6 Ways to Experience the Holidays in Washington DC

The weather is turning colder, and ready or not, holiday music will soon be in the air. If you are looking for festive fun, Washington DC in December offers activities ranging from traditional holiday shows to outdoor shopping and seasonal displays. With temperatures generally in the 40’s and 50’s, it’s good weather for the many outdoor December events in DC, including holiday markets and the outdoor train exhibit at the United States Botanic Garden. For those who prefer to be warm and cozy, keep reading to explore indoor options for holiday fun. I have included a mix of free and ticketed events with this list of six ways to experience the holidays in Washington, DC. 

*Originally published in  2017; latest update October, 2024.

*This post contains affiliate links; if you purchase something familyTravelsUSA may receive a small commission. As always, opinions are my own.

1. Stroll Through the U.S. Botanic Garden. Most people who visit DC are familiar with the popular attractions like the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum or the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall, but don’t realize that the U.S. Botanic Garden has been around for more than 200 years! We have visited several times in December over the years to see the popular Season’s Greenings. Past displays included National Parks and Historic Places and the Roadside Attractions exhibit (imagine plant based models of iconic places like Cadillac Ranch in Texas and South Dakota’s Corn Palace!) Season's Greenings will run from November 28, 2024 through January 5, 2025 (closed December 25th) and will display various over-sized pollinator sculptures made from plants in the outdoor garden as part of the train exhibit, while inside the Conservatory will be the annual plant-based display of DC landmarks and colorful poinsettias.  Expect crowds during peak holiday times, and check back for information about extended hours in December. Learn more about what to expect when visiting the United States Botanic Garden in December. 

2. Shop at an Outdoor Holiday Market. Grab your scarf and head outside for some holiday shopping, with several markets to visit in 2024! It’s the 20th year for the DowntownDC Holiday Market , which will be open from noon to 8 p.m. daily, starting with opening day on November 22nd and running through December 23rd (closed Thanksgiving Day and December 4th). Under new management for 2024, it promises to be a festive place to find unique gifts or just get into the holiday spirit. I’ve enjoyed shopping there over the years, and it always puts me in the holiday spirit! Located around 8th and F Street, N.W., it’s convenient to the Gallery Place metro stop. 

The original market owners will be operating the DC Holiday Market in Dupont Circle, November 22nd to December 15th.  Don't forget that historic Eastern Market in the Capitol Hill neighborhood is home to a year-round weekend outdoor market with a variety of vendors. Take the Metro to the Eastern Market station.  

3. Take in a Holiday Show. New York City has the Rockettes, but DC has the long running A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre. It’s a Washington favorite that has been showing for several decades. The Kennedy Center offers holiday programming during the month of December, including family-focused shows along with A Candlelight Christmas. Another place to enjoy festive holiday music is the beautiful Washington National Cathedral, which offers several special choral presentations during the month of December. 

4. Enjoy Holiday Trees, Light Shows and More.  Each year, the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park comes to life with an official tree lighting. Once that happens, the public can view the illuminated tree, along with the smaller trees that represent each state plus US territories that line the Pathway of Peace. Check the website for the latest dates for the 2024 season.  Another local favorite in DC are the ZooLights at the National Zoo; for 2024, ZooLights will begin on Friday, November 22nd and run through Saturday, January 4th (Thursdays - Sundays with varying hours; some weekends only Friday - Sunday). Tickets are required ($6 for everyone over the age of 2), plus there is a parking fee if you choose to drive. 

In nearby Virginia, enjoy a half mile stroll through the Winter Walk of Lights at the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna. If you don’t have a car, take the Metro to the Spring Hill Station in Tysons Corner, where it’s just a short 10 minute ride to the garden. ​​ Advanced reservations are required. Another local option is Ice and Lights:  The Winter Village at Cameron Run, starting mid-November. For this event, if you plan on ice skating, tickets must be purchased on-line. Maryland's Gaylord National Hotel is another popular spot for holiday cheer with a variety of holiday fun, with ICE! featuring "A Charlie Brown Christmas" for the 2024 season.

5. Strap on A Pair of Ice Skates . If outdoor ice skating is on your holiday list, there are several options to explore when the weather gets cold. The ice rink at The Wharf typically opens in late November. I love that there are plenty of restaurant choices to warm up and grab food and drinks afterwards. Another popular option for outdoor skating in DC is at the Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery. Be sure to stroll through the Sculpture Garden while in the area. 
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6. Volunteer at Arlington National Cemetery. Just a short walk across the Memorial Bridge from DC brings you to the entrance of Arlington National Cemetery. On December 14th, volunteers from around the country will arrive at Arlington National to Remember, Honor, and Teach as part of National Wreaths Across America Day. Our family has volunteered at this event for several years, and it is always an honor to be a part of the laying of Remembrance wreaths during the holidays. It’s a humbling sight to see the white headstones that cover the rolling hills across the cemetery. When you visit, see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and experience the Changing of the Guard ritual. Volunteer criteria changes each year, so it’s best to check the Wreaths Across America site for the latest information.  ​

No matter how you celebrate the holidays, December is the perfect time to experience Washington, DC in a whole new light!