The Washington DC area sure puts on a show come the holiday season. Our little family loves this time of year and we even have our little tradition of visiting the many Festive displays all around town. With so many DC holiday activities and events to enjoy (some of them free!), I know it can feel overwhelming to decide where to start. Thatโs why Iโve put together this neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide to help you plan your holiday outings with ease. For our out-of-town visitors, Iโve included recommendations for affordable family-friendly restaurants and hotels near each area so you can stretch your holiday budget while making unforgettable memories. Enjoy this ultimate DC holiday guide!
This post may contain affiliate links. Affiliate links are no extra charge to you, but I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase. You can find the full policy here.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Table of Contents
Iconic DC Holiday Activities Near the National Mall
National Christmas Tree & Pathway of Peace
The Ellipse, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20500
An iconic tree located near the White House, surrounded by 58 smaller trees representing U.S. states and territories, adorned with ornaments crafted by local artisans.
- Lighting Ceremony: December 5, 2024
- Dates: December 7 – January 1
- Hours: Sun-Thu 10 am – 10 pm ; Fri-Sat 10 am – 11 pm
- Admission: FREE
- Closest Metro Station: Federal Triangle or Metro Center (Blue/Orange/Silver lines)
- Parking: Limited metered street parking
US Botanic Garden DC Holiday Display and Trains
100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington DC 20001
The “Season’s Greenings” exhibit is back at the US botanic Garden. This exhibit features famous DC landmarks made from plants, poinsettias, and holiday decor. Make sure to check out the model trains in the Outdoor Gardens.
- Dates: November 28, 2024, to January 5, 2025
- Hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily (closed December 25), extended hours until 8:00 PM on select Tuesdays and Thursdays (December 10, 12, 17, 19, and 26)
- Admission: FREE
- Closest Metro Station: Federal Center SW (Blue/Orange/Silver lines)
- Parking: Limited metered street parking
Capitol Christmas Tree
East Capitol St NE & First St SE, Washington, DC 20004
Every year, a different national forest is selected to provide a tree to appear on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol building for the holiday season. The 2024 tree will be coming from Alaskaโs Tongass National Forest, adorned with handmade ornaments from across the nation, and standing majestically on the West Front Lawn of the Capitol.
- Viewing Hours: Lit daily from dusk until 11:00 PM through January 1, 2025
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: Capitol South (Blue/Orange/Silver lines)
- Parking: Limited street parking
Embassy of Canada’s Annual Holiday Tree
501 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
The Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C., celebrates the holiday season by displaying a beautifully decorated Christmas tree in its open rotunda, facing Pennsylvania Avenue. The balsam fir tree is adorned with glowing red and green lights, adding festive charm to the embassy’s grand architecture.
- Hours: The tree is typically on display from early December through the holiday season. While the tree is visible from the street, access to the embassy’s interior spaces may be restricted (check the embassy’s website before your visit)
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: ArchivesโNavy MemorialโPenn Quarter (Green/Yellow lines)
- Parking: Limited street parking is available in the area
Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
Constitution Ave NW & 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20408
An iconic ice rink surrounded by sculptures and the National Mall
- Dates: November 23 – March 2
- Hours: SunโThu: 11 AM – 9 PM; FriโSat: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Admission: $12 13+; $10 12 and under; $6 skate rentals
- Metro: ArchivesโNavy MemorialโPenn Quarter (Green/Yellow lines)
- Parking: Nearby garages available
Where to Eat Near National Mall DC Holiday Spots
- Old Ebbitt Grill: a DC institution with hearty fare perfect after exploring the National Mall
- Founding Farmers: local favorite offering farm-to-table holiday meals
Where to Stay Near National Mall DC Holiday Spots
- Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall: family-friendly amenities include large rooms with sofa beds and complimentary breakfast
- Holiday Inn Washington-Central/White House offers comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast
- Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill: conveniently located near the National Mall with family-friendly amenities
Top Downtown DC Holiday Spots for Families
DowntownDC Holiday Market
F Street NW, between 7th and 9th Streets NW, Washington, D.C.
The Downtown DC Holiday Market is a beloved annual event in Washington, D.C., celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Located in the Penn Quarter-Chinatown neighborhood, the market offers a festive atmosphere with over 110 vendors, multiple food options, entertainment, festive decor and lights.
