Washington DC - December 18, 2025

✨ This Is DC at Its Most Magical

From caroling to cocoa to NYE celebrations now’s the time to...

A performer faces a large crowd holding up phone lights during a holiday tree lighting event at The Wharf in Washington, DC.

Don’t Miss DC at Its Most Magical

One of Travel + Leisure’s 15 best places in the world to visit this December, Washington, DC is undeniably magical during the holiday season. This guide highlights the can’t-miss events and experiences that bring it all to life.

Make It Festive

A festive holiday mug filled with hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle on a softly lit table in Washington, DC.

Where to Find the Best Hot Chocolate

Ridiculously delicious hot chocolate and melty goodness await you at these DC hot spots.

Hot Cocoa O’Clock

Two people clink champagne flutes garnished with cranberries in a festive holiday setting in Washington, DC.

Step Afrika! © Jati Lindsay

New Year's Eve in DC

If New Year’s Eve plans are still up in the air, Washington, DC offers everything from casual hangs to champagne toasts, perfect for a last-minute celebration.

Toast to 2026

Willard’s After-Dark Caroling Tradition

From now through Dec. 23, step into the Willard InterContinental’s lobby in the evening for complimentary live holiday caroling, a 20+ year tradition featuring top-tier vocal ensembles. Go during the 6 to 6:45 p.m. or 7:15 to 8 p.m. sets, grab a seasonal cocktail from the pop-up Veuve Clicquot bar and enjoy one of the most quietly magical holiday moments in Washington, DC with no ticket required.

Sip. Listen. Swoon.

A towering Christmas tree decorated in green, gold, and silver stands in an ornate hotel lobby with guests mingling beneath chandeliers in Washington, DC.

National Gallery of Art

Holidays at the National Gallery of Art

Ice skate among sculptures, recharge and connect with loved ones at the nation’s art museum. We can’t wait to welcome you.

Make Some Magic

Cherry blossoms frame a pastel sunrise view of the Jefferson Memorial reflected in the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC.

A Luxurious Cherry Blossom Escape

Luxury transfers, 5-star hotels, private tours and timeless memories – DC in bloom perfected!

Discover DC’s Blooms

A young child slides out of a metal tube slide inside the National Children’s Museum in Washington, DC.

The Gift That Unwraps All Year Long

Make lifelong memories at National Children’s Museum, where play-based STEAM exhibits spark joy.

Gift a Membership

DC Auto Show Returns

The Washington, DC Auto Show returns Jan. 23 – Feb. 1. As one of the nation’s top auto shows, it will feature hundreds of new vehicles from top manufacturers.

Purchase Your Tickets

Crowds explore new vehicles and interactive displays at the Washington Auto Show in Washington, DC.

Panda-Perfect Zoocation Package

Unmissable Events to Celebrate America’s Milestone Year

National Archives Private Museum Tour

We The People: Michelle Banks' Journey as a Black Deaf Trailblazer in DC

Hoppy Holidays, DC - Brew Tour Specials!

SIGNATURE PARTNERS

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