As winter approaches, Washington, D.C. turns into a magical place. It invites everyone to join in the holiday fun. The city is filled with joy, from the National Christmas Tree to the ZooLights display.
People can see the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, ice skate at Washington Harbour, or visit holiday markets. DC’s Christmas events make you feel the holiday spirit1.
Key Takeaways
- Washington, D.C. is a hub of holiday cheer, with a wide range of festive attractions and events throughout the city.
- The iconic National Christmas Tree, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, and the dazzling ZooLights display are must-see highlights.
- Visitors can enjoy ice skating, holiday markets, and a variety of holiday performances and shows in the nation’s capital.
- The U.S. Botanic Garden’s “Season’s Greetings” exhibit and Mount Vernon’s “Candlelight Tours” offer unique holiday experiences.
- From the National Cathedral to Ford’s Theatre, the city’s cultural institutions shine bright with holiday spirit.
The National Christmas Tree: A Stunning Holiday Spectacle
In the heart of Washington, D.C., the National Christmas Tree stands tall. It attracts visitors from everywhere to see its beauty. Located in President’s Park, this tree has been a holiday tradition for over 90 years2.
The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The tree lighting ceremony is a highlight of the holiday season. It features music and the President lighting the tree. Around 10,000 people attend this event, filled with holiday cheer3.
Nearby Holiday Attractions
There’s more to see around the National Christmas Tree. You can find trees for all 50 states and territories. Each tree has ornaments made by students, showing off their culture3.
Also, the Downtown Holiday Market and Christmas Village are close by. They offer unique gifts and festive foods2.
The National Gallery of Art’s Ice Rink is perfect for ice skating. At night, Georgetown, Capitol Hill, and the U.S. Botanic Garden light up with beautiful lights2.
The National Christmas Tree and its attractions offer a memorable holiday experience. You can enjoy the tree lighting, holiday markets, and light displays. Washington, D.C.’s festive spirit will stay with you forever23.
ZooLights: A Dazzling Celebration at the National Zoo
Dive into the magical world of ZooLights, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo’s holiday light show. It turns the park into a winter wonderland4. This tradition happens for 23 nights, from November 24-26 and more. It’s open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays5.
With over 500,000 LED lights6, ZooLights shows off 130 lanterns in different habitats. Walk through “Entre Les Rangs” and see hundreds of reflectors that light up the night6.
- See animal lanterns like elephants, zebras, and alligators at ZooLights6.
- Try festive treats like hot chocolate and holiday cookies5.
- Watch live shows by local artists and school groups at the Great Meadow5.
Admission to ZooLights is $6 per person. You can buy a $30 parking pass in advance4. Members get free entry and parking on special nights4. The Speedwell Conservation Carousel costs $4, and virtual-reality at Pandamonium is $9 or $7.50 for members6.
Don’t miss out on the fun at ZooLights
Enjoy the lights, treats, and entertainment. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit456.
Skating at the Washington Harbour Ice Rink
No visit to DC during the holidays is complete without a spin on the Washington Harbour Ice Rink. It’s the largest outdoor skating venue in the city7. Located along the Potomac River, it offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding architecture.
The ice skating sessions are offered in 90-minute increments. This allows visitors to enjoy skating and the scenic views in time slots7. The rink operates from mid-November to February, with the first day of the 2023 season on a mid-November date7.
Surrounding Dining Options
After an exhilarating skate, visitors can warm up at one of the many dining options in the area. Options include Fiola Mare, Guapo’s Restaurant, and Farmers Fishers Bakers. These ensure a well-rounded holiday experience7.
Pricing for admission includes $11.00 for adults, $9.00 for children (12 & under)/senior/military, and $14.00 for group admission including skate rental for groups of 10 or more7. Skate rentals are available at $7.00, with an option for renting penguins to assist beginner skaters at $10.007.
Private rental options are also available for morning and evening slots. Prices vary depending on the duration and time of the rental7. The morning private rental can accommodate up to 20 skaters for a 1-hour rental or up to 75 skaters for a 2-hour rental.
Evening private rentals have similar capacity options, with prices ranging. They can accommodate up to 200 guests in total7. A session buyout option is offered for those interested in exclusive ice rink access. Further details are available upon inquiry via email7.
