Alexandria Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

This holiday season, immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Alexandria by exploring its charming outdoor winter markets. Discover unique handmade gifts, enjoy live music, and find Santa sightings scattered throughout the city's vibrant neighborhoods. It's the perfect way to experience local culture and find special treasures.

Discover a delightful holiday market hosted at the elegant Alexandrian Hotel. This event offers a charming opportunity to find unique gifts and festive decorations from local artisans. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as you explore a curated selection of handcrafted goods, perfect for finding that special something for your...

Discover a festive holiday wonderland at the Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show. This event brings together a curated selection of artisan vendors offering unique handmade crafts, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts. Indulge in seasonal treats and explore a vibrant marketplace filled with holiday cheer.

Experience the festive spirit at the National Harbor Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show. This event brings together over 100 artisan vendors offering unique handmade gifts, holiday decorations, and seasonal treats. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind presents and enjoy a vibrant holiday atmosphere.

Discover the 5th Annual St. Nicholas Market, a festive outdoor event celebrating local Catholic artists and makers. Browse unique Christmas creations, enjoy live music, and savor traditional Glühwein. It's the perfect family-friendly occasion to find gifts and embrace the holiday spirit.

Discover a treasure trove of unique gifts and delightful treats at the DC Holiday Market in Dupont Circle. This festive market showcases over 35 local artists, crafters, and small businesses offering worldwide handicrafts and boutique brands. Find the perfect holiday presents amidst bright, festive decor in a vibrant neighborhood setting.

Discover the charm of the Chevy Chase Winter Market, a festive gathering supporting local small businesses. Browse unique holiday gifts and artisanal products from a variety of vendors set up along Connecticut Avenue NW. Enjoy special promotions and events hosted by neighborhood businesses, including a potential visit from Elsa at...

Experience the festive spirit at the Silver Spring Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show. This event brings together a curated selection of local artisans and vendors, offering a wide variety of handmade crafts, unique gifts, and seasonal treats. Discover everything from intricate jewelry and artwork to delicious baked goods and...

Discover Maryland's exclusive Spirit Christmas pop-up store in Waldorf, transforming the Spirit Halloween location into a festive wonderland. Explore Peppermint Village, a magical walk-through featuring life-size animatronics, twinkling lights, and photo-ready displays inspired by beloved holiday classics. Find thousands of holiday items, from indoor and outdoor decorations to themed apparel...

Engage in the festive 'Shop, Dine, & Win!' contest in Occoquan, running from November 22 to December 7. This event encourages visitors to support local businesses by shopping and dining, with opportunities to win over $1,500 in gift cards. Explore unique offerings from boutiques and retailers, and enjoy extended shopping...

Discover one-of-a-kind gifts that give back at Strathmore's Museums & Makers Holiday Market. This festive event brings together the area's top museum shops and local artisans for three days of spirited shopping. Every purchase supports nonprofit museums and independent artists, making your holiday gifts even more meaningful.

Discover a festive holiday shopping experience at the Woodbridge/Stonebridge Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show. This event showcases a curated selection of artisans, crafters, and independent vendors offering unique handmade gifts, clothing, accessories, and delicious pre-packaged holiday desserts. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures and get into the...

Discover a festive holiday market featuring local artisans and a special tree lighting ceremony. It's the perfect place to find unique gifts and soak in the holiday cheer.

Experience the joy of the season with the National Chamber Ensemble's 'Holiday Cheer!' concert. This beloved annual tradition is a heartwarming celebration for the entire family, featuring festive classics and beloved seasonal favorites. Enjoy performances by talented young artists, including winners of the 2025 Nancy Peery Marriott Young Artist Piano...

Immerse yourself in the magic of the holidays with The Washington Ballet's iconic production of The Nutcracker. This cherished DC tradition, running from November 29 to December 28, 2025, features over 380 dancers in a spectacular performance set in historic Georgetown. Experience the familiar story with unique local twists, including...

