Martinsburg-Berkeley County ... Your Destination for December

We might be jumping the gun a little by changing our newsletter "theme" to winter ... but how can we talk about all of the Christmas events without including a little snow?

Tree lightings, parades, live shows, and so much more to enjoy in Martinsburg and Berkeley County this December. For other ideas of what you can do while you're here, visit our website at www.TravelWV.com.

Lighting Up The Town

Christmas trees around the county will light up this weekend!

Dec 2 - Martinsburg at the new Public Square
Dec 2 - Hedgesville at the Town Spring

Dec 3 - South Berkeley at Musselman High School

Also on Saturday, December 3, Main Street Martinsburg will host the Snowflake Christmas Market from 10 am to 4 pm on the new public square. Craft vendors, chestnut roasters, music, and carolers will fill the air with great sounds and smells. At 5:45, the annual lighted Christmas parade will wind through the streets of downtown Martinsburg.

Sunday, December 4 will feature the South Berkeley 5k Run and Christmas Parade to benefit the Berkeley County Humane Society.

Historic Holiday Celebrations

Martinsburg is rich with history and architecturally significant structures. Two of our historic properties in downtown Martinsburg will host Christmas celebrations in December:

Civil War Christmas at the Berkeley County Museum at the Belle Boyd House. The lower floor will be decorated in Civil War era style. Open December 9, 10, 16 and 17 from 12 noon to 8 pm.
The museum will be open by appointment from December 12 through 16. Please call 304-267-4713 to reserve your tour. The Belle Boyd House is located at 126 East Race Street.
The Colonial Christmas Celebration at the Adam Stephen House will feature candlelight tours of the property, bonfire and yule-log, and holiday music. The celebration will be held from 4 to 8 pm on December 10, 11, 17 and 18, and admission is free. The Adam Stephen House is located at 309 East John Street. Call 304-267-4434 for more information.

About the Properties Belle Boyd House

Built in 1853, the Belle Boyd House is a Greek Revival Mansion built by Benjamin Reed Boyd, father of Belle Boyd (the infamous Confederate spy). The house now serves as a museum with a historic book store operated by the Berkeley County Historical Society.

Adam Stephen came to the New World in 1748 and set up a doctor's practice before accepting a military post. Located along Tuscarora Creek, the house was built of native limestone and accompanied by a mill, distillery, and armory. In 1959, the house was donated to the City of Martinsburg and the Adam Stephen Memorial Association was formed.

Live Entertainment Around The Holidays

Looking to enjoy some entertainment in the great indoors? There are several upcoming events to get you in the holiday spirit. Carolers

First Friday Coffeehouse at the Trinity Church Orchard House (Rt 45) will feature Daniel Boeling, December 2
Holiday Harmony Show at Trinity Episcopal Church in downtown Martinsburg, December 9
Christmas wouldn't be the same without "A Christmas Carol" at the Apollo Theatre, December 9-11 and 16-18
The Nutcracker Ballet presented by the Inwood Dance Company at Musselman High School, December 10 and 11

Member Spotlight - Downtown Martinsburg

While you're downtown at the various events this holiday season, take a stroll through our beautiful historic districts and the many businesses here. Pick up unique gifts or treat yourself to something special at one of these CVB member businesses.

Queen Street Gallery (213 N. Queen St) features custom picture framing, African artifacts and tribal art, rare posters, antique maps and prints.
Crim de la Crim (137 N. Queen St) offers fine collectibles and antiques, such as furniture and glassware.
WV Glass (148 N. Queen St) is a dealer of West Virginia blown glass, including Fenton and Blenko.
DeFluri's Fine Chocolates (130 N. Queen St) is a family business where delicious chocolates are created.
Craft Gallery Treasures (617 W. King St) is home to country decor and quality crafts for all your decorating needs.

All that shopping will surely work up an appetite! The Blue White Grill, located at 101 N. Queen Street, has been a staple in the community for over 50 years. Their menu features down home cooking and delicious desserts. Good Natured Market & Vegetarian Cafe offers another dining option. Located at 209 S. Raleigh Street, Good Natured's menu features homemade soups, organic salads, healthy muffins, sandwiches, and more.

We'd like to thank each of these businesses and the other CVB members for supporting tourism in our area. We hope you'll stop by and visit each of them this holiday season!