The Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, located in Maryland, boasts a dazzling array of Christmas activities that cater to families seeking a magical holiday experience. Whether it's the captivating decorations, the enchanting events, or the festive atmosphere, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here's a rundown of why it's a fantastic destination for your Christmas getaway this year.  As the holiday season approaches and is in full effect, this is the perfect opportunity to get in the spirit of Christmas.

Gaylord National Harbor Resort Christmas Fun ICE! Returns

Nestled along the picturesque Potomac River, the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. With its stunning decor, an abundance of family-friendly activities, and a festive ambiance, it's a top choice for families looking to create lasting holiday memories.  This truly awe-inspiring experience is a fun family activity that the whole family will love and this Gaylord Resort's holiday celebration will become a family tradition for many years to come.  

Gaylord National Harbor Christmas Available Activities:

Gaylord National's ICE! Entertainment:
This signature Gaylord hotels attraction features remarkably massive ice sculptures, meticulously carved and themed around beloved holiday tales. Guests can wander through a frozen wonderland sculpted from over two million pounds of ice.  Even though you are provided blue parkas by the Gaylord staff, you will want to be sure you are layered and toasty.  I highly recommend gloves, beanies, thick sweaters and boots.  The beautiful blocks of ice that are hand carved by a 1,000 plus individuals from China are a main attraction, but you should be prepared for the cold!

Gaylord National ICE! is an annual winter attraction hosted at Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. It's a spectacular display featuring hand-carved ice sculptures, each meticulously crafted by skilled artisans from around the world. The attraction typically showcases a variety of ice sculptures, each uniquely themed. These sculptures range from life-sized characters to elaborate scenes, all sculpted entirely from colorful, crystal-clear ice. ICE! often revolves around popular holiday stories or themes. Past themes have included beloved tales like "A Charlie Brown Christmas," "The Nutcracker," "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," and many more.

To maintain the sculptures, the exhibit is kept at freezing temperatures, usually around 9 degrees Fahrenheit (-12 degrees Celsius). As a result, visitors are provided with heavy parkas to keep warm while exploring the icy wonderland. Some ICE! displays allow for interactive experiences, such as ice slides or tunnels, adding an extra layer of excitement for both children and adults.  The year's theme for the ice sculpture form are Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the amusing holiday classic, that hotel guests and visitors will fall in love with.

In addition to the ice sculptures, ICE! often includes live entertainment, music, and sometimes storytelling, creating a fully immersive and engaging experience for guests.

The ICE! attraction at Gaylord National tends to be a highlight of their Christmas festivities, drawing visitors from near and far who are eager to witness the artistry and magic of these incredible ice sculptures. It's a must-see for families and anyone seeking a unique and enchanting holiday experience.  The international artisans brought to create the ICE! Rudolph exhibits this year are world-class ice artisans and master artisans in their fields.

Cirque Dreams Unwrapped: A captivating live cirque-styled Christmas show features breathtaking acrobatics, festive music, and colorful costumes, perfect for all ages. 

The "Cirque Dreams Unwrapped" show at the Gaylord National Harbor is a dazzling and enchanting performance that combines acrobatics, aerial displays, and vibrant costumes set to holiday-themed music. This Cirque Dreams show is often a part of the Christmas festivities at the Gaylord National Harbor, offering a family-friendly spectacle that captivates audiences with its high-flying acts, incredible athleticism, and artistic flair.  The show typically features talented performers who showcase their skills in various circus arts, including aerial silks, contortion, balancing acts, and more. The holiday-themed elements add an extra layer of magic, incorporating festive music, costumes adorned with sparkling lights, and a joyful atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of the season.   Audiences can expect a visually stunning and energetic performance that combines the artistry of Cirque-style entertainment with the wonder of the holidays, creating an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages. Between the feats of flexibility and high-flying stunts this will be one of my favorite holiday activities to come back and see!

Christmas Village: Explore a charming village adorned with twinkling lights, offering delightful holiday shopping, seasonal treats, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus.  

