Get ready to experience the holiday season in Washington, D.C., like never before!
From twinkling lights and enchanting displays to historic landmarks dressed up for the season, D.C. offers a magical weekend filled with Instagram-worthy moments and festive fun.
Imagine kicking things off with the dazzling National Christmas Tree near the White House, wandering through charming holiday markets and lacing up your skates for a scenic ice-skating session surrounded by sculptures and wintery decor.
As you explore iconic locations like the U.S. Capitol, Smithsonian Castle and The Wharf’s Christmas Village, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable weekend of seasonal sights and holiday cheer.
This itinerary will guide you through the city’s best spots for holiday photos, seasonal activities, and a weekend that’ll leave you filled with D.C.’s unique brand of winter wonder.
Grab your phone to snap some photos, bundle up (unless it’s warm?) and dive into the festive spirit!
Friday evening: Start with iconic holiday lights
- National Christmas Tree Lighting & Pathway of Peace
- Location: The Ellipse, near the White House.
- Highlights: Begin your weekend with the iconic National Christmas Tree, which shines with thousands of lights. The surrounding Pathway of Peace features decorated trees representing each U.S. state and territory, creating a magical winter scene.
- Instagram spot: Capture the National Christmas Tree with the White House in the background for an unforgettable holiday photo.
Saturday morning: Festive tours and holiday markets
- U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree and Botanic Garden displays
- Location: U.S. Capitol and U.S. Botanic Garden.
- Highlights: Visit the Capitol Christmas Tree, then take a short walk to the U.S. Botanic Garden. Its annual holiday display features miniature landmarks and train exhibits surrounded by poinsettias and greenery, offering a warm indoor escape with stunning seasonal sights.
- Instagram spot: The model train winding through D.C. landmarks makes for an eye-catching shot, perfect for Instagram.
- Downtown holiday market
- Location: F Street NW, near the National Portrait Gallery.
- Highlights: This bustling, open-air market is filled with handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, and live music, offering a festive atmosphere for shopping and soaking in the seasonal spirit.
- Instagram spot: The illuminated market stalls and sparkling lights create a warm glow that’s ideal for photos.
Saturday afternoon: Historic landmarks and ice skating
- Smithsonian Castle Gardens
- Highlights: The Smithsonian Castle grounds are beautifully decorated for the holidays, with wreaths and winter flora making it a scenic, quiet spot to stroll through.
- Instagram Spot: The castle’s holiday décor and serene gardens are perfect for a peaceful, festive photo.
- Ice skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
- Location: National Mall, at the National Gallery of Art.
- Highlights: Take to the ice at this iconic rink surrounded by sculptures, where you can enjoy a classic winter activity with beautiful views of the city’s art and architecture.
- Instagram spot: Capture a shot mid-skate or by the edge of the rink with sculptures and holiday lights in the background.
Sunday: More sights and holiday cheer
- CityCenterDC holiday decorations
- Highlights: CityCenterDC transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season with stunning light displays, oversized ornaments, and festive art installations.
- Instagram spot: The giant reindeer sculptures, sparkling archways, and lit trees provide beautiful holiday-themed photo ops.
- Christmas Village at The Wharf
- Location: The Wharf, along the Southwest Waterfront.
- Highlights: End your weekend at The Wharf’s Christmas Village, where you’ll find festive holiday lights, live music, fire pits for roasting marshmallows, and plenty of waterfront cheer.
- Instagram spot: Capture the village lights reflecting on the water at dusk for a postcard-perfect holiday photo.
It's Christmas 365 