- Dates: November 22 to December 23, 2024
- Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Admission: FREE
- Metro: Gallery Place-Chinatown Station (Red/Yellow/Green lines) via the 7th and F Street exit and Metro Center Station (Red/Blue/Orange/Silver lines) via 9th and G Street Exit
- Parking: Limited street parking; nearby paid garages are available
CityCenter DC Tree Lighting
825 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
75-foot tree adorned with over 155,000 lights and ornaments, serving as the centerpiece of CityCenterDC’s holiday decorations which include two 25-foot reindeers, and an art installation at Palmer Alley
- Lighting Ceremony: November 30, 2004 from 5-7 pm
- Hours: Lit daily from dusk until 10:00 PM
- Admission: FREE
- Closest Metro Station: Metro Center (Red/Blue/Orange/Silver lines)
- Parking: Limited street parking
The Nutcracker Ballet at the Warner Theatre: a Timeless DC Holiday Show
513 13th Street, NW Washington, DC 20004
The Washington Balletโs The Nutcracker offers a unique D.C.-themed experience with dancing cherry blossoms, cardinals, and iconic figures like George Washington as the Nutcracker. Set in Georgetown and celebrating the cityโs rich history, this stunning performance is a must-see holiday tradition for all ages.
- Dates: November 30 – December 29
- Hours: Showtimes vary. Check schedule and purchase tickets here
- Admission: Prices vary
- Closest Metro Station: Metro Center (Red/Blue/Orange/Silver lines)
- Parking: Limited street parking
Union Station Norwegian Tree and Train Holiday Display
50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
Hosted by the Embassy of Norway, Union Station features a towering Christmas tree and a model train display, celebrating Norwegian holiday traditions.
- Lighting Ceremony: December 10 at 6 pm
- Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: Union Station (Red line)
- Parking: Union Station parking garage available
ZooLights
3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington DC 20008
ZooLights welcomes visitors to walk down festive pathways and explore immersive displays throughout the Zoo. No animal sightings during Zoolights as they will be asleep.
- Dates: November 22 – January 4
- Hours: 5 pm to 9 pm Thu-Fri-Sat-Mon, 5 pm to 8 pm Sun
- Admission: $6 per guest over 2 must get advanced tickets HERE
- Closest Metro Station: Woodley Park-Zoo or Cleveland Park (Red line)
- Parking: Limited $30 parking; public transportation recommended
Where to Eat Near Downtown DC Holiday Attractions
- District Taco: casual eatery serving customizable tacos and burritos
- Carmineโs: classic Italian-American restaurant serving family-style portions perfect for sharing
Where to Stay Near Downtown DC Holiday Attractions
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Washington, DC/Downtown offers free breakfast and spacious rooms for families, with a central location
- Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center provides family suites and free breakfast
Holiday Cheers and Festivities in SouthWest DC
Light Yards
305 Water Street SE, Washington DC 20003
Starting November 25 through January 1, Light Yards is back with another family-friendly art installation at The Yards Park! This yearโs holiday light installation, Swinging Bells, invites guests to become part of the artwork by prompting animated light displays and amplify the cheerful sound of holiday bells through swinging.
- Hours: 5 pm to 10 pm nightly
- Admission: FREE timed-tickets here
- Closest Metro Station: Navy Yard – Ballpark (Green line) & Capitol South (Blue, Orange, Silver lines)
- Parking: Limited metered street parking
Holiday Boat Parade & Party at the Wharf
The Yards Park, 355 Water St SE, Washington, DC 20003
A festive boat parade featuring 60+ illuminated boats cruising along the Anacostia River, accompanied by live entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities at the Wharf.
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Hours: Festivities begin at 6:00 PM; parade starts at 7:00 PM
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: Waterfront (Green line) & L’Enfant Plaza (Blue, Orange, Silver, Green, Yellow lines)
- Parking: Limited paid garages
ARTECHOUSE
1238 Maryland Ave SW, Washigton DC 20024
Experience the holidays like never before with ARTECHOUSEโs Tingle Bells: An ASMR-Inspired Holiday Special. This immersive digital exhibition blends the warmth of tradition with cutting-edge artistry, with soothing sounds and stunning visuals creating a peaceful escape from holiday stress.
