During the holiday season, the festive cheer is all around Washington, DC. At this time of the year, the city’s museums and galleries become spaces filled with amazing holiday exhibits, performances, and celebrations that the locals and visitors enjoy to the fullest. If you have plans to experience Christmas events in Washington, DC, these museums and galleries showcase some of the best holiday attractions.
Downtown DC Holiday Market
One of the most anticipated Christmas events in Washington, DC, is the DowntownDC Holiday Market, which is open daily from November 22–December 23, from 12:00 noon–8:00 p.m. You can find the market on F Street NW (Between 7th and 9th Streets NW) This festive market is a celebration of local skills and talent. Visitors get the chance to explore various holiday-themed crafts while also enjoying the live performances of musicians from in and around the area. There’s lots to choose from when it comes to food and beverages at the market, and who doesn’t love some delicious holiday snacks and drinks while shopping?
The incredible creative side of DC’s local culture is beautifully captured by this outdoor exhibit. If you’re on the hunt for one-of-a-kind gifts, then this market is ideal for you because you will be able to find just the perfect thing to give to the ones you love this Christmas.
This event is about a 15-minute walk from Arlo Washington DC. You can also take the Metro Green or Yellow Line from Mount Vernon Square to Gallery Place-Chinatown, or opt for a ride share, which takes about 5-10 minutes.
Season’s Greenings at the United States Botanic Garden
For a visually stunning holiday experience, head to Season’s Greenings at the U.S. Botanic Garden. Running from November 28 through January 5, this annual display features intricate botanical replicas of landmarks from Washington, DC. The exhibit displays impressive structures made entirely from plant materials, surrounded by model trains that weave through festive landscapes. The many seasonal plants, including thousands of poinsettias, add bright and beautiful color and holiday spirit to the garden’s natural beauty.
Season’s Greenings is an immersive exploration of art and nature. Admission is free, making it an ideal stop for families, nature lovers, or anyone looking to experience the holiday season in a creatively inspiring setting. This combination of horticultural mastery and festive spirit has made it one of the standout Christmas events DC visitors look forward to every year.
Season’s Greenings at the U.S. Botanic Garden can be reached by a 30-35 minute walk, a Green Line Metro ride to Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter followed by a 15-minute walk, or a 12-15 minute ride-share.
A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre
For a more traditional holiday celebration, the iconic Ford’s Theatre hosts its annual performance of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol from November 21st to December 31st. This production has become a beloved part of the city’s Christmas events, blending history with holiday storytelling.
The role of Ebenezer Scrooge, played by Craig Wallace, brings Dickens’ timeless message of redemption and generosity to life in a beautifully crafted production.
Ford’s Theatre is a 20-minute walk from Arlo, accessible by the Metro Green or Yellow Line to Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter, or a quick 8-12 minute ride-share.
The National Gallery of Art
Holiday activities in Washington, DC, wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the National Gallery of Art.
The National Gallery of Art will be offering special holiday-themed tours and art-focused activities throughout the 2024 Christmas season. These festive tours will guide visitors through the gallery’s most celebrated works, weaving in stories of artistic interpretations of winter and holiday scenes. Visitors can participate in themed discussions, learning how different cultures and eras have captured the spirit of the season through art.
Additionally, the gallery will offer hands-on activities for families and children, creating an immersive experience where participants can explore art in interactive and creative ways, making it an engaging option for all ages.
The National Gallery of Art is a 25-minute walk from the hotel, or you can take the Green or Yellow Line to Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter, with a 10-minute walk from there, or opt for a 10-15-minute ride-share.
Other Notable Museum Holiday Tours and Cultural Celebrations in DC
In addition to these major events, Washington DC’s museums and galleries host a variety of other festive activities. For instance, the National Cathedral offers an annual series of Christmas concerts, including both choral and instrumental performances. These concerts, set against the majestic architecture of the cathedral, provide a serene and spiritual way to celebrate the season.
Other holiday-themed museum tours and special exhibits can be found throughout the city, including at the Hirshhorn Museum and other Smithsonian institutions. These events showcase the city’s commitment to celebrating culture, art, and history, making Washington, DC, a unique destination for anyone interested in combining holiday joy with cultural enrichment.
Christmas in Washington, DC
Washington, DC, is full of holiday experiences, offering everything from Christmas performances to holiday exhibits at its world-class museums and galleries. So, if you’re exploring the Downtown DC Holiday Market, enjoying A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre, or visiting the National Gallery of Art, these events provide an unforgettable way to celebrate the season. These Christmas events at museums in Washington, DC allow visitors to explore a unique combination of holiday traditions and cultural celebrations, making the nation’s capital a prime destination for holiday joy.
Book your stay at Arlo Washington, DC, and enjoy the holiday season.