Visiting Santa at Gaylord National during the holiday season is often an exciting and cherished experience for families and children. The resort typically creates a festive setting, often referred to as "Santa's Workshop," where guests can meet and take photos with Santa Claus.

The setting is usually beautifully decorated with holiday-themed décor, creating a magical atmosphere that captures the spirit of Christmas. Families often have the opportunity to interact with Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and pose for pictures with the jolly old man himself.

The experience may include storytelling sessions, where Santa engages children with tales of the North Pole and holiday traditions.   This experience at Gaylord National tends to be popular and in high demand among visitors. Overall, meeting Santa at Gaylord National is designed to create lasting memories and add to the festive cheer of the holiday season for guests of all ages.

Gingerbread Decorating Corner: Engage in the sweet tradition of gingerbread house decorating, a delightful activity for kids and adults alike.  The Gingerbread Decorating station at Gaylord National during the holiday season is usually a delightful and interactive experience for guests of all ages. This activity allows visitors to unleash their creativity by decorating gingerbread houses or gingerbread cookies using a variety of colorful icing, candies, and edible decorations. Building gingerbread houses and decorating is a fun original experience during the Christmas season.

Participants typically receive a pre-assembled gingerbread house or cookies along with a selection of icing and candies. The station is set up with all the necessary supplies and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere where families and individuals can gather to design and personalize their sweet holiday creations.

Staff members often provide guidance and assistance, especially for younger participants, ensuring that everyone has a fun and enjoyable time decorating their gingerbread masterpieces. It's a popular activity that fosters a sense of holiday cheer and encourages imaginative expression through the art of gingerbread decoration.

Winter Wonderland Scavenger Hunt: Embark on an exciting scavenger hunt throughout the resort, searching for hidden surprises and festive displays.  

The Winter Wonderland Scavenger Hunt at Gaylord National is a fun and engaging activity typically offered during the holiday season. This interactive adventure takes guests on a journey through the resort's festive winter wonderland, encouraging them to explore and discover various holiday-themed attractions and decorations.

Participants receive a list of clues or tasks that lead them to different locations or points of interest within the Gaylord National property. The clues are often related to elements of the holiday decor, such as beautifully adorned Christmas trees, dazzling light displays, iconic holiday characters, or other seasonal decorations.

As guests follow the clues and complete the tasks, they uncover the hidden treasures or specific items related to the winter wonderland theme. It's an entertaining way for families, friends, and visitors to immerse themselves in the holiday ambiance while enjoying a playful challenge together.

The scavenger hunt typically adds an extra layer of excitement and interaction to the holiday experience at Gaylord National, offering a memorable way to explore the festive decorations and attractions throughout the resort.

Ice Skating - At Gaylord National during the holiday season, ice skating is often offered as a popular and festive activity. The resort typically sets up a beautiful outdoor ice skating rink, providing guests with an opportunity to glide and twirl on the ice amid the magical winter atmosphere.

The ice skating rink at Gaylord National is usually adorned with twinkling lights, surrounded by holiday decorations, and accompanied by cheerful music, creating a delightful ambiance for skaters of all ages and skill levels.

Guests can rent ice skates on-site if they don't have their own and enjoy a memorable experience on the ice. The rink may offer sessions throughout the day and evening, allowing visitors to choose a time that fits their schedule.

Ice skating at Gaylord National is often a beloved activity that adds to the festive spirit of the holiday season, providing guests with a chance to enjoy a classic winter pastime in a picturesque setting.  You can bring your own skates or rent them there! There are skate aids available for very new skaters and need a little extra assistance.

Tube Slide - At Gaylord National during the holiday season, snow tubing is available as part of their winter festivities. Snow tubing involves riding down artificial snow on inflatable tubes, providing a fun and exhilarating experience for both kids and adults.

The resort might set up a snow tubing area with slopes specifically designed for tubing, allowing guests to slide down the snowy hills in a safe and enjoyable environment. This activity doesn't involve actual snow but rather specially made surfaces that simulate the sensation of sliding on snow.

