Seasonal & Holiday Activations: Lights, Markets, Pop Ups & More

It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is upon us - but it is! All the area light shows, skating rinks, holiday markets, teas, and pop-ups are back along with the cinnamon, sugar, and spice of the season specifically here to to tantalize all your senses:

I SEE THE LIGHTS: 

Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens: Brookside Gardens has transformed into a magical winter wonderland for Garden of Lights from November 22nd - January 5th. Walk through the outdoor twinkling lights and glimmering displays. For more information, click here.

Bull Run Festival of Lights: Enjoy two and a half miles of holiday lights at the Bull Run Festival of Lights, open nightly from November 15th to January 5th, with time slots from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 online or $40 at the door. Bus tickets are $75 (for fifteen or more passengers) on select dates. Save up to $10 by attending promotional nights and buying tickets online. To purchase a ticket, click here.

Tree Lighting at City Ridge: The festive Tree Lighting at City Ridge takes place on November 23rd, from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. Enjoy holiday fun for the whole family with Santa and The Grinch, glitter tattoos for kids, a live choir, a band, and a DJ spinning festive tunes. Don’t miss the Letters to Santa station, kids’ crafts, and delicious hot chocolate sponsored by TATE. Plus, hop on the holiday train and sing along with carolers as we light up the Christmas tree and celebrate the season together. For more information, here.

21st Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Fairmont DC: Fairmont has announced their 21st annual tree lighting ceremony on December 5th. While listening to the award-winning Georgetown Visitation Madrigals perform holiday classics, families can take the chill off next to heaters while children may enjoy decorating holiday cards and tasting holiday treats. All families will be entered to win prizes. For more information, click here.

Holiday Light Spectacular at The Maryland Fairgrounds: December 12th - December 30th enjoy the Maryland Light's Spectacular showcase at the Maryland Fairgrounds. To purchase a ticket, click here. 

13th Annual Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: Experience the magic of the season at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens with the 13th annual Winter Walk of Lights. This elegant half-mile garden trail is illuminated by countless sparkling lights, showcasing displays inspired by nature, winter, and holiday themes. Enhance your evening with a cozy hot beverage and cap it off by roasting marshmallows for s’mores; For more information, click here.

Tree Lighting at MGM National Harbor: The holiday celebration continues throughout the destination with the lighting of the Waterfront District’s extraordinary 60-foot animated RGB tree, guarded by two 12-foot nutcrackers. The nightly light show starts at sunset and continues every half hour until 9:00 p.m. Guests will enjoy thousands of lights dancing alongside a holiday medley recorded by the United States Air Force Band, the season kicks off November 9th. For more information, click here.

Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park: You don't even have to leave your car to see great winter lights this year. The 3.5 mile drive through enchanting Seneca Creek State Park takes you past more than 450 illuminated displays and gorgeously lit trees.Open nightly November 29th - December 31st, you can do the drive every day of the week. For more information, click here. 

The Yards’ Light Yards: Starting November 25th, enjoy holiday-themed cocktails in limited-edition glassware at participating restaurants, including Bammy’s, La Famosa, District Winery, Emmy Squared, and Agua 301. Celebrate the season at The Yards with Swinging Bells, a free art installation featuring five thirteen-foot-tall illuminated bells, perfect for family fun and festive photos. Visit the Sun Deck daily from 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., November 25th - January 3rd. On December 4th, join the Light Yards Express from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. for train rides, glitter tattoos, live music, giveaways, and a visit from Santa. For more information, click here.

ZooLights at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo: Celebrate the holidays with ZooLights at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, featuring dazzling lantern displays, festive pathways, live music, seasonal treats, and carousel rides. ZooLights runs every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. and every Sunday from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. from November 22nd - January 4th. Proceeds support animal care and conservation. For more information, click here.

Walkable Light Experience at Tyson's Corner: A stunning Walkable Light Experience on the Plaza, sponsored by George Mason University is coming to Tyson's Corner. Collaborating with Enchant DC, the center aims to create the largest free light experience in the DMV. This year, the Plaza will feature 11 new interactive light installations, providing even more opportunities for the community to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season. For more information, click here. 

Festival of Lights at Washington DC Temple: The Washington DC Temple Festival of Lights features over 500,000 twinkling Christmas lights, Nativity crèches, and beautiful Christmas tree decorations from around the world, along with daily holiday performances. This festive event runs from December 5th to January 1st, with lights on display nightly from 4:45 to 9:00 p.m. Tickets are not required this year, and both entrance and parking are free; For more information, click here.

