Washington DC Christmas: 19 Festive Experiences You Can’t Miss
Sleigh Bells, roasting chestnuts, and the lilting lyrics of your favorite Christmas carol. There’s nothing like twinkling light displays, seasonal treats, and festive monuments to set the stage for Christmas in Washington DC.
Dreaming of a festive getaway this holiday season? Christmas in Washington DC might just be the answer! Picture twinkling lights adorning iconic monuments and vibrant downtown holiday markets bustling with cheer.
Stroll the West Lawn for unique seasonal festivities or catch the glow of the National Christmas Tree, creating a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable holiday memories.
Whether you’re gliding across the ice at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden or enjoying festive concerts at Union Station, DC’s holiday spirit is sure to captivate both locals and visitors alike.
Get ready to experience the best of Christmas DC in the nation’s capital!
Christmas Events in Washington 2024
Get ready to experience the magic of the holiday season in Washington, D.C.! From enchanting boat parades and botanical wonderlands. The capital city offers a dazzling array of events that capture the joy and spirit of Christmas.
ICE! featuring “A Charlie Brown Christmas”: Dive into a winter wonderland at Gaylord National, 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD, from November 15 to December 28. Witness the beloved “A Charlie Brown Christmas” transforms into a sparkling icy realm with over two million pounds of colorful ice.
Stroll through frosty scenes featuring Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the whole gang in a dazzling display that’s a feast for the eyes and fun for all ages!
District’s Holiday Boat Parade: Light up your holiday evening at the District’s Holiday Boat Parade on December 7, 2024, along the Washington Channel. Marvel at a parade of brightly decorated boats, enjoy live music, indulge in holiday treats, and end the night with a dazzling fireworks display. This waterfront celebration is a perfect way to make merry with family and friends in a uniquely festive D.C. setting.
DowntownDC Holiday Market: Get into the holiday spirit at the DowntownDC Holiday Market, open from November 22 to December 23 at F Street NW. This bustling marketplace is a treasure trove of local crafts, delicious eats, and live entertainment. Perfect for finding that unique gift or just soaking up the festive atmosphere!
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“Season’s Greenings” Holiday Exhibit 2024: Visit the US Botanic Garden at 100 Maryland Avenue SW from November 28, 2024, to January 5, 2025, for a magical “Season’s Greenings” holiday exhibit. Wander through gardens aglow with twinkling light displays and intricate plant-based sculptures.
Then, watch model trains weave through enchanting landscapes. This festive display is a delight for plant enthusiasts and families!
Christmas at Mount Vernon: Celebrate the season in colonial style at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, located at 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway. From November through December, with special fireworks and light displays, enjoy the holiday traditions of the first president’s home. Explore the festively decorated grounds and buildings, making this historical experience a unique blend of education and holiday cheer.
National Menorah Lighting Ceremony: Join a grand celebration of light and community at the National Menorah Lighting on December 25, 2024, at the White House Ellipse.
This cherished annual event brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate Hanukkah in a spectacular setting, complete with music and festive cheer. It’s a meaningful and joyous way to celebrate the Festival of Lights in the nation’s capital.
Holiday Lights Washington DC at Christmas Time
Explore the vibrant holiday spirit of Washington, D.C. with an array of festive lights and parades that light up the capital. From historic sites to bustling city streets, each event offers a unique way to celebrate the season.
National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony*: Celebrate a longstanding American tradition with the National Christmas Tree Lighting at The Ellipse, near the White House.
Each state and territory contributes one-of-a-kind ornaments, creating a colorful, unified display of U.S. pride. This iconic event not only lights up the tree but also features live musical performances and a special message from the President.
DC Holiday Lights*: From November to January, D.C.’s main streets typically shimmer with festive lights as local neighborhoods compete for the title of Best Decorated Corridor.
Wander through vibrant displays across the city, from the buzzing corridors of Capitol Christmas trees to the quaint streets of Georgetown, and vote for your favorite. This community-driven event brings neighbors together in a festive celebration.
Winter Walk of Lights: From November 8, 2024, to January 5, 2025, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens hosts its enchanting Winter Walk of Lights. Stroll through a half-mile trail of sparkling lights showcasing themes of nature, winter, and the holidays. Sip hot beverages and roast marshmallows for s’mores as you take in the sights and sounds of this beloved holiday tradition.
