It’s no secret that the holidays are a big deal across the National Capital Region. Keeping track of so many festive activities, performances, events and more can be difficult. Keep tabs on your holiday schedule here and find new activities to enjoy this winter.
Holiday Events in Maryland
Check out the best of what Maryland has to offer this holiday season, including Christmas shows, light festivals, holiday markets and so much more!
Maryland Christmas Show
Where? 797 East Patrick Street, Frederick
When? November 29th-December 1st
The Maryland Christmas Show brings back the Yuletide spirit each and every year. For the 41st season, visitors from near and far will have the opportunity to discover the joys of shopping at this premier event. Situated in the historic Frederick City, the market brings together an impressive number of fine artisans and merchants to make holiday shopping a breeze. The show spans seven buildings, where shoppers will find top artists and craftsmen offering fine art, pottery, furniture, jewelry, clothing, toys, and more. Not all exhibitors participate across both weekends, so if you see something you like on the first weekend — best to buy it on the spot! If this is your first visit to the Maryland Christmas Show, comfortable shoes are encouraged. If the weather looks like it’ll be chilly, bring something warm to wear since you’ll be moving from building to building. Admission is priced at $10 for adults and $4 for children ages 10 and under. There is a small parking fee of $2.
Garden of Lights
Where? 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton
When? November 22nd-January 5th
The Garden of Lights will transform Brookside Gardens into a magical winter wonderland for families of all sizes and ages. Take a relaxed stroll through the half-mile walk-through exhibit as you enjoy the twinkling of the lights and the unique displays that adorn the flowerbeds and grounds across the 50-acre property in Wheaton. Swing by the gift shop once you’re done exploring to shop for seasonal, one-of-a-kind items. Tickets are priced at $10 per person and must be purchased online. Every visitor ages 5 and older must have a ticket. The Garden of Lights event is a rain-or-shine activity, so check the forecast and bring layers or an umbrella depending on the conditions! Parking is available at the main entrance on Glenallan Avenue, as well as by the conservatory entrance. Catalyst Hot Dogs will be onsite for the duration of the 2024 Garden of Lights season, so grab a bite to eat if you’re feeling famished!
Festival of Lights
Where? 101 North Court Street, Westminster
When? December 11th
The Festival of Lights in Historic Frederick is one of the season’s most inspiring events. Each year, the lights showcase the true spirit of the season for young viewers and older visitors alike. Holiday greetings, carols, and inspirational messages are all part of this community tradition. Attendees can join in on the program and participate in the candle-lighting ceremony, which inevitably fills the courtyard with beautiful lights. The event is held outdoors, so wear weather-appropriate clothing to ensure you stay warm and comfortable. The 2024 Festival of Lights will feature a special musical performance by The Frederick Children’s Chorus, a solo by Miss Central Maryland, and an inspirational message from a community leader. There will also be remarks by council member Katie Nash and an audience sing-along of fan-favorite carols. Arrive early to stop by the beverage cart for a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or a specialty latte from Eklectic Coffee Bar at the City Hall courtyard from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Annapolis Holiday Market
Where? 1 Dock Street, Annapolis
When? December 12th-15th
The Annapolis Holiday Market is a four-day affair, kicking off on a Thursday and wrapping up on Sunday for a weekend-long shopping spree. Admission is free, giving you more cash to spend on the unique finds you’re sure to discover. This is one of the newest holiday markets in the region, though it’s quickly become an annual tradition for locals. If you’re new to Annapolis or just visiting, it won’t take you long to see why the city often makes the list of the top Christmas towns to visit in the USA during the holidays. The market adds to the holiday delight, situated on the historic waterfront. The market includes a wide range of arts, crafts, food, handmade goods, and more. Now in its third year, the market will feature over 120 artisans and specialty food vendors. Additional events in Annapolis include a “Midnight Madness” event on the 12th where stores will stay open late and the Eastport Light Parade on the 14th.
Kris Kringle Christmas Market
Where? 8440 Fairgrounds Road, La Plata
When? December 13th-15th
2024 marks the 11th annual Kris Kringle Christmas Market in Charles County. This market has been modeled after the famous holiday markets in Germany. Situated conveniently in Maryland, the market offers light displays, food, handmade crafts, and more from 180+ local artists and crafters. There are also children’s activities, shopping, live music, and more to keep everybody entertained and engaged throughout the festivities. Seasonal activities include Santa’s big arrival, holiday fireworks, Christmas tree lighting, strolling carolers, performances by local school bands, and a lighted holiday path and Christmas Village to explore. The official tree lighting is scheduled for 5:00 PM on December 13th, so make sure to mark your calendar so you don’t miss it! The admission fee of $5 helps to benefit The Southern Maryland Food Bank, the Charles Co. Association of Emergency Medical Services, and the Charles Co. Volunteer Firemen’s Association.
Holiday Events in Washington, D.C.
Enjoy Washington, D.C. during the holidays by picking up tickets to The Washington Ballet or by spectating the Holiday Boat Parade at The Wharf.
“A Christmas Carol” at Ford’s Theatre
Photo by Scott Suchman.
