Seasonal and Holiday Activations: Lights, Markets and more

It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is upon us - but it is! All the area light shows, skating rinks, holiday markets, teas, and pop-ups are back along with the cinnamon, sugar, and spice of the season specifically here to to tantalize all your senses. Coat optional for the moment:
 

I SEE THE LIGHTS: 

Artechouse: In a sea of seasonal over-stimulation, ARTECHOUSE invites you to step into a world of serenity and sensory wonder with their new immersive holiday exhibition, Tingle Bells: An ASMR Inspired Holiday Special. Opening to the public on November 22, 2024, at ARTECHOUSE DC, Tingle Bells: An ASMR Holiday Special, will be an immersive digital exhibition designed to soothe your senses and warm your spirit. Inspired by the transformative power of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR), this one-of-a-kind, limited-run experience invites you to unwind in a sanctuary of sound and visuals designed to promote relaxation in the mind and body. Reserve tickets here. 

Winter Lights: You don't even have to leave your car to see great winter lights this year. The 3.5 mile drive through enchanting Seneca Creek State Park takes you past more than 450 illuminated displays and gorgeously lit trees.Open nightly November 29 through December 31, you can do the drive every day of the week. More info here. 

21st Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony: Fairmont has announced their 21st annual tree lighting ceremony on December 5th. While listening to the award-winning Georgetown Visitation Madrigals perform holiday classics, families can take the chill off next to heaters while children may enjoy decorating holiday cards and tasting holiday treats. All families will be entered to win prizes. More info here. 

Westfield Montgomery: Holiday magic has begun at Westfield Montgomery. Experience the joy of bright holiday traditions with live entertainment by The Bachelor Boys Band, dancing, surprise appearances from beloved holiday characters, a cozy Hot Cocoa Station, a Spin Wheel packed with festive surprises, and an exclusive sneak peek at Santa’s Workshop. 

Tyson's Corner: A stunning Walkable Light Experience on the Plaza, sponsored by George Mason University is coming to Tyson's Corner. Collaborating with Enchant DC, the center aims to create the largest free light experience in the DMV. This year, the Plaza will feature 11 new interactive light installations, providing even more opportunities for the community to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season. More info here. 

Holiday Light Spectacular: December 12-30th enjoy the Maryland Light's Spectacular showcase at the Maryland fairgrounds. Purchase your tickets here. 

City Ridge: The festive Tree Lighting at City Ridge takes place on November 23rd, from 4 PM to 8 PM. Enjoy holiday fun for the whole family with Santa and The Grinch, glitter tattoos for kids, a live choir, a band, and a DJ spinning festive tunes. Don’t miss the Letters to Santa station, kids’ crafts, and delicious hot chocolate sponsored by TATE. Plus, hop on the holiday train and sing along with carolers as we light up the Christmas tree and celebrate the season together. More info here. 

MUSEUM VISITS: 

National Building Museum Visible Vault: The National Building Museum has a new exhibition called Visible Vault: Open Collections Storage that showcases some of the significant historical artifacts from the Museum’s collection ranging from the 1800’s to present day. From tools to toys, each artifact enriches our understanding of the history, skill, and creativity behind the world we design and build. Most of the items featured in the exhibition have never been on public display due to their size, scope, and material. Visible Vault will initially display 3,000 artifacts, representing highlights from the Museum’s massive collection of 500,000 artifacts including architectural blueprints and models, bricks, plaster molds, photographs, building fragments, toy collections, souvenir buildings, drafting tools and historical building equipment. The Museum will regularly rotate artifacts on display to share more of its collection with the public. Info here. 

SHOP TILL YOU DROP: 

Union Market: The Union Market Holiday Pop-Up Market, hosted by La Cosecha’s Arttepuy, is happening every weekend through December. This vibrant market showcases talented local artists and makers. It’s the perfect place to find unique, handcrafted gifts while supporting small businesses and embracing the festive spirit of the season. Find out more info here. 

Downtown DC Holiday Market: Wrap up something special this holiday season with a gift from the Downtown DC Holiday Market. From Nov 22- Dec 23, you can shop from dozens of vendors across food to homewear. More info here. 

Heurich House: Each December, the Heurich House Museum in historic Dupont Circle curates DC’s only multi-day holiday market consisting of ALL local makers. For the first time ever in its 12 year history, this year’s Christmas Markt will be held for an entire week from Friday, December 6th to Friday, December 13th. Purchase tickets here. 

HOLIDAY TEA: 

Nutcracker Tea at Fairmont: Fairmont Washington D.C. Georgetown is offering Nutcracker Afternoon Tea on Saturday and Sundays in December beginning on the 7th through the 29th including Friday, December 20 and 27. The whimsically decorated Loggia overlooking the courtyard’s holiday lights is the perfect venue for the festive holiday tea presented from 1 to 3pm. Executive Chef Jaime Montes de Oca, Senior Sous Chef Delonte Avery and Executive Pastry Chef Claus Olsen’s savory and sweet nutcracker-themed holiday delights will please palates of all ages.

PUT ON YOUR SKATES: 

Sculpture Garden: The DC Sculpture Garden ice rink reopens November 23, 2024–March 2, 2025 (weather permitting). Enjoy  Pavilion Café and pop-up performances from Team USA and local figure skaters at 7:00 p.m. with a meet-and-greet to follow. Purchase here.