Arlington Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Arlington and surrounding areas
Arlington welcomes the festive season with Holiday lights adorning Clarendon and Columbia Pike for Christmas 2025, offering many things to do. Events like Holiday Cheer! Concert, Step Afrika!'s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show, and the Alternative Christmas Market at First Presbyterian Church Arlington spotlight seasonal performances, Christmas markets, and Santa visits. Stroll around Crystal City and Rosslyn for holiday attractions, festive tours, and activities that blend local artisans with community traditions.
Find the best Arlington Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Markets
31 eventsOver 35 artisans in a festive Dupont Circle holiday market.
Christmas Shows
19 eventsDC's holiday tradition with local twists
Christmas Lights
19 eventsIconic National Christmas Tree and state/territory ornaments
Other Christmas Activities
26 eventsAlcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration focused on performing arts.
Editor's Picks (6)
-
First Night Alexandria 2025
(Alexandria)
Alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration focused on performing arts.
-
DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
(Washington)
Over 35 artisans in a festive Dupont Circle holiday market.
-
The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
(Washington)
Iconic National Christmas Tree and state/territory ornaments
-
The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker
(Washington)
DC's holiday tradition with local twists
-
Christmas at Gaylord National featuring The Polar Express
(National Harbor)
ICE! attraction featuring The Polar Express™ carved from ice
-
Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2025
(North Bethesda)
28th annual jazz Christmas tour with acclaimed artists
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Parties Near Arlington
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Arlington.
American Girl Holiday Teatime Traditions
Festive teatime experiences with doll-friendly seating and crafts.
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Arlington
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Arlington.
Holiday Sharing Program
Community support for vulnerable children's needs.
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about events and activities in Arlington
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Arlington
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Also Near Arlington
Washington
- The Nutcracker Tea Party
- Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden
- U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Alexandria
- Alexandria Holiday Markets
- Alexandria's Biggest Holiday Weekend
- Christmas at Gaylord National featuring The Polar Express™
Wheaton
See all in Wheaton →Arlington Christmas FAQ
The Arlington Holiday Lights Parade and the Interlochen Holiday Lights are among the city’s most popular annual events, drawing families and visitors each December.
Arlington is known for its neighborhood light displays, especially in Interlochen, and the annual Holiday Lights Parade, which brings the community together each year.
Interlochen is especially famous for its holiday lights, but many other neighborhoods also participate with festive displays each season.
Seasonal markets and local makers can be found at community centers, parks, and shopping areas throughout Arlington, especially during December.
Free activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending the Holiday Lights Parade, and exploring local parks with holiday decorations.
Families enjoy the Holiday Lights Parade, Interlochen Holiday Lights, and seasonal markets with kid-friendly activities and photo opportunities.