The nation’s capital comes alive for the holidays, and it all starts with Thanksgiving in Washington, D.C.
Updated for 2024
It all kicks off with the White House’s annual Pardoning of the Thanksgiving Turkey, setting the stage for a festive season ahead. Washington DC in the fall and Thanksgiving marks the start of fall festivities, as the city fully embraces the holiday spirit. Throughout the season, the district transforms with sparkling lights, vibrant decorations, lively holiday markets, parades, and so much more.
As you gather with family and friends for Thanksgiving, dive into the joy of the season! You’ll find that there are plenty of exciting things to do for Thanksgiving in Washington DC, more than you might expect.
Dig Into Good Great Meal Options for Thanksgiving in Washington DC
Whether you want to cook your Thanksgiving Day meal for friends and family, order a to-go dinner, or you just want a Michelin-star chef to cook your holiday meal on Thanksgiving morning, there are plenty of restaurants in D.C. serving Thanksgiving this year.
Here’s our full list of Thanksgiving restaurants in D.C.
Get Into the Washington Christmas Spirit
Some of you may think that it’s too early, but really, when isn’t there a right time for Christmas lights and holiday music?
Zoo Lights
- Address: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 | Website
The National Zoo in Washington, D.C., is gearing up for its beloved annual Zoo Lights event, returning for 2024! This family favorite allows you to spend your day visiting your favorite furry friends and then stay to enjoy the stunning LED animated light displays that come to life at night.
With over 500,000 lights, dazzling LED animal displays, and two thrilling laser shows, the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland filled with holiday music. You’ll also find exciting attractions, rides, and live performances from various bands and choirs. And the cherry on top? The entire experience is free, making it the perfect way to celebrate the season!
Wunter Garten
- Address: 1101 First St NE, Washington, DC 20002 | Website
Inspired by the beer gardens of Germany, Winter Garden is a charming beer garden with a large selection of beers. It’s a great spot for friends and family to gather during Thanksgiving weekend and throw back a few!
They transform in the winter to include cabanas and tents, fire puts, board games, DJs, and live entertainment. They have tons of signature events including their night of onesies and s’mores.
Holiday Markets & Pop-Ups
Seasonal markets and pop-ups always put me in the holiday mood, probably because of their decor and the addition of mulled wines. There are a couple in and around Washington, D.C., perfect for gift shopping, featuring unique independent vendors, local small businesses, arts and crafts, food and drink, and more.
Some popular ones are:
Downtown Holiday Market
- Address: F St NW &, 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 | Website
This mini holiday village pops up every year and the streets are lined with vendors selling food, drink, art, jewelry, and more.
Holiday Market at Union Market (Dock 5)
Address: 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002 | Website
You’re sure to walk away with something from one of the many designers selling one-of-a-kind ornaments and gifts.
Holiday Marketplace at DC Brau
- Address: 3178 Bladensburg Rd NE Suite B, Washington, DC 20018 | Website
Vendors selling everything from D.C.’s own Mumbo Sauce to locally made jewelry. There are also lots of snacks, food trucks, and of course, beer.
DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
- Address: 29 Kings Ct SE Washington, DC 20003 | Website
Explore a wide range of local vendors offering unique gifts, handmade crafts, and seasonal treats. Enjoy food stalls featuring global cuisines, festive beverages, and live music in this bustling holiday market.
Union Station Holiday Market
- Address: 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE Washington, DC 20002 | Website
Located in the historic Union Station, this holiday market offers a curated selection of local artisans and vendors, featuring unique gifts, handcrafted goods, and festive treats. With its iconic setting and convenient location, it’s a must-visit for holiday shopping while enjoying the station’s grand architecture and seasonal décor.
National Cathedral Holiday Market
- Address: 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016 | Website
Held within the stunning grounds of the National Cathedral, this holiday market offers a unique opportunity to shop for handmade gifts, ornaments, and holiday décor while surrounded by the cathedral’s breathtaking architecture. Visitors can enjoy seasonal music, festive activities, and a peaceful atmosphere in this iconic Washington, DC location.
Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade
- Address: 11900 Market St, Reston, VA 20190
The Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade, better known as the Silver Spring Thanksgiving Parade, is the ONLY Thanksgiving parade in D.C. and the metro area. If you’re looking for things to do in Silver Spring MD, be sure to explore the local shops, restaurants, and attractions while you’re in the area. Grab a slice of sidewalk and a blanket, and get ready to cheer in the holiday season.
Read our full guide to Maryland’s Silver Spring Thanksgiving Parade!
Give Back to the Community
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on your blessings and show thanks outward, embracing the holiday spirit. Lend a hand at these institutions that give back to the community all year long.
Clean up Rock Creek Park
- Address: 1755 S St NW, Washington, DC 20009
- Website
Blue Planet DC has many similar events scheduled throughout the year but also has an annual morning cleanup post-Thanksgiving. Wear comfortable clothes, grab your gloves and a couple of trash bags, and help keep the neighborhood clean!
Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen
There are several charitable organizations where you can help prepare and serve holiday meals in DC. Some popular local charities you can reach out to are:
Get Sporty
Work off those extra calories by getting active post-Thanksgiving! It’s the perfect time to embrace seasonal activities like outdoor ice skating and the Turkey Trot.
Ice Skating at Gaylord National
- Address: 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, Maryland 20745 USA | Website
Gaylord National knows about the holidays! They have so many classic holiday activities you and your family could participate in like building snowmen, sledding, decorating gingerbread houses, watching Christmas plays, reading favorites with Mrs. Claus, and of course, ice skating!
Find all of the best spots for ice skating in Washington, D.C
Biking
Yes, it’s a little cold this time of the year but once you start pedaling around the Tidal Basin, you warm up quickly! It’s a great time to hop on a bike and explore the National Mall and its surroundings; the weather is crisp, the views are beautiful, and you can work off Thanksgiving Dinner!
There are tons of spots to rent a bicycle there so don’t worry if you’re from out of town or don’t feel like packing up your own.
Turkey Trot
There are lots of different kinds of trots, runs, and walks hosted around Thanksgiving weekend. Not only can you get active, but you’ll be able to get sponsors and raise money for a good cause! Here are a couple that I like to get involved with:
- Arlington Turkey Trot
- Alexandria Turkey Trot
- Prince Williams Turkey Trot
- Trot for Hunger
- Cranberry Crawl DC
- Turkey Chase Bethesda
- Gingerbread Man Mile
U.S. Botanic Gardens
Take a walk while still staying warm in the U.S. Botanic Gardens greenhouse. Their annual Season’s Greetings: America’s Gardens holiday show has wonderful displays of greenery, live seasonal music, replicas of some of the most famous buildings and monuments in DC, and even an extensive operating model train exhibit.
Attend a Concert or Catch a Play at a D.C. Theater
Unwind after a hectic time of preparing a meal and making sure everyone in the family stays amicable with a concert or play.
The Kennedy Center Opera House
Their holiday season lineup is incomparable, with past performances including The Nutcracker. Is the holiday season even complete without a rendition of the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”?
The Hamilton
At The Hamilton in 2024, experience the magic of the holiday season with everything from A Charlie Brown Christmas to live music and intimate performances by talented local artists. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!
DAR Constitution Hall
DAR Constitution Hall has hosted their annual Christmas Open House for years and it’s a wonderful time to join in the holiday festivities and witness performances by local choirs and artists.
Embrace the Black Friday Sales in Washington DC
Black Friday starts on Thanksgiving night and lasts throughout the weekend in most places! Get started with your Christmas gift shopping instead of waiting till the last minute! Here are a couple of malls and shopping centers in DC where you can get a bargain on Thanksgiving weekend.
- Potomac Mills Mall
- Tanger Outlets at National Harbor
- CityCenter DC
- Washington Square
- Pentagon City Mall
- Tysons Corner Center
- Westfield Montgomery Mall
- The Mall at Prince Georges
- Fair Oaks Mall
- The Shops at Wisconsin Place
Additional reporting by Shahnaz Hossain
Frequently Asked Questions about Thanksgiving in D.C. (FAQ)
What are some popular restaurants in Washington, D.C., for Thanksgiving dinner?
Washington, D.C., offers a variety of restaurants that serve special Thanksgiving meals. Some popular options include the Old Ebbitt Grill, Founding Farmers, and the Tabard Inn. Check our list of recommended Thanksgiving dinner spots for more choices, especially if you’re spending Thanksgiving in Washington DC with teens.
Are there any Thanksgiving parades or events in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, there are Thanksgiving events in the D.C. area, including the Silver Spring Thanksgiving Parade, the only Thanksgiving parade in Washington, D.C. Additionally, many neighborhoods host their own parades and holiday festivities.
Can I visit museums or attractions in Washington, D.C., on Thanksgiving Day?
Some museums and attractions in D.C. are open on Thanksgiving Day, while others may have limited hours or be closed. The Smithsonian museums, for example, are usually open.
What are some fun family activities for Thanksgiving in Washington, D.C.?
Washington, D.C., offers various family-friendly activities for Thanksgiving, such as ice skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, visiting the National Zoo, or taking a festive holiday tour. Explore our family activities list for more ideas.
Where can I find the best Thanksgiving deals and discounts for shopping in D.C.?
Thanksgiving weekend is a great time for shopping, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. Major shopping areas in Washington, D.C., include Georgetown, Union Station, and CityCenterDC, as well as outlet malls outside of the District in Maryland and Virginia.
Are there any special Thanksgiving traditions or cultural events in D.C.?
Washington, D.C., is known for its diverse culture and traditions. You can explore cultural events, such as Ballet West: The Nutcracker at the Kennedy Center.
How do I get around Washington, D.C., on Thanksgiving Day?
The public transportation system in D.C., including the Metro, often operates on a holiday schedule on Thanksgiving Day. It’s a good idea to check the specific schedules and consider using ride-sharing services or walking to get around.
Where can I find information on volunteering opportunities in Washington, D.C., during Thanksgiving?
If you’re interested in volunteering on Thanksgiving, there are many organizations and charities in D.C. that welcome volunteers during the holiday season.
