Destination DC

From Christmas to Black History Month and New Year’s Eve to Valentine’s Day, there are literally hundreds of reasons to celebrate in Washington, DC during the winter season

On the White House Ellipse, the National Christmas Tree will dazzle. The tree will be re-lit from dusk to 11pm each night, and there will also be free nightly performances through Jan. 1.

And DC delivers multiple options for viewing seasonal light displays. The National Zoo brings back its popular holiday “ZooLights” display (Dec. 3- Jan. 1). Magnificent landmarks like Union Station, the U.S. Capitol and the U.S. Botanic Garden also put on their holiday best, while neighbourhood attractions like Hillwood Museum, Estate & Gardens and Tudor Place pack their calendars with programs including wreath-making classes and family-friendly open houses. Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens brings the holidays to life with candlelit evening tours, a gingerbread replica of Mount Vernon, chocolate-making demos and more (Nov. 27-Jan. 2).

For a little outdoor fun, the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden offers ice skating against the backdrop of magnificent sculptures and warm treats at the Pavilion Café (mid-December – mid-March). Or, grab a cup of hot cocoa and browse the kiosks filled with local artists’ creations at the Downtown Holiday Market along F Street between the National Portrait Gallery and the International Spy Museum.

To learn more about Washington, DC, please visit www.washington.org

Destination DC is the official convention and visitors bureau for the Military Bowl presented by Northrop Grumman