Where? 511 10th Street, NW
When? November 21st-December 31st
Grab your tickets for a performance of A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre this holiday season. The show runs from November 21st through the end of December, giving you plenty of time to catch it live. There will be audio-described performances on December 5th and 14th, as well as an ASL-interpreted performance on December 5th. A sensory-friendly night at Ford’s Theatre will be hosted on November 24th, allowing everyone an opportunity to enjoy the beloved show this Christmastime. The musical-infused production captures all the magic and joy of Dickens’s Yuletide classic, with your favorite familiar characters, ghosts, and a children’s ensemble. Catch acclaimed actor Craig Wallace as he reprises the role of Ebenezer Scrooge for the 2024 season. See the full schedule and reserve your tickets here.
DC Holiday Market
Where? 1500 block of 19th Street NW
When? November 22nd-December 15th
The DC Holiday Market will be hosted at Dupont Circle this season, opening on Friday, November 22nd, and running through mid-December. The holiday market will have a live stage where performances from prominent local talent will be held each evening. Approximately 30+ small businesses, artisans, boutique brands, and more will be selling handcrafted goods, unique gift items, and other treats. Enjoy tasty bites like Migue’s Mini Donuts and Capital Candy Jar’s hot roasted nuts as you shop to your heart’s content. Exhibitors at this year’s market include Pyramid Atlantic Art Center, KORA Designs, New York Puzzle Company, Leah Sturgis Jewelry, FarEast Antiques, and many more. The live music lineup can be found here, so make sure to catch your favorite groups, soloists, and musicians as they take the stage. The market will be closed on Thanksgiving Day!
The Washington Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker”
Where? 513 13th Street NW
When? November 30th-December 29th
You won’t want to miss The Washington Ballet as they perform The Nutcracker this holiday season. The D.C.-themed production features dancing cherry blossoms, cardinals, and famous figures such as Betsy Ross, Harriet Tubman, and George Washington as the Nutcracker. Situated amongst the charming streets of Georgetown, the performance nods to DC’s rich history to make this a truly once-in-a-lifetime combination of a beloved classic and the capital city’s culture. Audiences will be transported into a winter wonderland that they’ll be talking about through the end of the year! Tickets are on sale now starting at $76! Upgrade to orchestra center seats so you have a prime view of all the action.
Holiday Boat Parade
Where? 760 Maine Avenue SW
When? December 7th
The Holiday Boat Parade & Party will be held at The Wharf on the first Saturday of December. The free event features over 70 beautifully decorated boats that will parade up along the Washington Channel. There will also be exciting land activities beginning at 5:00 PM like live music, ornament decorating, holiday karaoke, and a signature musical performance by Yani the Band. Families can take photos with Santa, eat s’mores, and sip on warm beverages as they watch the boats carry on. Snap a photo of the Jack Daniel’s Barrel Tree and the impressive 45-foot illuminated Christmas tree on District Pier. After the conclusion of the boat parade, look to the skies to enjoy the spectacular fireworks salute at 8:00 PM over the Washington Channel.
Holiday Events Near Arlington, VA
Don’t forget about Northern Virginia this holiday season! From Arlington, Alexandria, and Middleburg — these are some of the best area events to partake in the festivities.
Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights
Where? 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna
When? November 8th-January 5th
Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights is a family-friendly garden trail that’s lit with countless sparkling lights when the holidays roll around. Take an evening stroll through the enchanted botanic gardens and enjoy the bright colors of the glowing trees and displays that feature an array of nature, winter, and holiday themes. The half-mile Winter Walk is paved, making it wheelchair and stroller accessible. While you walk, sip on a cozy, hot beverage (boozy or nonalcoholic) as you soak in the ambiance. You can even roast marshmallows and craft the perfect s’mores treat to end your evening. The Winter Walk of Lights has been illuminating the gardens for 13 years now and welcomes as many as 110,000 guests each year. Tickets are on sale now for $18 plus a small fee. Children under the age of 2 don’t need a ticket.
24th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Where? Old Town Alexandria Waterfront
When? December 7th
The annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is part of Alexandria’s holiday weekend extravaganza. The parade kicks off at 5:30 PM on December 7th, with dockside festivities beginning at 2:00 PM! Arrive early and stay late to make the most out of this party at the historic waterfront. Spectators can watch as dozens of brightly lit boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. Festivities on land include a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company, food, and various activities to keep audiences entertained. The duration of the parade can vary from 30 minutes to an hour. There are plenty of prime viewing spots, such as Founders Park, Rivergate City Park, Robinson Landing, and more.
Christmas in Middleburg
Where? Washington Street, Alexandria
When? December 7th
There’s no better setting to soak in the holiday vibes than a trip to Middleburg! This fun-filled family festival has an array of activities, great eats, and a mile-long Christmas parade. There are also a multitude of bistros, cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area. Food trucks will be on-site, as well as music and shopping opportunities. No parking is available along Route 50 or in town, so make sure you secure reserved parking to avoid being towed! Several options are available, from priority parking, VIP parking, and handicap-accessible free parking. Festivities for the day begin bright and early with a Breakfast with Santa event, followed by a silent auction at the Middleburg Community Charter School. At 11:00 AM, the Middleburg Hunt Review takes to the streets for a truly spectacular sight of approximately 150 horses and riders donned in hunting attire, along with dozens of hounds making their way through town.
Happy Holidays to Everyone in the DMV!
Here’s to a wonderful holiday season across the DMV region! Whether you call Maryland, D.C., or Northern Virginia home — this is one of the most exciting times of the year. Enjoy festive parades, holiday performances, Christmas markets and so much more as you get ready to say “hello” to 2025!
Related post: The Best Holiday Light Displays in Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia