Discover Washington DC's top holiday events from the National Christmas Tree to the Potomac Boat Parade. Find event dates and plan your next holiday trip.
Washington, DC is an enchanting place to visit no matter the season. But, come holiday time, this city transforms into a winter wonderland you won't want to miss. In this post, we'll cover the top five things to do in Washington, DC during the holidays. So, whether you're a traveler looking for a new adventure or a holiday enthusiast, get ready to be dazzled by the nation's capital!
The National Christmas Tree, located on the Ellipse, is the home to a massive tree that is decorated from top to bottom with twinkling lights and ornaments. Surrounding the tree are dozens of smaller Christmas trees decorated by different states and territories. Once lit, visitors can see the tree 24 hours a day until early January.
The lighting ceremony of the tree, a tradition since 1923, usually takes place on the first Thursday of December and marks the beginning of the holiday season in Washington, DC. The event is a spectacular celebration with live performances, celebrity appearances, and of course, the lighting of the tree.
For more information, check out the National Park Service’s official website. The location is easily accessible at 1600 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001.
Ice skating at the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden is a fun winter activity perfect for enjoying views of the Capitol, Pennsylvania Avenue, and the National Archives. The ice rink is open from November through mid-March, weather permitting. Operating hours are:
The rink provides a unique ambiance, surrounded by large-scale sculptures from renowned artists and iconic landmarks on the National Mall. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
For more details, including ticket pricing and events, visit the National Gallery of Art's Ice Rink webpage, National Gallery of Art, and Salamander DC.
Address:
National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC, between 7th and 9th Street
The Smithsonian National Zoo's "ZooLights" event transforms the zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland, with over 500,000 environmentally-friendly LED lights illuminating the entire park. The mesmerizing light displays include larger-than-life animal sculptures and sparkling trees, and there are a variety of activities such as live musical performances, winter-themed crafts, and an opportunity to see some of the nocturnal animals up close.
Whether you're looking for a family outing, a romantic date night, or simply an immersive holiday experience, attending ZooLights at the National Zoo is an unforgettable way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories. ZooLights will be open on select nights from November 22, 2024, to January 4, 2025, with hours from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on most nights and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sundays. Admission is $6 per person, and parking is $30 per vehicle.
The National Zoo is located at 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, and is accessible via the Red Line Metro stations at Woodley Park-Zoo or Cleveland Park. For more details, visit the official ZooLights page.
The Downtown Holiday Market is a one-stop shop for holiday goodies. Located in the heart of Washington, DC, this market offers a wide variety of crafts, decorations, and treats. The market is open daily from November 17 through December 23, 2024, with around 150 exhibitors participating each year. It’s the perfect spot to find unique gifts for Christmas stockings or grab a snack while exploring the city. Situated at F Street NW between 7th and 9th Streets, outside the National Portrait Gallery and Smithsonian American Art Museum, the market is easily accessible and a delightful destination for holiday shopping and festive vibes.
For more information about the Downtown Holiday Market, visit their official website.
If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC, check out this guide on why apartment hotels are the best housing choice for Washington, DC visits.
The National Menorah Lighting is a cherished annual tradition held at the White House Ellipse in Washington, DC. The event features the lighting of a towering 30-foot menorah, making it one of the most iconic Hanukkah celebrations in the United States. Attendees enjoy live musical performances, including the United States Army Band, and celebratory remarks from prominent figures. This year, the event is scheduled for Thursday, December 7, at 4:00 PM ET.
Additional Details:The U.S. Botanic Garden’s Season’s Greenings Exhibit is back this holiday season, running from November 23, 2023, to January 1, 2024, with daily hours from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Christmas Day). This free, family-friendly event is packed with festive highlights that include a model train display themed around pollinators like butterflies and bats, showcased outdoors for easy access. Indoors, visitors can marvel at replicas of 22 iconic DC landmarks, crafted entirely from plant materials like bark and seeds—truly a botanical masterpiece. You’ll find the exhibit at 100 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20001. More details are available on their official website.
Washington, DC, is hosting various festive holiday concerts and performances this season. Here’s a list of some highlights, complete with details to help you plan your visit:
These concerts capture the magic of the holiday season and offer something for everyone. Be sure to secure tickets soon, as these events often sell out quickly.
The Potomac River Boat Parade of Lights is a dazzling annual event that lights up the Potomac River with brightly decorated boats cruising along the shore. The event typically takes place in early December, providing a festive atmosphere as families, friends, and locals gather to enjoy the holiday cheer. Boats decked out in twinkling lights and festive decor create a stunning display, making it one of the most anticipated seasonal events along the river. This year, the event is scheduled for December 7, 2024, and visitors can enjoy dockside festivities, including food, music, and activities for the whole family. It's the perfect way to celebrate the season along the waterfront.
For more details, check out the official event website Visit Alexandria.
Washington, DC offers several neighborhoods brimming with holiday lights, including Georgetown, which features the Georgetown GLOW light installations from December 1 to January 7, and the National Christmas Tree near the White House, lit throughout December. The Wharf offers a festive holiday boat parade and dazzling light displays starting on December 2. Capitol Hill is another great spot to enjoy the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree on the West Lawn during the holiday season.
During the holidays in Washington, DC, the U.S. Botanic Garden’s Season’s Greenings display offers a charming view of plant-based DC landmarks, available from November 28 to January 5. Mount Vernon also hosts a festive Winter Glow, with holiday lights and seasonal activities running from November through December. For unique gifts and holiday treats, the Downtown Holiday Market, open from November 22 to December 23, is a great spot to explore.
Washington, DC, offers a range of festive activities during the holiday season, including a visit to the National Menorah Lighting at the White House Ellipse and the charming Holiday Boat Parade along the Potomac River. You can also take in the dazzling light displays and winter charm at locations like The Wharf, which offers stunning views and seasonal events along the waterfront. To make your holiday visit extra special, Placemakr is your go-to choice for booking a Washington DC hotel with all the comforts of home.
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