- Dates: November 22 – January 5
- Hours: open daily from 10 am to 10 pm
- Admission: Adults $23.85+; Kids $16.96; DMV residents $19.08 online tickets here
- Closest Metro Station: Smithsonian and L’Enfant Plaza
- Parking: parking garage and limited metered street parking
Where to Eat Near the Yards DC Holiday Events
- Shake Shack: family favorite for burgers, fries, and milkshakes, with seating overlooking the waterfront
- Union Pie: this casual spot offers wood-fired pizzas that kids and adults alike will love
Where to Stay Near the Yards DC Holiday Festivities
- Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf: spacious suites with full kitchens and free breakfast, perfect for families
- Residence Inn by Marriott Washington, DC Downtown: ideal for families with its suite-style rooms, complimentary breakfast, and waterfront location
Georgetown DC Holiday Guide: Music, Shopping, and Ice Skating
Georgetown Jingle
Multiple locations throughout Georgetown
First-ever holiday music event โ featuring 10 live music performances at 10 outdoor locations throughout Georgetown. Artists will perform festive songs and holiday favorites โ from soul to jazz, a cappella, pop, DJ sets, and kidsโ music. More than 40 Georgetown shops, restaurants and services will also be offering special discounts, complimentary refreshments, and pop-up events that day.
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Hours: 1 pm – 4 pm
- Admission: Free
- Metro: Foggy BottomโGWU (Blue/Orange/Silver lines)
- Parking: Metered Street parking
Ice Skating at Washington Harbour
3000 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Skate on this scenic skating rink by the Potomac River
- Hours: Daily 11:00 AMโ8:30 PM; extended hours on weekends and holidays
- Admission: $11 adults; $9 children; $7 skate rentals; $10 penguin rental
- Metro: Foggy BottomโGWU (Blue/Orange/Silver lines)
- Parking: Garage parking at Washington Harbour
Holiday Shopping in Georgetown: a DC Holiday Favorite
Stroll along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue for unique boutiques and luxury retailers.
- Metro: Foggy BottomโGWU (Blue/Orange/Silver lines)
- Parking: Metered Street parking. Best to book parking in advance through SpotHero.
Family Gingerbread Workshop at Tudor Place
1644 31st Street, NW | Washington, DC 20007
Enjoy a brief, kid-friendly guided tour of Tudor Place focusing on architecture and holiday traditions, then design your own house, cottage or mansion at this family-friendly gingerbread workshop.
- Date: December 9, 2024
- Hours: 10 am – 11:30 am
- Admission: Child Member: $15; Child Non-member: $20, Accompanying adult: $5. Event is SOLD OUT
- Metro: Foggy BottomโGWU (Blue/Orange/Silver lines)
- Parking: Metered Street parking
Where to Eat in Georgetown
- Pizzeria Paradiso serves wood-fired pizzas in a family-friendly setting
- Clyde’s of Georgetown offers a diverse menu suitable for all ages
Where to Stay in Georgetown
- River Inn: boutique hotel featuring spacious suites with full kitchen and many other amenities
- The Graham Georgetown: A boutique hotel with family-friendly amenities
National Harbor DC Holiday Fun: Festive Activities by the Water
Gaylord National Harbor Resort’s ICE! Experience
201 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD 20745
Visitors can enjoy spectacular indoor winter wonderland featuring hand-carved ice sculptures, slides, and much more
- Hours: Early November through December; 10:00 AMโ9:00 PM
- Admission: Starting at $25 for children and $30 for adults
- Closest Metro Station: Not directly accessible by Metro; NH2 Metrobus from King Street Metro
- Parking: On-site parking garage; rates vary.
National Harbor Christmas Tree
150 National Plaza, National Harbor, MD 20745
A 60-foot RGB tree adorned with thousands of lights, offering a nightly light show synchronized to holiday music by the US Air Force Band
- Lighting Ceremony: November 9, 2024, at 5:30 PM
- Fireworks: Saturday nights at 5:30 pm
- Hours: Nightly light shows every half hour from sunset until 9:00 PM through December 28, 2024
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: Not directly accessible by Metro; take the NH2 Metrobus from King StreetโOld Town Station (Blue/Yellow Lines)
- Parking: Multiple parking garages available; rates vary
Movies on the Potomac
Plaza Screen, 165 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD 20745
Watch classic holiday movies like the Polar Express, Jack Frost, Santa Clause, and more on the Plaza big screen. Bring blankets, chairs, and snacks for free family fun.
