From European-style markets, hotels and restaurants in the holiday spirit, to the presidential inauguration and highly anticipated return of the giant pandas, Washington, DC shines brightly this winter. Combined with enthralling new exhibits, a new museum and engaging arts and culture, DC offers one-of-a-kind experiences for every traveler. Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization of the nation’s capital, provides ways to plan unforgettable and budget-friendly trips at washington.org/winter.
On Jan. 24, 2025, Bao Li and Qing Bao will publicly debut at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, making DC the only place to see giant pandas for free. Themed offerings are planned throughout the city. Given the immense public interest and excitement, the Zoo is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors daily. Timed entry passes are released here four weeks out. The Zoo is also infamous for hosting its gorgeous ZooLights.
This holiday season, DC boasts a double dose of merry markets. The rejuvenated DowntownDC Holiday Market in Penn Quarter (Nov. 22-Dec. 23), celebrating its 20th year, will offer 110 vendors, 90 percent of which are women, LGBTQ+ or BIPOC owned. For additional festive fun, the DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle (Nov. 22-Dec. 15) will offer 30 artisans, live music and sweet treats. The National Christmas Tree and National Menorah are must-see experiences on the White House Ellipse. Enjoy ice skating at The Wharf, Georgetown, Canal Park and the National Gallery of Art and Sculpture Garden. New this year, an ice-skating rink will be built inside the majestic National Building Museum, dubbed the Holiday Skate Spectacular.
“Washington, DC always embraces the holiday season, and potential travelers have even more reason to visit in the weeks and months to follow,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, Destination DC. “Diverse additions to DC’s arts scene, events of international interest and the beloved panda bears add to the list of experiences visitors can find only in our nation’s capital.”
DC’s first Arlo Hotel opened near Judiciary Square on Nov. 18, with its trademark style and year-round rooftop. The highly anticipated Salamander DC just completed its phased enhancements, unveiling its luxury two-story spa this month. The Canal House of Georgetown, part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, is expected to debut in the heart of the charming neighborhood in early 2025. These openings add to a long list of recent renovations and rebrands across the city.
Heavy hitters in the restaurant industry continue to inflame the city’s sizzling culinary scene. Kwame Onwuachi’s Dōgon opened with national buzz in the Salamander; Michelin-starred chef Pepe Moncayo’s Spanish farmhouse Arrels opened Nov. 18 in the Arlo; Stephen Starr and Nancy Silverton partnered to open the long-awaited Osteria Mozza in Georgetown on Nov. 10; while Devin Kennedy and Will Patton’s Press Club adds to DC’s high end cocktail scene.
On Dec. 13, the National Museum of African American History and Culture debuts a new temporary exhibition: In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World. Through powerful forms of artistic expression, such as quilting, embroidery and weaving, the landmark exhibition reveals healing traditions rooted in the resilience of the enslaved. On Feb. 19, the Go-Go Museum & Café will open in the heart of Anacostia. The first institution dedicated to the celebration and preservation of the syncopated, drum-driven funk that is DC’s native musical form will feature interactive exhibitions and holograms of Go-Go icons.
WorldPride is just around the corner: May 17-June 8, 2025. The nation’s capital welcomes the massive event – just the second time it has been held in the U.S. – coinciding with 50 years of Pride celebrations in the city. The newly announced theme is “Fabric of Freedom,” and more than two million overnight visitors are expected.
New Exhibits
Felix Gonzalez-Torres: Always to Return, Oct. 18-July 6, 2025
The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery and the Archives of American Art offer an exhibition focused on the artist’s deep engagement with portraiture and the construction of identity.
Breaking It Down: Conversations from the Vault, Nov. 2-Jan. 19, 2025
The Phillips Collection offers new takes on artists who have come to define the museum, including Georgia O’Keeffe, Paul Klee, Saam Gilliam and Arthur Dove.
The Print Generation, Nov. 16-April 27, 2025
The National Museum of Asian Art presents a selection of prints, crafted using a new approach as part of the sōsaku hanga (creative print) movement, that tore down the notion of the early-20th century Japanese artist.
In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World, Dec. 13-June 8, 2025
The National Museum of African American History and Culture’s first international touring exhibition features more than 190 artifacts, 250 images, interactive stations and newly commissioned artworks.
