December highlights: DC's must-attend events

According to the Washington website, this holiday season, DC offers a fresh mix of experiences that bring the city’s neighborhoods and landmarks to life. From the glowing lights of ZooLights and the National Menorah to the interactive digital art at ARTECHOUSE, there’s no shortage of festive activities. Explore unique markets like the DowntownDC Holiday Market, catch live performances, or enjoy winter treats—each event offers a new way to celebrate the season in the heart of the city.


Frosted at Franklin Park – through Dec. 21

In the heart of Downtown DC, Franklin Park invites you to enjoy a magical holiday experience, completely free of charge. This year’s Illumination installation dazzles with thousands of festive lights, featuring a sparkling icicle walkway, giant snowflakes, a family of bears, and a radiant star – all perfect for your holiday photos. Visit daily from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. to soak in the festive glow!

Free Admission
1315 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20005

Holiday Bricktacular – through Dec. 30

Create unforgettable moments at the LEGO Discovery Center's Holiday Bricktacular! Step into a winter wonderland filled with festive activities, dazzling decorations, and holiday cheer. This year, join the Build To Give initiative, where families can help make the season brighter for children in need by crafting a LEGO heart—contributing to the largest donation of LEGO® sets ever.

Tickets
6563 Springfield Mall Suite 12004, Springfield, VA 22150

Season's Greenings – through Jan. 5, 2025

Swap the snowflakes for lush greenery this holiday season at the Season’s Greenings exhibit in the U.S. Botanic Garden. This year’s display dazzles with holiday lights, thousands of poinsettias, intricate plant-based sculptures of DC landmarks, a mesmerizing model train circuit, and an abundance of pollinators. Best of all, no tickets are needed—just bring your holiday spirit!

Free Admission
U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20001

DC Cocktail Week – through Dec. 5

Discover the art of mixology during DC Cocktail Week, a flavorful celebration curated by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. Dozens of DC’s top restaurants and bars showcase innovative cocktails crafted by talented bartenders, paired perfectly with dishes designed to ignite your taste buds. Local distilleries join the fun, making this a must-experience event for cocktail enthusiasts and food lovers alike!

Mount Vernon Winter Glow – Dec. 15-19 & 23

Experience the magic of the holidays at Mount Vernon, where the estate comes alive with dazzling lights and patterns synchronized to festive music. Step back in time with a visit to an 18th-century winter encampment, find unique gifts at the Mount Vernon shops, and indulge in seasonal drinks and treats from the Executive Orders food truck. A holiday outing like no other awaits!

Tickets
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121

The Improvised Shakespeare Company – through Dec. 23

Back by popular demand in DC, the Improvised Shakespeare Company serves up endless laughs in flawless iambic pentameter. Combining a deep love of the Bard, razor-sharp improvisation, and unmatched comedic flair, the talented cast conjures a brand-new Shakespearean masterpiece live on stage. Prepare to be amazed and amused!

Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 2056

DC Holiday Hunt – Nov. 29 – Jan. 5, 2025

Celebrate the season with the DC Holiday Hunt, a festive scavenger hunt that brings DC’s "main streets" to life! Discover historic landmarks and modern gems as you explore neighborhoods like Columbia Heights, Mount Pleasant, Logan Circle, and U Street. Complete holiday-themed missions, support local businesses, and compete for exciting prizes in this unique seasonal adventure.

The Improvised Shakespeare Company – through Dec. 23

Back by popular demand in DC, the Improvised Shakespeare Company serves up endless laughs in flawless iambic pentameter. Combining a deep love of the Bard, razor-sharp improvisation, and unmatched comedic flair, the talented cast conjures a brand-new Shakespearean masterpiece live on stage. Prepare to be amazed and amused!

Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 2056

Shop Local at Christkindlmarkt – Dec. 6-8, 10-13

Every year, the Heurich House Museum’s iconic Castle Garden transforms into a festive Christkindlmarkt, spotlighting local vendors. Your ticket grants access to this arts and crafts-filled market, showcasing unique goods from dozens of artisans, all set against the backdrop of the beautifully decorated historic mansion. This year, the market concludes Maker Month, a new month-long celebration of craftsmanship and creativity.