- Dates: November 10, 2024, to December 29
- Hours: Sundays at 11:30 am
- Admission: FREE
- Closest Metro Station: Not directly accessible by Metro; take the NH2 Metrobus from King StreetโOld Town Station (Blue/Yellow Lines)
- Parking: Multiple parking garages available; rates vary
Other PG County Holiday Lights at Watkins Regional Park (Upper Marlboro, Maryland)
301 Watkins Park Dr, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
A festive drive-through light show featuring themed displays and seasonal music
- Dates: November 29 – through January 1
- Hours: nightly 5:00 PMโ9:30 PM
- Admission: $15 per car for advanced online purchase; $20 per car if purchased at the gate
- Closest Metro Station: Drive-thru only
Where to Eat at National Harbor During the DC Holiday Season
- Elevation Burger offers organic burgers and fries
- Potbelly Sandwich Shop serves sandwiches and salads in a casual atmosphere
Where to Stay at National Harbor For DC Holiday Adventures
- Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center: A holiday destination in itself with festive activities for the whole family
- AC Hotel National Harbor: modern rooms with family-friendly services
MoCo Holiday Activities Near DC
Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple (Kensington, MD)
9900 Stoneybrook Dr, Kensington, MD 20895
The DC Mormon Temple hosts a stunning display of over 650,000 lights, along with nightly musical performances. Make sure to check out the International Creche exhibit inside the Visitor Center
- Dates: December 5 – January 1
- Hours: Lights: 4:45 pm – 10:00 pm, Visitor Center: 10 am – 9 pm
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: Grosvenor-Strathmore (Red line)
- Parking: Free on-site parking
Round House Theatre Holiday Shows
4545 East-West Hwy, Bethesda, MD 20814
Family-friendly holiday performances that bring classic seasonal stories to life
- Hours: Showtimes vary; check the schedule here
- Admission: Tickets start at $50
- Closest Metro Station: Bethesda (Red line)
- Parking: Nearby parking garages; free on weekends
Brookside Gardens of Lights (Wheaton, MD)
1800 Glenallan Ave, Wheaton, MD 20902
An enchanting half-mile walk-through exhibit featuring over 1.5 million LED lights handcrafted into original works depicting animals, flowers, and other natural elements
- Dates: November 22 to January 5 (closed Nov. 25-28, Dec. 24-25, and Jan. 1)
- Hours: 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM daily
- Admission: $10 per person (ages 5 and older); tickets must be purchased online in advance
- Closest Metro Station: Glenmont (Red Line), followed by a short bus ride or drive.
- Parking: Free on-site parking available
Winter Lights Festival at Seneca Creek State Park (Gaithersburg, MD)
11950 Clopper Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Drive through 3.5-mile light show featuring over 450 illuminated displays and beautifully lit trees
- Dates: December 29 – December 31 (closed on the 25)
- Hours: Sun-Thu: 6 pm – 9 pm; Fri-Sat: 6 pm to 10 pm
- Admission: $15โ$25 per vehicle. Advance purchase required
- Closest Metro Station: Drive-through only
Winter City Lights (Olney, MD)
501 Olney Laytonsville Rd, Olney, MD 20832
Enchanted winter wonderland sprawling 18 acres and featuring over 1 million twinkling lights, 1.5 mile illuminated trail, bonfires, concessions, snow tubing, and axe throwing
- Hours: 5:30-9 pm now through December 29 on select days check the schedule online
- Admission: Prices start at $20 per person
- Closest Metro Station: Not directly accessible by Metro; driving is recommended
- Parking: Free on-site parking
Salgado Family Christmas Display (Germantown, MD)
11104 Knights Ct, Germantown.
The incredible display by the Salgado Family includes giant lighted arches, over 25 inflatables characters, a 20ft snowman, thousands of lights, an animatronic Santa, and more.
