Annapolis, Md., Nov. 26, 2008 - Annapolis, Maryland, will have a number of holiday events this season highlighted by Midnight Madness I and II on December 4 and 11—two nights where merchants stay open until midnight to welcome holiday shoppers and diners. Enjoy live music on the streets throughout the downtown area including Main Street, Maryland Avenue, Randall Street ,West Street and Park Place. Merchants will be serving light refreshments and be decorated for the holiday season. Enjoy the spirit of the holidays with decorative greens and holiday lights in historic Annapolis.

This year’s entertainment in downtown Annapolis includes the Old Mill High School Drum Band, Cub Scouts Pack 3, Salvation Army Band, Chesapeake Academy, Affinity and the Hunt Meadow Harmonizers. Performances are from 6 -9 p.m. and are held throughout downtown.

Activities at Park Place include the Lighting of the Park Place Christmas Tree on November 29th from 5-8 p.m., Thursday in the Park Happy Hours on December 4 & 11, and the 1st Annual Holiday West Street from noon-7 p.m. on December 7. The event includes a special Art Market and holiday performances, demonstrations and live music.

The traditional Grand Illumination of the Christmas Tree, sponsored by Homestead Gardens, will take place Sunday, November 30th at 6 p.m. preceded by Santa Sail-in on November 29 th on City Dock. The Hanging of the Greens throughout downtown will take place on December 6th, The annual Eastport Yacht Club’s Lights Parade is scheduled for December 13th at 6 p.m.

For Midnight Madness there is free parking downtown on Main Street in and the Bladen/Calvert Street State Garage, corner of Bladen & Calvert Streets, after 6 p.m. Park at the Gotts and Knighton garages for a flat rate of $2.00 after 4 p.m.

There will also be free transportation to and from the USNA Stadium and from Park Place to downtown until 12:30 a.m.

Park free at the Severn Bank building, parking is free at meters. Leave your car in the Park Place garage, shop and take the free shuttle to downtown.

Midnight Madness is sponsored by the Annapolis Business Association.