The holidays are happening in DC and you don’t even have to leave the city limits to find hotels, museums and communities that are hosting parades, holiday light displays, Christmas tree lightings, and holiday model train displays. No matter your preferences, you’re bound to find a festive DC Christmas event across the city through New Year’s.

WHAT TO DO IN WASHINGTON DC DURING THE HOLIDAYS

VISIT THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE

Each year, a massive, live evergreen tree is decorated in President’s Park near the White House. The public can swing by to see the glowing tree every evening starting on December 5th. The National Christmas Tree is decorated with ornaments created by artists from across the country. Each is different, unique and worth a long look as the ornaments change every year. In addition, wander over to America Celebrates, a display of trees that honor the history, heritage and culture of each state. Grab a hot cocoa, take photos with the trees, and experience the magic of the season.

SKATE AT A SCULPTURE GARDEN

One of the famous winter traditions in Washington, D.C. is the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden ice skating rink. Bring the kids, friends, or go on a date to ice skate amongst the beauty that surrounds this fountain-turned-ice-rink throughout the winter months. The ice rink is open through mid-March and absolutely a bucket list experience! See more here.

SEE THE US CAPITOL CHRISTMAS TREE TOO

Every year, a different national forest is selected to provide a tree to appear on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol building for the holiday season. The tradition of the Capitol Christmas Tree, or “The People’s Tree,” began in 1964 when Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives John W. McCormack placed a live Christmas tree on the Capitol lawn. In 1970, the Capitol Architect asked the U.S. Forest Service to provide a Christmas tree. Since then, a different national forest has been chosen each year to provide “The People’s Tree”, which includes a public engagement campaign to create connections to and celebrate our national forests. The 2021 tree will come from the Six Rivers National Forest in California. Get out those phones and get ready to take some epic Instagram stories with The People’s Tree!

EXPLORE THE HOLIDAY MARKETS 

Centrally located in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, the beloved market stretches across two blocks of F Street between 7th and 9th streets. Scope out eclectic wares from dozens of pop-up tents with seasonally flavored music performed live in the background. Locally roasted coffee and crafted-before-your-eyes mini-doughnuts inspire a cold-weather appetite, creating a holiday atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in DC. The market will be open Nov. 19–Dec. 23, and will be closed Nov. 25 and Dec. 6. Grab a hot cocoa and get ready to explore the beautiful and festive holiday market!

WHERE TO STAY

Viceroy Washington DC

Viceroy Washington DC is a new modern boutique hotel in Downtown DC that shows off its creative and funky vibes. The hotel is ready to inspire their guests with a fresh, fearless perspective. Every guest room and suite is spacious — a rare commodity in DC. Your guest room at Viceroy Washington DC is a destination in and of itself, being larger than the average by District standards. It’s designed to connect you to all the culture, adventure, dining and shopping the city brings — found just beyond your tree-lined street. Get settled in your very own haven and fall into the rhythm of the locals. It starts with grabbing a coffee at BPM Coffee & Wine, a buzzing spot that the neighborhood loves, or enjoying the open-air, expansive patio and shared plates at Dovetail.

The Ven at Embassy Row

Stay at this Washington DC hot spot, The Ven at Embassy Row, to dine around the world under the same roof as your luscious king bed. In-house restaurant, Fred and Stilla, offers everything from spring rolls to perogies, while naming each country of origin under all menu items. Dine on options hailing from Greece, China, Nigeria, and more, all in the same seating. Modern amenities let you relax, work, dine, and meet in comfort and style.

Washington DC is a great place to spend the holidays and learn about our nation’s history! Have you ever been to DC during the holidays?

XOXO

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