- Hours: Fri-Sun 6:30-9 pm until January 5
- Admission: FREE
- Closest Metro Station: Not directly accessible by Metro; driving is recommended
- Parking: Free parking. Please don’t park in neighbors’ driveways and park outside the neighborhood
Where to Eat in MoCo During the DC Holiday Season
- Silver Diner: modern diner offering a variety of dishes
- Bethesda Bagels: Grab a quick, delicious bite before heading out for more holiday fun
- Cava Mezze Grill offers Mediterranean dishes in a casual setting
Where to Stay in Moco For DC Holiday Adventures
- Hyatt Regency Bethesda: Located in the heart of downtown Bethesda with easy metro access
- Residence Inn Bethesda Downtown: A great option for families with spacious suites and kitchens
Northern Virginia DC Holiday Attractions for Families
Westpost Outdoor Ice Skating at National Landing (Arlington, VA)
1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202
A lively outdoor ice rink surrounded by shopping and dining options in Pentagon Row, perfect for families. This 7,200 square foot ice rink is now the largest outdoor rink in Northern Virginia and the second-largest in the state.
- Hours: Sun-Mon: 10 am – 10 pm; Tue-Thu: noon – 10 pm; Fri: noon – 11 pm; Sat: 10 am – 11 pm (extended holiday hours)
- Admission: online tickets: $11 for adults; $10 for children, seniors, and military; skate rental is $6 (higher prices at gate)
- Closest Metro Station: Pentagon City (Blue/Yellow lines), then a 10-minute walk
- Parking: Pentagon Row parking garage is free with validation
Arlington National Cemetery Wreaths Across America
Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA 22211
Volunteer to place holiday wreaths on graves of fallen service members at this solemn yet beautiful ceremony.
- Dates: December 8 for pass-holders and December 14 for general public
- Hours: 8 am to 5 pm
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: Arlington Cemetery (Blue line)
- Parking: Paid parking available near the Visitor Center
Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (Old Town Alexandria, VA)
Festive parade celebrating Alexandria’s Scottish heritage, featuring bagpipers, Scottish clans, and Santa Claus. Parade route typically along St. Asaph Street and King Street
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Hours: parade starts at 11:00 AM
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: King StreetโOld Town (Blue/Yellow lines), followed by a free trolley or short walk
- Parking: Street parking and parking garages available; rates vary
Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (Old Town Alexandria, VA)
Alexandria Waterfront Park, 1 Prince St, Alexandria, VA 22314
A parade of illuminated boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. There are plenty of holiday festivities in Waterfront Park including a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company, food, activities and more.
- Date: December 7, 2024
- Hours: dockside festivities : 2 to 8 pm; parade starts at 5:30 PM
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: King StreetโOld Town (Blue/Yellow lines), followed by a free trolley or short walk
- Parking: Street parking and parking garages available; rates vary
Reston Town Center Holiday Parade
11900 Market St, Reston, VA 20190
A festive parade featuring floats, marching bands, and a visit from Santa
- Date: November 29
- Hours: 11:00 am – 7 pm
- Admission: Free
- Closest Metro Station: Reston Town Center (Silver line)
- Parking: Free garage parking on weekends and holidays
Reston Ice Skating Pavilion
1818 Discovery St, Reston, VA 20190
Popular outdoor ice rink located in the heart of Reston Town Center
- Hours: Sun-Thu: 11:30 am – 9 pm; Fri-Sat: 11:30 am – 11 pm (extended Holiday hours)
- Admission: $11 for adults; $9 for children 12 and under; skate rental $7; penguin rental $10
- Closest Metro Station: Reston Town Center (Silver line)
- Parking: Parking rarage is Free for the first hour, Free after 5 pm, and Free on weekends
Meadowlark Winter Walk of Lights (Vienna, VA)
9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna, VA 22182
Enjoy a half-mile walk-through light display featuring nature-themed and animated exhibits along a paved, wheelchair, and stroller-accessible trail
- Dates: November 8 – January 5 every night included all holidays
- Hours: nightly Nov 8 – Dec 5: 5:30 pm – 10 pm; Dec 6 – Jan 5: 5 pm to 10 pm. Last admission at 9:15 pm
- Admission: November 8โDecember 5: $18 online, $23 at the door; December 6โ31: $22 online only; January 1โ5: $18 online, $23 at the door. Children under 2 are free. Online tickets here
- Closest Metro Station: Not directly accessible by Metro; driving is recommended
- Parking: Free on-site parking available
Winter Lantern Festival (Vienna, VA)
8025 Galleria Drive, Tysons, VA 22102
Step into a dazzling world of over 1,000 handcrafted Chinese lanterns. Enjoy live acrobatics, food, drinks, games, and gifts in this magical walk-through experience perfect for the whole family!