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree: A Towering Holiday Display
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree stands tall on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol building8. It’s often bigger than the National Christmas Tree, with over 10,000 ornaments. It’s a beautiful symbol of the holiday season in Washington, D.C8.
The tradition of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree started in 19648. Each year, a different national forest gives this special tree8. The tree must be at least 30 feet tall and six inches wide at the base8.
In 2023, the tree is a 63-foot Norway spruce from West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest8. Over 5,000 ornaments, made by Americans, will decorate it. The tree will be lit on December 7, 20238.
The tree’s journey to Washington, D.C. is a big event every year9. In 2019, the tree from Montana traveled 3,000 miles to Capitol Hill9. Companies like FreightCenter help make sure the tree gets there safely and on time8.
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree will stay up until January 7, 20248. It marks the start of the holiday season in Washington, D.C9. Watching the tree light up is a favorite tradition for many Americans9.
dc on christmas Holiday Experiences
Washington, DC, has more than just holiday lights and decorations. You can also explore Mount Vernon and the U.S. Botanic Garden. At Mount Vernon, see George Washington’s home lit up by candlelight and learn about old-time holiday traditions10. The U.S. Botanic Garden is a sight to see with its “Season’s Greetings” exhibit. It features beautiful poinsettias, pine, and replicas of DC landmarks all dressed up for the holidays10.
Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Mount Vernon comes alive with candlelight during the holidays. Walking through, you’ll feel like you’re in the 18th century. You’ll learn how George and Martha Washington celebrated Christmas and their holiday traditions10.
This event is a special chance to see the past and make lasting memories10.
U.S. Botanic Garden’s Season’s Greetings Exhibit
The U.S. Botanic Garden turns into a winter wonderland with its “Season’s Greetings” exhibit. You’ll see amazing displays of poinsettias, pine, and replicas of famous DC landmarks all decorated for the holidays10. It’s a beautiful place for festive photos or a quiet holiday stroll10.
“The holiday season at Mount Vernon and the U.S. Botanic Garden offer a unique and enchanting way to experience the magic of Washington, DC. These festive destinations provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the joy of the season.”
Downtown DC Holiday Market: A Shopper’s Delight
The Downtown DC Holiday Market is a top spot for unique shopping. It’s in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery. Here, over 150 vendors sell handmade goods, local coffee, and holiday treats11. It’s perfect for finding special gifts for your loved ones.
This market has been around for 20 years. It showcases over 150 local artisans and businesses11. You can find everything from jewelry and home decor to food and drinks. Its location in downtown D.C. makes it even more special.
The Downtown DC Holiday Market also has live music and performances. It’s a great place to find unique gifts or just enjoy the holiday spirit. It’s a highlight for Christmas shopping in DC.
Washington D.C. has many dc holiday markets to explore. You can check out the Four Seasons Holiday Market, the Downtown Holiday Market in Penn Quarter, and more. These markets let you discover local artisans, try festive foods, and feel the holiday cheer.
| Holiday Market | Location | Dates | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Four Seasons Holiday Market | Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC | Through 12.18 | Features 6 bespoke wooden market stalls12 |
| Downtown Holiday Market | Penn Quarter | Until 12.23 | Supports small businesses and entrepreneurs across the region12 |
| Procrastinator’s Holiday Market (PHM) | Bryant Street NE | 12.17 | Offers last-minute holiday gift shopping and themed activities12 |
| Eckington Place Holidaze | Eckington Place | 12.17 | Features a variety of vendors selling goods from jewelry to vintage clothing12 |
The downtown dc holiday market and other D.C. markets are unforgettable. They offer unique gifts, festive vibes, and the city’s lively energy1112.
“The Downtown DC Holiday Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to capture the magic of the holiday season in the nation’s capital.”
Holiday Performances and Shows in the Nation’s Capital
This holiday season, Washington, D.C. is buzzing with festive shows. You’ll find everything from “The Nutcracker” to “A Christmas Carol.” These performances are a treat for both visitors and locals13.
