See all Washington Christmas happenings this year!
Washington marks Christmas 2025 from the National Mall to Georgetown, where historic monuments and cobbled streets glow with holiday lights. Christmas markets, ice skating and seasonal concerts offer festive shopping, carols and elegant public displays across the capital.
Find the best Washington Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Washington
- National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
- DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
- The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker
- A Christmas Carol at Ford's Theatre
- Season's Greenings Holiday Exhibit and Train Display
- The Nutcracker Tea Party
- A Candlelight Christmas
- U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
- The Holiday Show
- USPS Operation Santa
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Washington Christmas Events
Washington Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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Immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays with The Washington Ballet's iconic production of The Nutcracker. This cherished DC tradition, running from November 29 to December 28, 2025, features over 380 dancers in a spectacular performance set in historic Georgetown. Experience the familiar story with unique local twists, including George Washington as the Nutcracker and a vibrant springtime cherry blossom scene. It's a visual feast and a perfect holiday outing for all ages.
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Experience the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption in this enchanting production of 'A Christmas Carol.' This music-infused adaptation brings Dickens's Yuletide classic to life with beloved characters and a vibrant children's ensemble. Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returns to embody Scrooge in Ford's cherished annual tradition, promising a 'rich visual and vocal treat' that is 'infectiously jolly.'
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Experience the magic of the holiday season with The Washington Chorus's annual 'A Candlelight Christmas' concert. Led by Eugene Rogers, this beloved tradition features festive carols, holiday favorites, and special guest artists, including pianist Rod Vester. Enjoy interactive sing-alongs and a joyful celebration perfect for the entire family.
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Get ready for a spectacular holiday celebration with the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington, DC! This highly anticipated show features soulful new arrangements of favorite carols, dazzling performances, and a festive atmosphere. It's a unique blend of performance, comedy, and activism, promising an unforgettable experience.
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Experience Washington D.C.'s most dazzling holiday concert with the National Symphony Orchestra's 'A Holiday Pops!'. This beloved event returns to the festively decorated Concert Hall, promising an evening of joyous carols, sparkling pop showstoppers, and heartwarming holiday classics. Soul-stirring songstress Melinda Doolittle joins as the special guest, bringing her irresistible Gospel/R&B sound to the celebration.
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Don your coziest holiday pajamas and join for a magical adventure to the North Pole with The Polar Express Pajama Party. This special screening invites guests to relive the classic tale of belief and Christmas spirit, complete with hot chocolate to warm the soul.
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Relive the heartwarming holiday classic, 'Elf,' on the big screen as the National Symphony Orchestra performs John Debney's enchanting score live. This magical event brings Buddy the Elf's journey to life with a full orchestral accompaniment, creating an unforgettable festive experience for all ages.
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Immerse yourself in the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season at Dumbarton Concerts' annual 'A Celtic Christmas.' This cherished forty-year tradition features the Barnes and Hampton Celtic Consort, with performances by Allison Hampton on harp, Linn Barnes on guitar and lute, Joseph Cunliffe on flutes and recorders, and Steve Bloom on percussion. Robert Aubry Davis returns as narrator, sharing tales of Christmases past. It's an afternoon of community and holiday cheer.
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The Capital City Symphony presents its annual holiday concert, a joyous celebration of seasonal music. Families and friends are invited to sing along with the orchestra as they perform a collection of festive favorites. This beloved tradition promises a heartwarming musical experience for all.
Washington Christmas Light Displays
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Step into a winter wonderland at the U.S. Botanic Garden's 'Season's Greenings' holiday exhibit. This enchanting display transforms the Conservatory with vibrant poinsettias and plant-crafted models of iconic D.C. landmarks. Outdoors, miniature trains chug through whimsical scenes celebrating pollinators and their vital role in nature, all meticulously constructed from plant materials. It's a festive and educational experience for all ages.
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Step into a winter wonderland at Enchant Christmas, held at Nationals Park. This magical event features the world's largest Christmas light maze, an enchanting ice skating rink, and a charming Christmas Village filled with artisan crafts and festive treats. It's the perfect holiday outing for families and friends to create lasting memories.
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Embark on a magical three-hour journey through Washington D.C. and Old Town Alexandria to discover "America's Christmas Trees." This guided tour takes you aboard a luxury bus to witness dazzling light displays, including the National Christmas Tree and the Capitol Christmas Tree. Explore festive scenes at the Gaylord National Resort and admire the charming Christmas centerpiece in Old Town Alexandria.
