5 Magical Ways To Spend Christmas In Dc

The nation's capital, Washington D.C., is a magical place to spend Christmas. From the iconic landmarks to the festive atmosphere, there's no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit. In this article, we'll explore five magical ways to spend Christmas in D.C.

Washington D.C. is a city that's steeped in history and tradition, and Christmas is no exception. From the National Christmas Tree to the festive lights on the National Mall, there's a sense of wonder and excitement that permeates the air. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your Christmas in D.C.

1. Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden

One of the most magical ways to spend Christmas in D.C. is ice skating at the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden. This beautiful outdoor ice rink is surrounded by stunning works of art and offers a fun and festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

What to Expect

The ice rink is open from late November to mid-March, and tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, warm beverages, and snacks while taking in the stunning scenery. The Sculpture Garden is also home to a number of modern and contemporary art installations, making it a unique and memorable experience.

2. Exploring the National Christmas Tree

No trip to D.C. at Christmas would be complete without a visit to the National Christmas Tree. This iconic tree is located on the White House lawn and is decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments.

What to Expect

Visitors can view the tree from the White House fence, and the surrounding area is also decorated with festive lights and decorations. The tree is typically lit up in early December and remains lit until January 1st.

3. Taking a Holiday Lights Tour

Washington D.C. is a city that's full of festive lights and decorations during the holiday season. One of the best ways to see them all is by taking a holiday lights tour.

What to Expect

There are a number of different tour options available, ranging from self-guided walking tours to guided bus tours. Visitors can see the stunning lights and decorations on display at iconic landmarks like the White House, the Capitol Building, and the Smithsonian museums.

4. Visiting the United States Botanic Garden's Holiday Display

The United States Botanic Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of D.C., and during the holiday season, it's transformed into a winter wonderland.

What to Expect

The garden's holiday display features stunning plant displays, festive lights, and decorations. Visitors can explore the gardens and take in the sights and sounds of the season.

5. Enjoying a Holiday Performance at the Kennedy Center

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is one of the world's premier cultural institutions, and during the holiday season, it's home to a number of magical performances.

What to Expect

Visitors can enjoy a range of performances, from ballet and opera to theater and music. The Kennedy Center's holiday performances are a great way to get into the spirit of the season and experience the best of D.C.'s cultural scene.

As the holiday season comes to a close, we invite you to share your favorite ways to spend Christmas in D.C. in the comments below. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's no shortage of magical ways to experience the nation's capital during the holiday season.