Gov. Hogan, First Lady Open Doors of Government House

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Gov. Larry Hogan and First Lady Yumi Hogan invite Maryland residents to join them for a holiday open house from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at Government House.

The event is free of charge, open to the public, and no reservations are required.

The First Family asks that guests consider bringing unwrapped toys that will be donated to those in need during this holiday season. On behalf of Toys for Tots, the Marine Corps Reserve will collect donations under a tent by the front gate.

The decorations for the open house will include Christmas trees provided by Lowe’s Bayshore Nursery in Stevensville, and refreshments will include holiday cookies, brownies, and desert bars prepared by Government House chefs. Hot wassail will also be available for guests waiting in line outside the governor’s official residence and live music will be provided by Maryland high school groups, with a different performance each hour.

Holiday ornaments provided by the Foundation for the Preservation of Government House of Maryland will be sold inside, proceeds from which will help support and maintain the historical significance of Government House with repairs, remodeling, and preservation.

Earlier this week, the Hogans also welcomed members of garden clubs from all 24 Maryland jurisdictions to the State House to deliver and decorate a Christmas tree in the rotunda.

Menorahs have also been placed in the State House and Government House, the first candles of which will be lit Sunday at sundown in recognition of the beginning of Hanukkah.

»Photo of Government House, from Maryland State Archives