Holiday Happenings. Yes, We’re Serious! Holiday Happenings: Lights, Santa Sightings, Sips & More
Ready for all the twinkle lights and cocoa cravings? Holiday season is officially on. There’s dazzling light festivals and Santa sightings, all the pop-up bars, merry markets, winter wonderlands, and ice skating too! The DMV is packed with ways to feel festive (and work up an appetite). Dive into our round-up below, sort by what you’re in the mood for —> Light Shows, Santa Stops, Holiday Markets & Pop-Ups, Winter Wonderlands & Skating, or Tree Lightings <— and check back often; we’ll keep adding the sparkle as new info rolls in.
Looking for holiday afternoon teas? We've got you, here.
Stay tuned for our holiday gift guide, coming soon.
Santa Sightings:
Photos with Santa at Tysons Corner Center: Capture the joy of the season with professional photos with Santa Claus at his Chalet. Guests can enjoy a festive, family-friendly setting complete with craft station to write letters to Santa, cheerful holiday décor, and photo experience. Visits with Santa are always free, and professional photo packages are available for purchase, offering a variety of digital and print options. November 7 through December 24, Lower Level near Wasabi. Book appointments in advance and receive a complimentary personalized digital message from Santa, powered by Portable North Pole. tysonscornercenter.com/SantaPhotos.
Santa’s Suite at the Fairmont: Sleigh bells will be ringing at Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown when Santa is checks into his D.C. residence. All children and adults who stop by to visit Santa in his Suite will enjoy gingerbread displays created by the hotel's pastry team, hot chocolate, and holiday treats. In preparation for Santa’s arrival, Fairmont’s official elves have been busy transforming his suite into a stunningly whimsical winter wonderland. Exquisitely decorated trees will twinkle along with a host of enchanting details, from an elegant dining table, set with places for Santa and his special guests. (Garfield, Winnie the Pooh, Elsa, Skye, Peppa Pig, Sponge Bob, Mickey Mouse and Harry Potter are just a few of his friends.) A letter-writing station for leaving Christmas wish lists is available for all visitors. Those writing a letter to Santa, and posting in his special red mailbox, will receive a letter back from him. Due to his busy schedule, he will depend on the postal service, rather than his sleigh, to deliver his response. Santa’s Suite is available for 15-minute visits for up to 10 people at $10 per adult and $10 per child, 100% of the proceeds go directly to Horton’s Kids*. Families touring his suite can share their Christmas wishes with Santa, and take their own photos with him. Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30am to 3:30pm, December 6 through December 21. Reservations for Santa Suite visits in December are available starting November 1. fairmontwashingtondc.ticketspice.com/santa-suite
Westfield Montgomery Mall - Photos & Brunches with Santa: Create lasting memories with photos with Santa from November 21 through December 24. Enjoy special photo opportunities such as Santa Paws photos with your fur-babies on December 8 (4:00-7:00 p.m.) or Santa Cares, where families with special needs are invited to a sensory-friendly Santa experience on December 14 (10:00-11:00 a.m.) Santa will be located on Level 1 in front of Macy’s. Due to high demand, we recommend reserving your spot in advance — book your appointment here. Brunch with Santa will be available on November 30, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Frank Pepe Pizzeria and December 14, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at California Pizza Kitchen. Add a touch of magic with a festive dining experience where children can enjoy breakfast with the season's jolliest guest! Walk-ins are welcome but reservations are strongly encouraged.