- Dates: October 31 – January 12
- Hours: Thu-Sun 5 pm – 9:30 pm
- Admission: Tickets start at $20 for adults and $12 for children. Advance purchase here
- Closest Metro Station: Tysons Corner (Silver line), then a short walk
- Parking: Free mall parking; $15 closer parking lots
Northern Virginia Tacky Lights Tour
One of our favorite holiday traditions is hopping in the car to find the best Northern Virginia neighborhood Christmas lights. Hereโs a curated list just for you!
- 1/ 523 S Harrison St, Arlington, VA 22204
- 2/ 2507 Fairview Dr, Alexandria, VA 22306
- 3/ 10108 Marshall Pond Rd, Burke, VA 22015
- 4/ 6410 Glenbard Rd, Burke, VA 22015
- 5/ 3912 Lincolnshire St, Annandale, VA 22003
- 6/ 2528 Drexel St, Vienna, VA 22180
- 7/ 602 Birch St SW, Vienna, VA 22180
- 8/ 2733 Oakton Park Ct, Vienna, VA 22181
- 9/ 10203 Lawyers Rd, Vienna, VA 22181
Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville, VA)
7700 Bull Run Dr, Centreville, VA 20121
Drive through 2.5-mile Holiday light display with themed sections and holiday music, walk-through Holiday Village and Carnival.
- Dates: November 14 – January 5
- Hours: 5:30 PMโ9:30 PM
- Admission: $30 online and $40 on site (Holiday Village and Carnival cost One of our favorite holiday traditions is hopping in the car to find the best neighborhood Christmas lights. Wondering where to go in Northern Virginia? Hereโs a curated list just for you!extra)
- Closest Metro Station: Drive-thru only
- Parking: Free on-site parking
Manassas Christmas Parade
9431 West Street, Manassas, VA 20110
This parade has become one of the largest holiday parades in Northern Virginia with over 100 units- marching bands, floats, high-flying balloons and more!
- Date: December 7
- Hours: 10 am to noon
- Admission: FREE
- Closest Metro Station: not Metro accessible
- Parking: Historic Downtown parking garage or side street parking
Where to Eat in Northern Virginia During the DC Holiday Season
- Silver Diner: classic American diner offering a diverse menu with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Kids can enjoy a dedicated menu
- Vienna Inn: local gem known for its affordable menu featuring hot dogs, burgers, and family-friendly comfort food
- Ted’s Bulletin: classic American eatery with a kids’ menu
- We, The Pizza serves a variety of pizzas and is popular with families
Where to Stay in Northern Virginia For DC Holiday Fun
- Hyatt Regency Reston: situated in Reston Town Center, this hotel provides comfortable accommodations with easy access to shopping and dining, making it ideal for families
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Alexandria Old Town offers spacious suites with separate living areas and complimentary breakfast, conveniently located near Old Town’s attractions
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Tysons Corner: spacious suites with separate living areas, free breakfast, and an indoor pool for kids to enjoy
And there you have it: a a comprehensive guide to making the most of the DC holiday season! From iconic landmarks and festive light displays to family-friendly restaurants and budget-friendly hotels, this guide has everything you need to plan your perfect holiday adventure. Whether youโre visiting Washington, DC for the first time or youโre a local looking for fresh ideas, I hope these activities and attractions add some extra magic to your holiday season.
Have you been to any of these DC holiday spots before? Do you have a favorite event or display that I missed? Iโd love to hear your thoughts. Let me know in the comments! And if youโre planning to visit soon, donโt forget to bookmark this guide to help make your trip unforgettable.
Thank you for reading and happy holidays!
FOR MORE KID-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY OUTINGS:
- NYC: 17 things to do for a magical Christmas in NYC
- Washington DC: day trips from DC for more holiday cheers
FOR MORE DC AREA KID-FRIENDLY OUTINGS:
- DMV: best outdoor playgrounds in the DC area
- Washington DC: how to enjoy the DC cherry blossoms
- Washington DC: top 10 gardens in DC
- Washington DC: top 20 kid-friendly activities in DC