13 Must-Visit Holiday Markets Lighting Up Washington DC This Season
When winter settles over the nation’s capital, something magical happens beyond the monuments and museums.
The streets fill with twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts drifts through the air, and festive markets pop up across neighborhoods, transforming the city into a wonderland of handmade treasures and seasonal joy.
Whether hunting for one-of-a-kind gifts, sipping hot cocoa under the stars, or simply soaking up holiday spirit, these markets offer experiences that make December in DC truly unforgettable.
1. National Christmas Tree
Standing tall on the Ellipse with the White House as its backdrop, the National Christmas Tree represents a tradition that spans generations of American families.
The lighting ceremony itself draws crowds who brave December cold for that magical moment when thousands of lights burst to life.
Surrounding the main tree, smaller evergreens decorated by each state and territory create a circle of regional pride and creativity.
Handmade ornaments tell stories of local traditions, from Alaska’s northern lights to Hawaii’s tropical celebrations.
Free admission makes this accessible to everyone, though arriving early helps secure good viewing spots during peak times.
The display runs from early December through New Year’s Day, offering a month of opportunities to visit this iconic symbol.
2. Union Market Holiday Pop-Up
The trendy Union Market district brings its signature creative energy to the holiday season with pop-up vendors and seasonal installations.
This isn’t a traditional market but rather an extension of the venue’s year-round food hall vibe, amped up with festive flair.
Local makers set up temporary shops alongside the permanent food vendors, creating opportunities to grab lunch and finish gift shopping in one stop.
The industrial-chic space feels modern and fresh, appealing to those who prefer contemporary style over traditional holiday aesthetics.
Weekend crowds can get intense, but weekday visits offer more breathing room to browse thoughtfully.
The mix of food, drinks, and shopping makes Union Market a destination where groups with different interests can all find something appealing under one roof.
3. Eastern Market Holiday Craft Show
Capitol Hill’s beloved Eastern Market expands its weekend offerings during December with an indoor craft show that showcases regional artisans.
The historic building provides shelter from winter weather while maintaining the authentic market atmosphere that makes this venue special year-round.
Handmade goods range from pottery to textiles, with quality that reflects true craftsmanship rather than mass production.
Conversations with makers reveal techniques passed down through generations or innovative approaches to traditional crafts.
The surrounding neighborhood offers additional holiday shopping and dining, making Eastern Market a natural anchor for a full day of Capitol Hill exploration.
The indoor setting means weather won’t derail plans, a practical consideration during unpredictable December days in DC.
4. Cathedral Christmas Market
The Washington National Cathedral hosts a sophisticated holiday market that matches the grandeur of its Gothic architecture.
Vendors are carefully curated to offer high-quality gifts and decorations that feel special enough for the setting.
The cathedral itself provides a stunning backdrop, with stone arches and stained glass windows adding gravitas to the shopping experience.
Many visitors combine market browsing with tours of the cathedral or attend one of the seasonal concerts held throughout December.
Parking can be challenging, but the Metro and bus lines provide reliable access to this northwest DC landmark.
The market tends to attract a slightly older crowd seeking refined gifts rather than quirky trinkets, though families certainly find plenty to enjoy as well.
5. CityCenterDC Winter Market
Luxury meets holiday cheer in this upscale downtown development where high-end retailers share space with seasonal vendors.
The sleek urban design creates a modern holiday aesthetic that feels more Fifth Avenue than small-town square.
Free events throughout December include performances, tastings, and activities that draw neighborhood workers during lunch hours and families on weekends.
The central fountain area becomes a gathering spot where people pause between shops to enjoy the atmosphere.
While some vendors lean toward pricier offerings, window shopping costs nothing and the people-watching proves excellent.
The surrounding restaurants and bars make CityCenterDC ideal for date nights or friend gatherings that combine shopping with dining and drinks in a compact, walkable area.
6. Smithsonian Craft Show Holiday Edition
When the Smithsonian puts its name on a craft show, expectations run high, and the holiday edition delivers with juried artisans representing the finest in American craftsmanship.
This isn’t a casual browsing experience but rather an opportunity to acquire museum-quality pieces.
From blown glass to fine jewelry, the work on display represents years of skill development and artistic vision. Prices reflect the quality, making this market better suited for investment pieces than stocking stuffers.
The show typically takes place in early December at the National Building Museum, where the Great Hall provides a spectacular setting.
Admission fees support Smithsonian programs, adding educational value to the shopping experience and ensuring funds go toward cultural preservation.
7. Wharf Holiday Market
The waterfront Wharf district brings its signature energy to the holiday season with a market that takes full advantage of the Potomac River views.
