As the holidays roll around and the fall season comes to an end, the DMV has started opening up activities to do with family and friends. Being so close to DC has its perks, because some of the most fun activities are just a metro ride away. Whether it be a holiday market, exhibit, or a light walk through, the DMV has almost everything. Take a look at 3 popular places to go during the holiday season!
DC Holiday Market:
The DC holiday market is open from November 14 to December 23, 2025, and it is open from 12 am to 8 pm on most days. It’s in Dupont Circle in New Hampshire, NW. It has almost 38 small businesses with food places, art exhibits, handcrafts, clothes, and unique gifts. Some popular sweet treats at the market include The Capital Candy Jar, Migues Mini Donuts, and Drizzle To Go. This market is a good replica of the Bryant Park Holiday Market in New York, and it is a little special as it has a taste of DC included in it.
“When I look for holiday activities I normally look for something I can do with my friends, we like something nearby or in DC. Also some places we like to go are the winter market in dc, georgetown, and even some holiday lights. I also look for places that have a lot of people because I think it’s more fun and entertaining that way,” said Shritha Todupunoori, a student at BWHS.
Gaylord National Ice Exhibit:
The ice exhibit is open from November 14, 2025 to January 4, 2026. The exhibit is in the national harbor and is attached to Gaylord National, a hotel. This ice exhibit has different themes each year, last year it was Snoopy/Peanuts themed, and this year it is Polar Express. Inside, people can walk around and look at ice sculptures, there’s tunnels, stairs, and at the end there is a slide or something fun that resonates with the theme.
“My family’s favorite place to go in DC is the national harbor. Last year, we went to an ice exhibit where there were slides made of ice and everything was snoopy themed. We also love getting food at the winter market. One of the most memorable foods were these hot chocolates that had giant marshmallows on top and it tasted really good. When I look for somewhere to go, I often think about the ambiance, crowd, and the food provided at the place or nearby,” said Vishnavi Jaithavaram, a student at BWHS.
Bull Run Festival of Lights:
This festival is more than just a trail with lights, there’s also a holiday village, with food and treats! The lights extend to a 2 and a half mile distance. It’s open from November 14, 2025 to January 2, 2026. There are bonfires, s’mores by the camp fire, and even holiday merchandise.
“I always look forward to the holidays in the DMV, even though I don’t celebrate Christmas. It’s really just a time when everything slows down a bit and I can finally breathe. I love meeting up with friends for late-night food runs, checking out the holiday lights in D.C. just because they look cool, and taking the Metro into the city to explore museums without rushing,” said Resha Donepudi, a student at BWHS.
The DMV offers plenty of festive activities for everyone to enjoy. From markets to exhibits, each experience brings its own charm and excitement. These events give families and friends the chance to make memories together while exploring the best the area has to offer. No matter what people choose, there’s something in the DMV to make a family’s holiday season special!
