While these ornaments may not adhere to the standard size typically seen on a Christmas tree, their unique presence adds to the splendor of the holiday season.
The Village of Cross Keys is set to host its inaugural Tree Lighting event featuring remarkable five–foot-tall ornaments crafted by students from 14 schools across the Baltimore area.
Entitled “Ornaments Aglow: Where Baltimore’s Brightest Light Up the Season,” this festive gathering will occur on Wednesday, November 18, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 5100 Falls Road, located in the historic neighborhood of Roland Park. This family-friendly and complimentary event marks the official beginning of the holiday season at The Village of Cross Keys, showcasing oversized ornaments that are warm and inviting. This year’s artistic exhibit highlights collaborative designs from students who have come together to create beautiful, eye-catching themed holiday decorations.
Attendees will have the opportunity to rate the artistic creations. At the conclusion of the holiday season, over $20,000 will be donated directly to the nonprofits selected by the schools. The kickoff celebration at The Village at Cross Keys promises a delightful array of holiday activities, including live music, engaging activities for visitors of all ages, and exceptional dining options designed to warm both hearts and stomachs.
Below is the list of selected charities designated by each participating school:
| SCHOOL | CHARITY |
| The Bryn Mawr School | BARCS |
| Calvert School | Art with a Heart |
| The Friends School of Baltimore | Holistic Life Foundation |
| Garrison Forest School | Baltimore Hunger Project |
| Gilman School | Piedmont Learning Center |
| Jemicy School | Chesapeake Bay Foundation |
| The Odyssey School | Baltimore County Public Library |
| The Park School of Baltimore | ShareBaby |
| Baltimore Polytechnic Institute | Baltimore Polytechnic Institute Foundation |
| Roland Park Country School | MD SPCA |
| The St. Paul’s Schools | Baltimore Station |
| Waldorf School of Baltimore | Scrap Creative Reuse, Baltimore |
| School of the Cathedral Mary Our Queen (SCMOQ) | Horizon’s Day Camp |
| Mercy School | First Fruits |
In the previous year’s competition, students created impressive giant snow globes, with Roland Park Country School achieving first place and earning a $5,000 donation to the Maryland SPCA. The Bryn Mawr School claimed second place, securing $2,500 for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, while Maryvale Preparatory School won third place, contributing $1,000 to the Women’s Education Alliance.