Let There be Lights
Maryland Holiday Light Spectacular: The 2nd Annual Maryland Holiday Light Spectacular features over a million spectacular lights, larger-than-life holiday scenes, including Mistletoe Marina, Jinglebell Junction Farm, the Symphony of Illumination, a Winter Wonderland Carnival complete with a Ferris Wheel, Merry Go Round, and other rides plus many more attractions. New this year, guests can enjoy new scenes on the ½ mile walking trail along with the Cosmic Heat Zone and Buddy’s Holiday Bar in VIP. Pathways will be safe and accessible, making them suitable for scooters, strollers, and wheelchairs. The charming Holiday Village will be bustling with boutiques, shops, and rotating food trucks, offering seasonal treats and unique gifts. Little ones will have plenty to enjoy with activities and other fun attractions, such as the Carnival rides and seesaws. And, of course, no holiday celebration would be complete without a visit from Santa, who will be making nightly appearances through December 23rd. Enjoy special performances every night from ballerinas, entertainers, and Elves (from the North Pole, natch). For more excitement to the experience, add-ons are available for purchase, including an interactive snowflake wand element and the Winter Carnival area. The magical snowflake wand can be used throughout event – look for the illuminated snowflakes and with a wave of your wand, your Interactive Snowflake Wand will create amazing magical experiences. The Winter Carnival will host fun rides, like a Ferris Wheel, the Magical Carousel, the Santa Train and a slide. December 5 through 30, 5:30 to 10:00 p.m., with variations on select dates. Please refer to mdholidaylights.com for specific times and holiday closures. General admission, $10-25; VIP admission, $39, includes a souvenir hot chocolate mug with bottomless hot chocolate, access to VIP Lodge & Bar, VIP washrooms, and VIP entrance. For more information, visit mdholidaylights.com
Light Yards: The Yards is getting into the holiday spirit with the return of Light Yards for another season of daily holiday magic. Fan-favorite Swinging Bells will return, and to kick off the installation, The Yards is hosting the third annual Light Yards Express. The interactive light installation is free to the public every night throughout the holiday season. Swinging Bells offers a perfect holiday stop with friends and family with 13-foot-tall illuminated bells that jingle as you swing! The Bells will be open every day from 5:00-10:00 p.m. starting November 25th, free for all. Light Yards Express promises a festive family-friendly event. Guests can enjoy holiday giveaways, like jingle bells, reindeer ears, and light-up necklaces, a DJ playing seasonal favorites and can even hop on a magical train ride through the captivating light show. Keep an eye out for a special appearance from Santa, who’ll be stopping by to add an extra dose of cheer. Light Yards Express will be Wednesday, December 10, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Light Yards installation runs from nightly from November 25 to January 6, 2026, 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. 355 Water Street SE; For more information and to register for Light Yards Express, please visit theyardsdc.com.
Enchant Light Experience: Returning this season, the Enchant Light Experience on PenFed Plaza will illuminate the holidays with 14 interactive light sculptures through February 2026, transforming the space into a magical, immersive environment. One of the nation’s top-performing shopping centers, the 2 million square-foot Tysons Corner Center is anchored by Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Macy’s, and a 16-screen AMC Theatres. The shopping center offers more than 300 specialty stores, including popular digitally native brands, plus restaurants, and attracts more than 25 million visitors annually. To learn more, visit tysonscornercenter.com.
48th Annual Washington DC Temple Visitors' Center Festival of Lights: Celebrate the season at the beloved Festival of Lights, returning December 4, 2025, through January 1, 2026, at the Washington, DC Temple Visitors’ Center in Kensington, MD. Each night from 4:30 to 8:45 p.m., guests can stroll through more than 500,000 Christmas lights, explore an international crèche display, and enjoy beautifully decorated Christmas trees inside the Visitors’ Center, which is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. From December 4–24, the auditorium will also host festive holiday performances beginning at 6:30 p.m. Timed parking passes are required for every car, and visitors are encouraged to reserve theirs in advance. Info here.
