The Insider’s Guide to the Best Things to Do and See in DC for the Holidays
When the holidays arrive in Washington, DC, the city transforms into a magical place that may make you forget it's the most powerful city in the world. I cherish this time of year in DC; I just wish it would snow more!
Below are my top recommendations for things to see and do in the city. One thing to note: dates, times and maybe some of the experiences will change. Therefore, I suggest searching before you come to DC. If you only have one day, you can probably fit all of these activities into it. However, if you're lucky enough to spend a weekend traveling solo, you'll have the opportunity to explore even more! I want to
Christmas Trees and lights, Oh My!
We have an abundance of trees in this area, at least 10 different trees throughout the DC Neighborhoods! I recommend the ones below, especially for a short trip to DC since most of them are not terribly far from each other. Each tree hosts its own lighting ceremony, which usually takes place in late November or early December.
National Christmas Tree
If you plan to attend the National Christmas Tree Ceremony, you need to sign up for the lottery on recreation.gov. Normally, you can begin doing this around the beginning of November.
I went to the lighting a few years back, and it was so magical! The ceremony is held outside the White House, which also has miniature real trees for each state decorated with items from that state’s people and some federal offices.
Capitol Tree
From the Nation's to the Capitol Christmas Tree, known as the "People's Tree," the decorations are made by residents of different states to celebrate our national forests. From here, you can walk down the mall and check out the iconic sites of DC, like the Washington Monument!
CityCenterDC Tree
Two 25-foot reindeer are displayed next to a tree adorned with thousands of lights, creating a stunning setting. This is a perfect spot for an Instagram photo for your Christmas card.
If you’re looking for more decorations, be sure to visit the Palmer Alley Dream Closet art installation, which changes with each season or holiday. Additionally, you can enjoy some shopping or dining after taking a stroll!
Wharf Christmas Tree
It's a great area to walk around along the river and enjoy the gigantic Nutcrackers lining the path! I highly recommend checking out these areas. Also, there are a few holiday pop-up bars that you can check out!
Union Station Norwegian Christmas Tree
If you arrive in DC via train, this will be the first tree you’ll check out. This tradition of receiving a Norwegian Christmas tree has been going on for decades now! Every year, they send a tree as a gift as a thank you for US assistance and allyship in World War II. The nice thing is that it's not a far walk to the Capitol tree from here!
Zoo Lights
If you have had enough of the trees, I highly recommend Zoo Lights. Here, you walk down the zoo path and enjoy the interactive light displays. Don't worry—the animals are inside, so they’re not disturbed.
There are nightly musical performances, food and drink to purchase, and you can do some of your holiday shopping, too! 5-8 or 9 pm at the National Zoo. $6 general admission.
Holiday-Themed Bars and Restaurants
I provided a detailed list of my favorite pop-up bars in my post called The Ultimate Guide to D.C.'s 4 Best Christmas Pop-Up Bars, but I wanted to expand the restaurant list since you will be near the National Christmas Tree. All these places are only a few minutes’ walk from the tree!
The VUE
I highly recommend visiting the VUE, which is located inside the W Hotel. Although I have never eaten there, I've enjoyed several drinks at the venue. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink and take in the view of the National Christmas Tree, as well as the décor of the White House. Without a doubt, it is my favorite bar in Washington, DC. If you're lucky like I was, you might even see the president of the United States depart in Marine One!
Old Ebbitt Grill
This is a staple if you visit DC! But it's even more fun being greeted by two giant nutcrackers! After drinking at the VUE, you should have lunch or dinner here and enjoy this historic bar and restaurant that was founded in 1856.
InterContinental the Willard Washington DC (AKA The Willard)
My favorite hotel in the city is one I have never actually stayed at! From the giant wreaths and sparkling lights adorning the exterior to the magnificent Christmas tree surrounded by presents and twinkling lights, you truly feel as though you've been transported from Washington, DC. It’s a delightful place to wander after enjoying lunch or dinner.
If you’re looking for a post-dinner drink, be sure to visit the Round Robin Bar. This small but historic round bar is known for its expert mixologists who craft perfect classic cocktails. I highly recommend trying their iconic Henry Clay Mint Julep. Rumor has it that this 160-year-old bar was the first to serve Mint Juleps!
Holiday Markets
You can explore two holiday markets.
The first is located in Chinatown, where I have been going for over a decade. Just a heads-up: weekends can get extremely busy, but it's definitely worth a visit.
The second market is in DuPont and features the same vendors as the one in Chinatown. You can find various food options at both locations. Additionally, the market in Chinatown is just a 20-minute walk from the restaurants I mentioned earlier!
Ice Skating
National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden
Only a 10–15-minute walk from the holiday market in Chinatown, you can skate while enjoying various sculptures. The admission covers two 45-minute skating sessions, and you can store your items in the free lockers they provide.
The Wharf Rink
After checking out the tree and enjoying roasted marshmallows, you can skate here! You will have epic views of the river, especially around sunset! Plus, you can grab a drink at The Brighton, one of the Christmas pop-up bars!
Final Thoughts
What are your thoughts on Christmas in Washington, DC? Share your experiences visiting the most powerful city in the world!
