The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Activities in Washington D.C.
/If you're looking for a guide to Washington DC during the holidays, you’re in the right place. This guide takes you on a journey from the U.S. Capitol to Dupont Circle Holiday Markets. Washington D.C. at Christmas is cozy and magical. From gorgeous Christmas Tree displays, to ice skating rinks, and massive light displays - the holidays in Washington D.C. can’t be missed.
everywhere in Washington DC is fully decorated for the holiday season!
I have found the perfect balance of over the top Christmas, Washington DC staples, free things to do in DC, and family-friendly activities. Every time we return, we add new things to our D.C. Bucket list and I make it a point to try out recommended best spots for kids in Washington. In this blog you will everything I have done in Washington D.C. with kids at Christmas and our review of each one!
Please remember that I am only recommending things that I have done and no one could truly see everything there is to do in Washington D.C. at Christmas in one season.
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The Wharf boat parade is a must do during the holidays in DC
Table of Contents
Best Things to do in NYC at Christmas with Kids
DC Wharf
National Gallery of Art
Westpost Outdoor Ice Skating
Georgetown (The Washington Harbor)
National Building Museum (Indoor Rink)
Dupont Circle Holiday Market
DowntownDC Holiday Market at Penn Quarter
Union Station Main Hall Holiday Market
Capitol Tour (Free)
Wreaths Across America (Free)
The People’s House (Free)
White House Tour (Holiday Decorations - Free)
Old Ebbitt Grill
The Willard
Filomena Ristorante (Over the Top Decorations)
Clyde’s (Over the Top Decorations)
Martin’s Tavern
La Grande Boucherie
The Best Place to Stay in Washington DC with Kids
The Holiday Inn Washington Capitol-National Mall is one block from the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. we stayed ghere for our christmas weekend in washington dc
Even after moving a short distance from DC, we still like to occasionally stay in the city.
When choosing where to stay in Washington DC with kids or when choosing the best family friendly hotels in Washington DC with kids, you’ll want to consider a few things. First, can you walk to the attractions? If not, can you easily grab an Uber or taxi? Second, what part of Washington DC are you wanting to explore? The city is broken up, so it’s a good idea to stay closest to what you want to see most. Finally, which hotel in Washington DC is family friendly? (or which Airbnb). Some hotels in the city cater to business people and some offer suites with multiple rooms for the extra space for families.
We stayed at the The Holiday Inn Washington Capitol-National Mall an it was a prime location. Also, there is on-side (paid) parking and a starbucks in the hotel. They do have a restaurant and kids eat free with a paying adult!
If you’re looking for the best family-friendly hotels in Washington DC, you can use the map below to find a hotel in the perfect location and the right price range for your family or check out my other guide for the top 5 family friendly hotels in DC.
Be sure to pin this post so you can find it easier in the future!
Interactive Map of DC Christmas Spots
If you click this map you can see a full itinerary for Washington DC done in layers in Manhattan and Brooklyn. You can turn on the layers or turn them off — the map has different activities grouped together so you aren’t wasting time crisscrossing the city! To use this map, click the icon on the far left of the top and choose to turn the layers on by day!
The Best Things to do with Kids in NYC at Christmas
Ice Skating in Washington DC
National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink:
Glide in a classic D.C. setting at the Sculpture Garden ice rink. Here you’ll skate surrounded by world-famous sculptures and the National Mall’s winter charm. The season runs from late November through early March (weather permitting). The hours are 11:00 am–9:00 pm Sunday through Thursday and 11:00 am–11:00 pm Friday and Saturday. Tickets cost about $15 for ages 13+ and around $12 for kids, seniors, military, and students, and skate rentals are $7. This is the best spot to Ice Skate in Washington DC if you want iconic views.