Holiday Markets
Downtown DC Holiday Market: The DowntownDC Holiday Market will once again transform F Street NW between 7th and 9th Streets NW into a vibrant winter village. Back and better than ever, this year’s market celebrates over two decades of holiday magic with new vendor offerings, and exciting activations that provide something for everyone. Enjoy more than 115 curated vendors bring the magic of the season to life, with everything from handcrafted art and home décor to gourmet treats and festive fashion; 15 festive food vendors, like S’mores N’ More’s viral hot chocolate topped with toasted marshmallows and candy, and authentic German-inspired fare from The Taste of Germany; The Winter Chalet by Dirty Habit returns as the Market’s official bar - serving up artisan cocktails and holiday classics such as spiked hot cocoa and mulled wine; printed gift guide will spotlight maker stories, product highlights, and more to help shoppers buy local and meaningful gifts; memorialize your dreams on the DC Dream Wall, an oversized chalkboard installation celebrating community hopes and creativity; the Dov Co. Craft Café will feature creative craft workshops for children and adults, and live entertainment will grace the main stage. Open daily from November 21 through December 23. The market is free to the public and open from noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit downtowndcholidaymarket.com
DC Holiday Market: The beloved DC Holiday Market is back in Dupont Circle this season, in a new location - the 1500 block of New Hampshire Avenue NW. The market runs through Tuesday, December 23, 2025, inviting visitors to experience one-of-a-kind shopping, festive decor, and seasonal treats, all in the heart of Dupont Circle. The DC Holiday Market will feature 40 plus small businesses with artisans, boutique brands, worldwide handcrafts and unique gifts. Guests can expect the market's signature style, bright festive décor, premier exhibitors, and popular holiday treats, such as Migue’s Mini Donuts and the Capital Candy Jar’s hot roasted nuts, along with newcomer Drizzle To Go. dcholidaymarket.net
Heurich House Museum Christmas Markt: This market is DC’s only multi-day holiday market consisting of ONLY local makers. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets (but featuring DMV-based makers), the event features dozens of local vendors annually. From December 4-7, 2025, stroll through the museum’s festive annual holiday craft market with a Glühwein in hand and find the perfect holiday gifts for your loved ones. Over the weekend-long celebration, Christmas Markt will feature 45+ local small-scale artisan makers and more. New This Year: Ticket + Donation option to give a little extra and make your mark in supporting local makers by purchasing this ticket plus donation bundle. heurichhouse.org/pages/christmas-markt
30th Annual Fine Art & Fine Craft Holiday Market: This holiday market is open for the first three weekends in December (December 5-7, 12-14, 19-21). The market offers unique handmade fine arts and fine crafts from local artists presenting a variety of media, including fiber/textiles, glass, jewelry, mixed media, polymer clay, ornaments, mosaics, painting, prints, paper crafting, photography, pottery/ceramics, sculpture, watercolor, wood, and more. Different artists are featured each weekend. In addition, 2026 wall calendars featuring art by Del Ray Artisans members will be available for purchase with proceeds supporting their 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Holiday market hours are Fridays 6:00-9:00 p.m., Saturdays 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., and Sundays 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Del Ray Artisans gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA. The gallery is free, open to the public and accessible. For more information, click here.
