55 Activities to Check Off Your Holiday Bucket List This Season

Decked-out light displays? Check. A trip on the Polar Express? Check. Caroling, crafts, and Christmas trees? Check, check, and check. Here are 55 ideas for getting out of the house and into the spirit this holiday season.

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Best Christmas Light Displays Around the DC Area

Get into the holiday spirit at winter wonderlands, drive-through light shows, and menorah lightings.

1. Winter Walk of Lights

9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct., Vienna | November 11–January 8

 

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The botanical gardens transform into a half-mile animated light show. Stop into the gazebo for stunning views reflected on the lake. $16–$20.

 

2. Bull Run Festival of Lights

7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville | November 11–January 8

 

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Explore two and a half miles of fairytale vignettes from the comfort of your car, driving past leaping fish, LED archways, glowing candy canes, and sparkling stars. Buy tickets ahead of time for discounts. $30–$40 per vehicle.

 

3. Ice and Lights Winter Village

4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria | November 18–January 1

Check out the seasonal hamlet’s light display, skate on the ice rink, and snap a holiday Instagram with the giant wreath and walk-through tree. $9–$22.

 

4. Spectacular Factory

1238 Maryland Ave., SW | November 18–January 8

The interactive museum Artechouse is debuting a holiday panorama with kaleidoscopic nutcrackers and a candy-cane carousel. $25.

 

5. ZooLights

3001 Connecticut Ave., NW | November 25–December 30

The National Zoo’s display returns after a hiatus, with glowing sculptures shaped like animal residents. Sip hot beverages during your nighttime stroll. Free.

 

6. Winter Lights Festival

11950 Clopper Rd., Gaithersburg | November 25–December 31

Seneca Creek State Park’s 3.5-mile loop is lit up in themes such as Toyland and the Enchanted Forest. Tune into 97.1 WASH-FM for a holiday soundtrack. $15–$25.

 

7. Enchant DC

1500 S. Capitol St., SE | November 25–January 1

The winter wonderland in Nationals Park features a light maze leading to a 100-foot-tall tree, ice-skating, and a village with artisan vendors. $18–$34.

 

8. Georgetown Glow

Georgetown | November 26–January 22

Outdoor art installations radiate colorful neon when the LED lights are turned on from 5 to 10 pm. Guided walking tours are available to learn more about the artistry. Free.

 

9. The District’s Holiday Boat Parade

101 District Sq., SW | December 3

 

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Watch festooned boats from the Wharf. In addition to the festive fleet, there’s ornament decorating and photos with Santa. Free.

 

10. Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

1-A Prince St., Alexandria | December 3

 

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View the decorated sailboats and powerboats from any spot on the Old Town waterfront or head to Waterfront Park for crafts and a pop-up beer garden. Free.

 

11. National Menorah Lighting

1450 Pennsylvania Ave., NW | December 18

The illumination of the massive menorah on the Ellipse kicks off the eight-day holiday. Revelers can also find musical performances, latkes, and doughnuts. Free.

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Holiday Markets to Shop at This Season

Shopping for gifts? These markets feature local makers.

12. Lucketts Holiday House

42350 Lucketts Rd., Leesburg | November 10–December 11

The countrycore house looks straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Each room has a different aesthetic, with shoppable decor. Timed-entry tickets are required ($25 in November, $20 in December).

 

13. Maryland Christmas Show

797 E. Patrick St., Frederick | November 18–27

At this massive fair, explore seven buildings filled with garlands, toys, ornaments, and pottery, and take a photo with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. $10 adults, $4 children ages ten and under.

 

14. Downtown Holiday Market

F St. between Seventh and Ninth sts., NW. | November 18–December 23

The 18th annual DC market spans two blocks with more than 75 vendors selling textiles, jewelry, soy candles, and more. Live music and churros add to the ambiance.

 

15. Heurich Christmas Markt

1307 New Hampshire Ave., NW. | December 2–4

The yard at the brewmaster’s castle converts to a German­inspired shopping market with products from local businesses. Warm up with hot mulled wine. $14 adults, $2 ages 15 and under.

 

16. Takoma Park Gifting Market

201 Ethan Allen Ave., Takoma Park | December 9

Peruse wares from 24 makers under the glowing lights and warm up by the fire pits with seasonal drinks from neighborhood restaurants.

 

17. Old Town Alexandria Market and Holiday Craft Show

300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria | December 10

Stuff stockings with local products from this market at John Carlyle Square, offering ornaments, jewelry, beauty products, and other gifts from more than 110 makers.

 

18. Del Ray Artisans Fine Art and Craft Holiday Market

2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria | December 2–18

A rotating roster of artisans set up shop at the Del Ray Artisans gallery. Pick out handmade gifts such as woodwork, pottery, leather crafts, and jewelry.

