Washington Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Washington and surrounding areas
This the festive season Washington welcomes visitors with Christmas markets and Christmas lights around the National Mall and Dupont Circle where history meets holiday cheer. The DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle, The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker create festive events and family-friendly activities near the monuments and Smithsonian museums. From candlelit concerts to neighborhood displays, Washington’s holiday attractions offer thoughtful seasonal entertainment and plenty of things to do for visitors and locals.
Find the best Washington Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
29 eventsOver 35 artisans in a festive Dupont Circle holiday market.
Christmas Shows
20 eventsDC's holiday tradition with local twists
Christmas Lights
19 eventsIconic National Christmas Tree and state/territory ornaments
Other Christmas Activities
27 eventsAlcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration focused on performing arts.
Editor's Picks (6)
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First Night Alexandria 2025
(Alexandria)
Alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration focused on performing arts.
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DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
Over 35 artisans in a festive Dupont Circle holiday market.
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The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker
DC's holiday tradition with local twists
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The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Iconic National Christmas Tree and state/territory ornaments
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Christmas at Gaylord National featuring The Polar Express
(National Harbor)
ICE! attraction featuring The Polar Express™ carved from ice
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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 Washington
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Washington.
The Nutcracker Tea Party
Nutcracker-themed tea party with ballet performance tickets
2025 Christmas Dinner
Christmas dinner for those in need
American Girl Holiday Teatime Traditions
Festive teatime experiences with doll-friendly seating and crafts.
Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Washington
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Washington.
USPS Operation Santa
Nationwide letter-writing and gift-fulfillment program for children.
Holiday Sharing Program
Community support for vulnerable children's needs.
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about events and activities in Washington
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Also Near Washington
Arlington
See all in Arlington →Alexandria
- Alexandria's Biggest Holiday Weekend
- Holidays at National Harbor
- Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Wheaton
See all in Wheaton →Washington Christmas FAQ
Major events include the Bellevue Holiday Light Parade, Holiday Magic at the Washington State Fair, and the Festival of Lights in Spokane.
Washington is known for its festive light displays, holiday markets, and community tree lightings. Many towns also host unique events like the Leavenworth Christmastown celebration.
Bellevue, Olympia, and Tacoma have neighborhoods with popular light displays. Many local streets and parks also feature festive decorations.
Holiday markets and local makers can be found in cities like Bellevue, Olympia, and Tacoma, often at community centers, parks, and downtown areas.
Free activities include exploring neighborhood light displays, attending community tree lightings, and visiting local parks with holiday decorations.
Families enjoy events like Holiday Magic at the Washington State Fair, Bellevue Botanical Garden’s Garden d’Lights, and local holiday markets with kid-friendly activities.