The Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan makes its first stop at The Wharf on Friday, November 13, 2026, parking its glowing holiday truck in Market Square from 6 p.m. until half past eight. Bundle up the kids, grab your phone, and kick off the season on the Southwest waterfront.
The Famous Holiday Truck Gets a DC Waterfront Stage
If you grew up on holiday commercials, you know this truck. The Caravan became famous through a TV spot that began airing in the mid-1990s, and the rig arrives wrapped in thousands of sparkling lights. Against the Washington Channel, it makes thee backdrop for a family holiday card.
Santa Photos, Free Coke, and Gift Bags for the Whole Crew
Families can line up for free photos with Santa (complete with a printed keepsake), pick up festive gift bags and tags, and sip a complimentary Coca-Cola. Pro tip… Arrive near 6 p.m. to get ahead of the Santa photo line. Don’t be late! The window lasts just two and a half hours, so latecomers risk missing out.
A Holiday Wish for Service Members
The stop also hosts Coca-Cola’s USO Send a Wish experience, where guests can write holiday messages to active-duty service members. Coca-Cola ties the program to a $100,000 donation initiative, which gives the evening a meaningful moment between photos.
Market Square sits at The Wharf, 760 Maine Avenue SW. The event is free, with no ticket listed. Ride Metro to the Waterfront station or hop the free Wharf Neighborhood Shuttle from L’Enfant Plaza, since parking can tighten during events. Staying for dinner? Our look at Fish Shop at The Wharf has you covered. And don’t forget: The Wharf’s Holiday Boat Parade returns December 5 from 5 to 8 p.m.
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