See all Washington Christmas happenings this year!
Washington marks Christmas 2025 from the National Mall to Georgetown, where historic monuments and cobbled streets glow with holiday lights. Christmas markets, ice skating and seasonal concerts offer festive shopping, carols and elegant public displays across the capital.
Find the best Washington Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Washington
- The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
- The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker
- DowntownDC Holiday Market 2024
- Free Events at the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage
- A Christmas Carol at Ford's Theatre
- "Season's Greenings" Holiday Exhibit
- National Symphony Orchestra: Handel's Messiah
- The Holiday Show
- Notes of Honor: NSO Salutes the Military - A Holiday Pops Concert
- Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Washington Christmas Events
Washington Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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Immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays with The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker, a beloved DC tradition. This spectacular performance features over 380 dancers, showcasing the company's professional talent and dedicated students. Experience a unique, all-American rendition set in historic Georgetown, with special touches like George Washington as the Nutcracker and a vibrant cherry blossom scene.
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Experience the timeless magic of Charles Dickens's "A Christmas Carol" at Ford's Theatre. This music-infused production, hailed as a "rich visual and vocal treat," features acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returning as Ebenezer Scrooge. Perfect for families, this beloved holiday tradition brings familiar characters and a charming children's ensemble to the stage for an unforgettable Yuletide celebration.
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Washington, D.C.'s cherished holiday tradition, Handel's Messiah, returns to the Kennedy Center. Experience the enduring power of this iconic oratorio, conducted by Masaaki Suzuki and featuring the National Symphony Orchestra, a stellar cast of soloists, and the University of Maryland Concert Choir. Prepare for an unforgettable celebration of holiday joy.
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Get ready for a spectacular holiday celebration with the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington, DC! This highly anticipated show features soulful new arrangements of favorite carols, dazzling performances, and a festive atmosphere. It's a unique blend of performance, comedy, and activism, promising an unforgettable experience.
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Military members, veterans, and their families are invited to a special FREE "Holiday Pops!" concert presented by the National Symphony Orchestra. This festive event promises a dazzling celebration featuring Broadway favorites and beloved holiday showstoppers, offering a joyous way to experience the season's cheer.
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Experience Washington D.C.'s most dazzling holiday concert with the National Symphony Orchestra's 'A Holiday Pops!'. This beloved event returns to the festively decorated Concert Hall, promising an evening of joyous carols, sparkling pop showstoppers, and heartwarming holiday classics. Soul-stirring songstress Melinda Doolittle joins as the special guest, bringing her irresistible Gospel/R&B sound to the celebration.
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Celebrate the holiday season at the 44th Annual Holiday Concert & Gala, a highlight of Washington's festive calendar. The evening begins with a captivating Christmas concert, 'O Night Divine!', performed by the Choral Arts Chorus and Orchestra. Following the performance, guests can mingle at a reception, bid on exclusive items in a silent auction, and enjoy a gourmet dinner with dancing.
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Immerse yourself in the majestic sounds of Handel's Messiah performed by the Washington National Cathedral Choir and Baroque Orchestra. Experience this timeless masterpiece within the awe-inspiring architecture of the Cathedral. Choose between a full-length performance or a family-friendly highlights version, both promising an unforgettable encounter with classical music.
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This holiday season, experience the magic of "Elf" like never before! The National Symphony Orchestra brings Buddy the Elf's hilarious and heartwarming journey to life by performing John Debney's enchanting score live to the film projected on a giant screen. It's a perfect way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends.
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Experience the magic of A Celtic Christmas, a cherished 40-year tradition returning to Dumbarton. This beloved event features the Barnes and Hampton Celtic Consort, with musicians Linn Barnes, Allison Hampton, Joseph Cunliffe, and Steve Bloom, accompanied by narrator Robert Aubry Davis. Prepare to be transported by enchanting Celtic melodies and festive storytelling.
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The Capital City Symphony presents its annual holiday concert, a joyous celebration of seasonal music. Families and friends are invited to sing along with the orchestra as they perform a collection of festive favorites. This beloved tradition promises a heartwarming musical experience for all.
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Experience the magic of the holiday season with The Washington Chorus' annual A Candlelight Christmas. Led by Eugene Rogers, this beloved tradition features festive favorites, interactive carols, and special guest artists, including pianist Rod Vester. It's a joyful celebration perfect for the entire family.
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Experience the magic of Christmas Eve with a sublime performance of Baroque music at the Folger Shakespeare Library. This event features Marc-Antoine Charpentier's 'Messe de Minuit pour Noel,' a work rich with dance rhythms and sophisticated harmonies, inspired by traditional carols. The program is further enhanced by haunting English 'Balulalows' and instrumental concertos from Italian baroque masters like Vivaldi, creating a truly festive and elegant atmosphere.
Washington Christmas Light Displays
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The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a beloved American tradition celebrating over a century of holiday spirit. Each year, the tree is adorned with thousands of lights and unique ornaments representing every U.S. state and territory. The event features captivating musical performances and serves as a beacon of hope and unity during the holiday season.
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Step into a festive wonderland at the U.S. Botanic Garden's "Season's Greenings" holiday exhibit. Marvel at the Conservatory's dazzling displays of poinsettias and plant-crafted D.C. landmarks. Outside, enchanting model trains chug through whimsical scenes of pollinators and their plants. Select evenings offer extended hours with live holiday music and vendors.
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Step into a winter wonderland at Enchant Christmas, held at Nationals Park. This magical event features the world's largest Christmas light maze, an enchanting ice skating rink, and a charming Christmas Village filled with artisan crafts and festive treats. It's the perfect holiday outing for families and friends to create lasting memories.
