Hagerstown Gears Up for a Month of Festive Events and Historical Reflections

Hagerstown, Maryland residents can anticipate a vibrant November filled with historical lectures, community celebrations, and holiday festivities, as announced by the City of Hagerstown’s Community Engagement Office. The month’s calendar is packed with events designed to engage the public with local history, foster community spirit, and usher in the holiday season.

The month kicks off with a series of events dedicated to the town’s founder, Jonathan Hager. Beginning on Monday, November 3rd, the Washington County Free Library will host the “Hager Patriot Lecture” at 6:00 p.m., featuring Hager House guide Matthew Penrod discussing the patriot legacy of Jonathan Hager. The following evening, Tuesday, November 4th, at 7:00 p.m. at Christ’s Reformed Church, genealogist Carol Miller-Schultz will lead a “Hager Genealogy Lecture,” offering a hands-on session to help attendees start their family trees, encouraging participants to bring genealogical information. Wednesdays and Thursdays in the first week of November will also focus on Jonathan Hager. On Wednesday, November 5th, Zion Reformed United Church of Christ will host “Hager’s Unsolved Mysteries Lecture” at 6:00 p.m., aimed at exploring and potentially debunking debated facts surrounding the town’s founder. This will be followed by a “Celebration of Life” for Jonathan Hager on Thursday, November 6th, also at Zion Reformed United Church of Christ at 6:00 p.m., intended to honor his life and legacy. The historical explorations continue on Friday, November 8th, with a “Zion Graveyard Tour” at dusk, led by Hager House ghost tour guides, offering a unique, after-dark perspective of the historic Zion Reformed UCC graveyard.

Transitioning into community and holiday events, Downtown Hagerstown Main Street is presenting a “2nd Saturday: ART WALK” on November 8th from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This event will feature artists setting up along South Potomac Street for Plein Air painting, a caricature artist at Eliza’s House, a traditional German puppet show at the Washington County Free Library, and live German music along with a specialty brew at Hub City Brewery. The festive spirit continues on Friday, November 21st, with “Holly Fest” at The Maryland Theatre at 7:00 p.m. This free event will showcase performances by various youth groups, including dance, singing, and instrumental ensembles. To attend Holly Fest, tickets can be reserved in person at The Maryland Theatre or by calling 301-790-2000.

The month culminates with a series of weekend activities organized by Downtown Hagerstown Main Street. A “Holiday Market” will take place on Saturday, November 22nd, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on South Potomac Street, featuring over 30 artisan vendors offering handmade gifts, jewelry, decor, crafts, and seasonal treats. This market aims to support local makers and cultivate a festive community atmosphere. Concurrently, on the same day, Saturday, November 22nd, the annual “Downtown Tree Lighting” will occur at Public Square from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., marking a traditional start to the holiday season. Attendees can expect to visit Santa Claus at Create-a-Candle, enjoy free hot cocoa outside Cannon Coffee, and experience bounce houses and vendor shopping, all accompanied by music from the North Hagerstown High School band. Downtown Hagerstown Main Street emphasizes its mission to foster a thriving downtown area and encourages community involvement. For inquiries about these events or to get involved, individuals can email events@downtownhagerstown.org. Further information regarding the market can also be found via a provided link.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the City of Hagerstown Community Engagement Office.

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