Gawking at twinkling Christmas lights is one of the essential things to do over the holiday season,
so gather the troops and head to the National Tree or other eye-popping arrangements around town.
Then swing by a few Christmas events before cozying up on the couch for a holiday movie marathon.
ZooLights
This may be one of the only occasions when people visit the zoo for reasons other than seeing Bao Bao. In its eighth year, this family-friendly tradition draws big crowds for twinkling lights, live musical performances, nighttime carousel rides, gingerbread habitat-building contests and hot cocoa. Through Jan 2 (closed Dec 24, 25 and 31); 5–9pm.
Merry Mosaic
Mosaic, an open-air retail and restaurant mecca in Fairfax, houses a mix of international and locally owned boutiques. For the holidays, In addition to the illuminated tree in Strawberry Park, it’s hosting holiday-themed events, including selfie opps with Santa (weekends through Dec 20, daily Dec 21–24), craft workshops and Hanukkah menorah-lighting ceremonies with snacks like latkes and jelly doughnuts (Dec 6 and 13, 4pm).
National Christmas Tree
Don’t fret if you weren’t able to nab a ticket to the lighting ceremony. You can catch the illumination of the National Christmas Tree—a Twitter-savvy Colorado blue spruce planted in front of the White House—online, and the towering titan will stay lit through the end of December.President’s Park, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave between 15th and 17th Sts NW. Through Dec 31; free.
Georgetown Glow
As if Georgetown wasn’t stunning enough, the historic neighborhood goes all out for its light spectacular; for its second year, Georgetown Glowhas expanded from a weekend to a 10-day event. In addition to five dazzling public installations from local and international artists, the seasonal celebration includes window displays, promotions and discounts at some local retailers, plus live music on both weekends. Bring your skates for a twirl on the Washington Harbour Ice Rink. Various locations in Georgetown along C&O Canal, Georgetown Waterfront Park and south of M St. Dec 11–20, daily 6–10pm; free.