Ice skate with a view when you ice skate in washington DC
The Wharf:
Ice Skate along the Potomac River at this seasonal rink on Transit Pier at The Wharf. This rink has amazing waterfront views and a festive atmosphere in downtown DC. The rink typically runs from late November through late February. The hours are Wednesday–Friday: 4 pm–10 pm, Saturday: 12 pm–10 pm, and Sunday: 12 pm–8 pm (weather permitting). Admission is $15–$20 for adults and $10–$15 for kids, with skate rentals available for $5. The best thing about this rink is it’s an all-day skate wristband, so you pay once but you can come back over and over again all day long.
ice skating at the wharf skating rink
Holiday Markets in Washington D.C.
DowntownDC Holiday Market at Penn Quarter
Penn Quarter Holiday Market: In the heart of Penn Quarter on F Street NW between 7th and 9th Streets, the DowntownDC Holiday Market transforms the downtown blocks into a festive winter village. The market runs November 21 – December 23, 2025 this year. The hours are Monday–Thursday 12 pm–8 pm, Friday–Saturday 11 am–9 pm, and Sunday 11 am–8 pm, with free admission. With 100+ local and regional vendors, the market offers handcrafted gifts, artwork, holiday décor, seasonal treats, and live entertainment, making it one of DC’s most spirited and bustling holiday experiences. This is the best holiday market in Washington DC in my opinion.
DowntownDC Holiday Market at Penn Quarter
Dupont circle holiday market
Dupont Circle: The DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle is a charming local favorite. It’s located along New Hampshire Avenue just north of the circle. The market runs from Friday, November 14 through Tuesday, December 23, 2025, with hours Monday–Friday 12 pm–8 pm and Saturday–Sunday 11 am–8 pm. Expect nearly 40 small business booths featuring artisan goods, boutique brands, handmade crafts, jewelry, home décor, and gourmet gifts. We even found a shop supporting Mayan artisans from Guatemala! We easily found free street parking on a Sunday, but if you want to avoid traffic and paying for parking, take the Metro’s Red Line to the DuPont Circle stop!
DowntownDC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
National Botanic Gardens
the national botanic garden
Every year the U.S. Botanic Gardens does a gorgeous “Seasons Greetings” display of all the famous buildings and monuments around Washington DC. Each replica is made completely from plants and natural material. They are incredibly detailed and must see at Christmas in Washington D.C.
In 2025, they also had a themed garden with dinosaurs and trains - it was incredible. Each of the dinosaurs was also made from plant materials. The trains snake through the dino world criss crossing on several different tracks and bridges.
The Botanic Gardens are part of the Smithsonian, so they are open to the public and admission is completely free. They offer sensory friendly hours, have very clean bathrooms, and you can’t miss their thousands of home grown poinsettias.
The National Harbor
Holidays at the National Harbor are incredible. Start with a ride in the Capitol Wheel, grab a cozy lunch and hot chocolates at one of the many restaurants, shop the holiday market, or even catch the Saturday night fireworks!
The National Harbor has 40 restaruants - yes, FORTY! We warmed up with a delicious meal and hot chocolate at silver diner. Highly recommend this cozy spot!
There is so much to do at the National Harbor in general, but during the holidays the area is decked out with incredible decorations including a 60 ft tree with a nightly light show, the National Harbor Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show Series, Photos with Santa at The Capital Wheel, Holiday Movies shown on the big screen outside, Festive Fireworks every Saturday night at 5:30, and so much more. You can even book a stay in one of eight Christmas Dream Suites, each decorated with lights, stockings, and a beautiful Christmas tree. The suites include a family photo opportunity and a plate of holiday treats prepared by the resort’s chefs. You can really live your Home Alone NYC dreams at the Gaylord!
While you’re at the National Harbor, be SURE to get tickets to ICE!
