Inauguration, pandas and exciting arts and culture on tap this winter
WASHINGTON, DC – From European-style markets, hotels and restaurants in the holiday spirit, to the presidential inauguration and highly anticipated return of the giant pandas, 365Թϲ, DC shines brightly this winter. Combined with enthralling new exhibits, a new museum and engaging arts and culture, DC offers one-of-a-kind experiences for every traveler. Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization of the nation’s capital, provides ways to plan unforgettable and budget-friendly trips at washington.org/winter.
Preparation is underway for the 60th presidential inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025. Hotels, restaurants and attractions in neighborhoods across the city are offering thematic packages, menus, exhibits and tours. Destination DC serves as a free resource for visitors at washington.org/inauguration, offering ideas for presidential experiences, free ways to pay tribute to American history and .
On Jan. 24, 2025, Bao Li and Qing Bao will publicly debut at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, making DC the only place to see giant pandas for free. Themed offerings are planned throughout the city. Given the immense public interest and excitement, the Zoo is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors daily. Timed entry passes are released four weeks out. The Zoo is also infamous for hosting its gorgeous .
This holiday season, DC boasts a double dose of merry markets. The rejuvenated in Penn Quarter (Nov. 22-Dec. 23), celebrating its 20th year, will offer 110 vendors, 90 percent of which are women, LGBTQ+ or BIPOC owned. For additional festive fun, the at Dupont Circle (Nov. 22-Dec. 15) will offer 30 artisans, live music and sweet treats. The and are must-see experiences on the White House Ellipse. Enjoy ice skating at , , and the . New this year, an ice-skating rink will be built inside the majestic National Building Museum, dubbed the .
“365Թϲ, DC always embraces the holiday season, and potential travelers have even more reason to visit in the weeks and months to follow,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, Destination DC. “Diverse additions to DC’s arts scene, events of international interest and the beloved panda bears add to the list of experiences visitors can find only in our nation’s capital.”
DC’s first opened near Judiciary Square on Nov. 18, with its trademark style and year-round rooftop. The highly anticipated just completed its phased enhancements, unveiling its luxury two-story spa this month. The Canal House of Georgetown, part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, is expected to debut in the heart of the charming neighborhood in early 2025. These openings add to a long list of recent renovations and rebrands across the city.
Heavy hitters in the restaurant industry continue to inflame the city’s sizzling culinary scene. Kwame Onwuachi’s opened with national buzz in the Salamander; Michelin-starred chef Pepe Moncayo’s Spanish farmhouse opened Nov. 18 in the Arlo; Stephen Starr and Nancy Silverton partnered to open the long-awaited in Georgetown on Nov. 10; while Devin Kennedy and Will Patton’s adds to DC’s high end cocktail scene.
On Dec. 13, the National Museum of African American History and Culture debuts a new temporary exhibition: . Through powerful forms of artistic expression, such as quilting, embroidery and weaving, the landmark exhibition reveals healing traditions rooted in the resilience of the enslaved. On Feb. 19, the will open in the heart of Anacostia. The first institution dedicated to the celebration and preservation of the syncopated, drum-driven funk that is DC’s native musical form will feature interactive exhibitions and holograms of Go-Go icons.
WorldPride is just around the corner: May 17-June 8, 2025. The nation’s capital welcomes the massive event – just the second time it has been held in the U.S. – coinciding with 50 years of Pride celebrations in the city. The newly announced theme is "Fabric of Freedom,” and more than two million overnight visitors are expected.
New Exhibits
- , Oct. 18-July 6, 2025
The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery and the Archives of American Art offer an exhibition focused on the artist’s deep engagement with portraiture and the construction of identity. - , Nov. 2-Jan. 19, 2025
The Phillips Collection offers new takes on artists who have come to define the museum, including Georgia O’Keeffe, Paul Klee, Saam Gilliam and Arthur Dove. - , Nov. 16-April 27, 2025
The National Museum of Asian Art presents a selection of prints, crafted using a new approach as part of the sōsaku hanga (creative print) movement, that tore down the notion of the early-20th century Japanese artist. - , Dec. 13-June 8, 2025
The National Museum of African American History and Culture’s first international touring exhibition features more than 190 artifacts, 250 images, interactive stations and newly commissioned artworks. - , Feb. 8, 2025–July 2025
The renovated Folger Shakespeare Library invites visitors into a world of lace ruffs, jousting, hawks, bad handwriting, scandal and political factions.
