October 10, 2008
A charmed Christmas
If you're in Baltimore for the holidays and can't get into the spirit, consider yourself a Grinch -- no city does Christmas like this city. Nearly every neighborhood gets into the act: From modest rowhouses in Highlandtown to large homes in Guilford, lights are strung, lawn displays are erected and an annual decoration overdrive commences.
Few cities inject their personalities so effectively into their celebrations as Baltimore does. The Washington Monument serves as the city's official Christmas centerpiece. While some might think twice before dangling festive lights from a venerable 178-year-old monument dedicated to the father of our nation, Baltimore does so with glee every year. And there's no denying that the adornment brings a certain Charm City elegance to the otherwise august edifice.
But the ultimate Baltimore Christmas display is found each year on 34th Street in Hampden. The transformation of the street into a surreal holiday wonderland is as much a celebration of all things Baltimore as it is a marker of the holidays. Even the most hardened of holiday cynics would struggle to leave the street without a smile on their faces.
Related links
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Holiday decorations
Photos
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Baltimore area lights up for the holidays
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Season's Readings
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Today's Sun photos Photos
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34th Street photos
Photos of the lights on 34th Street.
Holiday lights in the area
Look at photos of area lights, find them on a map and tell us about festive displays.
Holiday Trivia Quiz
Test your holiday knowledge.
Holiday Videos
Watch videos on holiday topics.
Santa Trauma
Look at readers' photos of crying kids with Santa and submit your own.• Pets with Santa • Christmas Trees • Holiday Lights 
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