Even in December, the outdoor setting feels invigorating rather than punishing, especially on those crisp sunny days when the water sparkles.
Vendors offer a mix of handmade goods and specialty foods, with nearby restaurants providing easy warm-up spots between browsing sessions.
The Wharf’s year-round attractions remain open, so ice skating, boat rides, and waterfront dining can all become part of the holiday market experience.
Live music often fills the air, with local musicians adding soundtrack to the shopping.
The area’s newness means it lacks some of the nostalgic charm of older markets, but the modern amenities and stunning location create their own appeal.
8. Tysons Corner Center Holiday Market
Just across the border in Virginia but easily accessible via Metro, Tysons Corner Center combines traditional mall shopping with seasonal market vendors.
The indoor setting provides climate-controlled comfort while maintaining festive atmosphere through decorations and music.
Local artisans set up alongside big-name retailers, creating interesting contrasts between handmade and commercial offerings.
Families appreciate the convenience of combining market browsing with regular shopping needs in one climate-controlled location.
The mall’s extensive dining options mean no one goes hungry, and the nearby hotels make Tysons a practical base for visitors wanting to explore the greater DC region.
While it lacks the authentic street-market charm of downtown options, the accessibility and comfort make it worth considering, especially during harsh weather.
9. Alexandria Old Town Holiday Market
Historic Old Town Alexandria brings colonial charm to the holiday market experience with cobblestone streets and 18th-century architecture providing the backdrop.
The market feels like stepping into a Christmas card, especially when snow dusts the brick sidewalks and gas-style streetlamps.
Local shops stay open late during market weekends, creating a comprehensive shopping experience that blends traditional retail with artisan vendors.
The waterfront location along the Potomac adds scenic value, with boats decorated in lights creating floating holiday displays.
King Street’s restaurant scene rivals anything in DC proper, making dinner part of the market outing.
The Metro’s Blue and Yellow lines provide direct access, though many visitors prefer driving to explore the wider Old Town area at their own pace.
10. Smithsonian American Art Museum Holiday Craft Fair
Inside the stunning Kogod Courtyard, with its glass canopy overhead, the American Art Museum hosts a holiday craft fair that combines shopping with architectural appreciation.
The indoor setting showcases both the building’s beauty and the artisans’ creations in a space that feels special.
Vendors are selected to complement the museum’s mission of celebrating American creativity, resulting in offerings that tend toward artistic rather than purely commercial.
Visiting the museum galleries before or after shopping adds cultural enrichment to the experience.
Free admission to both museum and craft fair makes this an accessible option for budget-conscious shoppers who still want quality.
The Penn Quarter location puts dozens of restaurants and other attractions within walking distance, facilitating easy combination with other activities.
11. H Street Festival Winter Market
The H Street corridor brings its signature edge to holiday markets with a winter edition that reflects the neighborhood’s creative, slightly rebellious spirit.
Expect to find makers who push boundaries, offering gifts that stand out from traditional holiday fare.
The street’s renowned restaurant and bar scene provides plenty of warming-up options, with establishments ranging from Ethiopian cuisine to craft cocktails.
The neighborhood’s ongoing renaissance means new venues constantly appear, rewarding repeat visitors with fresh discoveries.
The streetcar provides a novelty transportation option, though most visitors arrive via Metro at Union Station and walk or take rideshares.
Evening visits capture H Street at its liveliest, when the market energy blends with the corridor’s nightlife scene to create something uniquely DC.
12. DowntownDC Holiday Market
Over a hundred vendors gather along F Street NW each year, turning the heart of downtown into a bustling European-style holiday bazaar that feels both festive and friendly.
Handcrafted jewelry sparkles under string lights, while artisan soaps and gourmet treats tempt shoppers at every turn.
Running from late November through just before Christmas, this market has become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.
The variety here could keep anyone browsing for hours, from unique art pieces to cozy knitwear that makes perfect gifts.
Food stalls offer everything from warm pretzels to international delicacies, making it easy to turn shopping into a full afternoon adventure.
The atmosphere buzzes with holiday energy, especially on weekends when live music often fills the air.
13. DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle transforms into a neighborhood celebration each December, where small businesses and local artisans showcase their creativity along 19th Street.
The intimate scale makes this market feel like a community gathering rather than just another shopping destination.
Live performances add soundtrack to the shopping experience, with musicians and entertainers creating moments that feel spontaneous and joyful.
Migue’s Mini Donuts send sweet aromas wafting through the crowd, while Capital Candy Jar serves up hot roasted nuts that warm cold hands.
Supporting local makers becomes effortless here, where conversations with creators reveal the stories behind each handmade item.
The market runs weekends through mid-December, giving plenty of chances to discover something special while supporting the DC creative community.