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Embark on a magical three-hour journey through Washington D.C. and Old Town Alexandria to discover "America's Christmas Trees." This guided tour takes you aboard a luxury bus to witness dazzling light displays, including the National Christmas Tree and the Capitol Christmas Tree. Explore festive scenes at the Gaylord National Resort and admire the charming Christmas centerpiece in Old Town Alexandria.
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Step into an enchanting winter wonderland at ZooLights, the Smithsonian's National Zoo's annual holiday light spectacular. Wander through festive pathways illuminated by dazzling lantern animals and immersive displays. Enjoy live musical performances, take a magical ride on the train or carousel, and savor seasonal treats. It's a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with dazzling lights and festive cheer.
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Step into a world of festive wonder at Light Yards, an enchanting holiday light installation at The Yards Park. This year's featured artwork, 'Swinging Bells,' invites you to become part of the magic. Interact with the display by swinging, which prompts animated light sequences and amplifies the joyful sound of holiday bells, creating a truly immersive and cheerful experience for all ages.
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The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, an 80-foot Sitka spruce from Alaska, arrives in Washington D.C. for its annual lighting ceremony. This cherished tradition, celebrating 60 years, illuminates the West Front Lawn of the Capitol. The tree will be lit nightly from dusk until 11 p.m. through January 1, 2025, spreading holiday cheer.
Washington Christmas Markets and Shopping
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Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at the 20th anniversary DowntownDC Holiday Market. This revitalized event features over 100 vendors, festive food options like s'mores and churros, and the cozy Winter Chalet bar. Enjoy live music on the main stage, fun for kids in the 'Reindeer Games' area, and unique photo opportunities.
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Experience the magic of the Heurich House Christmas Markt, DC's premier holiday market showcasing over 40 local artisans. Discover unique, handmade gifts and seasonal treasures inspired by traditional German markets, all while supporting the museum's incubator programs for small businesses.
Washington Christmas Food, Drink and Parties
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Experience the joy of summer pastimes at Camp Wharf's 'Firepit' pop-up, celebrating the Washington Nationals' 20th Anniversary. Indulge in delicious s'mores with all the fixings, perfect for roasting over the fire. Enjoy specialty beverages and the lively waterfront ambiance.
Washington Other Christmas Activities
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Discover a vibrant array of free artistic experiences at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage. They offer daily live performances spanning various genres, from jazz and classical music to indie-folk and international acts. Additionally, catch free film screenings every Sunday and engage in hands-on art activities at the Moonshot Studio. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in world-class culture without any cost.
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The NSO Youth Fellowship Program offers a unique, full-scholarship opportunity for dedicated high school musicians aiming for a career in orchestral music. Participants receive private lessons from NSO and WNO Orchestra musicians, engage in chamber music, attend master classes, and gain invaluable experience through side-by-side rehearsals with the NSO. This program provides a comprehensive training ground, fostering both artistic excellence and the practical skills needed for a 21st-century music career.
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Step back in time at Tudor Place Historic House & Garden for a season of engaging holiday events. Explore the historic estate with guided tours, including enchanting candlelight tours that illuminate the house's history. Participate in family-friendly activities like "Tudor Tots" for young learners or "Weekend Weeders" for garden enthusiasts. Discover the stories of generations past through insightful lectures and historical games.
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Step back in time to the 90s at 'Back to the Yards,' a vibrant throwback bash in Washington D.C. This event promises a night of nostalgic fun with retro arcade battles, board game showdowns, and a spectacular superhero costume party. Attendees can enjoy break dance performances, glitter tattoos, and unique photo opportunities, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
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Experience the grandeur of the National Menorah Lighting Ceremony, a globally recognized event that launches the celebration of Chanukah. This spectacular ceremony features musical performances by military bands and a celebrity Jewish artist, alongside readings from the "Mendy Deren National Menorah Essay Contest" winners. Witness the lighting of the world's largest menorah, a powerful symbol of religious freedom, attracting thousands of attendees and reaching millions worldwide.
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Experience the magic of winter at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink. Glide across the ice surrounded by captivating modern sculptures and the iconic National Mall. This beloved seasonal attraction offers a unique way to enjoy the crisp air and festive spirit, making it a perfect outing for families and friends.
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Experience the magic of the season at The Wharf's annual Holiday Boat Parade & Party. Watch over 60 decorated boats illuminate the Washington Channel, enjoy live music from Yani the Band, and partake in festive activities like ornament decorating and holiday karaoke. Capture memories with Santa, roast s'mores, and be dazzled by a spectacular fireworks finale.
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Glide over the water at The Wharf Ice Rink, DC's unique over-water skating experience. Enjoy stunning views of the Potomac River and iconic monuments while lacing up your skates. Warm up with seasonal beverages and treats from the surrounding waterfront shops and restaurants. Special events like 'Curling and Cocktails' offer additional winter fun.
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Step back in time at Tudor Place Historic House & Garden, a significant landmark in Washington, D.C. Explore the Federal-period architecture and expansive gardens, uncovering stories of the Peter family, descendants of Martha Washington, and the enslaved and free individuals who lived and worked there. This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the complexities of American history.
Christmas Events Near Washington
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Alexandria Christmas Events
Mclean Christmas Events
Fort Washington Christmas Events
Oakton Christmas Events
Reston Christmas Events
Manassas Christmas Events
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Annapolis Christmas Events
Leesburg Christmas Events
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