Hours
1307 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036

The Washington Chorus presents A Candlelight Christmas – Dec. 14, 15, 21 & 22

Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Washington Chorus, as over 130 voices harmonize with brass, organ, and percussion to deliver breathtaking renditions of Christmas classics. This 75-minute musical journey features exciting special guests and a cherished candlelight processional—an annual highlight that will leave you in awe.

Tickets
The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852

DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle – through Dec. 15

Head to the 1500 block of 19th Street NW for the DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle. With over 30 small businesses showcasing artisans, boutique brands, global handcrafts, and unique gifts, this market brings its signature charm to the neighborhood. Enjoy festive décor, local performers, and favorite holiday treats like Migue’s Mini Donuts and Capital Candy Jar’s hot roasted nuts. Don’t miss the neighborhood’s holiday pop-up on Dec. 7 and 8 for even more seasonal fun!

Monday-Friday, 12-8 p.m. | Saturdays & Sundays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. |  Free Admission
1500 Block of 19th Street NW, Washington, DC

DowntownDC Holiday Skate Spectacular – Dec. 16 – Jan. 4, 2025

The DowntownDC Business Improvement District (BID), the National Building Museum, and Events DC are bringing a free indoor synthetic ice rink to the museum’s Great Hall. Enjoy special guest appearances, tasty food, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Skating is free, with rentals available for just $5. There will also be special sessions for toddlers and young children, plus themed skate nights. Please note the rink will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Don't miss out on the fun!

Free Admission
National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon – Dec. 20-22

George Washington’s estate is the ultimate holiday destination, offering a festive experience like no other in the area. Explore the stunning mansion, enjoy chocolate-making demonstrations, browse the winter market, and meet Aladdin the Camel, the estate’s beloved pet. To top it all off, be dazzled by an incredible fireworks display over the Potomac River—an unforgettable way to celebrate the season!

Tickets
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121

DowntownDC Holiday Market – through Dec. 23

Celebrate the season at the DowntownDC Holiday Market, now in its 20th year, lighting up F Street between 7th and 9th Streets, NW. This vibrant market brings Penn Quarter and Chinatown to life with its festive displays, adding a holiday sparkle to the neighborhood. In partnership with The Makers Show, the DowntownDC BID has revitalized the market, creating a spacious, open-air village that's free and open to the public. 

12-8 p.m. daily |  Free admission
F Street between 7th and 9th Streets NW, Washington, DC

Celebrate Hanukkah around the District – Dec. 25 – Jan. 2

The District is glowing with holiday cheer in celebration of the Jewish festival of lights. Join in the menorah lightings on all eight nights at the magnificent National Menorah and at the Union Market District. Keep an eye out for other festive pop-ups, celebrations, and exciting events throughout the season.

ZooLights – through Jan. 4, 2025

Join thousands of visitors at ZooLights, powered by Pepco, and make it a part of your annual holiday tradition. Enjoy live music performances, delicious winter treats, and plenty of shopping opportunities. The Smithsonian's National Zoo is transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland with environmentally friendly LED lights and glowing animal lanterns. Timed passes are required, and admission is only $6. Don’t miss this festive experience!

Hours & Admission
Smithsonian’s National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008

Tingle Bells: An ASMR-Inspired Holiday Special – through Jan. 5, 2025

Celebrate the holidays at ARTECHOUSE, where tradition meets innovation in a truly unique experience. Tingle Bells reimagines the warmth of the season through cutting-edge digital artistry, creating a space for reflection, relaxation, and rediscovery of joy. Step into this immersive digital exhibition, designed to soothe your senses and lift your spirits, offering serenity and sensory wonder this holiday season.

Tickets
ARTECHOUSE, 1238 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20002

Source: Washington DC