Experience the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption in this enchanting production of 'A Christmas Carol.' This music-infused adaptation brings Dickens's Yuletide classic to life with beloved characters and a vibrant children's ensemble. Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returns to embody Scrooge in Ford's cherished annual tradition, promising a 'rich visual...

Step into a world of rhythm and holiday cheer with Step Afrika!'s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show. This groundbreaking performance celebrates the African American tradition of stepping, blending it with captivating music, storytelling, and energetic dance. Join festive characters like Popper the Penguin and Polo the Polar Bear for an...

The National Ballet Company returns to the Prince George's Publick Playhouse with their enchanting rendition of 'The Nutcracker.' This timeless holiday classic promises a magical experience for all ages, featuring stunning choreography, vibrant costumes, and Tchaikovsky's iconic score. Follow Clara's journey through a whimsical winter wonderland as the story of...

Get ready to groove to the soulful sounds of Motown and classic holiday hits! The BRENCORE ALL STARS are set to deliver an unforgettable performance featuring legendary artists. This popular show sells out quickly, so secure your tickets early for a festive concert experience.

Get ready for a magical holiday evening as Dave Koz and Friends present their 28th annual Christmas Tour. This acclaimed jazz ensemble will fill The Music Center with the spirit of the season, performing beloved Christmas classics, a special Chanukah medley, and hits from their individual careers. Joining Koz are...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with The Reston Chorale's 'The Wonder of the Season' concert. This delightful musical treat promises festive favorites perfect for the entire family. For a truly immersive experience, join their 'Messiah' Sing-along, where you can lend your voice to Handel's masterpiece. Attendees can also...

Northern Virginia's beloved 'Nutcracker' ballet comes alive with nine enchanting performances. Follow Clara's magical Christmas Eve journey as she receives a special Nutcracker, leading to a dream adventure with the Sugar Plum Fairy and a host of fantastical characters. Featuring breathtaking sets, stunning costumes, and the live Manassas Ballet Theatre...

Step into a winter wonderland at Christmas at Gaylord National, featuring the enchanting ICE! attraction brought to life by The Polar Express™. Marvel at colossal ice sculptures, slide down thrilling ice slides, and enjoy festive activities for the whole family. From gingerbread decorating to meeting Santa, create unforgettable holiday memories.

Step into a winter wonderland at Christmas at Gaylord National, featuring the spectacular ICE! attraction that brings The Polar Express™ to life in stunning ice sculptures. Beyond the icy marvels, discover a resort aglow with over 2 million lights, festive shows, and hands-on activities like gingerbread decorating and ice tubing....

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. This cherished national tradition features the beautifully decorated National Christmas Tree, illuminated with thousands of lights. Visitors can also admire unique ornaments representing every U.S. state and territory, creating a festive and inspiring atmosphere.

Experience the enchantment of 'Light Up the Holidays' at Glen Echo Park, where the park transforms into a winter wonderland under twinkling lights. Discover fine art and unique gifts from resident artists, enjoy festive performances, and immerse yourself in holiday magic. This event offers a delightful array of activities for...

Step into a world of enchantment at the Winter Lantern Festival, a dazzling outdoor event that transforms the night with hundreds of illuminated Chinese lanterns. This magical journey blends ancient tradition with modern technology, featuring handcrafted displays inspired by folklore and nature. Be captivated by live acrobatic performances and savor...

Experience the magic of Winterfest 2025, a vibrant three-night holiday celebration in Reston. Wander through a dazzling trail of thousands of festive lights, enjoy live music, and gather around cozy fire pits for s'mores. Meet Santa for a free photo, explore the enchanting Grinch's Village, and discover unique gifts and...

Experience the enchanting Bull Run Festival of Lights, a spectacular drive-through holiday light display. Journey through 2.5 miles of dazzling illuminations, transforming the park into a winter wonderland. Turn off your headlights and follow the magical glow for an unforgettable festive experience.

Embark on a magical journey through the Symphony of Lights, a breathtaking drive-through holiday spectacle. This immersive experience transforms the night into a wonderland of animated and synchronized light displays, all set to the enchanting sounds of holiday music. It's the perfect way to soak in the festive spirit from...