We met santa on the street, got photos with the giant christmas tree, but unfortunately didn’t get to ride the wheel this time
ICE! at Gaylord National
This year was our second year going to ICE! - and it’s always a huge hit with everyone in our family! In 2025, the them was The Polar Express.™ There are 10 unique scenes with larger-than-you-can-believe ice sculptures which bring the classic holiday story to life. The exhibit took an astounding 12,000 hours to carve and complete.
the photos can’t do these ice sculptures justice. That train was 20ft tall.
The kids were surprised and very happy to ride down the frozen slides, wander through ice tunnels, and get to sit on train seats made from ice!
as if it wasn’t cool enought to SEE the sculptures, you could actually get inside and sit in the ice train!!
The ICE! exhibit is always at the gorgeous Gaylord National. You do not need to a guest of the hotel in order to visit. The exhibit does require you to wear their coats, but I highly suggest you wear full winter regalia in addition to their coat. The exhibit is kept at a chilly 9*F, so it is COLD!
A gigantic 20ft christmas tree made from ice, reindeer made from ice, the entire place is truly unreal
National Christmas Tree Lighting
The National Christmas Tree Lighting is one of Washington, DC’s most iconic holiday traditions. The lighting dates back to 1923 when President Calvin Coolidge lit a 48-foot Balsam Fir from Vermont decorated with 2,500 red, white, and green electric bulbs.
This annual event is held on the Ellipse near the White House. Tickets are FREE but required. Tickets must be requested in advance through the National Park Service lottery (typically opening in late summer or early fall).
Once the sun went down, it got very cold at the christmas tree lighting.
We went for the 2025 lighting and it was COLD. If you get tickets be sure to come prepared with warm clothes and blankets. There is a lot of waiting between performers and for commercial breaks, so keep that in mind. We did get to hear from the Secretary of Interior, CEO of the National Parks Foundation, and even the U.S. President. The FLOTUS is the one who actually lights the tree.
Many officials give speeches before the lighting including the U.s. President
After the ceremony, the tree and the surrounding Pathway of Peace remain open to the public nightly through early January, making it a must-see holiday stop even if you don’t attend the live event.
Trees along the pathway of peace in 2023 - trees from every single state and terrirory surround the main tree
Take a Tour of the United States Capitol Building
the capitol has it’s own christmas tree
Visiting the U.S. Capitol during a holiday trip to Washington DC probably isn’t what you were thinking, but hear me out. We took a tour in December as part of our Christmas Weekend in the city and we were pleasantly surprised to learn this is the slow season for tours!
Getting Tickets: While tickets are FREE, they are required for a tour. You can acquire tickets through the Capitol Visitor Center website or through the office of your senator or representative. A limited number of same-day passes are often available if you arrive early at the Visitor Center. Our guide told us this is much easier to do in the winter months.
consider grabbing lunch at the capitol's cafe! The food was good and the capitol dessert was delish!
The Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and tours are offered roughly every 10-20 minutes until about 3:20 pm. The tours last about an hour and take you through highlights like the Crypt, Rotunda, and National Statuary Hall. After your tour, you can explore the Exhibition Hall, shop at the Capitol gift stores, or grab a bite at the Capitol Café inside the Visitor Center, making it a great way to spend part of your holiday visit in DC. Don’t miss the Capitol Building made of chocolate in the cafe!
inside the capitol building is gorgeous. The tour is interesting and the museum is a must!
Lay Wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery
Volunteering with Wreaths Across America during a trip to Washington, DC is a meaningful way to give back while visiting the nation’s capital during the holiday season. Each December, volunteers help place evergreen wreaths on the graves of fallen service members at Arlington National Cemetery. It’s a powerful, family-friendly experience that adds purpose and reflection to a holiday visit.
Every year the convoy of trucks, local law enforcement, staff and supporters stop at schools, monuments, veterans’ homes and communities along the way to talk about the Wreaths Across America mission and remind people how important it is to remember, honor and teach.
“To be killed in war is not the worst that can happen. To be lost is not the worst that can happen… to be forgotten is the worst.”
