Christmas festivities kick off early in Washington DC and there are hundreds of events in and around the city to get involved in. After the rush of Thanksgiving, the city takes on a more festive atmosphere, with a bunch of festivals and events to attend.
Cut your own Christmas Tree
On the outskirts of the city, you’ll find farm land that you never knew existed, and their product of the season is Christmas trees. These are the perfect places to take the kids and cut down your very own Christmas tree, then take it home to decorate. There are surrounding farms in the area that you can visit in as little as 20 minutes from the city for this day out. Some include ; Buck Lodge Farm, Boyds Maryland, Homestead Farm, Poolesville, Maryland and Day Star Farm, Leesburg, Virginia.
The Downtown DC Holiday Market
This market is located in the Penn Quarter of the city and features handmade gifts and items for your loved ones. If you’re struggling to find the ideal Christmas present for those hard to buy for relatives, then this artisanal market is the place to go. There are over 150 unique stalls in the area featuring a whole host of fine art, handmade jewelry and cosmetics. Food is also served here, so you can have a bite to eat and sample the street food as you peruse the offerings. This fair runs through the 23rd of December, so there’s lots of time to go and take a look.
Candlelit Walks in Old Town Alexandria
For a walk in the chilly night air with a loved one, head down to Old Town Alexandria. This historic area looks magical in the evening and this is intensified by the romantic atmosphere this historical town creates. These walks begin at 134 N. Royal Street in Alexandria on Saturdays and Sundays. If you’d like to see this area but don’t feel up to the walk, travel in style with us to stay nice and warm as you take in the sights.
Christmas at Mount Vernon
On the weekend of December 18th, Mount Vernon will host days filled with fun and fireworks. You’ll learn 18th century dance moves from the experienced guides here and enjoy the atmosphere of the sizzling bonfire. Visitors are invited to take a tour of the third floor of the house, which is where the widowed Martha spent her time after George’s death. Then, it’s on to happier and more modern activities such as chocolate making and cider brewing. This house is open most days of the year, with the exception of holidays, so if you don’t make it to this event, join us for a tour of Mount Vernon.
Spend Christmas Eve Watching Santa Ski
This is probably the most bizarre way to spend Christmas Eve, but arguably one of the most fun! Santa will be taking to the water on the coastline of Old Town Alexandria with his gymnastic elves right behind him. This day always boasts a large turnout and a barrel of laughs as Santa puts on a show for adults and children alike.