 

19. Procrastinator’s Holiday Market

514 Rhode Island Ave., NE. | December 17

Kids can send letters to Santa and ride a holiday train while adults shop the Bryant Street development’s market.

 

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Where to Buy a Real Christmas Tree

Take a pine-scented day trip to these farms and fields to find your perfect tree

20. Naughty Pine Nursery

18200 Elmer School Rd., Dickerson, Md. | Opens November 25

Trees of all sizes dot the picturesque nursery, including choppable Douglas fir, Norway spruce, and blue spruce. There are pre-cut options, too, as well as seasoned oak firewood for a holiday hearth.

 

21. Dreamland Christmas Tree Farm

2700 Sumantown Rd., Middletown, Md. | Opens November 19

Cleave Douglas fir, blue spruce, and Canaan fir at the family-­owned field or pick up a pre-cut evergreen. For tree skirts and ornaments, stop by the Christmas store.

 

22. Hank’s Christmas Tree Farm at Hartland Farm

12230 Belle Meade Rd., Markham, Va. | Opens November 25

Sip complimentary hot chocolate while strolling this Yuletide plot near the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cut your own conifer or snag a Fraser fir, which can grow up to ten feet.

 

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Try These Holiday Drinks

Put down the eggnog: DC restaurants are serving holiday drinks from around the world. Here are three options.

 

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Best Holiday Pop-up Bars in DC

Bars are decking their halls with drink specials and spirited decor

 

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26. Sippin’ Santas at Archipelago

1201 U St., NW.

Take a holiday trip to the tropics November 25 through December 31 when the tiki bar converts to a Christmas pop-up. Sip the pineapple Kris Kringle Colada among the island ephemera—think summery drinks and Santa in sunglasses.

 

27. Miracle at Death Punch Bar

2321 18th St., NW.

The cocktail lounge transforms into a merry destination with twinkling lights, Yuletide motifs, and themed seating areas. Visit the holiday bar starting November 25 for spiked eggnog, mulled wine, and a gingerbread-­flavored old fashioned in festive glassware.

 

28. Chai-vy and Cohen-y at Ivy & Coney

1537 Seventh St., NW.

Head to the Shaw watering hole’s annual Hanukkah bar for a hanukkiah-lighting each evening starting December 18. Snack on fried-potato latkes, then take part in a unique holiday tradition: the “shot-norah,” a giant menorah affixed to shot glasses for seasonal imbibing. The bar will remain open Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

 

29.Bejeweled Christmas Bar at Maxwell Park

1346 Fourth St., SE.

Swifties get a holiday bar in Navy Yard beginning on November 23, decked out by former Miracle on Seventh Street designer Adriana Salame. The glittering decor is inspired by Taylor Swift’s “Bejeweled” music video, and drinks pay homage to her discography. There are peppermint shooters, spiked whipped cream, and an espresso martini.

 

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Holiday Train Shows To Ride in the DMV

Indulge in the fantasy of a magical train ride, based on the Chris Van Allsburg book

30. B&O Railroad Museum

Baltimore | November 25–December 19

The Christmas Eve tale comes to life on the museum’s decorated railcar, where conductors punch golden tickets and destinations include the North Pole.

 

31. Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Cumberland and Frostburg | November 25–December 24

Go for the steam-powered option on this train departing from Cumberland and Frostburg. Passengers get a cookie and hot chocolate.

 

32. Walkersville Southern Railroad

Walkersville, Md. | November 26–December 18

This railroad welcomes a VIP guest during the holidays: Santa, because even reindeer need a break. Snap a photo with the bearded rider while cruising the Maryland tracks.

 

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Holiday Shows to Watch Around DC

The season isn’t complete without caroling, Christmas plays, and high-kicking elves

33. A Christmas Carol

Ford’s Theatre | November 18–December 31

See the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future in Ford’s 43rd annual production of the Dickens classic. A sensory-­friendly performance on December 11 dims the lights and the loud noises. $26 and up.

 

34. Gay Men’s Chorus Holiday Show

Lincoln Theatre | December 3, 9, and 11

The chorus’s holiday show this year features tap-dancing reindeer, kick lines, and a costume reminiscent of a Christmas tree. Expect tunes like “Underneath the Tree” and “Sleigh Ride.” $25 and up.

 

35. Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show

Arena Stage | December 9–18

Step into the holidays with a dance extravaganza celebrating the African tradition of stepping. In this percussive performance, dancers don penguin and polar-­bear suits to jump, flip, and kick. $56 and up.