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Step into an enchanting winter wonderland at ZooLights, the Smithsonian's National Zoo's annual holiday light spectacular. Wander through festive pathways illuminated by dazzling lantern animals and immersive displays. Enjoy live musical performances, take a magical ride on the train or carousel, and savor seasonal treats. It's a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with dazzling lights and festive cheer.
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Experience the magic of Light Yards at The Yards Park, a dazzling, family-friendly art installation. This event transforms the park into a wonderland with animated light displays that dance and shimmer. Visitors can interact with the installations, creating a truly immersive and joyful holiday experience.
Washington Christmas Markets and Shopping
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Discover a treasure trove of unique gifts and delightful treats at the DC Holiday Market in Dupont Circle. This festive market showcases over 35 local artists, crafters, and small businesses offering worldwide handicrafts and boutique brands. Find the perfect holiday presents amidst bright, festive decor in a vibrant neighborhood setting.
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Experience the magic of the Heurich House Christmas Markt, DC's premier holiday market showcasing over 40 local artisans. Discover unique, handmade gifts and seasonal treasures inspired by traditional German markets, all while supporting the museum's incubator programs for small businesses.
Washington Christmas Food, Drink and Parties
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Experience a quintessential Washington, DC holiday tradition at The Nutcracker Tea Party. This festive event offers delightful treats and family fun, culminating in a choice of attending either the afternoon or evening performance of the beloved Nutcracker ballet at the Warner Theatre. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in seasonal merriment while supporting vital arts education programs.
Washington Christmas Giving Opportunities
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Participate in the heartwarming 113-year-old tradition of USPS Operation Santa. Children and families can write letters to Santa, sharing their holiday wishes, with letters accepted until December 6th. Generous individuals and organizations can adopt these letters starting November 17th, fulfilling wishes through an expanded online gift catalog or by shopping independently. This program brings communities together to make the holidays brighter for many.
Washington Other Christmas Activities
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The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony marks the start of the holiday season in Washington, D.C. Each year, the tree is illuminated with thousands of lights and adorned with unique ornaments representing every U.S. state and territory. Following the ceremony, the tree remains lit for public viewing, offering a daily reminder of the holiday spirit and this cherished national tradition.
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The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a cherished national tradition. Each year, a magnificent tree, sourced from a different national forest across the United States, is selected and transported to the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. Visitors can witness the tree's grand arrival with a police escort and anticipate the official lighting ceremony, typically hosted by the Speaker of the House in late November or early December.
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Step back in time at Tudor Place Historic House & Garden for a season of engaging holiday events. Explore the historic estate with guided tours, including enchanting candlelight tours that illuminate the house's history. Participate in family-friendly activities like "Tudor Tots" for young learners or "Weekend Weeders" for garden enthusiasts. Discover the stories of generations past through insightful lectures and historical games.
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Experience the grandeur of the National Menorah Lighting Ceremony, a globally recognized event that launches the celebration of Chanukah. This spectacular ceremony features musical performances by military bands and a celebrity Jewish artist, alongside readings from the "Mendy Deren National Menorah Essay Contest" winners. Witness the lighting of the world's largest menorah, a powerful symbol of religious freedom, attracting thousands of attendees and reaching millions worldwide.
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Glide across the ice at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden's iconic ice rink. Surrounded by impressive sculptures and the scenic National Mall, this winter wonderland offers a magical experience for all ages. Enjoy themed music and breathtaking views as you skate.
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Experience the magic of the season at The Wharf's annual Holiday Boat Parade & Party. Watch over 60 decorated boats illuminate the Washington Channel, enjoy live music from Yani the Band, and partake in festive activities like ornament decorating and holiday karaoke. Capture memories with Santa, roast s'mores, and be dazzled by a spectacular fireworks finale.
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Glide over the water at The Wharf Ice Rink, DC's unique over-water skating experience. Enjoy stunning views of the Potomac River and iconic monuments while lacing up your skates. Warm up with seasonal beverages and treats from the surrounding waterfront shops and restaurants. Special events like 'Curling and Cocktails' offer additional winter fun.
Christmas Events Near Washington
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Alexandria Christmas Events
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Columbia Christmas Events
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