Washington Other Christmas Activities 2025

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...

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...

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a cherished national tradition. Each year, a magnificent tree, sourced from a different national forest across the United States, is selected and transported to the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol....

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...

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...

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...

Experience the joy of the Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade, a cherished annual tradition! This vibrant celebration features dazzling floats, lively marching bands, and whimsical 12-foot inflatable turkeys. The parade culminates with a special appearance by Santa Claus, making it a...

Experience the magic of the 25th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, a spectacular waterfront event. Dozens of illuminated boats will parade along the Potomac River, creating a dazzling display of holiday cheer. Enjoy festive dockside activities, including a...

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...

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...

Join the Chanukah Festival in historic Old Town Alexandria for a vibrant celebration of Jewish culture and traditions. This community event offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the joy and spirit of Chanukah in a festive atmosphere. It's a perfect...

Step into the festive spirit at the 54th Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. This iconic event celebrates the city's rich Scottish heritage with a dazzling procession of clans in traditional tartans, lively pipe and drum bands, and community groups....

Experience a magical holiday weekend in historic Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, from December 5-7, 2025. This beloved event features the vibrant Scottish Christmas Walk Parade with clans and Scottie dogs, and the spectacular Holiday Boat Parade of Lights illuminating 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...

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...

Visit Santa Claus in person to share your Christmas wishes and capture a magical keepsake photo. Appointments are recommended to ensure a shorter wait time. Professional photo packages are available to create lasting holiday memories.

Experience the magic of Christmas Eve at Christ Church with a special service featuring a heartwarming Nativity pageant presented by the children. This family-friendly event includes a communion service and festive Christmas music, creating a memorable holiday celebration for all.

Join the community at The Square for a magical Tree Lighting ceremony. This beloved tradition marks the start of the holiday season with dazzling lights, festive music, and joyful cheer, creating a memorable experience for the entire family.

Get ready for a season of festive cheer in Bowie! While specific plans for this year are announced in the fall, past events have included magical visits from Santa, charming trainspotting days, and delightful holiday movie screenings. Explore the historic...

Middle schoolers are invited to a special Christmas party hosted by The Well at Burke Community Church. This event promises an evening filled with fun, festive activities, and delicious food, offering a great opportunity for students to celebrate the holiday...

Step into a Krampus-inspired Christmas Nightmare, a unique holiday horror event at Laurel's House of Horror. This terrifying twist on festive cheer transforms an abandoned movie theater into a chilling experience with all-new themed areas. Prepare for an enchanted Christmas...

Experience the heartwarming tradition of the Bowie Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, a cherished event for over 50 years. Gather with your community to sing beloved holiday songs and witness the enchanting illumination of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. The highlight...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the annual Laurel Armory Illumination. This cherished tradition officially kicks off the festive period with a special ceremony. Prior to the illumination, enjoy a vibrant Holiday Parade that winds its way through...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with enchanting performances by The Holiday Carolers at Reston Town Center. Enjoy classic holiday tunes in the crisp, fresh air while you shop and soak in the festive spirit. This event is a...

All aboard for a magical journey! Experience the joy of the holiday season with delightful miniature train rides at Reston Town Center. It's a perfect way to create lasting memories and soak in the festive spirit.

Join the Jingle Jubilee & Tree Lighting for a magical evening celebrating diverse holiday traditions. This beloved event features captivating music and dance performances, culminating in the 99th annual tree lighting ceremony. It's a wonderful opportunity to embrace the festive...