 

36. National Symphony Orchestra, Handel’s Messiah

Kennedy Center | December 15–18

Conductor Fabio Biondi leads the NSO in a rendition of Handel’s seasonal oratorio. Vocals are performed by four soloists and the Choral Arts Society of Washington. $39 and up.

 

37. A Candlelight Christmas

Kennedy Center and Strathmore | December 16–23

The Washington Chorus takes on merry carols in this 75-­minute concert with a candlelight processional. Vocals are accompanied by an orchestra for a not-so-silent night. $19 and up.

 

38. Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

Capital One Arena | December 26

Sure, pyrotechnics and laser beams are not your average holiday light show. But the riotous scene feels festive when paired with this symphonic rock band’s big Yuletide sound. $50 and up.

 

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Where to Catch the Nutcracker—With a Twist

The nostalgic holiday classic gets a refresh in these productions

39. The Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker

THEARC and Warner Theatre | November 12–13 and November 25–December 30

Time-travel to 1882 Georgetown for this DC-set annual tradition. George Washington and King George (cast as the Rat King, naturally) join Clara and the Prince in the period piece set to Tchaikovsky’s score. $49 and up.

 

40. The Puppet Company’s The Nutcracker

Glen Echo Park | November 25–January 1

Life-size characters in elaborate masks perform alongside marionettes and hand puppets in this rendition, with music from the Arlington Symphony Orchestra. Special effects bring the stage to life with simulated fog and snow. $15.

 

41. The Hip-Hop Nutcracker

Strathmore | December 19–22

Breakdancing snowflakes and electric violins take the storied classic in an unexpected direction. Hip-hop legend Kurtis Blow opens the show in this version set in New York City with a back­drop of digital art. $34 and up.

 

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Attend a Holiday Class

Learn a skill or make a custom gift at these workshops

42. Wreath Making

She Loves Me | December  14 and 18

This course at the flower shop’s Eckington location includes decorative bits and bobs for a one-of-a-kind evergreen creation. $85

 

43. Holiday Crafts

Shop Made in VA | December 17

Zhuzh up giftwrapping and get a head start on personalized cards at this holiday craft session. Free

 

44. Gingerbread

Cork Market | December 3

Build a cinnamon-scented palace at this 14th Street shop’s annual gingerbread party. You can also pick up to-go kits containing pieces of the house, icing, and candy decor. $60

 

45. Ornaments

Shop Made in DC (Union Market) | December 8

Sew plush felt ornaments and personalize them with festive beads. Each pupil gets two decorations: one to give, one for their own tree. $55

 

46. Gingerbread

McLean Community Center | December 8

Calling all interior-design disciples: Decorate pre-constructed gingerbread houses with frosting, candy, and salty accoutrements. $45

 

47. Cookie Baking

Hill Center | December 10

You’re sure to bring the best baked goods to your cookie swap under the tutelage of former Washington Post food and recipe editor Bonnie Benwick. $79

 

48. Ugly Sweaters

Shop Made in DC (Georgetown) | December 11

Craft a one-of-a-kind eye-sore for this season’s ugly-­sweater parties. Bring your own jumper and indulge in chaotic design. $40

 

49. Cookie Decorating

Lost Boy Cider | December 13

Learn icing and decorating techniques at this Alexandria cidery, to pull off three Christmas designs on a half dozen cookies. $60

 

50. Holiday Centerpieces

Metro Flower Market (Chantilly) | December 15

Forget the Christmas ham—the star of your holiday table will be a handcrafted centerpiece with pinecones and ribbons. $85

 

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Switch Up Your Latke Toppings

The nostalgic holiday classic gets a refresh in these productions

51. Eggs Benedict

Ryan Moore (Sababa)

Swapping English muffins for crisp potato pancakes, the chef gives poached eggs and hollandaise sauce a holiday remix.

 

52. Crème Fraîche and Caviar

Matt Baker (Gravitas and Baker’s Daughter)

Baker jazzes up sour cream with crème fraîche, lemon juice, and grated garlic. Garnish options include salmon roe or caviar.

 

53. PB&J

Andrew Dana (Call Your Mother)

For a savory twist on the lunchbox staple, Dana builds an open-faced sandwich, topping latkes with dollops of peanut butter and apple jam.

 

54. Pear and Pomegranate Molasses

Mark Furstenberg (Bread Furst)

The chef sautés pears for a pomefruit cousin to traditional apples. Tangy pomegranate molasses balances the sweetness.

 

55. Cinnamon Ricotta

Julie Rossler-Thompson (Celebrity Delly)

Soft ricotta cheese is Rossler-Thompson’s topping of choice, paired with marmalade. The final touches: cinnamon and sea salt.

Illustrations by Connie Zheng.
This article appears in the November 2022 issue of Washingtonian.