Winter Wonderlands
Snowglow at The Dome: Inspired by The Dome’s spherical space, the visuals will evoke a swirling snowglobe, “shaking up” snow and cascading down in magical patterns between scenes. Projected above and 360 degrees around the walls of The Dome, the awe-inspiring visual experience by artist Laura Alice will transport the viewer to a world of winter scenes. Holiday food and beverage menus take inspiration from fancy neighborhood holiday parties of decades past. Think: festive shindigs from the 1960s, 70s and 80s, a little bougie, a lot fun, and full of holiday spirit. Chefs Nathan Beauchamp and Sam George will serve an a la carte menu of festive, shareable small plates and elevated throwback eats such as fondue, ham boards, brie en croute, wagyu party meatballs, rum balls and more. Expect punchbowls of spiced eggnog and tropical Swedish punsch, walnut Manhattans and Snowgronis, and hot drinks such as torched marshmallow-topped cherry hot chocolates and soothing applejack toddies (also available N/A). The 60-seat heated dome will feature reservable dining areas where ticketed guests can eat, drink and take in the overhead projected experience. For those who aren’t able to secure tickets to the Dome, there will also be a heated and tented Snowglow bar open to non-ticket holders with additional seating for up to 75, a dedicated bar, and the same Snowglow food and drink menu as inside The Dome. Open through January 4, 2026. 1309 5th Street NE; hilawndc.com/thedomedc
Folger Frost Fair: The Folger Shakespeare Library welcomes visitors to step into a world of winter wonder during the holidays as the Folger Frost Fair returns for a second winter season. The Folger will be decked in seasonal splendor and offer an array of holiday programming and activities that bring Shakespeare, the arts, and poetry to life, including the annual Emily Dickinson Birthday Tribute, Folger Consort’s Resplendent Joy series of holiday concerts, printing press demonstrations, building tours, craft stations, and special events, including a holiday sing-along, from November 28, 2025–January 4, 2026. Inspired by the historic Frost Fairs that took place when the river Thames in London froze solid during sporadic winters between the 1600s and the 1800s, the Folger Frost Fair brings a sense of Shakespearean merriment and discovery to Washington, DC.
Winter Wonderfest at Nat’s Park: Nats Park is already gearing up for winter and just announced the first-ever Winter Wonderfest at Nationals Park, transforming the ballpark into a magical, multi-sensory winter playground on select days November 28 through December 24. Celebrate the season, racing down a snow tubing hill, roasting marshmallows with friends, and sipping seasonal cocktails in a hidden speakeasy—all on a Major League Baseball field. Expect sports-inspired thrills, art and play for all ages, Apres-ski vibes for 21+ (including a hidden speakeasy inside the Nationals’ batting cage), and festive eats and treats. More than a festival, Winter Wonderfest at Nationals Park highlights how the venue has become a true year-round community destination. For more information, visit mlb.com/nationals/tickets/winterfest
Bethesda Winter Wonderland: Celebrate the holiday season Saturday, December 6th on Norfolk and Cordell Avenues in downtown Bethesda with Santa Claus, live ice sculpting, activities, food, and more. Please bring a new toy for Toys for Tots. And don’t miss the Holiday Market with URBN Market and 50 artisans. Activities include a live ice sculpting demo (12:30-2:00 p.m.), visit with Santa Claus (2:00-4:00 p.m.), student concert, face painting, and arts & craft activities with Bach to Rock, Imagination Stage, Mathnasium, and Round House Theatre. Plus, Bethesda restaurants Olazzo, The Red Bandana and Smoke BBQ will be onsite. For more information, visit bethesda.org/winter-wonderland
The Lodge at National Landing: The Lodge at National Landing is back for its third year on December 6, 2025, transforming Metropolitan Park into a ski-inspired winter festival. Shop the covered holiday vendor market, enjoy French comfort food from Bar Colline and hot drinks from the Summit Bar, snap selfies with Santa, and new this year, take part in The Lodge After Dark Holiday Karaoke Showdown. Kids and adults can ride the Holiday Train, play après ski winter games and make crafts with the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington. Furry friends can strut their stuff in the Dog Sweater Contest and indulge in the dog treat bar from District Dogs. National Landing’s Peppermint Mocha Latte Competition is back by popular demand; this year featuring nine local retailers: Colada Shop, Daydrift, Surreal, Commonwealth Joe, Good Company Doughnuts, Java Loco, Rossana, Surreal and Beauty Champagne and Sugar Boutique. Guests can taste the entries and vote between 1:30–2:30 p.m., with the winner announced on-site at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, December 6 from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. 1330 S Fair Street, Arlington, VA; Admission is free; reservations via Eventbrite are recommended.
