Experience the magic of Arlington, VA, this holiday season with an array of festive events that cater to both locals and visitors. Dive into the radiant wonderland of ZooLights at the National Zoo, where breathtaking LED animal displays and winter treats await. Wander through Georgetown GLOW, an innovative outdoor exhibition that transforms historic streets with contemporary light art installations.
Don’t miss the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, a time-honored tradition illuminating the heart of Washington, D.C., with a dazzling display of lights and musical performances. Arlington offers an enchanting blend of traditional and modern holiday experiences, making it an ideal destination for celebrating the festive season.
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The Top Christmas Events in Arlington
See these and even more events listed below!Arlington Holiday Markets and Shopping
Heights Holiday Market
What to Expect:
Curated market featuring local makers and vintage vendors
Description:
The Heights Holiday Market stands out with its carefully curated selection of local makers and vintage vendors. This intimate market showcases the best of Washington's creative community, offering everything from handmade ceramics to artisanal foods. Visitors can browse through a treasure trove of unique vintage finds, perfect for those seeking one-of-a-kind gifts. The market's relaxed atmosphere encourages conversations with the artisans, allowing you to learn the stories behind their creations. This event, which began as a small neighborhood gathering, has grown into a beloved holiday tradition celebrating local talent and entrepreneurship.
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Nearby Events
National Christmas Tree Lighting (Washington)
What to Expect:
Lighting of the National Christmas Tree on the White House Ellipse
Description:
The National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony illuminates the heart of Washington, D.C. This time-honored tradition dates back to 1923 when President Calvin Coolidge lit the first tree. Visitors can stroll through the Pathway of Peace, admiring 56 smaller trees representing U.S. states and territories. The air fills with the harmonious sounds of choirs and musical performances. You'll witness the grandeur of American holiday spirit as the towering evergreen bursts into a dazzling display of lights against the backdrop of the White House.
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National Christmas Tree Lighting
ZooLights (Washington)
What to Expect:
Animal-themed light displays at the National Zoo
Description:
ZooLights transforms the National Zoo into a luminous wildlife wonderland. Over 500,000 environmentally-friendly LED lights create stunning animal-shaped displays throughout the park. This event offers a unique twist on holiday illuminations, blending conservation education with seasonal cheer. Visitors can ride the solar-powered carousel or indulge in winter treats while exploring the glowing habitats. The National Zoo, founded in 1889, continues its legacy of connecting people with nature through this radiant nighttime experience.
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Georgetown Glow (Washington)
What to Expect:
Outdoor public art light installations in historic Georgetown
Description:
Georgetown GLOW reimagines the holiday light experience through the lens of contemporary art. This free outdoor exhibition showcases innovative light art installations created by local and international artists. The historic cobblestone streets of Georgetown provide a captivating backdrop for these modern luminous creations. Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour, discovering thought-provoking pieces that challenge traditional notions of holiday lighting. This event, initiated in 2014, has quickly become a cherished tradition in Washington's oldest neighborhood.
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Enchant Christmas (Washington)
What to Expect:
World's largest Christmas light maze and village
Description:
Enchant Christmas transports visitors into an immersive world of light and wonder. The centerpiece of this event is the world's largest Christmas light maze, challenging guests to navigate through a twinkling labyrinth. Beyond the maze, a charming Christmas village bustles with activity. You can glide across the ice skating trail, surrounded by millions of sparkling lights. This modern holiday spectacle, which began in 2016, has quickly grown into a multi-city phenomenon, captivating audiences with its grand scale and innovative approach to seasonal celebrations.
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Holiday Market (Washington)
What to Expect:
Outdoor market featuring local artisans and diverse entertainment
Description:
The Downtown Holiday Market pulses with energy, showcasing the vibrant creativity of Washington's local artisans. Over 150 rotating exhibitors offer a treasure trove of unique gifts, from handcrafted jewelry to gourmet foods. The market's soundtrack features an eclectic mix of live performances, ranging from jazz ensembles to a cappella groups. Visitors can savor the aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts while browsing the diverse array of stalls. This beloved market, running since 2004, has become an integral part of the capital's holiday season, supporting small businesses and fostering community spirit.
