The nation’s capital comes alive for the holidays, and it all starts with Thanksgiving in Washington, D.C.
Updated for 2023
It starts with the White House’s annual Pardoning of the Thanksgiving Turkey and it’s all uphill from there. Washington, D.C. embraces the holiday season wholeheartedly and the entire district comes together with lights and decorations, holiday markets, parades, and more.
Join in on the merriment while you already have family and friends gathered for Thanksgiving! There are more things to do in DC on Thanksgiving than you think.
Dig into a Thanksgiving Dinner You Don’t Have to Make
Whether you want to cook your Thanksgiving meal for friends and family, order a to-go dinner, or you just want a Michelin-star chef to cook your holiday meal, 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. has been putting on their annual Zoo Lights event for years now! It’s a family favorite because you can combine seeing some of your favorite furry friends in the day and stick around to view the LED animated light displays at night.
The zoo is illuminated with over 500,000 lights, LED animal displays, two laser shows, and holiday music! There are even special attractions, rides, and live performances by different bands and choirs. The best part? The entire experience is free.
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. with 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.
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. 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. 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 and past performances include The Nutcracker; is the holiday season even complete without a rendition of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy?
The Hamilton
From a Charlie Brown Christmas to live, intimate performances by local artists, you’ll find it all at The Hamilton.
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 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
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? A1
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.
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.
