nature is a project to show how we are reflected in nature. I shoot photos of natural subjects, cut the prints into little pieces, and create collages of human faces and eyes. If we can see ourselves in nature, made from it rather than conquering it, perhaps we can start to heal our relationship and support a more sustainable future.

Harmony Hall Arts Center: Instructor and Student Exhibition
2025-11-17 10:00 - 2026-01-10 16:00
* This exhibition runs Nov. 17, 2025–Jan. 10, 2026, with a public reception on Sat., Nov. 22. *

Harmony Hall’s talented art students and instructors—spanning various ages, experience levels, and artistic disciplines—will showcase their creativity in this vibrant, multidisciplinary exhibition. The Main Gallery will feature diverse works, from watercolor and acrylic paintings that evolve from initial sketches to final works. Additionally, hand-built, wheel-thrown, and Japanese Raku ceramics will be showcased. This exhibition celebrates the dedication and artistic growth of more than 20 artists and their instructors, offering a diverse display of their hard work and passion.

Festival of Lights
2025-11-28 17:00 - 2026-01-01 21:30
From the comfort of your own car, bring the family to experience dazzling scenes that celebrate the magic of the holiday season at the annual Festival of Lights!

Online Ticketing
$15 per car
Car Only – Online sales end daily at 4pm
Contact for more information: 301-218-6700/wsoinfo@pgparks.com
BUY TICKETS

Gate Tickets
$20 per car
Gate closes promptly at 9:30 pm at the 202 Entrance
All other vehicles (Vans, Minibus, bus, limos, etc.) – $75

Hayrides
$10 per person
All ages
Hayrides are available for Thursday, Friday and Saturday ONLY
Time Slots: 6pm, 7pm, 8pm, 9pm
Due to HIGH demand, no refunds, cancellations, or rescheduling
Arrive 45 minutes to one hour prior to reservation (weekends have long wait times)
Five people per family max (if more than five, you must register two families)
BUY TICKETS

PLEASE NOTE:

Park closes daily at 4 pm and General Admission Gate closes at 9:30 pm nightly

Online ticket sales end daily at 4 pm

No refunds on ALL ticket sales (General Admissions at the gate or online and Holiday Hayride tickets)

To enhance your experience, please have online tickets printed and visit us on weekdays; weekends have longer wait times!

PLEASE DONATE CANNED GOODS OR NON PERISHABLES TO A PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY FAMILY IN NEED!

Regional Textile Showcase & Artists’ Boutique
2025-12-01 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-04 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-05 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-06 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-07 10:00 - 16:00
Enjoy viewing a variety of fiber mediums by textile artists, contemporary and traditional – quilts, rug hooking, felting, embroidery, needlepoint, crocheting, beading, and more. You can vote for your favorite piece! Are you a fiber artist? Participate and enter your creation! The artists’ boutique is back by popular for interesting gifts! Support local artisans/crafters.

Ages 5+. Free, donations welcomed. Reservations recommended but not required. Drop-ins welcomed!

Lunchtime Listening with Stan Cooper, Guitar
2025-12-03 11:00 - 13:00
Experience the unstoppable groove of Stanley Cooper–Holiday Edition! D.C.’s own Stanley Cooper has rocked stages with legends like Jimmy Sommers, Bobby Lyle, Marcus Johnson, and Stephanie Mills—and now, he’s bringing his electrifying guitar skills to a holiday-themed celebration. Influenced by greats like Wes Montgomery and Wah Wah Watson, Stanley blends jazz, funk, and soul into a pure magic sound. Feel the festive spirit as he sets the stage on fire with his signature style and infectious energy. Don’t miss this soulful holiday concert—get ready to groove and celebrate the season in style.

Lunchtime Lecture: Carter G. Woodson turns 150
2025-12-03 12:00 - 13:00
Celebrate the life of the Father of Black History Month! In honor of Carter G. Woodson’s sesquicentennial, join Barbara Dunn of ASALH, for this presentation on Woodson’s life, as an author, historian, and journalist.

Holiday Leftovers Reimagined Cooking Demonstration
2025-12-03 18:00 - 19:00
Don’t let your holiday leftovers go to waste! In this cooking demonstration, learn how to transform traditional holiday leftovers into healthy, new meals the whole family will love. Registration required. All ages welcome; FREE

26th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Show
2025-12-05 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-06 12:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-07 12:00 - 17:00
Join the tradition and visit the Gingerbread House Contest and Show held at Darnall’s Chance House Museum. See a dazzling display of gingerbread creations that reflect the rich history and vibrant culture of Prince George’s County, Maryland. This year’s entries will celebrate the local landmarks, architecture, stories, and traditions that showcase the unique heritage of Prince George’s County.

