33 Free Holiday and Christmas Events in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia for Kids

The National Christmas Tree lights up the Ellipse every evening through New Year's Day. Photo by Kelsey Graczyk, courtesy of the National Park Service
The National Christmas Tree lights up the Ellipse every evening through New Year's Day. Photo by Kelsey Graczyk, courtesy of the National Park Service
12/1/23 - By Jennifer Swope

The holiday season can be an expensive time of year. Luckily, the DC area is full of free Christmas events and holiday activities to get families into the festive spirit. These free holiday events and Christmas activities include tree and menorah lightings such as the National Harbor Tree Light Show and the National Menorah Lighting, Christmas markets like the Downtown Holiday Market, dazzling Christmas light installations such as Georgetown GLOW and Light Yards, and so much more.

Read on for the ultimate list of free holiday and Christmas events in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia in 2023. For more ideas for seasonal fun, check out our Christmas Activities and Holiday Guide for DC Kids, which includes our list of must-do Christmas and holiday activities in DC for kids. Happy holidays!

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Places featured in this article:


Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

Great Falls Village Centre

F Street sidewalk in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum & National Portrait Gallery

Ida Lee Park Recreation Center

Willard InterContinental Washington, DC

Old Town Alexandria Waterfront

Historic Downtown Manassas