Washington D.C. doesn't get enough credit as a holiday destination. Most people would prefer to celebrate Christmas in New York City, for instance, with its iconic events and attractions, but the American capital still has its own fair share of festivities. The National Christmas Tree, for example, is as much a sight to behold as the arguably more famous one in Rockefeller Center. The U.S. Botanical Gardens blooms with various holiday flora around this time too, including pine, poinsettias, and of course, a few mistletoes for good measure. And naturally, you can't miss The Washington Ballet perform “The Nutcracker” too. It's a great Christmas tradition worth experiencing.
Check Out The National Christmas Tree
The National Christmas Tree might not be one of
the world's most famous Christmas trees, but it's still worth checking out. It's a definite must-see when you spend Christmas in Washington D.C., especially since it's set up in the President's Park near the White House. The historic Presidential residence is already quite the sight to see, but when paired with a massive, sparkling evergreen, the whole area transforms into a real-life Christmas card. It's as if you got one from the president himself! Naturally, you shouldn't forget to take a selfie or two (or ten!) with the tree too.
Visit The U.S. Botanical Gardens
Visiting the U.S. Botanical Gardens is always a good idea, especially if you want to relax and just surround yourself with nature without leaving the city. But it's even more special if you check it out around Christmastime. This is when holiday flora fill up the space and give it a more festive feel. Pine, poinsettias, and mistletoes decorate most of the garden, creating a Christmas wonderland without all the typical ice and snow. At the same time, you can check out their displays of iconic D.C. landmarks decked out in Christmas decor.
Go to The Washington Ballet
Practically everyone's head of “The Nutcracker” ballet, right? It's a beloved holiday tradition for many households, whether watching live in the theater or watching a televised performance at home. If you want to make it your new Christmas tradition, especially if you've just
moved to Washington D.C., then you're in luck! The elite Washington Ballet puts on the classic ballet every year and puts its own, American spin on it. In their rendition, the story is set in 1882 Georgetown and features cameos from historic figures like George Washington, King George II, and more. It's a show you wouldn't want to miss!
Skate at The Washington Harbour Ice Rink
What's spending Christmas in Washington D.C.—or anywhere else, for that matter!—without ice-skating? Even those living in tropical countries go to their local indoor skating rinks to get into that holiday spirit. Fortunately, the Washington Harbour Ice Rink here in D.C. is much more magical. Located at the heart of the scenic Georgetown Waterfront, you're surrounded by lovely sights, refreshing cool air, and of course, bright Christmas decor. It's also fairly romantic, making it a great date choice for any couple celebrating Christmas here. Even more so since the rink is surrounded by great places to eat too.
Watch The Wharf's Holiday Boat Parade
Christmas is always a good time for a parade, isn't it? Luckily, you don't have to go all the way to Disney World in Florida to see a holiday parade. Here in Washington D.C., there's The Wharf's Holiday Boat Parade. Yes, it's as amazing as it sounds! 60 boats all decked out in twinkling fairy lights, colorful Christmas flora, and more float by the famous waterfront area, each more fantastical than the next. While you might not exactly see your favorite cartoon characters on board, the parade is still a holiday sight to see!
Shop at The Downtown Holiday Market
Admittedly,
Europe's magical Christmas Markets are unrivaled. They're so charming and festive, you can't help but want to revel in all the holiday gaiety. They're just so wonderful that cities and countries around the world try to replicate them, including the District of Columbia. You'll find the American capital's version, the Downtown Holiday Market, in Dupont Circle, one of
Washington D.C.’s central neighborhoods. Lined with the city's famous grand buildings and historic landmarks, the market more or less achieves that nostalgic old-world European appeal.
See The Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade
Men in kilts might be the last thing you'd expect when you decide to spend Christmas in Washington D.C., but they're there! For those who don't know, Alexandria, Virginia, which is a suburb in D.C. was founded by Scottish merchants who settled down there in 1749. Today, the city celebrates its heritage with locals wearing their traditional garb and blowing bagpipes as they parade down the streets. It's an incredible sight to see and a fascinating look into the interesting past of the American capital.
Source: Flickr.com/ Rob Shenk
You'd be surprised at how there's so much to see and do when you spend Christmas in Washington D.C.! From going to the theater to seeing parades, the American capital gets extremely festive around this time of year.