The setup includes multiple lanes for tubing, so families and groups can enjoy the activity together. The atmosphere is festive, with holiday decorations and lights adding to the seasonal cheer.

Snowball Build and Throwing - Kids will love forming their own snowballs and throwing towards the targets at this fun one-of-a-kind attraction at the Gaylord National celebration of Christmas.

Mrs. Claus Show - Story time Gaylord National has featured special Storytime sessions with Mrs. Claus as part of its festive activities. These storytelling sessions are typically designed for children and families, offering a cozy and enchanting experience.

Mrs. Claus, often dressed in her festive attire, would gather children around to share classic holiday tales, read Christmas stories, and engage young audiences with the magic of storytelling. These sessions often took place in a warm and welcoming setting adorned with holiday decorations, creating a cheerful atmosphere that added to the holiday spirit.

The storytelling by Mrs. Claus was aimed at entertaining and captivating children while also emphasizing the joy and traditions of the holiday season. It provided families with a delightful opportunity to gather, listen to engaging stories, and immerse themselves in the festive ambiance of Gaylord National during Christmas time.

Christmas Shopping - The Gaylord National gift shop and the shopping area within the ICE! Christmas area provides a great opportunity to shop at a holiday-themed event.  

Gaylord National offers holiday shopping experiences as part of its Christmas festivities. The resort has seasonal gifts, decorations, crafts, and other holiday-themed items.

During the holiday season, guests visiting Gaylord National can explore these shopping areas within the resort to find unique and festive gifts, ornaments, clothing, artisanal products, and more. The shops often showcase a range of items that cater to different tastes and preferences, providing an opportunity for visitors to do some Christmas shopping while enjoying the holiday atmosphere.

The specific vendors and merchandise can vary each year, offering guests a chance to discover new and special items for themselves or for gifting during the festive season. It's a good way to find distinctive and often locally sourced holiday gifts and decorations while enjoying the ambiance of the Gaylord National during Christmas time.

Build a Bear -  Gaylord National did offer a Build-A-Bear Workshop during the holiday season as part of their festive activities. This workshop allowed guests, especially families and children, to create their own personalized stuffed animals.

In the workshop, participants typically had the opportunity to choose from a variety of bear and other stuffed animal options. They could then customize their chosen plush toy by stuffing it, adding special touches like scents or sounds, and dressing it in outfits and accessories.

This experience was often popular among families visiting the Gaylord National during the holidays, as it provided a memorable and interactive activity where guests could create a unique keepsake.

Cost of Visiting Gaylord National Harbor Resort

Visiting Gaylord National Harbor during the holidays can involve various costs, depending on the activities and experiences you choose to partake in. Here's a breakdown of potential expenses:

1. Accommodation: The cost of staying at the Gaylord National Hotel during the holiday season can vary based on room type, duration of stay, and any special packages or promotions. Rates might be higher during peak holiday times.

2. Event Tickets: Some of the holiday attractions at Gaylord National Harbor, such as ICE! exhibits, Cirque Dreams Unwrapped shows, or special holiday-themed activities, might require separate admission tickets. Prices for these events can range from $20 to $40 or more per person, depending on the specific activity and age of attendees.

3. Dining: Enjoying meals at the various restaurants and dining options within the resort can add to the overall cost. Costs for dining can vary widely based on the restaurant's type and menu offerings.

4. Shopping and Souvenirs: If you plan to indulge in shopping for holiday gifts, souvenirs, or specialty items available at the Christmas Village or within the resort, it's essential to budget for these expenses.

5. Transportation: Costs associated with getting to the Gaylord National Harbor, such as gas, parking fees, or public transportation fares, should be considered. Additionally, if you're using shuttles or rideshares to visit nearby attractions, factor in these expenses.

6. Miscellaneous Expenses: This includes potential expenses for additional activities, spa services, tips, or any unexpected purchases or fees.