How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition, Feb. 8, 2025–July 2025
The renovated Folger Shakespeare Library invites visitors into a world of lace ruffs, jousting, hawks, bad handwriting, scandal and political factions.
Seasonal Theater
A Christmas Carol, Nov. 21-Dec. 31
Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace reprises the role of Ebenezer Scrooge for Ford’s Theatre’s annual production of the Charles Dickens classic, a lasting holiday tradition.
The Washington Ballet presents The Nutcracker, Nov. 30-Dec. 29
his DC-themed production at the Warner Theatre features dancing cherry blossoms, local landmarks and figures like Betsy Ross, Harriet Tubman and George Washington.
Handel’s Messiah, Dec. 6-8
The Washington National Cathedral Choir and Baroque Orchestra perform Handel’s beloved Messiah. Experience the triumphant “Hallelujah Chorus” under the National Cathedral’s soaring architecture.
Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC Holiday Show, Dec. 7, 14, 15
Tap-dancing elves, a moving Christmas tree, snow and choral renditions of holiday classics will be part of the annual holiday show at Lincoln Theatre.
A Magical Cirque Christmas, Dec. 12-15
A variety show full of nostalgia, charm and awe-inspiring performances for all ages will play the National Theatre.
Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show, Dec. 13-22
Celebrating 30 years, the world’s first holiday show highlighting the African American tradition of stepping returns to Arena Stage.
A Candelight Christmas, Dec. 15-22
Join the Washington Chorus in celebrating the 15th anniversary of its annual concert, ringing in the holiday season with joy, spirit and unity at the Kennedy Center.
Dazzling Displays
National Christmas Tree and Pathway of Peace, Dec. 5-Jan. 1, 2025
The National Christmas Tree, free to enter, is surrounded by trees decorated with handmade ornaments from 58 U.S. states and territories. Dec. 5 lighting airs on CBS Dec. 20.
National Menorah Lighting, Dec. 25-Jan. 2, 2025
Hanukkah begins with the lighting ceremony of the world’s largest menorah on the White House Ellipse, which greets all with latkes, doughnuts, menorah kits and dreidels.
ZooLights, Nov. 22-Jan. 4, 2025
Environmentally friendly LED lights and dozens of glowing animal lanterns transform Smithsonian’s National Zoo into a winter wonderland.
Frosted at Franklin Park 2024: Illumination, Nov. 22-Dec. 21
Wander through a breathtaking, free display of thousands of tiny festive bright lights, bringing a shimmery cool front to Franklin Park.
Tingle Bells at ARTECHOUSE, Nov. 22-Jan. 5, 2025\
This limited-run experience offers a holiday retreat for mind, body and soul.
U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, Dec. 3-Jan. 1, 2025
A 54-year tradition on the West Lawn, this year’s tree comes from Alaska’s national forests.
Season’s Greenings at the U.S. Botanic Garden, Nov. 28-Jan. 5, 2025
Model trains in the gated outdoor gardens, festive lights throughout the Garden and poinsettias, holiday decor and DC landmarks made from plants inside the Conservatory.
Festive hotels
The historic Willard Intercontinental famously transforms into a magical holiday wonderland complete with nightly caroling. The chic Riggs Hotel collaborates with celebrated fashion designers for its bejeweled tree; Christopher John Rogers and Farrow & Ball have the honours this year. The Waldorf Astoria and Conrad Washington, DC boast Instagram-worthy seasonal decorations. Rosewood Washington, DC’s The Lodge at CUT Above offers an immersive winter atmosphere, while a winter chalet pops up at Kimpton Monaco’s Dirty Habit, complete with an on-site snow cannon. The Fairmont Washington, DC Georgetown offers Nutcracker afternoon tea and the Capital Hilton offers a Nutcracker themed suite and lobby scavenger hunt.
DC is the Sports Capital
Watch parties are planned at metrobar, Bluejacket and Astro Beer Hall to cheer on DC’s National Women’s Soccer League team from afar.
Founded in 1974, the city’s NHL team celebrates its 50th anniversary throughout the 2024-25 season. The NBA’s Wizards also call Capital One Arena home, while the Capital City Go-Go, part of the NBA’s developmental G-League, play inside Entertainment & Sports Arena. The NFL’s resurgent Commanders play at Northwest Stadium.
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