Holiday Magic at Westfield Montgomery: Holiday magic has begun at Westfield Montgomery. Experience the joy of bright holiday traditions with live entertainment by The Bachelor Boys Band, dancing, surprise appearances from beloved holiday characters, a cozy Hot Cocoa Station, a Spin Wheel packed with festive surprises, and an exclusive sneak peek at Santa’s Workshop.

SANTA SIGHTINGS:

Alexandria Restaurant Partners: Every weekend in December until Christmas, Alexandria Restaurant Partners restaurants (Ada’s on the River, Joe Theismann’s, and Mia’s Italian Kitchen) will be hosting breakfast with Santa. The event starts with a festive breakfast feast, complete with take-home treats for children and Prosecco bellinis for adults. Then, you’ll meet Santa Claus and take a keepsake photo with him. For more information, click here.

Figleaf Bar & Lounge at Hotel Zena: Gather your loved ones, friends, and colleagues to experience the Holiday Brunch with Santa at Figleaf Bar & Lounge on either Saturday, December 21st or Sunday, December 22nd. Featuring Figleaf's festive Brunch Offering and Bottomless Brunch Cocktails. Step into a world of culinary delight as Executive Chef James Gee crafts an enchanting Holiday menu that marries tradition with innovation. For more information, click here.

Hank’s Old Town: Celebrate the holidays with a festive brunch, live entertainment, and a visit from Santa Claus at Hank’s Old Town! This family-friendly event takes place on Saturdays, December 14th and 21st, and Sundays, December 15th and 22nd, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Hank’s second floor. Enjoy a delicious brunch buffet featuring a build-your-own waffle bar, huevos rancheros, eggs benedict, shrimp & grits, and assorted desserts. Coffee, tea, milk, and hot chocolate are included, with additional beverages like mimosas and Bloody Marys available à la carte. At 11:45 a.m., children can enjoy live entertainment from talented performers. Santa arrives at 12:20 p.m. for photos and holiday cheer. Tickets are $55 for adults and $35 for children twelve and under. Reserve your spot here.

Hard Rock Café: Families are invited to kick off the season with Breakfast with Santa, complete with a breakfast buffet, complimentary mimosa for adults, and photos with Santa himself. To purchase a ticket, click here.

The Morrow Hotel: Join The Morrow Hotel for their second annual Santa Paws at The Morrow Hotel! Freeze time this Holiday season for a PAWsome event where you and your furry friends can meet Santa Claus himself. This gathering promises a wagging good time. Pose with the PAWparazzi to capture the adorable moments of your pets with Santa. Freeze the most special moments by purchasing the photos, available both printed and digitally, that make a FURever impact with donations towards The D.C. Humane Rescue Alliance and Homeward Trails. For more information, click here.

MUSEUM VISITS: 

Tingle Bells: An ASMR Holiday Special at Artechouse: In a sea of seasonal over-stimulation, ARTECHOUSE invites you to step into a world of serenity and sensory wonder with their new immersive holiday exhibition, Tingle Bells: An ASMR Inspired Holiday Special. Opening to the public on November 22, 2024, at ARTECHOUSE DC, Tingle Bells: An ASMR Holiday Special, will be an immersive digital exhibition designed to soothe your senses and warm your spirit. Inspired by the transformative power of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR), this one-of-a-kind, limited-run experience invites you to unwind in a sanctuary of sound and visuals designed to promote relaxation in the mind and body. Reserve tickets here.

Holiday Bricktacular at LEGO Discovery Center DC: Starting November 30th, LEGO Discovery Center DC will have a new event experience called Build To Give where families can create joy in the biggest donation of LEGO sets to children in need by building a LEGO heart. Other holiday happenings include the “Mini World DC Winter Wonderland”, featuring iconic holiday scenes and more. 

SHOP TILL YOU DROP: 

Downtown DC Holiday Market: Wrap up something special this holiday season with a gift from the Downtown DC Holiday Market. From Nov 22- Dec 23, you can shop from dozens of vendors across food to homewear. For more information, click here. 

DC Holiday Market: The DC Holiday Market returns to a new location in Dupont Circle, running from Friday, November 22nd through Sunday, December 15th (closed Thanksgiving Day). The market features over 30 small businesses offering unique gifts, handmade crafts, and boutique items. Open 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends, the market brings festive décor, live performances from local talent, and its signature holiday spirit to Dupont Circle, near iconic spots like Kramers Books & Café and The Dupont Circle Hotel. Conveniently just one block from the Dupont Circle Metro, it’s the perfect place to shop local this holiday season. 202.215.6993; 1500 block of 19th St. NW; click here to see more info. 