To manage costs and make the most of your visit, consider checking for package deals or bundled tickets that might offer discounts for combining multiple attractions or activities. Additionally, setting a budget and planning your activities in advance can help in estimating expenses and ensuring a more enjoyable and stress-free experience during your holiday visit to Gaylord National Harbor.

Date Range of Gaylord National Harbor Christmas Activities:

The Christmas activities at Gaylord National usually commence in late November and run through the end of December providing ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

Staying at the Gaylord National Hotel often comes with a range of amenities aimed at making guests' experiences comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some amenities commonly included:

1. Wi-Fi: Complimentary internet access is typically available throughout the hotel premises.

2. Fitness Center and Pool: Access to a fitness center equipped with modern exercise machines and often a swimming pool or spa facilities for guests to enjoy.

3. Concierge Services: Assistance with restaurant reservations, local attractions, transportation, and more from the concierge desk.

4. Business Services: Business travelers can benefit from services like printing, copying, and access to meeting rooms or conference facilities.

5. Restaurants and Bars: On-site dining options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants, cafes, and bars where guests can enjoy a variety of cuisines and beverages.

6. Shopping and Entertainment: Access to shops, boutiques, and entertainment options within or adjacent to the hotel.

7. Spa and Wellness: Many Gaylord properties offer spa services, allowing guests to indulge in massages, facials, and other treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation.

8. Kids' Activities: Depending on the time of year, there might be special activities or areas dedicated to entertaining children.

9. Event Spaces and Activities: The hotel often hosts events, activities, and seasonal attractions (such as holiday-themed events, concerts, or art exhibitions) that guests can enjoy during their stay.

10. Transportation Services: Shuttle services to nearby attractions or airports might be available at certain times.

It's important to note that specific amenities can vary based on the location, time of year, room type booked, and any ongoing promotions. Checking the Gaylord National Harbor's website or contacting their guest services directly can provide the most accurate and detailed information about the amenities included with your stay.

Why Visit:

• Memorable Experiences: The resort offers a plethora of activities, ensuring there's something enjoyable for every family member.

• Captivating Decor: Marvel at the stunning holiday decorations, from towering Christmas trees to intricate ice sculptures, creating a magical ambiance throughout the property.

• Convenience and Comfort: With on-site accommodations and a variety of dining options, guests can fully immerse themselves in the festive spirit without leaving the property.

• Picturesque Location: The scenic backdrop of the Potomac River adds an extra touch of charm to the holiday experience.

Each Gaylord hotel location typically offers its unique lineup of Christmas activities and events. While some activities might be similar across various Gaylord properties (such as ice skating, holiday shows, gingerbread decorating, etc.), each location often incorporates its own themes, attractions, and special experiences tailored to its surroundings and local culture. For instance, the Gaylord National might have different attractions compared to the Gaylord Opryland or the Gaylord Texan during the holiday season, providing guests with diverse experiences at each venue.

Young children, typically between the ages of 3 to 10, might particularly delight in activities like meeting Santa Claus, gingerbread decorating, storytelling sessions, seeing holiday characters, and enjoying colorful light displays. The magic and wonder of the season often resonate strongly with this age group.

Older children and teenagers can also find enjoyment in many of the activities, such as ice skating, snow tubing (if available), participating in scavenger hunts, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

For adults, the Christmas celebration at Gaylord National can be a lovely experience for spending quality time with family, soaking in the holiday ambiance, and appreciating the decorations, live entertainment, shopping opportunities, and perhaps even the quieter moments like Mrs. Claus's storytime.

Ultimately, the best age for the Gaylord National Christmas celebration might vary based on individual preferences and interests. The variety of activities and experiences offered during the festivities often cater to a wide range of ages, making it an inclusive and enjoyable event for families and visitors of diverse ages and interests.

Planning a trip to the Gaylord National this Christmas guarantees a joyful and unforgettable family getaway filled with festive cheer and delightful activities for all ages to cherish.