As the holiday season approaches, Washington, DC transforms into a festive wonderland, featuring everything from delightful Thanksgiving-themed dining to dazzling light displays. This winter, get in the holiday spirit with local markets, cozy cocktails and seasonal happenings in the nation’s capital.
The District Holiday Boat Parade – On Dec. 7 dozens of dazzling boats will traverse the Potomac River from the waterfront in Alexandria, Virginia to Washington, DC’s The Wharf. Visitors can observe the annual parade free of charge with holiday festivities to enjoy beforehand, including winter drink sampling, chances to meet Santa, ornament decorating and more. Prizes will be awarded to the most beautiful vessels, which begin their journey at 6 p.m., fireworks will cap off the parade at 8 p.m. and live music will continue until 9 p.m.
The National Menorah Lighting Ceremony – Chanukah kicks off on Dec. 25 with a lighting ceremony of the world’s largest menorah on the White House Ellipse, which greets all with latkes, doughnuts, menorah kits and dreidels. Music from the United States Navy Band typically adds a soundtrack to the scene. As is the custom, a new candle is illuminated on each of the eight nights.
The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony – As a DC tradition dating back more than a century, The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony has become an elaborate production packed with live performances and a full audience. The National Christmas Tree is DC’s claim to fame during the holidays, and for good reason. The gorgeous conifer is free to visit and lives in President’s Park on the White House Ellipse, where it’s surrounded by trees decorated with handmade ornaments from 56 U.S. states and territories and is accompanied by nightly musical performances throughout the holiday season. The Dec. 5 ceremony airs on CBS Dec. 20.
DC Cocktail Week – Participating restaurants will showcase special beverage and bite deals with the return of DC Cocktail Week, highlighting the city’s vibrant cocktail scene from Nov. 29 to Dec. 5. With options ranging from alcohol-free mocktails to high-proof cocktails, there’s something for everyone. In addition to unique drink offerings, DC Cocktail Week features special events like tastings, happy hours and cocktail-making classes.
Fairmont Tree Lighting Ceremony – Fairmont Washington, DC Georgetown will host its 21st annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 3 in the courtyard of the hotel. To compliment the tree lighting, Fairmont will host a live performance from the Georgetown Visitation Madrigals and seasonal events, like card decorating and treat tasting. Guests are encouraged to come with a gift donation for Horton’s Kids to help spread the holiday cheer. The event is free and open to the public.
National Building Museum Ice Rink – A brand-new indoor ice rink comes to DC this December situated inside the National Building Museum. The rink will open from December 15 to January 4 for another opportunity for family fun during the holiday season.
Ice Rink at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden – Ice skate amid magnificent works of art and towering sculptures in a lush garden. The ice rink at the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden is a quintessential winter experience in Washington, DC. It opens in late November and lasts until early March, and its scenic atmosphere is firmly planted on the National Mall.
Washington Harbour Ice Rink – Most of the year, Washington Harbour in Georgetown greets visitors with spectacular waterworks – a dancing fountain surrounded by half a dozen restaurants. But when the cool temps settle in, the fountain transforms into prime ice skating real estate. After dark is when it’s most magical, with dozens of twinkling white snowflakes lighting up the rink. Visitors can participate or grab dinner or drinks from surrounding restaurants to watch at locations like Founding Farmers Fishers and Bakers and Sequoia.
The Wharf Ice Rink– DC’s Southwest Waterfront is a popular place to be even in the winter – specifically the skating rink on The Wharf’s Transit Pier. The rink sets itself apart from others in the local region by being the only over water. It returns for the season on November 27.
Canal Park Ice Rink – The Capitol Riverfront neighborhood thrives in warmer months with waterfront activities, vibrant parks and a booming restaurant scene, but there’s plenty to do in the colder temps as the ice rink opens for the season. Reopening this November, the figure eight rink offers public skating, party hosting and skating lessons.
ZooLights – Join the thousands of visitors who make ZooLights a part of their annual holiday tradition. The event includes live music performances, tasty winter treats and plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping. Environmentally friendly LED lights and dozens of glowing animal lanterns transform the Smithsonian’s National Zoo into a winter wonderland. Visitors can also keep an eye out for upcoming events at the National Zoo to celebrate the return of the iconic giant pandas, as they prepare for their public debut on Jan. 24.
National Mistletoe Activation – A new winter attraction comes to Anthem Row (formerly Techworld Plaza) this year as the national mistletoe is to be installed by late November. The sparkling art installation will be put on display in front of the Carnegie Library for lovers to visit during the holiday season.
Georgetown Jingle – Celebrate the season at Georgetown Jingle, a new holiday music event. Enjoy 10 live performances at picturesque outdoor locations throughout Georgetown, showcasing a variety of festive musical talent.
CityCenterDC – CityCenterDC lights its jaw-dropping 75-foot Christmas tree during a cheerful free event on November 30. The ceremony will feature Jordin Sparks and the American Pops Orchestra , balloon artists, face painters and plenty of other holiday-themed activities. Visitors can enjoy the tree throughout the holiday season, as well as gorgeous lights along the decorated Palmer Alley. Stay in the festive mood at Conrad Washington, DC, which features incredible views of the tree, its own rooftop, drink specials and festive decorations. 825 10th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
