8 Thing to do on Christmas
During the holiday time, thanks to the National Christmas Tree, holiday markets, one-of-a-kind seasonal light displays and lots more,
Washington, DC becomes a colorful world with glamour and diversity. Here are some of the virtual and in-person ways to experience the holidays in Washington, DC.
And remember, please wear a face covering and maintain social distance when out and about in the city.
Visit the National Christmas Tree
The National Christmas Tree is DC’s claim to fame during the holidays, and for good reason.
The gorgeous conifer 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 display is free to visit and open from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. while the National Christmas Tree is lit each day from 4:30-10:00 p.m. This year’s lighting ceremony takes place on Dec 3rd.
See Zoo Lights On the Go
Smithsonian’s National Zoo is taking its popular holiday installation on the road this year.
ZooLights Express features a 24-foot truck, festively decorated with light displays and “Panda Claws”, that will travel all over the District through Dec. 19.
The Express will visit one ward in DC each Friday and Saturday from 6-8 p.m. For a full schedule and routes through each ward, visit the Zoo’s website.
Check out the Downtown Holiday Market
This free-to-frequent downtown bazaar has expanded its space this year to account for social distancing.
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.
Please make sure to read the market’s safety information before your visit. There will be one entrance at 8th and F streets and guests will walk one-way through the market.
12-8 p.m., daily | Free admission | Safety guidelines
F Street between 7th and 9th Streets NW, Washington, DC
Experience the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
This year’s tree, which will come from the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests in Colorado, will go aglow in DC on Dec. 2.
You can visit the tree on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. Follow the tree’s Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and updates, including a tracker of its tour across the U.S.
Visit a holiday market at The REACH at the Kennedy Center
Victoria Park at The REACH has transformed into an outdoor holiday market with local artisans, craftspersons and an array of specialized vendors from Nov. 27 – Dec. 20.
Masks are required, hand sanitizer is available and space heaters will be placed throughout the park. Expect a menu featuring light snacks, grilled items, beer, wine, spiked cider and hot chocolate.
Enjoy some holiday spirit at this family-friendly destination that is free to enter.
Fridays: 4-8 p.m. | Saturdays & Sundays: 12-8 p.m. | Free admission
Victoria Park at The REACH, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Catch a holiday flick at The Wharf
Transit Pier at the Wharf hosts a 20-foot, outdoor LED screen specifically for screening holiday classics this December.
You can have your own fire pit with seating for up to four people. Cantina Bambina will offer drinks and snacks and each seating will include a special stocking filled with offers
and treats from vendors all over The Wharf. The lineup includes beloved flicks such as Home Alone, Elf, A Christmas Story, The Polar Express, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
and many more. Seating begins 30 minutes before showtime.
Screenings at 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. | Tickets
Transit Pier at The Wharf, 970 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Sip on afternoon tea at the Willard
The Willard InterContinental Washington offers its wondrous holiday tradition on weekends throughout December.
You can enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant Peacock Alley and on Dec. 13 and 20, the hotel will take the event to its spacious Crystal Ballroom.
There will be seasonal decor, sandwiches, pastries and the beautiful sounds of a harp to accompany you as you sip on festive teas from one of DC’s most historic hotels.
Standard, vegetarian, vegan and children’s menus will be offered and a 90-minute dining restriction will be applied for all reservations. Afternoon tea is also available to-go and for private groups – visit The Willard’s website for more information.
Seatings at 1 p.m. & 3 p.m. | Reserve
Willard InterContinental Washington, 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Travel through the Light Yards
For the fifth straight year, Yards Park offers a festive light installation at its Sundeck.
This year, Australian-based light design sculptors Amigo & Amigo have brought “Stars” to DC. Made from metallic mesh, the stars feature dancing lights,
play festive music and provide a space for an illuminated, socially distant stroll. The stars are lit each night from 6-10 p.m. through Jan. 10, 2021.
Nearby restaurants will have specials to pair with the activation, which is free to enjoy.
