Washington, D.C. Experiences This Holiday and Beyond

Washington, D.C. delivers exciting experiences for family travelers this holiday season and into 2025.

Check out Ford Theatre’s annual production of the Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol. Performances take place throughout December. Experience a Washington, D.C. spin on The Nutcracker, presented by The Washington Ballet. With performances through Dec. 29, the production features dancing cherry blossoms and local landmarks. Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show celebrates 30 years this December.

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Visit the National Christmas Tree, Dec. 5–Jan. 1, on The Ellipse at President’s Park. Head to Smithsonian’s National Zoo for ZooLights, on display through Jan. 4. On Jan. 24, giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao publicly debut at the zoo. Book your timed entry for the popular attraction here. Do last-minute holiday shopping at the city’s festive markets, including DowntownDC Holiday Market and DC Holiday Market.

Experience D.C.’s thriving culinary scene at Winter Restaurant Week. Held Jan. 27–Feb. 2, the event offers discounted lunch, brunch and dinner options.

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“Washington, D.C. 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 D.C.’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.”