In 2026 National Wreaths Across America Day will be held on Saturday, December 19. There are over 5,200 locations across all 50 states to volunteer. We’ve volunteered in Pensacola, Florida and in Arlington National Cemetery, however, we love going to Arlington where we have family and friends resting.
Our friends Matt Roland and Jason Back lie in Arlington.
No matter where they served or how, Wreaths Across America strives to ensure that no one is forgotten. So, if you’re in DC in December, consider volunteering to lay a wreath and say the name of a fallen hero.
We layed a wreath at my husband’s grandfather and grandmothers site in arlington
Visit the People's House
Visiting The People’s House: A White House Experience during the holidays is a great way to explore the history and traditions of the Executive Mansion even if you don’t have tickets for an official White House tour. All of the exhibits are interactive with holiday-themed stories that bring the magical traditions of the White House to life.
The people’s house has an excellent replica of the oval office! get your camera ready!
This interactive museum-style experience is located just steps from the White House and open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last entry t 4:00 pm. General admission is free, though a suggested $15 donation helps support exhibits and educational programs. Timed-entry passes can be reserved in advance online to guarantee your visit during busy holiday periods.
experience a state dinner and see the inside of the white house like never before!
White House Tour - Holiday Edition
it’s unreal to look out the windows of the white house. the persepective so many presidents have enjoyed.
Visiting the White House during the holidays is a must do experience. Jaqueline Kennedy started the themed holiday decorations in 1961 and the tradition has carried on. Today’s White House displays often include dozens of trees, festive décor, and the famous Gingerbread White House, making a holiday tour both historic and memorable.
the trees throughout the white house are so pretty
Public holiday tours are free, but must be requested about 1-3 months in advance of our visit through your Member of Congress. The tours are scheduled during daytime hours and usually Tuesday through Saturday. Be prepared to wait outside to get through security, so dress warm!
visting the white house at christmas is unlike any other place. It’s historical, magical, and so lovely.
Nightly Carolers at the Willard
You can’t miss a stop at InterContinental the Willard Washington D.C. during the holidays. This is one of DC’s most beloved traditions. We walked over to the Willard after the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony to warm up with hot chocolates and the cozy atmosphere of the iconic Willard Lobby.
the christmas tree in the willard lobby is stunning
From December 1 through December 23, the hotel hosts complimentary nightly caroling featuring talented local choirs and vocal ensembles, with performances offered daily from approximately 6:00 pm–6:45 pm and again from 7:15 pm–8:00 pm. While you’re there, be sure to find the annual Grand Gingerbread Display. It’s absolutely stunning each year.
the 2025 Ginger bread display - so detailed it' even has the iconic lobby and christmas tree
While the caroling is free and open to the public, many visitors also enjoy soaking in the scene with curated seasonal cocktails or a delicious hot chocolate at the lobby’s bars.
delicous hot chocolate, amazing carolers, stunning holiday decor - the willard is such a great spot in dc during the holidays
Mount Vernon Christmas Illuminations
The Christmas Illuminations event at George Washington’s Mount Vernon is a festive holiday celebration held in December each year. This year it’s December 20–21, 2025 from about 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
mt vernon christmas illuminations has everything from holiday decor to a colonial market and stunning fireworks
Explore an 18th-century winter encampment and artisan market, and even meet Aladdin the Camel…yes a camel! He’s an integral part of Washington’s own holiday tradition. You’ll be able to tour the mansion and the historic spaces which are beautifully illuminated. At the end of the night, there is an epic fireworks show over the Potomac River behind the mansion. It’s such an incredible sight.
mt vernon christmas illuminations has everything from holiday decor to a colonial market and stunning fireworks
Tickets are required in advance, with general public pricing around $58 for adults and $36 for youth (ages 6–11), discounted rates for Mount Vernon members, and children 5 and under free; pre-registration ensures entry and adds seasonal charm to an evening of history, lights, and family fun.
mt vernon by night
DC Wharf Boat Parade
Do not miss the DC Wharf Annual Holiday Boat Parade in Washington DC! It is a very festive waterfront tradition that lights up the Washington Channel every December with 60–70+ brightly decorated boats cruising past The Wharf in full holiday regalia, making it one of the capital’s most beloved seasonal events.
