Enjoy the Holiday’s in D.C.
Explore the U.S. Capitol, where the Capitol Christmas Tree stands tall, twinkling against the night sky. As you stroll through the National Mall, note all the Smithsonian museums adorned with holiday-themed exhibits, offering a cozy break from the cold. Stop by the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden, where ice skaters can glide under sparkling lights while surrounded by beautiful artwork.
Washington D.C. has even more to offer during the holiday season than just its iconic landmarks. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa while taking a stroll through the Downtown Holiday Market, exploring local artisans, festive foods, and live entertainment. “Zoolights” at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is a family favorite and holiday tradition. The Kennedy Center hosts holiday concerts, ballet performance, and classic holiday plays like The Nutcracker. With so much to do, Washington, D.C. is a delightful place to celebrate the season, blending history, culture, and festive cheer.
Visit the US Capitol Christmas tree
Known as “The People’s Tree”, the Capitol Christmas tree stands proudly on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol building. Each year, a different national forest provides the tree, which is then beautifully decorated with thousands of ornaments and lights made by school children from the tree’s home state. A beloved holiday tradition, the tree lighting ceremony is a festive highlight of the season in the nation’s capital.
Downtown Holiday Market
The Downtown Holiday Market is a festive open-air market located in the heart of the city, offering a unique holiday shopping experience. The market showcases handmade gifts, arts, and crafts from local artisans, along with plenty of delicious seasonal treats. With live entertainment and twinkling lights, the Downtown Holiday Market creates a cheerful atmosphere perfect for spending time with family and friends while looking for that one-of-a-kind holiday gift.
Season’s Greenings at the botanic gardens
Season’s Greenings at the U.S. Botanic Garden is a delightful holiday exhibit featuring elaborate model train displays and intricate plant-based replicas of famous D.C. landmarks. Beautifully decorated with festive lights and seasonal plants like poinsettias, the conservatory is a warm and inviting escape from the winter chill. Visitors can also enjoy the garden’s unique holiday displays, showcasing natural artistry and holiday cheer.
Lighting of the national Menorah
The Lighting of the National Menorah is a prominent Hanukkah celebration held annually on the Ellipse near the White House. Featuring the lighting of a giant menorah, live musical performances and speeches by dignitaries, the ceremony is a festive and meaningful event that celebrates the Festival of Lights. It’s a cherished tradition attended by people of all faiths, symbolizing hope and unity during the holiday season.
Dupont Circle Holiday Pop-up
The Dupont Circle Holiday Pop-Up is a lively seasonal market featuring local artisans and vendors offering handmade gifts, crafts, and unique holiday goods. Set in the historic Dupont Circle neighborhood, the event brings a festive atmosphere with live music, delicious food, and a chance to support small businesses.
ZooLights
ZooLights at the Smithsonian's National Zoo is a dazzling holiday event where the zoo is transformed with vibrant light displays and animated sculptures. This free, family-friendly celebration includes festive activities, live entertainment, and seasonal treats, all set against the backdrop of the zoo's illuminated pathways. It's a beloved winter tradition that combines the magic of the holidays with the wonder of wildlife.