Christmas in Washington DC is a truly magical time of year, don’t you think? If you have a few days off of work, now is the perfect time to enjoy the decor and holiday cheer. For a festive stroll, explore the best neighborhoods in Washington DC during Christmas time! What are your favorite holiday traditions that you and your family indulge in year after year? Will you add anything from this list to yours? Let us know! 

1. Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036, USA
Flickr/Elvert Barnes
Dupont Circle is lovely year round but during the holidays, the stores deck out their windows and the charming row homes light up with Christmas lights. You also won't want to miss the H. Cornell Wilson House which always goes over the top in its decor. You'll also find the gorgeous American Guest House all decked out in holiday cheer.
2. Downtown
Downtown, Washington, DC, USA
Flickr/Richard Ricciardi
Downtown is a classic choice for holiday decor. In addition to the National Christmas Tree, the downtown area also features the smaller state and territory trees and the US Capitol tree. The stores and restaurants in the area are also decorated. Don't miss the larger-than-life nutcrackers outside of Old Ebbitt. Plus, Christmas in Washington DC just wouldn't be the same without the annual Downtown Holiday Market.
3. Georgetown
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007, USA
Facebook/Georgetown, DC
Georgetown definitely gets into the holiday spirit. The city hosts a yearly window decor contest among the stores and restaurants. There is also an ice skating rink at Washington Harbor and the light display: Georgetown Glow that you won't want to miss. Come check out the most walkable town in DC during the holidays for the ultimate exercise in cheer!

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4. Southwest Waterfront
Southwest Waterfront, Washington, DC, USA
Facebook/Wharf DC
The Wharf DC, which is the newest addition to Southwest Waterfront, helps take holiday decorations to a new level. They have a beautiful Christmas tree, ice skating rink and many of the boats are decorated with twinkling lights. You'll probably also love the annual holiday boat parade at Southwest Waterfront.
5. CityCenter
CityCenterDC, 825 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20268, USA
Facebook/CityCenterDC
The CityCenter neighborhood is a 10-acre neighborhood near downtown that features a mixed residential and commercial shopping, dining, and living district. CityCenter becomes a winter wonderland every December featuring a brightly lit tree and artistic light displays.
6. Alexandria
Alexandria, VA, USA
Facebook/Visit Alexandria VA
Alexandria is actually a DC suburb, but really, it's too pretty to leave off the list. You will feel like you're in an old-time Christmas postcard when you stroll down the streets of Old Town. This town is downright lovely all year long, but in the winter, it really comes into its own.

Will you explore any of these neighborhoods before the season ends? Christmas in Washington DC has never been so charming. While there’s still time, explore these holiday light displays in DC as well!

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More to Explore

Christmas in Washington DC

Tori Jane | November 09, 2022

What is Christmas in Washington DC like?  

Christmas in Washington DC is a surprisingly beautiful time of year. It seems like no matter where you go, you’re sure to find holiday cheer left and right. Here are some fun things to do at Christmas in Washington DC: 

 

What are some of the cutest Christmas towns near DC?  

There are plenty of adorable Christmas towns near DC, all of which are definitely worthy of a trip (or ten). Check out some of the best Christmas villages near DC like: 

  • Every single Christmas town near DC on this list is worth visiting as well, including gems like Alexandria, Virginia, Bethesda, Maryland, and Manassas, Virginia

 

What are some of the best holiday events near Washington DC to turn into traditions?  

The best holiday events near Washington DC that make for amazing annual traditions include all sorts of seasonal delights, including (but not limited to):  

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