The Best Places To See Holiday Lights In Washington, DC

Nothing says “holiday season” like thousands of twinkling lights and sky-high electric bills. When it comes to seasonal festivities, the DC area does not disappoint. Come out to one of these favorite spots to view light the lights, meet Santa, and skate the night away!

National Christmas Tree

One tree you can’t miss this holiday season is the National Tree. The lighting ceremony will take place on November 28th at the Presidents Park Ellipse. This massive tree will be lit each night from 4:30 to 10pm. Surrounding it are smaller trees. Each one is adorned with handmade ornaments from each of the 56 US States and Territories.

Zoo Lights at the National Zoo

More than 500,000 lights will shine in the National Zoo this year. Starting November 23rd, the free, after-hours show will be open to the public nightly. Come out and see the animals “get lit” with a laser light show. Enjoy tasty treats while you shop, and your kids play a variety of reindeer games.

US Capitol Christmas Tree

The West Lawn of the US Capitol Building will be host to one of the largest Christmas trees in DC. This year’s tree will come all the way from the Willamette National Forest in Oregon. You can track the trees travel from their website. Decorations for the tree will be handmade. To make your own unique ornament for the tree, check their website to find an ornament making station near you.

Georgetown Glow

December 1st is the official start of the Georgetown Glow art exhibits. Each year, area artists can showcase their light installations all around Georgetown. The lights will be own from 5pm until 10pm every night. On December 8th, bring your kids to meet Santa in Book Hill. There will be music, food, a smore’s station, and an ugly sweater contest.

Union Station

The giant Christmas wreaths aren’t the only things to see at Union Station this year. On November 29th, come out and enjoy a Holiday celebration in the center of the station. Norwegian Christmas trees will be lit around 6pm. Yo-Yo Ma will perform at 8pm, and you can view the model train display between events.

National Harbor

The biggest holiday shindig in DC will be at the Gaylord National Resort on the National Harbor. Walk through this Winter Wonderland and witness Christmas on the Potomac. You’ll meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, ice skate, and make gingerbread cookies. The resort will host a 55-foot Christmas tree and indoor snowfall. This is the one holiday event you don’t want to miss!

Holiday Boat Parade

The Holiday Boat Parade is the perfect family-friendly event. The parade itself will start at Haines Point and will end at The Wharf. Kids can decorate cookies and make their own holiday boat at the crafts table. Adults can enjoy the wine and beer garden and ice skating rink. The light show starts at 6pm so make sure you get there early to grab the perfect viewing spot.

Have a favorite DC Holiday Event we didn’t mention above? Tell us about it in the comments below!