- Monumental Magazine
Must See Holiday Attractions in DC
By Michelle Tannahill
With another holiday season sneaking up on us, Washington DC is brimming with attractions that are bound to get you in a festive spirit and prepped for another season of giving. From shopping to light shows to art exhibits, there is something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season no matter your interests. Be sure to take a break from studying and writing final papers to enjoy these seasonal events!
First up, we are going to take a trip to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo where we will stumble upon ZooLights. ZooLights takes place all December long full of intricate light displays, glowing animal lanterns, tasty winter treats, and live entertainment; and the best part is, admission is free! So head on over and relive your childhood years on a train ride through the zoo to kick off the holiday season.
For those who love a great photo opportunity for their Instagram feed, Georgetown Glow is the attraction for you. From December 6th to January 5th, a collection of modern glow art will be displayed all throughout the Georgetown Waterfront. The temporary exhibit features the unique work of 11. Visitors can take a stroll through the streets and look for all 11 exhibits, or you can sign up for one of the many walking tours offered throughout the exhibition. You can even get your Christmas shopping done along the way as vendors throughout Georgetown offer promotions and discounts for visitors of the artwork.
Are you a baseball fan and want to visit Nationals Park in the offseason? Then you should check out Enchant Christmas! Complete with the world’s largest Christmas light maze and a holiday market, there is something for everyone. From November 22 to December 29, you can weave your way through the ballpark maze and help Santa find Eddie the Elf in time for Christmas after his unwarranted disappearance. I will certainly be in attendance at this one!
Of course shopping is a prime activity during the holiday season and DC is filled with new opportunities to break your bank account! If you are looking for one of a kind gifts for your family and loved ones this year, be sure to check out the German Christmas Market at Dupont Circle and the Downtown Holiday Market located in front of the National Portrait Gallery. Boasting hundreds of vendors, shoppers are bound to find gifts for family and friends of all ages.
Last but not least, the city’s staple decoration is the National Christmas Tree located at the White House during the holiday season. This tree has been a Washington DC tradition dating all the way back to 1923. The lighting takes place every December on the ellipse at President’s Park to kick off the holiday season. This year on December 5th you can watch it in person or on television. Don’t forget to bring the hot cocoa!
