Winter is fast approaching.  A cold front came through yesterday with wind and rain which both enhanced the water nature of this glorious, historic city on the Bay and chilled the temperatures.  Now,  the holidays don’t seem quite as far away as they did when the temperatures were in the high 60’s earlier in the week.  The brilliant sunshine is also the perfect companion to all the holiday and winter activities available in Annapolis this week.

Vanilla Fudge is playing tonight, November 30th at Ram’s Head on West Street with the original band members from this 1967 band that rocked the world with their transition from psychedelia to heavy metal.   There are two performances, one at 6 and one at 9.   Let me quote Ram’s Head as to why you should go:

Why They’re Worth Watching: Beginning in 1967, Vanilla Fudge rocked the world with a new sound, influencing a generation of musicians and creating a legion of loyal fans. Vanilla Fudge was one of the few American links between psychedelia and what soon became heavy metal. This ever popular and influential band, and its original members, Mark Stein, Carmine Appice, and Vince Martell, are once again touring and recording together.

Thursday, December 1 is the Dopplebock Beer Release party at Ram’s Head Tavern on West Street from 4 – 6 pm.  This downtown Annapolis institution is suggesting that you “Dopple ‘til you topple” from 4 – 6 pm.  You can buy a commemorative glass for $4 and get your refills for only $2.50.  This full-bodied lager is a winter tradition and Ram’s Head’s reputation for excellent beer and food makes this an event worth attending.

The Chesapeake Youth Symphony Orchestra (CYSO) has several events going on this weekend.  They are playing at the State House by Candlelight event on Friday, December 2 at 7 pm.  This takes place in the oldest continuously operating State House in the nation and if you haven’t already visited, the symphony music and candlelit setting will make this tour spectacular.

The CYSO is also performing at the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts at 801 Chase Street with a free concert on Saturday from 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm..  They will be joined by the All Children’s Chorus of Annapolis and the Prep Orchestra.  Donations are welcome.

The performance theme continues on Friday, December 2 where you  can attend the United States Naval Academy’s Pipes and Drums Winter Concert at 7:30 pm in Mahan Auditorium.  The band, individuals will perform and Christmas Carols will be sung.  You won’t want to miss this annual event.  If you like Shakespeare, St. Mary’s High School is performing A Midsummer’s Night Dream at 8 pm.  They are located at 113 Duke of Gloucester St. and will have additional performances throughout the weekend.

If you want a 45 minute tour of Spa Creek and its holiday lights, take the Miss Anne for a quick “Jolly Express” complete with hot chocolate and holiday cheer.  $21/Adults, $12/Children
Thurs., Fri. Sat. Sun. December 1-31.   Cruises depart from the City Dock at  5, 6, 7, 8 pm. Reservations Recommended.

There is a wreath-making workshop at the William Paca Gardens on Saturday from 12 – 2 pm.  The cost is $40 for non-members and $35 for members and volunteers.  Just going into this historic home and gardens is worth the price and you will come out with a colonial-style wreath that you made yourself.  Located at 3 Martin St. in downtown Annapolis.

Sunday offers the annual Pancake Buffet and train ride with Santa at the B&O Museum in Baltimore from 8 am – 9:30 am.  Located at 901 W. Pratt Street, you and your children can ride the old steam train with Santa after a tour of the museum and pancake breakfast.  Space is limited on the train ride, so please make reservations by calling 410-752-2462 x 221.

For a nautical event that has deep Annapolis roots, attend Chesapeake Light Craft’s Open House on Saturday, 12/3 from 9 – 4.  After coffee and doughnuts, the staff will put on boat-building demonstrations from fiberglassing to cedar strip planking and varnishing.  There will be discounts on items you purchase during the open house so stop by Chesapeake Light Craft at 1805 George Ave.

If this list of recommendations doesn’t offer you enough options, check with your local community, shopping center, museum or store.  The holiday and winter celebrations that are going on in Annapolis give you something to do all week.  The sales are still on, so don’t forget to throw in some shopping while you are out enjoying the gorgeous, seasonal weather and festive events.