With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it’s officially the season of bright lights, festive happenings, and holiday cheer — all to be enjoyed against the backdrop of our Nation’s Capital, fully decked out in that warm yuletide glow. From spirited markets to dazzling displays, seasonal events, and more, we’re unwrapping the best ways to welcome the holidays in DC this year. Our advice? Start planning your merry lineup of celebrations now, before it’s too late — so you don’t end up turning into the Grinch!

#1 The National Christmas Tree

DC’s claim to fame during the holidays is planted in President’s Park on the White House Ellipse, where it’s surrounded by other trees decorated with handmade ornaments from 56 US states and territories and is accompanied by nightly musical performances throughout the holiday season. This year’s lighting ceremony will take place on Thursday, December 5th!

#2 Season’s Greenings

From November 28th through January 5th, the US Botanic Garden will feature a G-gauge model circulating through agricultural displays made from plant parts and new plant-based landmarks, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and the National Gallery of Art’s East Building. Throughout the Terrace Gardens and Bartholdi Gardens, trees and shrubs feature string lights, festive evergreens, and six large plant-based sculptures of pollinators.

➤ There’s so much to see and do in DC. Take a look at some of our other ‘best of’ posts here:

• Best Music Venues in the DMV
• A Guide to Giving Back in the DC Community
• Where to Find the Best Italian in DC

#3 DC Holiday Hunt

This holiday season, DC’s “main streets” come alive with DC Holiday Hunt, a festive scavenger hunt launching November 29th through January 5th. From historic sites to modern marvels, explore Columbia Heights, Mount Pleasant, Logan Circle and U Street, among other locales, while completing holiday missions and supporting local businesses to win prizes.

#4 Zoo Lights

Join the thousands of visitors who make ZooLights a part of their annual holiday tradition. What’s all the buzz about? Each year, environmentally friendly LED lights and dozens of glowing animal lanterns transform the iconic National Zoo into a winter wonderland — and one you don’t want to miss. This free event, which runs from November 22nd through January 4th, includes live music performances, tasty winter treats, and plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping. Note that timed passes are required.

#5 Skating At The Sculpture Garden

One of our favorite winter traditions in Washington, DC, is the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden ice skating rink. What are you waiting for? Lace up your skates, grab a date, and glide around this fountain-turned-ice-rink all season long.

➤ Looking for more things to do in DC? Check out these posts next:

• Best Holiday Markets to Check Out in DC
• Best Bagels in DC
• Best Independent Bookstores in DC

#6 The District Holiday Boat Parade

This one-of-a-kind DC event puts a spin on the classic Christmas parade by taking the celebrations out to sea. The annual Holiday Boat Parade features more than 60 boats covered from bow to stern in colorful Christmas lights — and this year is no exception. Come watch the boats peacefully (and brightly) traverse the Potomac River from the waterfront in Alexandria, VA to the The Wharf on December 7th, and stick around for the big firework show at the end of the night. Kids can sip on hot cocoa and cider, while parents are welcome to grab an adult beverage from the Waterfront Beer and Wine Garden nearby.

#7 A Mount Vernon Holiday

See the estate illuminated with brilliant lights and patterns set to holiday music during Winter Glow (November 29th-30th, December 15th-19th and 23rd). During the event, you can visit an 18th-century winter encampment, purchase gifts from the Mount Vernon shops, and enjoy holiday drinks and treats from the Mount Vernon Food Truck. During Christmas Illuminations (December 20th-22nd), you can tour the gorgeous mansion, witness chocolate-making demonstrations and hang out with the estate’s favorite pet, Aladdin the Camel. To cap it off, enjoy an incredible fireworks display along the Potomac River.

#8 Miracle at Death Punch

Famed holiday-themed pop-up bars Miracle and Sippin’ Santa are returning to the District for their 5th year at Death Punch and Black Whiskey, respectively. The season starts on Wednesday, November 27th, so get ready to throw on your most festive ensemble to soak up lots of kitschy decor, listen to carols, and (of course) sip on spirited drinks to wash down all the cheer.

#9 The DowntownDC Holiday Market

This year’s edition of the DowntownDC Holiday Market will occupy the street and sidewalk on F Street between 7th and 9th Streets, NW. Now in its 20th year, the market brings bright lights to Penn Quarter and Chinatown, giving the entire neighborhood a treasured holiday spark. The spacious, open-air village is free and open to the public, opening just ahead of Thanksgiving on November 22nd (closed on Thanksgiving Day) before closing for the season on December 23rd.

Looking for real estate advice over the holidays? We’re here for you not just this season, but all year long! Get in touch with us directly by calling 202.280.2060 or emailing us at jsmira@jennsmira.com today.