District Bridges: District Bridges presents the return of the Holly Jolly Market on December 14th, from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. along 14th Street. This festive event promises a day of shopping, holiday cheer, and community fun, offering an opportunity to boost foot traffic, connect with new customers, and make the season a success; For more information, click here.

Heurich House: Each December, the Heurich House Museum in historic Dupont Circle curates DC’s only multi-day holiday market consisting of ALL local makers. For the first time ever in its 12 year history, this year’s Christmas Markt will be held for an entire week from Friday, December 6th to Friday, December 13th. To purchase a ticket, click here. 

The Morrow: On December 14th, get some last-minute holiday shopping done while supporting local businesses at Artisans in the Village! The Morrow will be hosting this holiday vendor pop-up in the lobby and outside of the hotel, featuring local businesses and artisans for any gifts to finish up holiday shopping lists.

National Harbor: The National Harbor Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show Series starts on Saturday and Sunday, November 30th and December 1st and continues every Saturday and Sunday through December 22nd from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Each week, new crafters and artisans will have their works for sale. For more information, click here.

Procrastinator's Holiday Market: Get last-minute holiday shopping done at the Procrastinator's Holiday Market on Saturday, December 14th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Kraken Kourts and Skates. This free, family-friendly event features local vendors, festive activities, and free holiday train rides as well as special menus and a raffle for vendor items. For tickets click here, and for more info click here.

Union Market: The Union Market Holiday Pop-Up Market, hosted by La Cosecha’s Arttepuy, is happening every weekend through December. This vibrant market showcases talented local artists and makers. It’s the perfect place to find unique, handcrafted gifts while supporting small businesses and embracing the festive spirit of the season. For more information, click here.

HOLIDAY POP-UPS & SEASONAL SETTINGS: 

Caroled at The Commodore: The Commodore is giving a special winter treat this holiday season with Caroled at the Commodore. Enjoy being haunted by three-spirited pop-up rooms... Christmas Past, Present, and Yet To Come... paired with spirited libations. 

Firepits & S’more at Rooftop Kitchen: Rooftop dining is a rare treat in the Capitol, and Rooftop Kitchen has you covered this winter. Featuring an expansive patio complete with large outdoor fire pits, patio heaters, and cozy blankets, it’s the ultimate spot to snuggle up, enjoy incredible city views, and indulge in delicious drinks and bites. Sip on signature cocktails like the smoky Wahakan Hat Trick, a Rooftop Old Fashioned made with Russell’s Reserve 10-Year, an Espresso Martini crafted with Hanson of Sonoma Espresso Vodka, or a classic Negroni with Ford’s Gin. For something sweet, enjoy dessert wines like Taylor Fladgate 10-Year Port, offering spicy, woody complexity with rich cherry fruit notes. More info here. 

Blitzen Bar at the Omni: This holiday season, Omni Hotels & Resorts is partnering with renowned mixologist Julie Reiner to launch Blitzen’s Bar pop up Holiday bar, which will be located at 13 Omni properties across the country including DownTime at The Omni Homestead Resort. Available through December 30, the exclusive menu at Blitzen’s will feature innovative libations from Reiner, who is known for co-founding iconic New York City cocktail bars Clover Club, Milady’s, and Leyanda, as well as a judge on Netflix’s hit series Drink Masters. More info here. 

Lulu’s Wine(ter) Garden (Patio Pleasures):  Lulu’s Winegarden has unveiled its annual holiday pop-up “Lulu’s Wine(ter)garden.” The Southwest-inspired U Street wine garden has once again transformed its entire space into a desert winter wonderland -- but new this year, you will find an expanded holiday cocktail menu and a more-decked-out-than-ever space, plus its beloved winter food specials and holiday wine boxes, returning through early January. More info here. 

Tabletop Firepit Experience at Calico (Patio Pleasures): Calico is partnering with WhistlePig Whiskey and Solo Stove to offer a tabletop firepit experience this Fall and Winter. The firepit experience includes campfire inspired cocktails and smores kits on their heated patio. The experience is available every Thursday - Sunday for $25 per person. To make a reservation, click here. 

Colada Shop’s Holiday Bar: Step into a festive Cuban wonderland at Colada Shop’s Holiday Bar pop-ups at our 14th St and Clarendon locations! Escape the winter chill and immerse yourself in a Havana-style holiday celebration featuring tropical decor and a lineup of creatively crafted cocktails.Sip on the Coquito Shooter, Rum Cider, Churro Manhattan, Cuba Libre Navidad, and more. Cocktails are $12+. 

