The holiday season is a magical time in Washington, D.C., and it’s just a short trip away for families in Charlottesville! From twinkling light displays and festive performances to enchanting ice skating spots and historic tours, D.C. holiday attractions are not to be missed. Just a little over two hours away, DC can be a daytrip or spend a few days and see even more! Our publisher, Jen, shared her family loves going to visit the Zoolights at the Smithsonian Zoo and this year they’re planning to also go ice skating on the Mall and to the Museum of Natural History. And, she has planned ahead; 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!
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!
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, and families can walk the Pathway of Peace, where trees representing all 50 states and territories are beautifully decorated. Special performances and holiday displays add to the festive feel at this D.C. holiday attraction.
Family Tips: Arrive early to this D.C. holiday attraction 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 with 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.
Family Tips: 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 and expect a crowd but this is the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze!
Family Tips: 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, with the National Zoo transformed by thousands of LED lights. Families can explore animal-themed displays, attend live performances, and enjoy winter treats.
Family Tips: The event is free, but parking is limited—consider taking public transportation. Check the Zoo’s website for weather-related closures.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort
Location: 201 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD
ICE! is an impressive 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. Okay, this isn’t technically a D.C. holiday attraction but we just had to include it because it is so unique!
Family Tips: 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, including story times, art activities, and seasonal displays. Check the calendars for the Museum of Natural History and the American History Museum for especially family-friendly events.
Family Tips: Admission is free, and these museums provide a warm retreat on cold days.
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.
Family Tips: 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.
Family Tips: 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 with stunning views of the surrounding museums and sculptures. Families can enjoy skating to seasonal music.
Family Tips: Skate rentals are available, and the rink can get crowded, so consider visiting on a weekday or earlier in the day.
Additional Tips for Families Going to Washington D.C.
Transportation: D.C. Metro is a convenient way to navigate the city and avoid parking hassles.
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!
This guide ensures a holiday trip packed with magical experiences for every member of the family!
Be sure to check out our other wonderful
stories to help make your holidays bright!
Where to See Santa in Charlottesville
The Best Charlottesville Christmas Events
Favorite Places for Snow Tubing
Virginia’s Best Holiday Light Displays
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.