Jingle Bell Bars & Pop-Ups
Après Ski at Casamara Rooftop: Casamara Rooftop, the glamorous rooftop atop the SIXTY DC hotel, is channeling Alpine ski-lodge vibes this winter. A new, limited series featuring seasonal warm drinks, an exclusive menu of elevated hygge favorites from fondue to mini croque monsieur, and curated DJs every Thursday-Saturday, Après Ski begins this season. Glowy lighting and fuzzy, warm textures have been added to set a slope-side scene for lively gatherings and groups to share gooey emmental-gruyere Fondue or dishes such as Sausage en Croute and Beef Tartare on toasted brioche. Cozy up over Casamara’s ginger-infused, signature Toddy, Mulled Wine, or Chamonix Old Fashioned with spiced banana rum, and vibe with DJs every Thursday through Saturday. In keeping with the theme, the menu features several seasonal, only-on-the-slopes favorites including a special selection of soul-warming schnapps, chilled Toffee Vodka and selection of beers including Stiegl and Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc, and a decadent Valrhona Hot Chocolate with Toasted Marshmallow, served with fresh chantilly whipped cream (and your favorite spirit, if you prefer it spiked). Après Ski at Casamara Rooftop culminates with a New Year’s Eve bash before the Rooftop closes for the season. 1320 18th St. NW. For reservations, visit casamaradc.com/rooftop
Holiday Coquito Bar: Serenata will transform into the Holiday Coquito Bar, a festive Puerto Rican and Latin American–inspired pop-up serving Coquitos and other seasonal cocktails. Guests can enjoy the warm, celebratory spirit of the holidays with creative drinks and lively ambiance before the space evolves into an all-new concept in early 2026. Led by Beverage Director and Managing Partner Andra “AJ” Johnson, the pop-up continues Serenata’s legacy of community and creativity, offering the perfect spot to toast the season in style. 1280 4th Street NE; available through January 20, 2026. For more information, click here.
Sippin’ Santa: November 17th through December 31st, Sippin’ Santa at Hank’s Oyster Bar (Dupont Circle) will feature a holiday oasis with over the top kitschy, festive décor and a themed cocktail menu. At Sippin’ Santa, this year’s roster of cocktails features new creations like the Coco Ho Ho, Frost Bite, and Wreck The Halls. Beloved returning favorites include Jingle Bird, Sugar Plum Mai Tai, and the original Sippin' Santa. Sunday-Thursday: 4:00-10:00p.m., Friday-Saturday 4:00-11:00 p.m.; 1624 Q Street, NW; https://hanksoysterbar.com/dupont-circle/
Colada Shop Holiday Bar: Colada Shop’s Holiday Bar returns to its Clarendon location this season, transforming the space into a vibrant winter escape filled with twinkling lights, tropical flair, and the cozy warmth of Cuban hospitality. Enjoy a festive lineup of handcrafted holiday cocktails that blend nostalgic flavors with Colada Shop’s signature Caribbean twist — such as Candy Cane Colada, MoHoHojito, and Churro Manhattan, along with returning favorites like the Coquito Shooter and Rum Cider. Open daily during regular business hours, November 21 through January 1, 2026. 2920 Clarendon Boulevard, Arlington, VA.
Miracle at Black Whiskey: The famed Christmas-themed cocktail pop-up Miracle is returning to Washington, D.C. for the 2025 holiday season, taking over Black Whiskey with its signature over-the-top décor, festive vibes, and beloved collectible glassware. Running through December, Miracle will once again transform the space into a holiday oasis complete with fan-favorite cocktails like the Christmapolitan and Snowball Old-Fashioned, plus new additions including Candy Cane Lane, Dancing Sugarplums, Blitzen Barrel, and Miracle Mouse. Guests can sip, celebrate, and shop the iconic mugs and glassware available for purchase throughout the season. Info here.
Chestnuts & Cheers: Step into the spirit of the season with a cozy, fireside tradition at Dovetail Bar & Restaurant. Every Wednesday evening from November through December, join in roasting chestnuts - a nostalgic and delicious nod to a classic holiday charm. As dinner service begins, Chef will be roasting chestnuts al fresco, creating a warm and festive atmosphere right at Dovetail. Whether before a hearty meal, sipping seasonal cocktails at the bar, or just stopping in for a quick bite, this midweek celebration is the perfect excuse to slow down and savor the moment. 1430 Rhode Island Avenue NW; More info here.
