November is the unofficial kickoff to giving season — but in Central Maryland, it’s not just about year-end donations. All month long, there are events where you can show up, plug in, and give back in ways that support your neighbors directly.
This month’s lineup highlights events benefiting local nonprofits doing real, ongoing work — from food insecurity and family housing to healthcare and education. Whether you’re lacing up for a cause, bidding at a gala, or just looking to connect with community-focused efforts, here’s your go-to guide for giving in November.
1. Cranksgiving Columbia
Benefiting: Grassroots Crisis Intervention
Where: The Plaza at The Mall in Columbia, MD
When: Saturday, November 8, 2025, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
What it is: A charity bike ride and food drive that supports Howard County residents experiencing crisis.
Part bike ride, part food drive, Cranksgiving invites riders of all skill levels to gather non-perishable food items and bike them into Columbia Town Center. Donations go to Grassroots Crisis Intervention, the county’s only 24-hour crisis center providing shelter, food, and emotional support.
Pro-tip: Riders often represent their neighborhood villages — bring a team and get competitive. The more food you donate, the more points your team earns.
2. Hamburgala
Benefiting: Ronald McDonald House Charities Maryland
Where: Four Seasons Hotel, Baltimore, MD
When: Saturday, November 22, 2025
What it is: A black-tie gala featuring live and silent auctions, dinner, and dancing — all supporting housing for families of hospitalized children.
The Ronald McDonald House in Baltimore is a lifeline for families traveling for pediatric care. Hamburgala is its marquee fundraiser, drawing the city’s changemakers and corporate partners for a night of giving.
Pro-tip: Can’t swing a full table sponsorship? Individual tickets and volunteer opportunities are often available if you plan early.
3. BMA Ball 2025
Benefiting: Baltimore Museum of Art
Where: Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, MD
When: Saturday, November 22, 2025, beginning at 6:00 PM
What it is: A formal gala celebrating Baltimore’s creative community while raising funds for exhibitions, education, and access programs.
The BMA Ball is more than a party — it’s a critical fundraising event that helps sustain free access to art, inclusive education initiatives, and artist commissions. The event includes cocktails, dinner, dancing, and an afterparty with creative installations.
Pro-tip: While the main event is ticketed, keep an eye out for the separate afterparty option, which often draws younger patrons and creatives and includes live art and performances.
4. BARCS Fall Bingo
Benefiting: BARCS
Where: FOP Lodge #69, 2832 Nine Mile Circle, Catonsville, MD 21228
When: Sunday, November 16, 2025 — Doors open at 4:00 PM; games begin at 5:00 PM Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter
What it is: A fundraising bingo night supporting BARCS’s lifesaving animal care and shelter services. For a ticket ($30) participants get access to all 20 games, cash prizes for many rounds, and a jackpot round with up to $500. Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter
Pro‑tip: Tickets must be purchased in advance online — no sales at the door due to expected sell‑out. Food will be available for sale, or feel free to bring your own snacks. Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter
Link: Event details
5. Festival of Trees
Benefiting: Kennedy Krieger Institute
Where: Maryland State Fairground Cow Palace, 2200 York Road, Timonium, MD 21093
When: Fri, Nov 28, 2025 at 10:00 AM to Sun, Nov 30, 2025 at 4:00 PM
What it is: This is one of Maryland’s most beloved seasonal fundraisers. Festival of Trees transforms the Cow Palace into a winter wonderland, with each tree, wreath, and gingerbread house sponsored and decorated by local businesses and community members. Proceeds benefit the Kennedy Krieger Institute’s work in research, education, and care for children and families.
Pro-tip: Check out the “Reindeer Rise & Shine” event on Sunday morning — it’s an early access experience with rides, crafts, and breakfast fun before the general public arrives. For adults, Saturday night’s new “Tinsel on Tap” offers a 21+ after-hours event with cocktails, music, and a festive lounge atmosphere.
Can’t make it to these events but want to help (aka you hermit this time of year but still want to help)
- The Anne Arundel County Food Bank in Crownsville accepts non-perishable food donations Monday through Friday, supporting local residents experiencing food insecurity despite living in one of the state’s wealthiest counties.
- The Storybook Maze initiative brings books directly to Baltimore neighborhoods through pop-up reading installations, free book vending machines, and community literacy projects. You can donate books to stock the book vending machines.
- HOPE For All in Glen Burnie collects gently used furniture, housewares, and clothing to support individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness or crisis situations.
- The Light House Homeless Prevention Center in Annapolis welcomes donations of toiletries, cleaning supplies, bedding, and basic clothing to support those navigating housing insecurity.
- Good Neighbors Group in Severna Park runs hyper-local collection efforts for items like pet supplies, school supplies, and even sports equipment — a great place to donate usable items you’re ready to part with.
- Columbia Community Care serves families across Howard County with free food, youth programs, and direct mutual aid support. They accept food donations and essential household items on a rolling basis.
- The Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Columbia takes donations of furniture, lighting, and building materials — items are sold to support local affordable housing initiatives.
- Second Chance, Inc. in South Baltimore accepts large-scale donations of home goods, furniture, and architectural salvage. Proceeds support job training and community reinvestment while reducing landfill waste.
