The holiday season in Washington, D.C. is a magical time when the city transforms into a winter wonderland brimming with festive cheer. From twinkling lights to the aroma of freshly baked treats, D.C.'s holiday markets offer a unique and delightful experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring these markets is a must to fully immerse yourself in the festive spirit.
Downtown Holiday Market
A staple among the Christmas markets in Washington D.C., the Downtown Holiday Market is a vibrant hub of activity. Located in the heart of Penn Quarter, this market boasts over 100 exhibitors offering a diverse range of goods. From handcrafted jewelry and art to artisan foods, there's something for everyone. Live music and entertainment add to the festive atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a holiday outing.
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Location: F Street NW (between 7th and 9th Streets NW), Washington, DC
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Dates: November 22 - December 23, 2024
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Hours: Daily from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
This new market features over 30 small businesses offering seasonal goods, including handmade pottery, textiles, wood crafts, jewelry, and home decor. Enjoy Migue’s Mini Donuts and Capital Candy Jar’s hot roasted nuts. The market supports the Main Streets non-profit mission and community programming in Dupont Circle.
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Location: 1500 block of 19th Street, NW, in Dupont Circle
- Dates: Now - December 23, 2024
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Hours: Monday - Friday from 12 PM - 8 PM, Saturday - Sunday from 11 AM - 8PM
Heurich House Museum Christmas Market
The Heurich House Museum’s Christmas Markt, held from December 6-13, 2024, features over 60 local artisans selling handcrafted gifts in the museum’s Castle Garden. Enjoy traditional German mulled wine, holiday tours, craft stations, and food trucks. Tickets are required for entry, with options for weekend, weekday, or all-access passes. The event supports the museum’s Urban Manufacturing Incubator program, fostering local makers.
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Location: 1307 New Hampshire Ave., NW, in historic Dupont Circle
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Dates: December 6th - December 13th
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Tickets are required and specific times and prices can be found here.
Union Market's Festive Pop-Ups
Union Market is a trendy spot in D.C. that embraces the holiday spirit with festive pop-up shops. Throughout the season, visitors can explore various vendors offering artisanal products, gourmet foods, and holiday decorations. The market's lively atmosphere makes it a fun place to shop and soak in the holiday vibes. Don't forget to check out the seasonal activities and workshops that often accompany the market stalls.
Holly Days in Eastern Market
Eastern Market is known for its year-round offerings, but it becomes particularly charming during the holiday season. The Holiday Bazaar at Eastern Market is a community-centered event featuring local vendors selling unique gifts and crafts. It's an excellent place to find one-of-a-kind presents while supporting local artisans. Enjoy the festive decorations and perhaps grab a bite from one of the surrounding food stalls to complete your visit.
The Christmas markets DC provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the city's festive charm while supporting local businesses. From traditional markets to unique light displays, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and explore the magical holiday market scene in Washington, D.C. this season.