Message Session V- Balance
2025-12-05 19:00 - 21:00
Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment–it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.

Listening Room Presents Rose Moraes
2025-12-05 20:00 - 22:00
Brazilian vocalist known for bringing the soul of Brazilian music to audiences worldwide. She has performed at major venues, including opening for Diana Ross and presenting tributes to Antonio Carlos Jobim.

Hands on History: Winter Series
2025-12-06 10:00 - 12:00
Sign up to explore the history of fashions, fabrics, and women’s work from Belgium to Maryland, focusing on quilting in enslaved and free Black communities. Then, participate in our embroidery workshop to learn needlework and take home your own handmade gift. This program is designed for children ages 6 to 12 (children 10 & under require a chaperone). Please register in advance–no more than two adults per family.

The Walker Mill Regional Park “Turnip Tour” Winter Farmer’s Market in Collaboration with The Capital Market
2025-12-06 10:00 - 14:00
We’re teaming up with The Capital Market for a pop-up farmers market packed with local produce, live music, cooking demos, and fun for the whole family.

Come out, connect with your community, and support local farmers!

SNAP Benefits MatchingSponsored by WellPoint, Pepco, and Sustainable Maryland

Santa Fly-In
2025-12-06 10:00 - 15:00
Join us for a festive day filled with holiday cheer from around the world! Experience magic, fun, and family with Santa as he makes his annual return to the museum and flies in (weather permitting) for a day of holiday merriment. Be dazzled with The Berwyn Ballet’s excerpts from “The Nutcracker” and explore how other cultures celebrate winter traditions with fun and festive crafts and activities. Sign up to visit with Santa (bilingual) and purchase treats from local food vendors. Advance registration required by December 3. FoFF Members: Email Collegeparkaviation@pgparks.com

Schedule of events are as follows:

10-10:30 am: The Nutcracker with Berwyn Ballet School

10:30 am-3 pm: Activities & Crafts

11 am: Santa fly-in (weather permitting)

11:30 am-2:30 pm: Photos with Santa (Santa speaks English & Spanish; photo slot registration required)

3 pm: Santa fly-out (weather permitting)

$10 Resident*; $13 Non-Resident; FREE Field of Firsts Members

Note: Photo slot registration is currently full. A first come, first served standby line will be available to accommodate guests who were not able to reserve a slot.

Holiday Marketplace
2025-12-06 10:00 - 16:00
Get ready to immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Harmony Hall’s annual Holiday Marketplace! Enjoy the enchanting sounds of live music while sipping on warm refreshments. Explore a variety of vendor tables offering unique, handcrafted items and perfect stocking stuffers for everyone on your list. This free event is open to all ages, so bring your family and friends for a delightful holiday experience. Don’t miss this magical opportunity to celebrate the season with us!

Holiday Traditions from Around the World
2025-12-06 11:00 - 15:00
On-going activities – stories, games, and crafts for families. Learn how other cultures celebrate in December and the New Year!

The 37th Annual Prince George's County Juried Exhibition - Public Reception
2025-12-06 15:00 - 17:00

Disability Services presents: Holiday Hop
2025-12-06 18:00 - 21:00
The Holiday Hop is a holiday tradition with music, dance and festive spirit. This program is designed specifically for persons with disabilities who reside in Prince George’s County. This annual holiday event is returning with toe-tapping music, a photo booth, door prizes and refreshments. Come showcase your moves and dance the night away.

This event is designed for individuals with disabilities who reside in Prince George’s County. M-NCPPC employees will chaperone the event; direct support or assistance will not be provided. Seating will be available for companions and family members who wish to stay at the event.

Registration is required in advance; no tickets will be sold at the door. Dress code is semi-formal attire.

Event contact: 301-446-3400, countywidetrprograms@pgparks.com

Register for the event

The Nutcracker with the National Ballet Company
2025-12-06 19:00 - 21:00
Returning to the Publick Playhouse stage, the National Ballet Company revisits the enchanting world of “The Nutcracker,” a holiday classic that has captivated audiences of all ages for generations. The production, with its magical storyline, vibrant costumes, and breathtaking choreography, is set against the backdrop of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, creating an immersive experience that transports viewers to a whimsical winter wonderland. The tale of Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, the malevolent Mouse King, and the ethereal Sugar Plum Fairy unfolds with grace and beauty, embodying the spirit of the holidays and the transformative power of imagination.

Sat., Dec. 6, 7 pm Tickets

Sun., Dec. 7, 4 pm Tickets
