The holiday season is a magical time in Washington, D.C., and it’s just a short trip away for Charlottesville families. From twinkling light displays and festive performances to enchanting ice skating spots and historic tours, D.C. holiday attractions are not to be missed.
The drive to D.C. from Charlottesville is just over two hours. You could plan an easy day trip to check out one or two events. Or, you can spend a few days and see even more!
D.C. offers a wide array of seasonal activities that promise to captivate children and adults alike. Whether you’re looking to explore holiday traditions, admire beautifully decorated trees, or experience an unforgettable winter wonderland, this guide has something special for everyone in the family. With careful planning and a touch of holiday spirit, your D.C. visit can become a cherished family tradition.
Let this guide help you make the most of your time in the nation’s capital this holiday season. There’s truly no place like it to celebrate together!
At a Glance
- Popular daytime holiday attractions in Washington, D.C. include the National Christmas Tree and Pathway of Peace and the holiday exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Garden.
- Many Smithsonian Museums host holiday exhibits, events, and crafts for kids and families, and all ages are welcome to ice skate on the National Mall.
- At night, families can visit holiday light walks including ZooLights at the National Zoo, Georgetown Glow, and Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park.
- If you’re visiting D.C., consider using Metro to get around instead of driving, and always check event websites ahead of time to see if you can buy tickets in advance.
National Christmas Tree & Pathway of Peace
Location: The Ellipse, near the White House
Visit the National Christmas Tree to see this grand symbol of holiday cheer. The tree lighting ceremony usually kicks off in early December. Around it, families can walk the Pathway of Peace, where trees representing all 50 states and U.S. territories are beautifully decorated. Special performances and holiday displays add to the festive feel at this D.C. holiday attraction.
Pro tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot and bundle up, as it can get chilly in the evenings.
U.S. Botanic Garden’s Holiday Exhibit
Location: 100 Maryland Ave SW
The Botanic Garden’s holiday display is an annual treat. You’ll see model trains winding through displays made from natural materials, including miniature versions of iconic D.C. landmarks. The greenhouse is decked out with poinsettias, orchids, and other holiday plants.
Pro tip: Kids love the trains, and the indoor setting is perfect if you need a break from the cold.
Enchant Christmas at Nationals Park
Location: 1500 S Capitol St SE
Enchant Christmas transforms Nationals Park into a winter wonderland featuring the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze and Market. Families can ice skate, shop, enjoy festive treats, and meet Santa. This is a top D.C. holiday attraction so you should definitely get your tickets early. This is the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, so expect a crowd when you get there!
Pro tip: Plan to go early in the evening to avoid crowds.
ZooLights at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo
Location: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW
ZooLights is a holiday must for any visit to D.C. holiday events. At night, the National Zoo is transformed by thousands of LED lights into a glowing wonderland. Families can explore animal-themed displays, attend live performances, and enjoy winter treats. This is an outdoor display, so you’ll want to check the Zoo’s website ahead of time for weather-related closures. And be sure everyone in the family is bundled up!
Pro tip: The event is free, but parking is limited. Consider taking public transportation.
Our publisher, Jen, shared that her family loves going to visit the ZooLights in December. This year, they’re also planning to go ice skating on the National Mall and visit the Museum of Natural History. And right after ice skating, they’re going to pop into the nearby National Gallery to see the new exhibit, “Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment” for Mom’s pick!
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort
Location: 201 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD
ICE! at the Gaylord National Resort is an indoor winter wonderland made entirely of ice sculptures, including characters from beloved holiday stories. Guests are given special parkas to wear as they walk through the exhibit. National Harbor is a favorite spot for D.C. residents to visit on evenings and weekends, and it’s just a short drive outside the city.
Pro tip: This attraction is in a very cold setting (kept at 9°F), so make sure to bring gloves and hats for everyone.
Smithsonian Museums Holiday Events
Location: National Mall, various museum locations
The Smithsonian museums often host special holiday-themed exhibits and events that are themed around the subjects of the different museums and exhibits. Events include including story times, art activities, and seasonal displays. Check the calendars of the Museum of Natural History and the American History Museum for especially family-friendly events.
Pro tip: Admission is free, and these museums provide a warm retreat on cold days in the city.
Christmas Village at the National Cathedral
Location: 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW
The National Cathedral hosts a charming Christmas Village, complete with a marketplace, musical performances, and even a traditional German carousel. This is a beautiful setting to explore and enjoy holiday spirit. Bundle up the family, grab a warm drink, and enjoy an afternoon of browsing with friends.
Pro tip: Check the schedule for specific activities and performances, as they vary throughout the season.
Georgetown Glow
Location: Georgetown neighborhood
Georgetown Glow is a public art exhibition of light installations, perfect for evening strolls through the historic streets. Families can enjoy festive window displays, light sculptures, and seasonal treats from local cafes.
Pro tip: This is an excellent, free event. Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore Georgetown’s charming cobblestone streets.
Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
Location: Constitution Ave NW & 7th St NW
Located on the National Mall, this outdoor ice rink is a favorite D.C. holiday activity for locals and visitors alike. While you skate to seasonal music, you can also take in stunning views of the surrounding museums and sculptures.
Pro tip: Skate rentals are available. The rink can get crowded, so consider visiting on a weekday or earlier in the day.
Planning Your Family Trip to D.C. Holiday Events
Planning a D.C. holiday trip packed with adventures for the whole family? Keep it going smoothly with these tips:
- Transportation: D.C. Metro is a convenient way to navigate the city and avoid parking hassles. Purchase your SmarTrip passes at Metro kiosks and reload them as needed.
- Plan ahead: Popular holiday events and performances tend to sell out, so consider booking tickets early.
- Dining: Many restaurants in D.C. offer holiday menus. Consider making reservations if you’d like a special meal.
Jen’s favorite tips for visiting DC with kids is to park at West Falls Church and take the Metro in. Get around like a city dweller and and save the hassle of driving on unfamiliar streets and finding a parking spot. Another favorite idea is to have lunch at the Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe at the National Museum of the American Indian. Each station serves regional specialties of the Indigenous Americas in the cafeteria-style space. The kids can literally eat a history lesson!
No matter which D.C. holiday attractions your visit, your family will enjoy making magical memories together this winter!
Be sure to check out our other wonderful stories
to help make your holidays bright!
The Best Charlottesville Christmas Events
Central Virginia Christmas Tree Farms
Virginia’s Best Holiday Light Displays
10 Christmas Day trips in Virginia Perfect for Winter Break
Live Christmas Tree Care Guide
Sugar Cookies Recipe
Charlottesville’s Grand Illumination
Favorite Places for Snow Tubing
Top DC Holiday Attractions
Our CharlottesvilleFamily Editors are locals who care deeply about family and community. We are almost all parents who serve alongside our readers in the PTO and band boosters, coaching sports teams, helping with the school fun fair and more. Our insider perspective, combined with great research and expert input from our wonderful CharlottesvilleFamily Advisory Panel helps us to provide you with trustworthy advice as you raise the next generation of brilliant and compassionate kids.