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CityCenterDC Christmas Tree Lighting*: Kick off the holiday season at CityCenterDC along 10th St NW with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. Witness a massive tree come to life with thousands of twinkling lights and enjoy a festive evening filled with music, shopping, and holiday cheer. This event is a staple for those looking to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit right in the heart of D.C.
ZooLights at National Zoo*: The National Zoo at 3001 Connecticut Ave NW transforms into a luminous fairy tale with its annual ZooLights event. Millions of environmentally friendly LED lights illustrate scenes from the animal kingdom and holiday lore. Enjoy live music, tasty winter treats, and even a light-up holiday train ride through this glowing wonderland!
Georgetown GLOW*: Experience art in a new light at Georgetown GLOW, where the charming historic district showcases innovative light art installations. As the sun sets, the streets of Georgetown transform into an outdoor gallery of modern light art. It’s perfect for art lovers and night wanderers alike!
Washington D.C. Temple Festival of Lights*: The Washington D.C. Temple lights up with over 400,000 sparkling lights, creating one of the largest and most cherished light displays in the region. Attend musical performances by local and national groups and feel the serene joy of the season in this spectacular setting. See it in action at 9900 Stoneybrook Dr, Kensington!
*2024 dates for these events are yet to be announced. Stay tuned!
Things To Do This Christmas in Washington DC
Get ready to be swept up in the holiday spirit with a lineup of enchanting events in Washington, D.C.! From classic ballet to outdoor ice skating, each event offers a unique way to celebrate the season’s joy and wonder.
Watch The Nutcracker: Leap into a D.C.-styled holiday tradition with The Washington Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” at Warner Theatre, from November 30 to December 29, 2024.
This special 20th-anniversary production features scenes of cherry blossoms, cardinals, and historical figures like George Washington, all dancing to Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score. It’s a festive spectacle that beautifully marries D.C. landmarks with classical ballet.
Go Ice Skating: Skate beneath the sky at the Ice Rink in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, located at 7th St and Constitution Ave NW. With its picturesque setting among magnificent sculptures and twinkling holiday lights, this rink offers a magical backdrop for creating wintertime memories!
Catch Holiday Concerts: Fill your ears with the joyous sounds of the season at Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW. With a program that includes everything from festive sing-alongs to majestic classical performances, these concerts are a beloved D.C. tradition. Immerse yourself in the cathedral’s awe-inspiring ambiance and let the music elevate your holiday spirit!
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Go on the Colonial Christmas Tour: Take a festive road trip just two hours from Washington, D.C., to the charming Colonial Williamsburg for a holiday celebration steeped in history. Wander through a colonial village decked out in authentic holiday finery. Get ready for a fun-filled journey to Colonial Williamsburg, where the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas awaits!
A Mass for Christmas Eve – Baroque Music for the Season: Discover the sublime beauty of Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s “Messe de Minuit pour Noel” at Folger Theatre, 201 East Capitol St SE, from December 6 to 15, 2024. This exquisite performance combines traditional French noels with baroque finesse, creating a deeply moving musical experience ideal for those who cherish classical music and festive elegance.
See Holiday Films: Relax and unwind with a selection of holiday films shown at various Smithsonian museums around the National Mall. This festive film series offers a cozy escape to enjoy timeless classics and new favorites with family and friends, perfect for film buffs and casual viewers looking to add a touch of cinematic magic to their holiday celebrations.
Christmas in Washington FAQs
Does DC Do Anything for Christmas?
Yes, DC celebrates Christmas with a variety of festive activities including markets, public Christmas trees, tours, and shows. These events bring a festive atmosphere to the capital, offering plenty of holiday cheer for residents and visitors alike.
Is It Worth Visiting Washington, DC in December?
December is an excellent month to visit Washington, DC, as the city is beautifully adorned with holiday decorations and festive events. The cooler weather complements the seasonal spirit, making it a worthwhile time for a memorable visit.
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Washington DC Christmas magic awaits! Immerse yourself in a breathtaking holiday wonderland with twinkling lights, festive markets, and iconic landmarks adorned in seasonal splendor.
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