Experience a quintessential Washington, DC holiday tradition at The Nutcracker Tea Party. This festive event offers delightful treats and family fun, culminating in a choice of attending either the afternoon or evening performance of the beloved Nutcracker ballet at the Warner Theatre. It's a perfect way to immerse yourself in...

Experience the magic of the holidays with American Girl's Holiday Teatime Traditions. Guests can indulge in a festive spread of sweet treats and delightful tea sandwiches, perfect for creating cherished memories. Children can engage in a fun tableside craft activity, adding a creative touch to the experience. For a truly...

First Night Alexandria returns for 2025, offering a vibrant, family-friendly, and alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration. This event transforms local venues into stages for diverse performing arts, providing a meaningful and budget-conscious alternative to traditional revelry. Discover a wide array of talent and community spirit as Alexandria rings in the...

Celebrate the start of the holiday season at Alexandria's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. This free event in Market Square features music, merriment, and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrive via the King Street Trolley. Witness the magical tree lighting and enjoy a festive evening with the...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Alexandria's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! Join the mayor and festive friends in Market Square for an evening of community celebration. Witness Santa's grand arrival via the King Street Trolley, followed by the dazzling tree lighting. Enjoy music, merriment, and a chance to...

Experience a magical holiday weekend in historic Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, from December 5-7, 2025. This beloved event features the vibrant Scottish Christmas Walk Parade with clans and Scottie dogs, and the spectacular Holiday Boat Parade of Lights illuminating the Potomac River. Immerse yourself in festive cheer, explore charming streets,...

Step into the festive spirit at the 54th Annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. This iconic event celebrates the city's rich Scottish heritage with a dazzling procession of clans in traditional tartans, lively pipe and drum bands, and community groups. Experience the charm of Old Town Alexandria as it transforms...

Join the Chanukah Festival in historic Old Town Alexandria for a vibrant celebration of Jewish culture and traditions. This community event offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the joy and spirit of Chanukah in a festive atmosphere. It's a perfect outing for families and individuals looking to connect with the...

Experience the magic of the 25th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, a spectacular waterfront event. Dozens of illuminated boats will parade along the Potomac River, creating a dazzling display of holiday cheer. Enjoy festive dockside activities, including a beer garden and local food vendors, making it a perfect...

National Harbor transforms into a winter wonderland with a dazzling array of holiday festivities. Marvel at the nightly tree lighting show, enjoy spectacular fireworks, and explore unique gifts at the Christmas Market. Capture magical moments with Santa and experience the enchanting ICE! at Gaylord National.

Visit Santa Claus in person to share your Christmas wishes and capture a magical keepsake photo. Appointments are recommended to ensure a shorter wait time. Professional photo packages are available to create lasting holiday memories.

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a cherished national tradition. Each year, a magnificent tree, sourced from a different national forest across the United States, is selected and transported to the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. Visitors can witness the tree's grand arrival with a police...

Experience the joy of the Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade, a cherished annual tradition! This vibrant celebration features dazzling floats, lively marching bands, and whimsical 12-foot inflatable turkeys. The parade culminates with a special appearance by Santa Claus, making it a perfect festive outing for the entire family to kick off...

Occoquan welcomes the holiday season with its Annual Town Tree Lighting ceremony on Saturday, November 22. Join residents and visitors at Town Hall for the official tree lighting at 6:00 p.m., officiated by Mayor Earnie Porta. Following the ceremony, enjoy late-night shopping until 8:00 p.m. or later, as local businesses...

Join the community for a magical holiday tree lighting ceremony. This festive event marks the beginning of the holiday season, bringing together friends and family to celebrate. Enjoy the festive atmosphere as the tree is illuminated, creating a beautiful spectacle.

Get into the holiday spirit with the Owen Brown Community Association's festive events. They offer unique experiences like Sensory Santa for a special holiday visit and a fun Ugly Sweater Bingo night. Participate in community initiatives like the OB CAres Adopt-a-Spot program and admire neighborhood holiday lights during the OB...