As Christmas is on its way, and cheer fills the streets all around DC, it’s important to take in this time to enjoy the excitement and appreciate this holiday season. If you aren’t travelling for Christmas and will be in the DMV, there is so much fun to be had just minutes away. Below I have compiled a list of activities to do to get in the Christmas spirit and appreciate the days leading up to the holidays!
DC Holiday Market
From November 14th- December 23rd, an adorable holiday market comes to DC, located in Dupont Circle Park. The holiday market offers over 30 stands and mini shops that include a diverse range of fun, food, and shopping. If you’re hungry, stop by to get Migue’s Mini Donuts or a hot cup of Drizzle Top Go’s hot chocolate. It is also a great place to get a last minute, thoughtful gift for a loved one from boutiques like Ethic Goods or Green Blanky Studio. The lights filling the streets bring Christmas spirit and fun for anyone. Whether you go with your friends, family, or by yourself, it will definitely be memorable and a possible new tradition. To spread the cheer, the market also offers gift cards, making yet another great gift and activity for someone else to enjoy!
Washington Harbor Ice Skating
There is no better way to utilize the cold weather than to appreciate Georgetown’s very own outdoor ice rink that opens every mid November. Not only is this the largest ice rink in the city, but it is surrounded by so many options for pre or post- skating food or drink. The rink sits next to the Potomac river, offering scenic views and Christmas lights at night. The rink is open from 11am-8:30pm on weekdays and 11am-10:30pm on weekends, so there is plenty of time to enjoy skating with your friends, followed by a nice meal or Georgetown shopping only a walk away.
Festival of Lights
Just minutes away from Stone Ridge, the Washington DC Temple is hosting its 48th annual Festival of Lights outside of the temple. From Dec 4th- Jan 1st, the temple offers a drive through light show with decorations all around the grounds and beautiful lights up and down trees. The best part is, you don’t even have to get out of your car (though you can if you want to)! Each car will receive a timed parking pass and you can go through and enjoy the excitement in the warmth of your car. The hours are 4:30- 8:45pm to ensure the guests get the best experience of the lights in the dark.
Dinner Downtown
While Christmas activities are fun and bring so much festivity, oftentimes there is nothing better than a cozy dinner at your favorite restaurant. In DC, decorations have already been put up in most restaurants, including Filomena, Clydes, Old Ebbits Grill, and so many more. Georgetown is packed with Christmas cheer and a dark December dinner will help you get in the spirit like no other. More locally, downtown Bethesda offers so many restaurants and their annual Christmas tree in the Row has been put up, ensuring for a nice walk around the shops before or after your meal. There really is nothing better than good food and Christmas decorations!
