Washington Other Christmas Activities 2026

Cyclists decorate themselves and their bicycles with lights for a four-mile slow-paced tour of Capitol Hill's holiday light displays. Volunteer marshals and Metropolitan Police Department bike officers accompany the group to keep riders together. The ride concludes at The Roost...

Participants learn basic pinch pot and coil techniques with step-by-step guidance to create items like plant pots, vases, or planter pals. Each attendee can build and take home up to two clay pieces, with white paint and a paintbrush included...

This holiday-themed workshop for adult beginners teaches fundamental oil painting techniques across three weekly sessions covering an introduction to oil paint, layering, and textures. Led by Baltimore-based artist William Demaria, the class guides participants through making a painting to give...

More than 60 decorated boats cruise along the Washington Channel, culminating in a waterfront fireworks show. Landside, visitors can take photos with Santa, sing holiday karaoke, skate at the ice rink, and listen to live music and DJs. Other activities...

This overnight, semi-silent retreat provides opportunities for Mass, confession, and spiritual conversation. Drawing on St. John Paul II's encyclical Redemptor Hominis and his Theology of the Body insights, talks and prayer focus on the Incarnation, bodily holiness, and redemption. Participants...

Old Town streets fill with celebration honoring Alexandria's Scottish heritage. Spectators can watch dozens of Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans march through the historic neighborhood. The procession also includes pipe and drum bands, terriers and hounds, and local community...

Visitors can watch a procession featuring glittering floats, marching bands, 12-foot inflatable turkeys, and Santa Claus. The parade begins with autumn and Thanksgiving-themed units before moving into winter, Hanukkah, and Christmas celebrations. Festivities also include an opening ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted...

Dozens of illuminated boats cruise along a one-mile stretch of the Potomac River shoreline. Dockside festivities in Waterfront Park feature family-friendly activities, music, food, and a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company. Spectators can also view the procession...

Visitors can take pictures with Santa alongside friends, relatives, or pets dressed up for the holidays. The gathering at the pavilion features holiday goodies, prizes, and snacks. Collected donations directly fund park programs, clean-ups, and maintenance projects.

Participants learn how to hand-pour custom winter candles inside the bookstore and cafe space under the guidance of She Knows The Deal. The session covers blending seasonal scents such as pine, peppermint, cinnamon, and vanilla, setting wicks, and pouring wax...

Participants learn flower care and design fundamentals while crafting a custom winter wreath. Hands-on instruction guides attendees in working with fresh seasonal greenery and decorations.

Part of the Coffee & Crafts Series at Daydrift Books & Cafe, this workshop provides step-by-step instruction to complete a featured holiday painting. Attendees receive a canvas, paints, and brushes, along with a craft drink from the café.

Participants design an indoor arrangement using a selection of houseplants and a choice between two sizes of seasonal planters. Instructors guide attendees through pairing compatible plants, proper potting techniques, and long-term care routines. Each participant completes a living centerpiece or...

Visitors experience festive celebrations across the historic streets and waterfront of Old Town Alexandria. The weekend features Scottish clans, pipe and drum bands, terriers, and hounds parading through the district in colorful tartans. Along the Potomac River shoreline, spectators can...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Washington, D.C. This time-honored tradition, dating back to 1923, illuminates President's Park with thousands of lights. Marvel at the beautifully decorated National Christmas Tree and...

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...

Experience the magic of winter at the Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden. Glide across the ice surrounded by stunning sculptures and the iconic National Mall. This popular seasonal attraction offers a festive atmosphere for all ages, with skating sessions...

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree tradition brings a magnificent, specially selected tree from a U.S. National Forest to the West Front Lawn each holiday season. This cherished event culminates in a festive lighting ceremony, hosted by the Speaker of the...

Experience the magic of winter at The Wharf Ice Rink, offering a unique skating opportunity with breathtaking views of the Potomac River and iconic D.C. landmarks. While the rink is currently closed for the season, it eagerly anticipates welcoming skaters...

Discover the heartwarming 'Annual Nativity Scenes Exhibit' at Washington National Cathedral. This captivating display, themed 'One Church, One Family,' features a diverse collection of nativity scenes from cultures worldwide, showcasing the universal Christmas story. Explore crèches from the extensive Sommer...

National Harbor transforms into a winter wonderland with a dazzling array of holiday festivities. Marvel at the nightly tree lighting show, enjoy spectacular fireworks, and explore unique gifts at the Christmas Market. Capture magical moments with Santa and experience the...

Celebrate the start of the holiday season at Alexandria's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. This free event in Market Square features music, merriment, and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrive via the King Street Trolley. Witness the...

Step back in time for a charming Victorian Christmas at Cherry Hill Farmhouse. This event transports visitors to the 1860s and 1870s with authentic period decorations and costumed reenactors sharing holiday traditions. Enjoy festive music, carols, and engaging children's activities...

First Night Alexandria returns for 2025, offering a vibrant, family-friendly, and alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration. This event transforms local venues into stages for diverse performing arts, providing a meaningful and budget-conscious alternative to traditional revelry. Discover a wide array...