Dreamland at Duke’s Grocery: Duke's Grocery invites guests to celebrate the season in awe-inspiring fashion with "Dreamland: The Narnia-inspired Bar" – a holiday pop-up returning to its Navy Yard location on Thursday, December 5th and running through the holidays. This will be the second iteration of Duke’s Grocery’s Dreamland, and like the first will provide guests with an unforgettable experience filled with wonder and holiday magic, this time with a lineup of Narnia-themed libations. For more information, click here. 

Nutcracker Tea at Fairmont: Fairmont Washington D.C. Georgetown is offering Nutcracker Afternoon Tea on Saturday and Sundays in December beginning on the 7th through the 29th including Friday, December 20 and 27. The whimsically decorated Loggia overlooking the courtyard’s holiday lights is the perfect venue for the festive holiday tea presented from 1 to 3pm. Executive Chef Jaime Montes de Oca, Senior Sous Chef Delonte Avery and Executive Pastry Chef Claus Olsen’s savory and sweet nutcracker-themed holiday delights will please palates of all ages.

Mercy Me’s Winter El Chalet (Patio Pleasures): For the second year, Mercy Me has been transformed into a charming winter chalet in partnership with IHG. Filled with snow-covered pine, ambient lighting, wood textures, and fireplaces throughout, Mercy Me’s El Chalet brings together a warm ambiance, hearty cuisine, festive cocktails, and the spirit of Patagonian winter celebrations to create an ideal seasonal escape. The chalet patio will open on December 3rd, welcoming guests from Tuesdays through Saturdays and offering Seasonal Sips and Festive Fare. For more information, click here.

Snow Globe Pop Up at Hi-Lawn: Hi-Lawn has unveiled “The Dome” – a spherical, immersive “gastro-gallery under the stars” experience. Snowglow at The Dome is embracing European-inspired comfort foods, with an a la carte menu of shareable small plates from esteemed chef Nathan Beauchamp. Find comfort in dishes such as fondue raclette, luxe lobster bisque, and seasonal smørrebrød, plus a filet-for-two. For more information, click here.

Blitzen’s Bar at Omni Hotels & Resorts: This holiday season, Omni Hotels & Resorts is partnering with renowned mixologist Julie Reiner to launch Blitzen’s Bar pop up Holiday bar. From November 15th - December 30th, the exclusive menu at Blitzen’s will feature innovative libations from Reiner. Upon entering Blitzen’s Bar at The Omni Homestead Resort, guests will be transported to a joyful wonderland that evokes an over-the-top festive ambiance with an elevated look and feel. Drawing inspiration from classic holiday flavors the 12-cocktail menu from Reiner will feature fun twists on the classics, as well as festive garnishes. For more information, click here.

A Toast to Staying Toasty at Park Hyatt: Park Hyatt has debuted its Fire Garden. he newly created outdoor oasis is reflective of a sunken garden with this Zen-like space which is ideal for unwinding with family and friends to enjoy the crisp temperatures offset by the working firepits and cozy blankets provided on the terrace. The Fire Garden is open seven days a week, from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. (weather permitting). Seating is available on a first come, first serve basis. o keep one’s spirits warm, guests can savor handcrafted winter cocktails that will be available exclusively at the Fire Garden. Choices include the Gingerbread Martini with vanilla vodka, Irish cream and ginger; Chai White Russian with chair spiced cream, spiced rum and cinnamon, and Hot Toddy with cognac, rooftop honey, lemon and cloves. For more information, click here.

Swingers, the Crazy Golf Club’s, Winter Courtyard: In partnership with Campari, Swingers is transforming into an enchanting holiday setting this season. The space has been transformed into a magical winter wonderland with snow-dusted trees, twinkling fairy lights, festive decor, seasonal cocktails, light bites, a winter-themed prize wheel, and festive photo opportunities. For more information, click here.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS:

Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker: The Washington Ballet's holiday show features the Nutcracker. This D.C.-themed production features dancing cherry blossoms, cardinals, and famous figures like Betsy Ross, Harriet Tubman, and George Washington as the Nutcracker. Amidst the charming streets of Georgetown and cherry blossom trees, stunning dance performances and nods to DC’s rich history make this an unforgettable experience for all ages. The Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker will transport audiences into a winter wonderland that has become a lasting holiday tradition not to be missed. Get tickets here. 

