Washington Christmas Lights 2024

Washington, D.C., is a great Christmas destination, offering many festive activities around town, iconic Christmas trees in landmark settings, and dazzling holiday illuminations. The Christmas lights in Washington, D.C., are particularly impressive, covering many areas of downtown.

National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (December 5, 2024)

The Capitol Christmas Tree is one of the most impressive in the country. It is erected every winter on the West Front Lawn of the United States Capitol. The tradition has been underway since 1919. The tree is lit during a ceremony in early December with plenty of live entertainment.

ZooLights at the National Zoo (November 22, 2024– January 4, 2025)

Zoo Lights at the National Zoo is a must-see if you have small children. The light display turns the park into a winter wonderland with train rides, snow tubing, and a carousel. The park is lit up with 500,000 LEDs, animated light installations, and more. If it gets too cold, you can get a warm beverage or go to a small mammal building and great ape house. The lights switch on at 5 pm and go off at 9 pm. Tickets for all guests, including children over 2 years old, cost $6; parking pass is $30 per single-family vehicle.

Georgetown GLOW (December 1, 2024–January 7, 2025)

Georgetown is a perfect destination for a holiday walk and shopping, especially during GLOW, an amazing light-art exhibition that lasts for the whole month. Artists display their modern and original works in outdoor venues throughout the historic area. There are also plenty of traditional lights at the Washington Harbour to enjoy.

Winter Glow at Mount Vernon (November 29–December 23, 2024; selected dates)

Winter Glow in Washington transforms the landscape into a wonderland of lights and music, creating a magical ambiance for visitors of all ages. Guests can cozy up by the warm fires and watch blacksmith demonstrations, seeing sparks fly as skilled artisans work. Afterward, visit our 18th-century tavern tent on the bowling green for music and games and discover 18th-century holiday traditions. The event also offers a variety of holiday gift options across a sprawling 12-acre field, where unique items await for thoughtful holiday shopping. An adult general ticket costs $54, and a youth general ticket is $35.

DC Holiday Lights (November 17, 2024 – January 7, 2025)

DC’s Main Streets and commercial corridors offer a spectacular Christmas lights experience during the holiday. Simply stroll down each participating corridor to enjoy a dazzling array of lights and decorations, and cast your vote for the best display. Each participating commercial corridor, such as Barracks Row, Cleveland Park, and Mount Pleasant, has its own magical and unique holiday spirit, featuring local food, drink, and shopping.

The District Holiday Boat Parade (December 7, 2024)

It is an iconic DC event featuring over sixty dazzling decorated boats parading along the Washington Channel. From 6 to 9 pm, guests can visit the Corona Cheer Garden, enjoy s’mores, decorate ornaments, listen to live music by The Royals and Too Much Talent Band, meet Santa, and partake in many other festive activities. The boats arrive in the Washington Channel, with Tommy McFly emceeing the parade at 7 pm. The spectacular day ends with the fireworks salute at 8 pm, followed by live music by the Royals from 8:15 to 9 pm.

Other Events

Don't forget to check out the Festival of Lights at the Washington DC Mormon Temple, as well as stop by Downtown Holiday Market in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery. At night, it is shimmering with lights and colors adding some holiday atmosphere.