Top 50 places to visit in Washington DC during Christmas.
The cityscape of Washington, D.C. is enchanted by the allure of Christmas. The holiday spirit is established by the White House, which is adorned with bright lights. Standing tall and adorned with glittering decorations, the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse serves as the focal point and a symbol of holiday cheer.
The neighborhoods of the city reveal a tapestry of decorations as one strolls through them. Wreaths and sparkling lights cover Georgetown’s ancient streets, while tasteful displays adorn the row houses of Capitol Hill. The National Zoo’s ZooLights event, which features stunning animal-shaped light sculptures, turns the park into an enchanted wonderland
The Smithsonian museums participate in the celebrations by showcasing seasonal displays and events. The holiday train exhibit at the Botanic Garden enthralls tourists with its model trains trundling through small landscapes surrounded by vibrant poinsettias. Joyful glides beneath the starry winter sky are encouraged in outdoor ice skating rinks, such as the one at the Sculpture Garden of the National Gallery of Art.
Here is an expanded list of various places to visit in Washington, D.C during the Christmas season:
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National Christmas Tree
The focal point of Washington, D.C.’s holiday celebrations is the National Christmas Tree, which is located close to the White House. Every year, it is exquisitely decked out with lights and ornaments, with tiny trees surrounding it that stand in for each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the American territories. The President usually attends the lighting ceremony, which heralds the start of the Christmas season with festive music and a joyous ambiance
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ZooLights at the National Zoo
The zoo’s walkways are lit up with themed light exhibitions, such as glittering trees and lamps fashioned like animals, that allow visitors to roam around.Live musical acts, crafts with a winter theme, and delicious refreshments like hot cocoa and s’mores are frequently featured at the event. Additionally, there is an immersive light show and interactive displays in the “Glow Zone,” which is open to guests.
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Georgetown – M Street & Wisconsin Avenue
In Georgetown, a lot of stores and eateries have charming window decorations and provide delectable seasonal fare. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked goodies from nearby bakeries, which heightens the celebratory atmosphere. Additionally, there are a number of holiday activities available to visitors, such as Georgetown Glow, which showcases outdoor light art works all across the neighborhood.Georgetown is a great place to spend the holidays in Washington, D.C. because of its historic charm and Christmas enthusiasm.
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Capitol Hill – Historic Row Houses
The exteriors of these ancient homes are sometimes adorned with extravagant themed decorations by the residents, who frequently go all out with gorgeous light displays, wreaths hanging from doors and windows, and other elaborate decorations. It provides a window into the neighborhood’s holiday customs and makes for a charming ambiance for people wandering by.
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Smithsonian Museums – National Museum of American History, National Portrait Gallery, etc.
Christmastime offers a unique experience at the Smithsonian Museums in Washington, D.C., which include the National Museum of American History and the National Portrait Gallery. These venerable establishments frequently have exhibitions, activities, and events with a seasonal theme.
There can be exhibits in the National Museum of American History that highlight holiday customs from various periods of the country’s past. Viewers may get the opportunity to view unusual items associated with Christmas and other holiday events.
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Botanic Garden – Holiday Train Exhibit
All ages can enjoy the captivating Holiday Train Exhibit at the Botanic Garden during the holiday season. Every year, the Garden puts up a holiday display that includes miniature trains that rattle down lines and wind through magical settings composed only of natural materials. The display frequently features elaborate recreations of well-known Washington, D.C. monuments made from plants, flowers, and other botanical components.
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Ice Skating Rinks – National Gallery of Art: Sculpture Garden, Wharf’s Waterfront
The enchanted atmosphere that the holiday decorations and the surrounding artistic beauty generate can be enjoyed by guests as they glide across the ice. The ice skating rink of the Sculpture Garden frequently hosts special events, such as themed nights, live music performances, and even chances for group activities or instruction.
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Downtown Holiday Market
Stroll through rows of brightly adorned booths offering a variety of handcrafted items, such as apparel, jewelry, art, home decor, and specialty snacks. Live acts, carol singers, and kid-friendly activities are common at the market, which enhances the lively and upbeat vibe.
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Union Station
Additional Christmas decorations, such as wreaths, garlands, and seasonal accents, can be found all over the station, bringing a joyous environment to both travelers and guests. Union Station is a vibrant and happy place to come during the Christmas season since it frequently holds unique events like pop-up stores, musical performances, and even visits from Santa Claus
10. MGM National Harbor
MGM National Harbor frequently has entertainment and special events during the Christmas season, including live acts, holiday-themed shows, and festive food options. Seasonal décor adorns the resort’s casino, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, evoking an opulent and joyous atmosphere for visitors.
11. The Wharf – Christmas Tree & Waterfront Activities
During Christmas, The Wharf organizes a variety of festive events and activities, such as boat parades, light displays with holiday themes, and live performances. Wandering around the seaside promenade, visitors may take in the festive mood and sparkling views.
12. The Yards Park – Lights & Holiday Events
The Yards Park is an amazing spot for Christmas festivities! They usually host dazzling light displays, holiday markets, music events, and more.
13. U.S. Capitol – Capitol Christmas Tree & Decorations
Christmastime in the U.S. Capitol is really breathtaking! It’s a sight to behold, the Capitol Christmas Tree and the entire building decked out in holiday splendor.
14. Library of Congress Holiday Book Displays
Wonderful holiday book displays with festive literature, historical collections, and a variety of seasonal themes are frequently held at the Library of Congress over the Christmas season. Usually offering a delightful mix for guests to explore, these exhibits feature everything from traditional Christmas tales to distinctive regional customs. The Library of Congress offers literary treasures and a festive atmosphere that are definitely worth visiting if you’re in town during the holidays.
Some other places where you can go during Christmas
15. National Harbor – Christmas Tree & Activities
16. Mount Vernon – Candlelight Tours
17. Arlington National Cemetery – Wreath-Laying Ceremony
18. Ford’s Theatre – “A Christmas Carol” Performances
19. The Kennedy Center – Holiday Performances
20. National Cathedral – Holiday Concerts & Services
21. National Harbor Ferris Wheel – Views of the Festive City
22. Embassy Row – Holiday Open Houses
23. Tidal Basin – Festive Views of Monuments
24. Renwick Gallery – Holiday Art Installations
25. Old Ebbitt Grill – Festive Dining Experience
26. 12 Days of Christmas at the Four Seasons Hotel
27. CityCenterDC – Tree & Decorations
28. National Children’s Museum – Holiday Events
29. Hillwood Estate – Seasonal Decorations & Tours
30. The Phillips Collection – Holiday Art & Events