This year the event started at 5 PM with live music, ornament making, holiday karaoke, s’mores, fire pits, ice skating, and Photos with Santa. At 7:00 pm the boat parade began and finished with a fireworks salute over the water at 8:00 pm. The boat parade and fireworks are FREE and can be enjoyed from the piers and waterfront promenade.
the wharf tree is so goreous and the live music was great - they played many genres mixed with holiday tunes
The party doesn’t stop at 8. The live music, s’mores, and ice skating continue to 10PM while the many festive bars and restaurants along the Wharf continue celebrating the season into the wee hours of morning.
Admission is FREE to the DC Wharf but it does cost money for all of the activities other than the Boat Parade and Fireworks. If you’re looking for a place to warm up, definitely check out the holiday themed bars!
from ice skating to s’mores to incredible boat displays and fire work show - the DC wharf boat parade is a must do in washington dc during the holidays
Zoo Lights at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park
The Smithsonian National Zoological Park’s ZooLights is a must do holiday activity in Washington DC. This festive holiday tradition transforms the zoo into a glowing winter wonderland with more than 100 animal lanterns and millions of LED lights. While most indoor exhibits are closed so the animals can rest, the Zoo has carousel rides, train rides, and an adventure maze open during ZooLights.
with millions of led lights and hundreds of animal lanterns, the entire family will be awed. photo credit: Charlotte
The event typically runs from late November through early January with lights turning on around 5:00 pm and staying on until about 9:00 pm. ZooLights requires timed entry passes for everyone age 2 and up. Tickets are $6–$9 per person and they have parking passes available for $30 per vehicle. I definitely recommend a parking pass, it makes the trip super convenient.
Zoolights has hot cocoa, smore’s, and sweet treats available - imagine having hot chocolate and looking at the elephants! Photo Credit: Charlotte T.
Most Festive Restaurants in Washington DC
Immediately I want to say that these are the best festive restaurants in DC, but there are many many others. Also, the Holiday Markets, specifically the Penn Quarter Holiday Market, also offer great food and festive snack choices! I suggest warming up with a warm cider or hot chocolate while grabbing different bites from each of the stands.
Dubai chocolate strawberries? Yes, please! (Dupont circle holiday market)
Old Ebbitt Grill: Walk-Ins allowed, Reservations Suggested. Known for its absolutely iconic Nucrackers on either side of the entrance, Old Ebbitt is a DC staple. We’ve been here so many times. Located on 15th St NW, this is an excellent place for lunch after a White House tour or trip to The People’s House. Pop in for a hot chocolate and some delicious food and then head over to ice skate in the Sculpture Garden or take a tour of Ford’s Theater. Old Ebbitt has an excellent kid’s menu and is honestly a great way to break up your day exploring the area around The White House.
Old Ebbitt Grill’s iconic nutcrackers out front
The Willard: See Above for information about drinks in the festive lobby of the Willard. Also consider making reservations for one of their incredible Holiday Brunches.
The decorations at the willard are stunning
Other really cool spots around Washington DC to get a festive meal experience:
Filomena Ristorante (Over the Top Decorations)
Clyde’s (Over the Top Decorations)
Martin’s Tavern
La Grande Boucherie
the state dining room in the white house is stunning during the holidays
We absolutely LOVE Christmas time in Washington D.C. I hope everyone gets the chance to experience this magical time of year in one of the most iconic cities in the world. Don’t forget to bring the kids along to experience the magic through their eyes!
Have you ever visited Washington D.C. at Christmas? What was your favorite part? Tell us in the comments!
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