Lace Up Your Skates
Ice & Lights: Enjoy ice skating amidst a winter wonderland at Cameron Run Regional Park. Ice & Lights offers a fun, unstructured outdoor family experience to explore new, stunning light displays, snap family pictures or selfies with a variety of displays, and take a spin on the outdoor ice rink. Open weekends starting November 15, and open daily December 1-30. Capacity is limited; reservations are required to ensure access on a specific date. Alexandria, VA; For more information, click here.
Color Burst Ice Rink: The Color Burst Ice Rink is back for the season from November 21 through January 31, inviting skaters of all ages to lace up and make winter memories. Whether you’re stepping onto the ice for the first time or returning for another year of festive fun, the rink offers the perfect cold-weather escape. Skip the line by purchasing tickets or a season pass online, and enjoy convenient hours all week long: Monday through Thursday from 4:00–9:00 PM, Friday from 4:00–10:00 PM, Saturday from 12:00–10:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00–8:00 PM. Info here.
Tree Lightings
Holiday Tree Lighting & Ice Rink Opening: Kick off the holiday season at Merriweather District’s festive Holiday Tree Lighting and Ice Rink Opening on November 21 from 5:30–8:30 PM. Enjoy live performances from the Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts and the Columbia Figure Skating Group, sip hot cocoa from The Charmery, and explore family-friendly crafts, activities, and photo ops. The celebration culminates in the sparkling tree lighting countdown at 7:00 PM—an evening of pure seasonal magic. Info here.
Alexandria Tree Lighting: The City of Alexandria invites the community to join the mayor and a host of holiday friends at the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, November 22, at 6:00 p.m. in Market Square. Admission is free, and the event will occur rain or shine. Tree Lighting is expected to occur sometime between 6:40 – 6:55 p.m. following the arrival of Santa by way of the King Street Trolley. Then, after 7:00 p.m. enjoy the start of the holiday season with music and merriment while Santa and Mrs. Claus walk the Square and visit with families until 8:00 p.m. 301 King Street, VA. For more information, please click here.
City Center Tree Lighting: Kick off the holiday season with City Center on Saturday, November 29th from 5:00 to 7: 00p.m. The evening will include a joyful music performance, balloon artists, face painters, holiday treats and more. NBC4’s Eun Yang will host the official tree lighting ceremony and countdown. Enjoy a dazzling 75-foot tree, visit two resident 25-foot reindeer, and capture the spirit of the holidays with a photo under Palmer Alley Dream Closet art installation. Festivities start at 5:00 p.m. Tree Lighting program starts at 6:00 p.m. This event is free and open to all, and no tickets are required. Rain date: November 30th.
Fairmont’s 22nd Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony: Don’t miss the annual tree lighting in the hotel’s Courtyard beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2. Filled with tiny white lights and a shimmering Christmas tree, the courtyard becomes a glittering crystal garden – the perfect venue for holiday celebrations. While listening to the award-winning Georgetown Visitation Madrigals perform holiday classics, families can take the chill off next to heaters while children may enjoy decorating holiday cards and tasting holiday treats. All families will be entered to win prizes. A Master of Ceremonies and special guests will introduce Santa Claus as he makes his first appearance, spending time listening to children’s Christmas wishes after the ceremony. Fairmont encourages all guests to bring a gift for Horton’s Kids – such as Legos, basketballs, footballs, dolls, books, games or arts and crafts. The donations will help spread holiday cheer to over 500 children, ages 5 – 18. Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown will also be accepting toy donations for Horton’s before and after the tree lighting ceremony from November 27 until December 10. Fairmont’s tree lighting ceremony is free and open to the public.
