A Guide To The Kennedy Krieger Festival Of Trees
The Kennedy Krieger Festival of Trees
The Cow Palace
2200 York Road
Timonium, Md. 21093
festivaloftrees@kennedykrieger.org
festivaloftrees.kennedykrieger.org
Date: Nov. 23 and 24, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Price: $11 adults/$6 children (ages 5 to 12) and seniors online/$13 adults/$7 children and seniors/free for children younger than 4 at the door
Visitors may celebrate the upcoming holiday with a happy heart, knowing all proceeds and donations from the Kennedy Krieger Festival of Trees will benefit the Kennedy Krieger Institute. For 75 years, this organization has been actively helping kids and adolescents with brain disorders like autism, Down syndrome and even sleeping disorders.
Aside from observing the countless illuminated trees and eye-catching Christmas displays, visitors may bet in silent auctions or shop at a variety of craft booths to find that perfect gift for the holidays. Live entertainment is also scheduled throughout the day and includes performances by White Marsh Ballet, Girl Scout Chorus, International Brotherhood of Magicians, Cathedral Ringers Handbell Choir, McHale School of Irish Dance and Joey Dcares Rock Orchestra to officially kick off the holiday season.
Children will love the ride options from "reindeer" pony rides to a spin on the magical merry-go-round, and don't miss the train ride through the fairyland forest. Santa has already made plans to attend and will be listening to children's wish lists. Squeeze in a few carnival games, a round of putt-putt or have a jumping contest in the moon bounces – either way, there's no limit to the creative activities available to make everyone feel like a kid again.
While there will be food for purchase at the event ranging from hearty barbecue to snacks such as popcorn, fudge and slushies, another alternative for families is to enjoy a meal together at nearby restaurants like Liberatore's (see below).
Parking
Parking is limited on the fairgrounds, but if you do arrive early enough to catch a spot then the cost is $3. If York Road is backed up before reaching the fairgrounds, your best bet is to park at one of the nearby light rail stops. The closest, the Timonium Fairgrounds, means just a short walk to the Cow Palace, but Lutherville, Warren Road and Hunt Valley park & rides are also just a short drive and offer additional parking. A day pass on the light rail, which includes unlimited rides on local buses and the metro subway for one day, costs $3.50. If choosing off-road or private parking lots, always be alert for signs that say "no fair parking."
Dining
Liberatore's Ristorante
9515 Deereco Road
Timonium, Md. 21093
(410) 561-3300
www.liberatores.com
After a day of drooling over gingerbread treats that are often too beautiful to eat, treat the family to one of Baltimore County's 50 best restaurants. Liberatore's Timonium provides a Tuscan-style, energetic dining experience for families and couples seeking a romantic night out. With beautiful wall murals, a trellis room, Cosmopolitan lounge and dancing area, this restaurant is a great spot to catch lunch or dinner. Traditional Italian favorites include a wide variety of pastas, plus some local favorites such as jumbo lump crab meat with Old Bay or its frutta di mare, a delicious seafood smorgasbord.
Keri Ann Beazell is a Baltimore writer following the latest developments in arts and culture, natural wonders, lifestyle and pets. She enjoys promoting thought-provoking discussions, education, new ideas and smiles among readers. Follow her on Twitter at @KtBlue16 and online at Examiner.com
