Home for the holidays takes on a whole new meaning in DC this year as most of us are hunkering and hibernating with our core family units while planning to Zoom and FaceTime over Christmas dinners and present exchanges.

While we might not wrangle a photo of our toddlers on Santa's lap this season, the Washington, DC area has plenty of creative and socially distanced holiday things to do, and we've gathered the best of the best right here, from holiday light shows to train rides with Santa, just for you.

Of course, the virtual holiday happenings are spectacular this year too, with online experiences that include meeting Macy's Santa, setting off on a Winter Adventure with the Snow Maiden, and watching Philly's Seaport Parade of Lights.

Be sure to check out our list of Top Holiday Toys, and remember that we're stuffing our DC area event calendar with new events daily! Whatever you celebrate, we're wishing you all the wonders of the season.

Please keep your family and others safe by wearing masks and maintaining social distancing measures. If an event appears too crowded, try using the “nearby” search feature on our event calendar to find other exciting options.