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Winter Walk of Lights (Vienna)
What to Expect:
Half-mile walking trail through illuminated gardens
Description:
The Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens offers a serene escape into a glowing natural wonderland. This half-mile trail winds through the gardens, showcasing custom-designed light displays that complement the existing landscape. Animated nature scenes spring to life, depicting flowers blooming and butterflies fluttering. Visitors can pause at the Frost Pond to witness a dazzling light show reflected on the water's surface. This event, which began in 2012, beautifully merges horticulture with holiday illuminations, creating a unique outdoor experience in Northern Virginia.
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Mount Vernon Christmas Illuminations (Mount Vernon)
What to Expect:
18th-century holiday celebrations at George Washington's estate
Description:
Mount Vernon Christmas Illuminations transports visitors back to the 18th century, offering a glimpse of holiday celebrations during George Washington's time. The estate comes alive with the glow of candlelight and the crackle of bonfires. Visitors can witness historical reenactments, including traditional dancing and music performances. The highlight of the evening is a spectacular fireworks display over the Potomac River, reminiscent of the grand celebrations of the past. This event provides a unique opportunity to experience the holidays through the lens of American history at the home of the first U.S. President.
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Mount Vernon Christmas Illuminations
Christmas at the Old Bull & Bush (Washington)
What to Expect:
Immersive Edwardian-era British pub experience
Description:
Christmas at the Old Bull & Bush recreates the atmosphere of an Edwardian-era British pub, offering a unique holiday experience. This immersive theater production transports audiences to London circa 1912, complete with period costumes and decor. Visitors can join in singing traditional British carols and music hall ditties, accompanied by a live piano. The show features a mix of comedy sketches, storytelling, and pantomime, capturing the spirit of a classic English Christmas. This production, inspired by a real London pub, brings a slice of British holiday tradition to the heart of Washington, D.C.
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Christmas at the Old Bull & Bush
ICE! at Gaylord National (National Harbor)
What to Expect:
Massive indoor ice sculpture exhibition
Description:
ICE! at Gaylord National showcases the artistry of ice sculpting on a monumental scale. This chilly attraction features two million pounds of ice, hand-carved into elaborate scenes and sculptures. Visitors don blue parkas to explore the 9-degree Fahrenheit wonderland, marveling at the colorful ice formations. The exhibit includes ice slides for both children and adults to enjoy. Each year, the theme changes, bringing new stories and characters to life in frozen form. This unique event, which began in 2008, requires a team of 40 skilled artisans from Harbin, China, to create the icy masterpieces.
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Festival of Lights and Carols (Fairfax)
What to Expect:
Community-centered holiday celebration with tree lighting
Description:
The Festival of Lights and Carols brings together the local community for a heartwarming holiday celebration. This event centers around the lighting of a grand community Christmas tree, symbolizing unity and shared joy. Visitors can join in singing carols led by local choirs and school groups, their voices rising in harmony. The festival features performances by local dance troupes and musicians, showcasing the area's diverse talents. This cherished tradition, which has been running for over two decades, embodies the spirit of community and togetherness during the holiday season.
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Tudor Place Holiday Tea & Tour (Washington)
What to Expect:
Guided tour and tea service at a historic Georgetown mansion
Description:
The Tudor Place Holiday Tea Tour offers a refined holiday experience in a historic setting. This event combines a guided tour of the 1816 Tudor Place mansion with a traditional tea service. Visitors can explore the elegantly decorated rooms, learning about holiday traditions of the early 19th century. The tour culminates in a sumptuous tea service featuring seasonal treats and fine teas. Tudor Place, home to six generations of Martha Washington's descendants, provides a unique backdrop for this holiday event. This intimate experience allows guests to step back in time and savor the elegance of a bygone era.
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Tudor Place Holiday Tea & Tour