From European-style markets, hotels and restaurants in the holiday spirit, to the presidential inauguration and highly anticipated return of the giant pandas, Washington, 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/
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 hotel deals.
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 here four weeks out. The Zoo is also infamous for hosting its gorgeous ZooLights.
This holiday season, DC boasts a double dose of merry markets. The rejuvenated DowntownDC Holiday Market 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 DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle (Nov. 22-Dec. 15) will offer 30 artisans, live music and sweet treats. The National Christmas Tree and National Menorah are must-see experiences on the White House Ellipse. Enjoy ice skating at The Wharf, Georgetown, Canal Park and the National Gallery of Art and Sculpture Garden. New this year, an ice-skating rink will be built inside the majestic National Building Museum, dubbed the Holiday Skate Spectacular.
“Washington, 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 Arlo Hotel opened near Judiciary Square on Nov. 18, with its trademark style and year-round rooftop. The highly anticipated Salamander DC 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.