Seasonal Theater
- , Nov. 21-Dec. 31
Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace reprises the role of Ebenezer Scrooge for Ford’s Theatre’s annual production of the Charles Dickens classic, a lasting holiday tradition. - , Nov. 30-Dec. 29
This DC-themed production at the Warner Theatre features dancing cherry blossoms, local landmarks and figures like Betsy Ross, Harriet Tubman and George 365Թϲ. - , Dec. 6-8
The 365Թϲ National Cathedral Choir and Baroque Orchestra perform Handel’s beloved Messiah. Experience the triumphant “Hallelujah Chorus” under the National Cathedral’s soaring architecture. - , DC Holiday Show, Dec. 7, 14, 15
Tap-dancing elves, a moving Christmas tree, snow and choral renditions of holiday classics will be part of the annual holiday show at Lincoln Theatre. - , Dec. 12-15
A variety show full of nostalgia, charm and awe-inspiring performances for all ages will play the National Theatre. - , Dec. 13-22
Celebrating 30 years, the world’s first holiday show highlighting the African American tradition of stepping returns to Arena Stage. - , Dec. 15-22
Join the 365Թϲ Chorus in celebrating the 15th anniversary of its annual concert, ringing in the holiday season with joy, spirit and unity at the Kennedy Center.
Dazzling Displays
- , Dec. 5-Jan. 1, 2025
The National Christmas Tree, free to enter, is surrounded by trees decorated with handmade ornaments from 58 U.S. states and territories. Dec. 5 lighting airs on CBS Dec. 20. - , Dec. 25-Jan. 2, 2025
Hanukkah begins with the lighting ceremony of the world’s largest menorah on the White House Ellipse, which greets all with latkes, doughnuts, menorah kits and dreidels. - , Nov. 22-Jan. 4, 2025
Environmentally friendly LED lights and dozens of glowing animal lanterns transform Smithsonian's National Zoo into a winter wonderland. - , Nov. 22-Dec. 21
Wander through a breathtaking, free display of thousands of tiny festive bright lights, bringing a shimmery cool front to Franklin Park. - , Nov. 22-Jan. 5, 2025
This limited-run experience offers a holiday retreat for mind, body and soul. - , Dec. 3-Jan. 1, 2025
A 54-year tradition on the West Lawn, this year’s tree comes from Alaska’s national forests. - , Nov. 28-Jan. 5, 2025
Model trains in the gated outdoor gardens, festive lights throughout the Garden and poinsettias, holiday decor and DC landmarks made from plants inside the Conservatory. - , Nov. 30-Early Jan. 2025
The luxury shopping destination celebrates 11 years of displaying a jaw-dropping 75-foot tree and décor. Grammy-nominated singer Jordin Sparks will grace the stage alongside the American Pops Orchestra for the annual tree lighting. On Dec. 14-15, The Nutcracker by CityCenterDC will showcase magnificent, larger-than-life ice sculptures. - , Early Dec.-Early Jan. 2025
A new winter attraction comes to Anthem Row (formerly Techworld Plaza): a sparkling art installation in front of the Carnegie Library. - , Dec. 7
Over 60 beautifully decorated boats will parade along the 365Թϲ Channel. - Festive hotels
The historic famously transforms into a magical holiday wonderland complete with nightly caroling. The chic collaborates with celebrated fashion designers for its bejeweled tree; Christopher John Rogers and Farrow & Ball have the honours this year. The and boast Instagram-worthy seasonal decorations. Rosewood 365Թϲ, DC’s The Lodge at CUT Above offers an immersive winter atmosphere, while a winter chalet pops up at , complete with an on-site snow cannon. The offers Nutcracker afternoon tea and the offers a Nutcracker themed suite and lobby scavenger hunt.
DC is the Sports Capital
- , Nov. 23
Watch parties are planned at metrobar, Bluejacket and Astro Beer Hall to cheer on DC’s National Women’s Soccer League team from afar. - , Dec. 12
An exciting, inaugural doubleheader at Capital One Arena will feature Army and Navy’s club teams, followed by Army and Penn State’s D-I programs. - , Dec. 14
Northwest Stadium (formerly FedEx Field) plays host to the 125th version of “America’s Game” – one of the most storied rivalries in college football. - 365Թϲ Capitals’ 50th season
Founded in 1974, the city’s NHL team celebrates its 50th anniversary throughout the 2024-25 season. The NBA’s Wizards also call Capital One Arena home, while the Capital City Go-Go, part of the NBA’s developmental G-League, play inside Entertainment & Sports Arena. The NFL’s resurgent Commanders play at Northwest Stadium.
Enjoy DC’s Sizzling Culinary Scene
- , Nov. 29-Dec. 5
Celebrates local cocktail culture in restaurants across the region with delicious cocktail, mocktail and bite pairings. - , Jan. 27-Feb. 2, 2025
Experience some of the best local cuisine without breaking the bank at the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan 365Թϲ’s popular, twice-per-year program.
IMAGES: Link , courtesy of washington.org unless noted in caption.
About Destination DC: Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, is a private, non-profit membership organization committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities. washington.org.
November 19, 2024