Bethesda Winter Wonderland: From now through December 24, step into Santa’s Workshop, specially designed to be a hands-on holiday experience. Children are invited to actively engage in festive activities, from writing and sending letters at the North Pole Post Office enjoying Mrs. Claus’ weekly story time, and creating holiday masterpieces in Comet’s Craft Room including exclusive mini build classes with LEGO.  The spirit of giving is woven throughout with gift wrapping provided by local nonprofit organizations, including the Girl Scouts, Hope Connections—dedicated to supporting those affected by cancer—and Sleep in Heavenly Peace—committed to building and delivering beds to children in need.  Santa’s Workshop is more than just a visit; it’s a fully immersive experience where holiday magic comes to life through creativity, compassion, and community. 

A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre: Ford’s Theatre Director Paul R. Tetreault announced that Craig Wallace (Fences, Necessary Sacrifices, Death of a Salesman, The Guard, Driving Miss Daisy) will return to Ford’s to reprise the role of Ebenezer Scrooge for the company’s holiday production of A Christmas Carol. Also returning to A Christmas Carol are Kimberly Gilbert (The Trip to Bountiful, Born Yesterday, Jefferson’s Garden) as the Ghost of Christmas Present, Justine “Icy” Moral (Ragtime, Into The Woods) as the Ghost of Christmas Past and the Ghost of Christmas Future and Joe Mallon (Little Shop of Horrors, Shout Sister Shout, One Destiny) as the Clock Vendor.  More information here. 

A Christmas Carol at The Olney Theatre: Renowned Washington actor, Michael Russotto will substitute for Paul Morella in the 15th edition of the latter’s solo adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas at Olney Theatre Center. The show runs through December 29, 2024. Originally conceived, adapted, and staged by Paul Morella, his version of the story is distinguished by its faithfulness to Dickens’ prose, as well as by the fact that a single actor plays every one of the play’s nearly fifty characters. More information here. 

Decorated House Tours: Explore the lives of turn-of-the-century Washingtonians on a tour of the historic home of brewer and immigrant Christian Heurich at the Heurich House Museum. Step back in time to the year 1894, and see things from the eyes of household staff, Heurich brewery workers, the craftspeople who built his home, the brewer himself, and his wife Amelia. Get tickets here. 

A Mass for Christmas Eve: Baroque Music for the Season at Folger Shakespeare Theatre: Folger Consort, the early music ensemble-in-residence at the Folger Shakespeare Library, continues its beloved DC holiday tradition, hosting eleven concerts of A Mass for Christmas Eve: Baroque Music for the Season from Friday, December 6 through Sunday, December 15. Performances will take place at the historic Elizabethan-styled theater, adorned for the season to create an immersive holiday ambiance. This year’s centerpiece is Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit pour Noël, a Christmas Mass composed in 1694. Known for his beguiling blend of baroque dance rhythms and sophisticated harmonies, Charpentier drew inspiration from traditional French noels, creating a work rich in folk-inspired melodies that resonate with the joy and reverence of the season. folger.edu

The Darcy: From December 2nd - January 28th, the lobby of the hotel will transform into an Unapologetically DC LEGO Art Installation. You are invited to view the mind-boggling display of LEGO creations from Santa's festive preparations to a jaw-dropping replica of DC's iconic Pennsylvania Avenue, all crafted with the beloved little bricks. Visitors can embrace their inner child and cast their vote for their favorite masterpiece in person or on social media.

PUT ON YOUR SKATES: 

DowntownDC Holiday Skate Spectacular: Join the DowntownDC BID for the Holiday Skate Spectacular at the National Building Museum’s Great Hall from December 16th to January 4th. Enjoy free skating on an indoor synthetic ice rink daily from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Bring skates or rent a pair for $5. Don’t miss special guest appearances, food, and family-friendly activities, including theme days. Skating is free and open to all. Click here to learn more.

Gaylord National: Experience the beloved ICE! attraction at Gaylord National. This year’s theme is A Charlie Brown Christmas from November 15th - December 28th. Don their signature blue parkas and step into a wonderland carved by artisans out of 2 million pounds of ice. For more information, click here.

Sculpture Garden: The DC Sculpture Garden ice rink reopens November 23, 2024–March 2, 2025 (weather permitting). Enjoy  Pavilion Café and pop-up performances from Team USA and local figure skaters at 7:00 p.m. with a meet-and-greet to follow. To purchase a ticket, click here. 

Washington Harbor: The Washington Harbor Ice Rink is officially open for the holiday season! Enjoy scenic view of the Potomac River, Kennedy Center, Key Bridge, and more while skating. For more information, click here.