Top Christmas Markets and Events in Washington, DC for 2024

The nation’s capital transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with festive markets, light displays, and historical celebrations. From iconic holiday attractions on the National Mall to bustling holiday markets, Washington, D.C. offers a variety of ways to celebrate the season. Here’s a list of the top Christmas events and markets happening across D.C. in 2024 to make your holidays memorable!

1. Downtown Holiday Market

One of the most popular holiday markets in D.C., the Downtown Holiday Market features over 70 exhibitors offering unique gifts, arts, and crafts, as well as festive food and live music. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s a must-visit for holiday shoppers.

• Dates: November 17 – December 23, 2024
• Location: F Street NW between 7th and 9th Streets, Washington, D.C.
• Website: downtownholidaymarket.com

2. National Christmas Tree and Pathway of Peace

See the National Christmas Tree illuminated on the Ellipse near the White House. The Pathway of Peace surrounds the tree, featuring smaller trees representing each U.S. state and territory. This iconic display includes nightly musical performances and is free to visit.

• Dates: December 5, 2024 – January 1, 2025 (Lighting ceremony on December 5)
• Location: The Ellipse, near the White House
• Website: thenationaltree.org

3. Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park

Enchant Christmas brings its spectacular light maze, holiday market, and ice skating rink to Nationals Park. Visitors can explore a dazzling Christmas light maze, shop for gifts, enjoy holiday treats, and meet Santa at this immersive holiday event.

• Dates: November 22, 2024 – December 29, 2024
• Location: Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.
• Website: enchantchristmas.com

4. ZooLights at Smithsonian’s National Zoo

ZooLights is a favorite holiday tradition in D.C., where the National Zoo is transformed with thousands of LED lights, animal-shaped displays, and holiday music. Enjoy a light show synchronized to music and warm treats in a magical zoo setting.

• Dates: November 24, 2024 – January 1, 2025
• Location: Smithsonian’s National Zoo, Washington, D.C.
• Website: nationalzoo.si.edu

5. Christmas at Mount Vernon

Experience a colonial-style Christmas at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Enjoy candlelit tours, historic decorations, and 18th-century holiday traditions, including visits with Aladdin the Christmas camel. It’s a wonderful holiday trip just outside D.C.

• Dates: November 22 – December 22, 2024 (Select dates for candlelit tours)
• Location: Mount Vernon, Virginia (near D.C.)
• Website: mountvernon.org

6. U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is an iconic holiday sight, decorated each year with ornaments created by citizens from the tree’s home state. The lighting ceremony and tree display are free to the public, providing a beautiful holiday photo opportunity.

• Dates: December 4, 2024 – January 1, 2025 (Lighting ceremony on December 4)
• Location: West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, Washington, D.C.
• Website: capitolchristmastree.com

7. The Wharf Holiday Boat Parade

The Wharf’s Holiday Boat Parade on the Potomac River features decorated boats, fireworks, and holiday cheer along D.C.’s waterfront. Visitors can enjoy live music, s’mores by the fire, and holiday shopping at The Wharf’s holiday market.

• Date: December 7, 2024
• Location: The Wharf, Washington, D.C.
• Website: wharfdc.com

8. Season’s Greenings at the U.S. Botanic Garden

The U.S. Botanic Garden’s Season’s Greenings event features holiday displays, model trains, and beautiful plant-based recreations of iconic D.C. landmarks. This indoor event is a cozy and festive way to enjoy the holiday season.

• Dates: November 23, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Location: U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, D.C.
• Website: usbg.gov

9. Georgetown GLOW

Georgetown GLOW is a free outdoor public art exhibition featuring illuminated installations created by local and international artists. Wander through Georgetown’s historic streets and enjoy these stunning light displays as you do some holiday shopping.

• Dates: December 1, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Location: Georgetown, Washington, D.C.
• Website: georgetownglowdc.com

10. Miracle on 7th Street

Miracle on 7th Street is a pop-up holiday bar known for its creative cocktails, over-the-top holiday decor, and themed rooms. Located in the Shaw neighborhood, this unique experience offers a fun and festive way to celebrate the season.

• Dates: Late November – December 31, 2024
• Location: Shaw neighborhood, Washington, D.C.
• Website: miraclepopup.com