The Victorian era of history was represented by Queen Victoria’s reign over Britain from 1837 to 1901. The Victorian era was marked by romanticism, mysticism, changing social values, and an increase of peace, prosperity, and art. Every holiday season, bits and pieces of this long-gone era can been seen in downtown Berlin, MD during Victorian Christmas. Berlin was alive and thriving during the Victorian Era in the United States.

 
Many buildings that line Main Street, Pitts Street, Broad Street, and many others are vindictive of the Victorian era… especially during the holidays. The Atlantic Hotel, the Globe Theater, the Taylor House Museum, and neighboring businesses all decorate their store fronts in freshly cut greens, stands of dried grapevine, and wreaths of fresh fruit and colorful ribbon.
 
The Berlin Commercial Historic District shines as it exemplifies Victorian decorations and architecture. For example, the Atlantic Hotel, one of the most important commercial buildings in the small community from the time it was built in 1896 to the present, serves as a vital social center for Berlin and has managed to do so even today while covered in Christmas charm. During Berlin’s Victorian Christmas event, the Atlantic Hotel boasts beautiful Victorian-era holiday decorations and décor.
 
Through January 1st, the Main Street Berlin Association, the Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Berlin, and local businesses will be celebrating Victorian Christmas. Some businesses, business owners, and volunteers have put forth extra effort to make this holiday an extraordinary one.
 
This Saturday, December 22nd, visitors to Berlin can enjoy old-fashioned carriage rides through the historic town. The carriage departs from the Visitors Center on South Main Street. The carriage rides are free and weather permitting. Also, plan to visit Santa Claus at the Visitors Center between 12 and 2 pm on Saturday!
 
Check out the photos of Berlin storefronts below and stop by to visit and check out all of the goodies they offer inside before Christmas Eve…
 
NEST, Berlin MD

NEST: Stop by NEST for a tasty treat and something unique for your sweetie! Open 10 am – 3 pm ever day.

Atlantic Hotel, Berlin MD

THE ATLANTIC HOTEL: Victorian hotel and guest room tours this weekend! Tour the decorated hotel and its Victorian guest rooms (subject to guest availability). The Atlantic Hotel will be offereing a New Year's Eve Champagne Dinner Celebration on December 31st. Call the Hotel for reservations: 410-641-3589.

Baked Dessert Cafe, Berlin MD

BAKED DESSERT CAFE: Sample all-natural desserts, breads and beverages. Pick up homemade goodies for everyone on your list. Place your holiday order and receive 10% off. For more information, call 410-641-1800.

Bungalow Love, Berlin MD

BUNGALOW LOVE:  A gift show where everything is hand-made and exudes the character from which originated. There’s no better gift to five than something hand-crafted and by a local.

Bustle, Berlin MD

BUSTLEChristmas is a magical time of the year, particularly for brides to be! Bustle invites you to schedule a private consultation through the month of January and receive 10% off the purchase of a wedding gown. To schedule an appointment, call 443-513-4248.

Coconut Trading Company, Berlin MD

COCONUT BAY

Enchanted Tea Room, Berlin MD

ENCHANTED TEA ROOM

Little Bit Sheepish, Berlin MD

A LITTLE BIT SHEEPISH

Mark Showell Interiors, Berlin MD

MARK SHOWELL INTERIORS

Berlin MD Victorian Christmas  

Photos by Ami Reist.