George Washington's Mount Vernon - 9:00 AM
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Rhode Island Center - various times Pick
Darnall's Chance House Museum - 12:00 PM Pick
Darnall's Chance House Museum - 12:00 PM Pick
Darnall's Chance House Museum - 12:00 PM Pick
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21 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in DC for Kids
Looking for new Christmas events and holiday activities for your family? The DC area is packed with family holiday fun, from Christmas shows for kids to holiday lights in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.
I'm partial to holiday lights shows and can definitely recommend a couple. If you're looking for a drive-thru light show with activities and treats at the end, Bull Run Festival of Lights in Centreville, VA, is for you. Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, MD, is a magical walk-through with glittering lights, and one of our favorites to visit.
And what are the holidays without gift-giving? DC hosts two month-long holiday markets this year; one in Gallery Place/Chinatown and one in Dupont Circle. There's also the authentic German Christmas Village in Baltimore.
Find more sparkly, festive fun in our Christmas Activities and Holiday Guide for DC Kids. And remember, we are constantly updating our events calendar with more Christmas events and holiday activities all over the DC area. Whatever you celebrate, we're wishing you all the wonders of the season!
Insider Tips for Families Enjoying Holiday Activities in DC
Get Tickets in Advance
Many popular holiday attractions in DC sell out quickly, so buy tickets as far in advance as possible. If the event is free, check to see if advance registration is required or if you'll need to reserve a parking pass ahead of time.
Arrive Early
Try to book the earlies time slot possible. The earlier you get there, the higher your likelihood of avoiding crowds.
Visit in November if Possible
Some of these kid-friendly holiday events in DC open in early or mid-November, and they're typically much less crowded before Thanksgiving. So if you don't mind getting a jump on your holiday fun, go in November to avoid long lines and large crowds.
Christmas Events in DC FAQ
Q: What are the best Christmas events in DC for kids?
A: Families love holiday light shows like the Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival, ICE! and the other holiday activities at Gaylord National Resort, the Washington Ballet's performance of The Nutcracker, and The Polar Express train ride at the B&O Railroad Museum.
Q: What holiday activities are free in DC?
A: Free holiday fun includes seeing the National and US Capitol Christmas trees, National Harbor's nightly Christmas tree light show, the National Menorah lighting, holiday caroling at the Willard, and more.
Q: Where can we meet Santa in DC?
A: Santa Suite's at Fairmont Georgetown is a fantastic spot to meet the big guy! Families can also find Santa at Whistle Stop Hobbies in Alexandria, the B&O Railroad Museum, Winter Wonderfest at Nationals Park, local holiday markets, and other events across the city.
Q: Where can kids see Christmas lights in DC?
A: Some of the most magical light displays are Meadowlark's Winter Walk of Lights in Vienna, VA and Winter City Lights in Olney, MD. We also have a list of our favorite neighborhood Christmas lights displays near DC.
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Best Christmas Events and Holiday Activities for Kids in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia
Places featured in this article:
1500 block of 19th Street, NW
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
West Shore Park
Nationals Park
Winter City Lights
President's Park
Fairmont Washington, DC, Georgetown
Historic Downtown Manassas
Old Town Alexandria Waterfront
The Ellipse
George Washington's Mount Vernon
