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D.C. Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
Ready for roasted nuts, mini donuts and holiday spirit all before Thanksgiving? Dupont’s 1500 block of 19th Street NW sparkles from Nov. 22 to Dec. 15 with the opening of their annual Holiday Market! Open 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday through Sunday, the market has more than 30 small businesses with artisanal, handcrafted and unique gifts for sale. Pro tip: Take the Dupont Georgetown University Transportation Shuttles (GUTS) bus to get there, and check online for timing.
Downtown D.C. Holiday Market
Frolic through the bazaar located in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, across two blocks of F Street, between 7th and 9th streets. Opening on Nov. 22 and continuing until Dec. 23, take advantage of the free admission from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily. This year, for the market’s 20-year anniversary, it promises “eclectic wares,” “delicious food” and “can’t miss” activities.
Zoo Lights
The perfect event for those who have always wanted to see the zoo … at night! Although no T. rexes play fetch at this Smithsonian in the dark, environmentally-friendly LED lights and glowing animal lanterns create a magical effect nonetheless. Live music, tasty winter treats and carousel rides are also available for purchase. Buy a $6 timed pass online for an evening from Nov. 22 to Jan. 4, 2025, and enjoy a field trip classic with a twist.
Botanic Garden “Season’s Greenings”
If you’re sticking around for Thanksgiving in Washington, D.C., be one of the first to see the United States Botanic Garden’s holiday exhibit! Model trains, mini replicas of D.C. landmarks and giant models of native U.S. flowers will draw you through the indoor and outdoor gardens. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day between Nov. 28 and Jan. 5, 2025, galavant through the festive lights, poinsettias and holiday decor along the way.