There's a long tradition of celebrating the holidays in Bowie.

Enjoy a glimpse of over 250 years of Bowie Christmases. Traditional decorations and flickering candles offer a glimpse of the past through the eyes of all the residents of the historic house. The music of “Bedlam” will fill the air.

In colonial times, Belair’s residents feasted, sang and visited – but there was no Christmas tree. That holiday favorite didn’t find its way to America – and Bowie - until the mid-19th century.

The City’s Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony has been a holiday tradition here for over 50 years. You can be a part of this year's celebration on the grounds of the mansion at 7 p.m. when the caroling begins and the lights go on. After the tree is lit, Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive atop a ladder truck, courtesy of the Bowie Volunteer Fire Department.