The Christmas season is a time for celebration and spending time with family and friends. If you are looking for some fun things to do in Washington, D.C. this holiday season, we have you covered.
We listed some of the best activities to get into the Christmas spirit in our nation’s capital. From festive light displays to concerts and shows, there is something for everyone! So put on your Santa hat and get ready to enjoy all that Washington, D.C. has to offer during the holidays.
1. The National Christmas Tree
The National Christmas Tree is located on the Ellipse, south of the White House. The tree lighting ceremony is usually held on the first Thursday in December and features live musical performances and a message from the President. After the ceremony, the tree is lit up every night from dusk to 11 pm.
The National Christmas Tree is a beautiful sight to see during the holiday season and it’s definitely one of Washington, D.C.’s most popular tourist attractions. If you’re in town for the holidays, make sure to check it out!
2. The US Capitol Christmas Tree
The US Capitol Christmas Tree is a 72-foot tall Engelmann Spruce that’s decorated with over 25,000 ornaments. The tree lighting ceremony takes place on the West Lawn of the Capitol and features musical performances and a speech by a Member of Congress. After the ceremony, the tree is lit up every night from dusk to midnight.
It’s a beautiful sight and it’s definitely another one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
3. Season’s Greenings at the Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens is a beautiful place to visit any time of year, but it’s especially festive during the Christmas season. Season’s Greenings is an annual holiday exhibit that features stunningly decorated trees, wreaths, and gingerbread houses. There are also musical performances and Santa appearances throughout the month of December.
If you’re looking for a festive activity to do in Washington, D.C. this Christmas season, be sure to check out Season’s Greenings at the Botanic Gardens. It’s a must-see event and it’s something the whole family will enjoy.
4. Peppermint Treats from Milk Bar
Milk Bar is a popular dessert spot in Washington, D.C. that’s known for its creative and delicious desserts.
During the Christmas season, they offer a special peppermint-flavored menu that includes items like mint chocolate cake, candy cane cookies, and peppermint ice cream. It’s a must-try for dessert lovers and it’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.
5. DC Neighborhood Lights
One of the best things about Christmas in Washington, D.C. is the amazing holiday light displays. Every year, many of the city’s neighborhoods decorate their homes and businesses with festive lights and decorations. It’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit and it’s also a lot of fun to walk or drive around to see all of the different displays.
Some of the most popular places to see holiday lights in Washington, D.C. are Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and Adams Morgan. But really, you can find holiday lights all over the city. So keep your eyes peeled and enjoy the festive sights as you explore Washington, D.C. during the Christmas season.
6. National Cathedral Christmas Concerts
The National Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic cathedral located in Washington, D.C. During the Christmas season, they offer a series of special concerts featuring holiday music.
It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and it’s also a wonderful opportunity to see the cathedral, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
7. Holiday Shopping in Adams Morgan
Adams Morgan is a trendy neighborhood in Washington, D.C. that’s known for its shops, restaurants, and nightlife. During the Christmas season, the neighborhood comes alive with holiday shoppers looking for unique gifts.
You can find everything from handmade jewelry to vintage items to one-of-a-kind art pieces. So if you’re looking for some unique holiday gifts, be sure to check out Adams Morgan.
8. Downtown Holiday Market
The Downtown Holiday Market is a festive shopping event that takes place in Washington, D.C. every year.
The market features over 150 vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to art prints to Christmas ornaments. It’s the perfect place to find unique holiday gifts for your friends and family, and it’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.
Popular Holiday Traditions in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is a city full of history and tradition, and that extends to the holiday season. Here are five popular holiday traditions that you can experience if you’re in the city during Christmas time:
1. The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
This ceremony has been a tradition since 1923, and it takes place on the Ellipse near the White House. The President of the United States typically takes part in the ceremony, and it features musical performances and lighting of the National Christmas Tree.
2. The Kennedy Center’s Annual Nutcracker Performance
This performance is a Washington, D.C. tradition that dates back to 1978. It tells the story of Clara, a young girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince coming to life. The performance is set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic Nutcracker score and features world-class dancers.
3. The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
This ceremony takes place on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol Building and it features the lighting of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. The tree is typically a towering spruce or fir, and it’s decorated with thousands of lights and Christmas ornaments.
4. The National Menorah Lighting Ceremony
This ceremony takes place on the Ellipse near the White House and it celebrates Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights. The ceremony features the lighting of a giant menorah, as well as live music and entertainment.
5. The Nutcracker Suite at the Warner Theater
This performance is a classic holiday ballet that tells the story of Clara, a young girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince coming to life. The performance is set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic Nutcracker score and features world-class dancers. If you’re looking for a classic holiday ballet performance, this is the one to see.
Washington, D.C. is a city that’s full of history and tradition, and the holiday season is no exception. If you’re in the city during Christmas time, be sure to check out some of the many festive holiday traditions that are on offer.
From concerts and performances to shopping events and tree lightings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So get out there and explore all that Washington, D.C. has to offer this holiday season!
Do you have any favorite holiday traditions in Washington, D.C.?