The Nutcracker by the Washington Ballet
The Washington Ballet brings “The Nutcracker” to life until December 30th. It’s their 20th year, featuring over 100 dancers in historic Georgetown. Tickets start at $4914.
A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre
At Ford’s Theatre, “A Christmas Carol” takes you back in time. It’s a holiday classic with a 19th-century setting and great performances13.
Washington, D.C. also offers a wide range of holiday shows. Enjoy Samara Joy’s music at Strathmore or “Magical Musical Holiday Step Show” by Step Afrika at Arena Stage. There’s something for every music and theater fan1314.
Looking for a holiday tradition or something new? Washington, D.C. has it all. Plan your visit and dive into the magic of the season1315.
Christmas at the National Cathedral
Step into the grandeur of the season at the National Cathedral. It’s a place where holiday concerts and performances shine16. Tickets for Handel’s “Messiah” are now available. You can dive into this classic masterpiece in the cathedral’s historic halls16.
The National Cathedral is not just about “Messiah” concerts. It also hosts other festive events. Enjoy the Advent Lessons & Carols on December 1 and the Blue Christmas Service on December 1816. These events offer a calm break from the holiday rush16.
For a closer celebration, check out the Gospel Christmas Service on December 21 and the Family Christmas Service on December 23. These services offer reserved in-person passes for a special experience16.
The National Cathedral is one of the world’s largest cathedrals. It’s a stunning setting for holiday celebrations16. Whether you love Handel’s music or the cathedral’s calm, your Christmas visit will be unforgettable16.
FAQ
What are the top holiday attractions in Washington, D.C. during the Christmas season?
When does the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony take place?
What can visitors expect to see at the National Zoo’s ZooLights event?
Where is the Washington Harbour Ice Rink located, and what are the nearby dining options?
How does the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree differ from the National Christmas Tree?
What holiday experiences can visitors enjoy at Mount Vernon and the U.S. Botanic Garden?
What can visitors find at the Downtown DC Holiday Market?
What holiday-themed performances and shows can visitors experience in Washington, D.C.?
What can visitors expect to see and experience at the National Cathedral during the Christmas season?
Source Links
- Christmas in Washington DC | Events and Things to Do – https://freetoursbyfoot.com/christmas-in-dc/
- Celebrating a Capital Christmas in Washington DC – https://doodle.com/en/celebrating-a-capital-christmas-in-washington-dc/
- 100 Years of the National Christmas Tree – https://www.nationalparks.org/stories/celebrating-100-years-national-christmas-tree
- ZooLights Returns Nov. 24 to Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute – https://nationalzoo.si.edu/news/zoolights-returns-nov-24-smithsonians-national-zoo-and-conservation-biology-institute
- ZooLights, Powered by Pepco, Returns Nov. 25 – https://nationalzoo.si.edu/news/zoolights-powered-pepco-returns-nov-25
- ZooLights, Powered by Pepco, Begins Nov. 29 – https://nationalzoo.si.edu/news/zoolights-powered-pepco-begins-nov-29
- Ice Skating – https://thewashingtonharbour.com/ice-skating/
- The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree 2023 | FreightCenter – https://www.freightcenter.com/the-us-capitol-christmas-tree/
- Blog Archives Tag | USDA – https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/archive/tag/capitol-christmas-tree
- 22 Washington D.C. Christmas Festivities To Experience – https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/christmas-washington-dc
- East Coast Christmas Markets: Top Festive Destinations And Events – Christmasmarketusa.com – https://christmasmarketusa.com/east-coast-christmas-markets-2/
- Holiday Market Guide – https://districtfray.com/articles/holiday-market-guide/
- 11 Holiday Concerts and Shows to See in the DC Area – https://www.washingtonian.com/2023/12/07/holiday-concerts-and-shows-to-see-in-the-dc-area/
- Holiday-Themed Theater Performances & Shows in Washington, DC, 2024 | Washington DC – https://washington.org/visit-dc/holiday-themed-winter-performances-shows-in-washington-dc
- Christmas in Washington, DC: 75+ Holiday Events & Things to Do – https://thehaphazardtraveler.com/washington-dc-christmas-events/
- Advent & Christmas – https://cathedral.org/worship/advent-christmas/