❄️🎄🕎 Holiday Fun in DC: Top Things to Do This Season in the DMV 2025

Hello and welcome back to my blog. The holiday season is galloping along and whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, it's not too late to indulge your inner child -- here’s your go-to guide for the best holiday happenings around the DMV in 2025.

1. Glide Into the Season: Ice Skating Spots

Nothing says winter like gliding on ice under twinkling lights. This year, be sure to check out:

  • The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink (7th St & Constitution Ave NW)
    A perennial favorite, with festive music and views of the National Mall. Open through early March.

  • Canal Park Ice Rink (100 M St SE)
    Located in the Navy Yard, this rink offers a lively vibe and is perfect for families and beginners alike.

  • Washington Harbour Ice Rink (Georgetown) (3050 K St NW)
    Skate with a view of the Potomac River and enjoy nearby holiday dining.

  • The Wharf Ice Rink (750 Water St SW)
    New and popular, The Wharf’s ice rink offers waterfront skating with a festive atmosphere, cozy fire pits, and nearby dining options.

2. Must-See Holiday Shows & Entertainment

The DMV’s performing arts scene lights up during the holidays with both classic and fresh productions, though many shows are likely sold out or near capacity—so be sure to check ticket availability early:

  • The Nutcracker by the Washington Ballet (Warner Theatre, 513 13th St NW)
    Running through December, this timeless ballet is a must-see for families and dance lovers.

  • A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre (511 10th St NW)
    Experience the Dickens classic in the historic setting of Lincoln’s theatre.

  • National Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert (Kennedy Center, 2700 F St NW)
    A festive concert that fills the hall with seasonal music and holiday spirit.

  • Folger Frost Fair (Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol St SE)
    Inspired by historic London frost fairs, this month-long festival runs from November 28 through January 4, 2026. Enjoy holiday music, craft stations, printing press demonstrations, gift shopping, and more. Admission is free, with pay-what-you-will timed entry.

  • George Washington’s Mount Vernon Christmas Illuminations (Mount Vernon, VA)
    An easy out-of-town excursion on December 20–21, featuring an impressive fireworks display along the Potomac River.

3. Festive Neighborhoods & Drive-By Light Tours

As a local realtor, I’ve seen how certain neighborhoods really embrace the holiday spirit, making them ideal for festive drive-by tours or evening walks:

  • Old Town Alexandria
    Cobblestone streets and historic homes dressed in lights, wreaths, and classic holiday décor.

  • Barracks Row (DC)
    A friendly, walkable area with lively decorations and plenty of spots to warm up afterward.

  • Kent Gardens (McLean, VA)
    A lesser-known gem where residents go all out with coordinated light displays.

  • Chevy Chase DC
    Long known for its impressive residential holiday decorations.

  • The Wharf
    Waterfront views paired with festive lights create a lively, seasonal atmosphere.

  • Kalorama
    Elegant homes with restrained, tasteful holiday décor in one of DC’s most storied neighborhoods.

  • Capitol Hill
    Historic charm meets holiday sparkle, especially around Eastern Market and nearby residential blocks.

    Bonus Stops: Seasonal Displays & Family Favorites

    • United States Botanic Garden (100 Maryland Ave SW)
      Beautiful seasonal displays and model train exhibits.

    • ZooLights at the Smithsonian National Zoo (3001 Connecticut Ave NW)
      A time-honored holiday tradition featuring glowing animal-themed light displays, seasonal treats, and live festive music.

4. Holiday Markets & Seasonal Eats

Savor the season with local food and shopping. Beyond the big shows and light displays, DC really shines in the smaller, walkable holiday moments -- with the exception of the always bustling holiday market:

  • Downtown Holiday Market (7th St NW between F & H Streets)
    A longtime seasonal staple featuring rotating artisans, gifts, hot food, and warm drinks.

  • Union Market Winter Season (1309 5th St NE)
    Festive décor, pop-up vendors, and plenty of comfort food make this a great casual stop.

  • The Jefferson Hotel – Quill Bar & Lounge (1200 16th St NW)
    One of my favorite places to stop for a holiday drink, with seasonal cocktails and a warm, refined atmosphere that feels especially inviting on winter evenings.

  • Frosted at Franklin Park (14th St & K St NW)
    A free illuminated winter installation featuring thousands of lights and playful walk-through displays.

  • CityCenterDC Holiday Displays (825 10th St NW, Penn Quarter)
    Polished light installations and a central holiday tree make this one of downtown’s most pleasant evening walks.

5. Holiday Trees & Festive Displays

No holiday season is complete without enjoying the city’s signature trees and decorations:

  • National Christmas Tree (The Ellipse, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW)
    Fully lit and surrounded by festive walking paths near the White House.

  • Tysons Corner Center Tree (1961 Chain Bridge Rd, Tysons, VA)
    A grand indoor display accompanied by holiday décor and music.

  • Penn Quarter Holiday Tree (CityCenterDC, 825 10th St NW)
    Glowing amid elegant light installations and seasonal shopping.

  • The Willard InterContinental Christmas Tree (1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW)
    An elegant and historic display, beautifully lit throughout the season.

6. New Year’s Eve & Winter Festivities

Ring in 2026 with some of the area’s best options:

  • The Anthem New Year’s Eve Celebration (901 Wharf St SW)
    A high-energy concert with a midnight countdown.

  • CityCenterDC New Year’s Eve (825 10th St NW)
    Family-friendly festivities with music and seasonal cheer.

  • Georgetown Waterfront Evening Stroll
    A relaxed way to enjoy festive lights and river views as the year winds down.

Bonus Tips: Stay Warm & Explore

Seasonal drinks like peppermint lattes and hot chocolate make winter wandering easier. Holiday pop-up bars and neighborhood strolls are often just as enjoyable as ticketed events.

Ready to Celebrate?

Whether you’re visiting or simply looking for inspiration close to home, the DMV offers no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home this winter—or just want to know which neighborhoods shine brightest during the holidays—I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out anytime.

Wishing you all a very happy holiday season!

Location: Washington, DC, USA

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