Christmas in Washington is a magical time — the famous National Christmas Tree, ice skating, outdoor igloos, twinkling lights and ice displays, Christmas markets, holiday themed bars and more.
It’s almost impossible not to get in the holiday spirit. Every winter, the city is buzzing with excitement and seasonal celebrations for families, dates, and friends, and in every part of the city. No matter what holidays you observe, you will find plenty of ways to celebrate this year. Whether you’re new to the city or you’ve been here for years, we took the guesswork out of deciding what to do this year, and curated six experiences you need to check out this holiday season.
Escape to the Japanese Alps.
Japan on your bucket list for the new year? If you’re in need of an escape from the hustle and bustle of the season, Rosewood Washington, D.C. and House of Suntory have turned this Georgetown rooftop into an immersive journey into the world of Japanese cocktail craft at the newly unveiled Suntory Winter Forest. The cozy and sophisticated pop-up transforms CUT Above Bar and Lounge’s heated winter rooftop terrace into a snowy paradise inspired by the Japanese Alps for you to enjoy cocktails (and light bites) with bae or your girlfriends with an elevated view of the capital city.
Indulge in fire pits, cocktails and igloos — oh my!
Looking for an opportunity to grab drinks outdoors, minus the frostbite? The Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC once again is a winter wonderland with festive chalets on the Bourbon Steak DC patio in partnership with single malt Scotch whisky brand, The Macallan. Couples and groups can reserve one of three custom-built chalets that feature exclusive Macallan pours, thoughtfully paired with new seasonal offerings from the Bourbon Steak menu. If you visit, make sure you try the Macallan Hot Chocolate topped with a Macallan milk foam, marshmallows, cinnamon dust, a chocolate tree, edible gold leaf and marshmallow twigs!
Rest and recover with a staycation.
A first of its kind wellness-forward hotel to open in DC, the Westin Washington, DC Downtown is the perfect respite for those looking for a little R&R to usher in the new year. The property — with arguably some of the best wellness and fitness amenities a hotel can offer — embeds a holistic wellness approach that shines through every touchpoint with the guest experience (many may remember it as the former Renaissance). A water “well” fountain in the lobby, Peloton suites, wellness market, and a 10,000-square-foot gym that rivals any Equinox, the property’s main goal? Nourish, engage, and invigorate guests.
Ditch the leftovers and taste the vibrant heart of Mexico City on NYE.
El Presidente, the latest DC dining destination from Le Diplomate mastermind Stephen Starr, has certainly lived up to the hype — and this holiday season is certain to be no different. The sprawling menu draws flavors, ingredients and techniques from across Mexico, featuring innovative dishes diners will find only at El Presidente. Vibrant, bold flavors and seasonal ingredients will especially shine through the Chef’s three special menu items this New Year’s Eve, offering the perfect place to celebrate the joy of 2024. Enjoy live music and entertainment along with these one-night exclusives, in addition to their classic menu — and if you can’t snag a reservation, they’ll be open all holiday season (and beyond, of course).
Immerse yourself in a cocktail experience.
Drinks anyone? Enigma, an experiential cocktail lounge and wine vault located
on U Street, opened earlier this month and it’s been a merry time ever since. Helmed by Hakim Alston, David Ayalew, and Dee Haile, the collective group bring a vision of an avant-garde social hub to life on U Street with provocative shareable plates, a robust wine list, “No Label” craft cocktails, and hypnotic lively music housed within an intentional and sophisticated interior.
Enjoy date night at a fine dining restaurant.
In the nation’s capital, Charlie Palmer Steak DC is synonymous with sophisticated dining and a legendary meeting place for DC politicians and decision makers. If you’re looking for your next date night with locally sourced ingredients and progressive American cooking, look no further. Executive Chef Daniel Perron and his team emphasize big and bold cooking and housing exclusively American wines.