Celebrate the second-term inauguration of President Donald J. Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance with the best list of 2025 inaugural balls and galas. From black-tie parties to exclusive receptions, discover where to experience the excitement, prestige, and patriotic spirit in Washington, DC!
Entertainment
Attend the Wish Ball 2025 – An Exquisite Evening of Hope for Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic
Join Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic at Washington DC’s Waldorf Astoria for Wish Ball 2025—an unforgettable gala raising crucial funds to grant wishes for children with critical illnesses.
Experience Snowglow at Union Market’s Rooftop Dome This Winter
Snowglow at Union Market’s Dome offers winter magic with immersive visuals, gourmet food, and creative cocktails—perfect for date night.
Minetta Tavern Opens in Union Market District: A New Chapter for a Greenwich Village Icon
Experience the historic charm of Keith McNally’s Minetta Tavern, now open in Washington, DC’s Union Market District. Indulge in Parisian-inspired cuisine, the Black Label Burger, and cocktails at the elegant Lucy Mercer Bar. Reserve your table today!
Light Up This Season at Four Seasons Washington DC
Step into a winter wonderland this December at Four Seasons Washington, DC, as the 8th annual Light Up the Season kicks off in partnership with Children’s National Hospital. This enchanting celebration features dazzling holiday installations by Kehoe Designs, inspired by the stories of young patients, alongside festive bites, seasonal cocktails, and heartwarming traditions like Teddy Bear Teas. Proceeds support groundbreaking care and research at Children’s National, making this event a holiday highlight with a noble cause. Explore the magic, enjoy the festivities, and help brighten the lives of children and families in need. Visit Four Seasons Washington, DC, to join the celebration!
(Another) Guide to the Most Festive Holiday Experiences in the Nation’s Capital
Discover the magic of the holiday season in Washington, DC, with our ultimate guide to festive events, indulgent dining experiences, and unique gift ideas. From holiday theater and seasonal brunches to sparkling wine pairings and thoughtful shopping destinations, explore the best ways to celebrate in the nation’s capital this year.
Watch the Holiday Boat Parade from Limani’s Winter Wonderland
The best view of DC’s Holiday Boat Parade on December 7 is at Limani DC on The Wharf. Enjoy waterfront views from every table, cozy igloos on the penthouse balcony Winter Wonderland, festive drinks, and a toy drive. Reserve now for the ultimate holiday experience!
Washington, DC Holiday Events Calendar 2024
Experience Holiday Magic in Washington, DC: Must-See Events and Festivities
Discover the best holiday activities in Washington, DC, this season! From dazzling tree lightings and immersive markets to festive pop-up bars and live performances, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include the Gaylord National Christmas at National Harbor, Christmas at the Museum of the Bible, and iconic events like the Holiday Boat Parade at The Wharf and Handel’s Messiah at Washington National Cathedral.
Enjoy seasonal delights such as nightly caroling at the Willard InterContinental, Southwestern-inspired cocktails at Lulu’s Winegarden, and Christmas Day Brunch at Fairmont Washington, DC, Georgetown.
For event details, tickets, and dates, visit official event websites. Make this holiday season magical with unforgettable experiences in the nation’s capital!
Things to Do in Washington, DC This Holiday Season
Explore Washington, DC’s holiday magic with a curated guide to seasonal dining, festive events, and unique shopping experiences. Indulge in Italian and French-inspired Thanksgiving meals at Olio E Più and La Grande Boucherie, or savor local flavors at Blue Duck Tavern, Modena, and SABABA. For a festive atmosphere, head to Tysons Corner Center, transformed into a winter wonderland with holiday kick-offs, pet photos with Santa, and live performances. Don’t miss unique shopping events like Plaid Friday in Alexandria or Westfield Montgomery’s holiday festivities. This season, immerse yourself in DC’s vibrant blend of art, food, and culture.
Toronto’s “LowKey Concert” by akaMatisse Lands at DC’s Culture Club on Thursday October 24
Toronto’s “LowKey Concert” by akaMatisse Lands in Washington, D.C. on October 24, 2024
Join acclaimed BIPOC musician akaMatisse at Culture in Ivy City for an unforgettable evening blending classical piano, R&B, and lo-fi beats. This free, 21+ event takes place from 8 PM to midnight and features live performances by local talents, including saxophonist Renaissance Mic and vocalist Amber Marie. Register via Eventbrite for this genre-bending musical experience!