The holiday season in Washington, D.C. arrives with its own kind of magic. Twinkling lights along historic streets, the scent of roasted nuts drifting through the air, and markets filled with handmade gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a long-time Washingtonian or visiting for the holidays, these markets offer the perfect way to experience the city’s festive charm.
Downtown Holiday Market
A cornerstone of the season, the Downtown Holiday Market returns with its signature blend of artisan shopping, live music, and warm holiday energy. Spread across several blocks in the heart of Penn Quarter, this open-air market features over 100 rotating exhibitors, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and fine art to gourmet treats and global crafts.
Live performances, festive lighting, and plenty of snacks make it the perfect after-work or weekend outing.
Location: F Street NW (between 7th & 9th Streets NW), Washington, DC
Dates: November 21 – December 23, 2025
Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 8 PM
Details: Learn more on the official website HERE
Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
Now in its second year, the Holiday Market at Dupont Circle has quickly become a favorite. With more than 35 small businesses and independent makers, this boutique market offers seasonal goods like ceramics, textiles, woodwork, jewelry, and home décor.
The market supports the Main Streets nonprofit and helps fund community programming throughout Dupont Circle.
Location: 1500 block of 19th St NW, Dupont Circle
Dates: November 14 – December 23, 2025
Hours: Monday–Friday 12 PM – 8 PM; Saturday–Sunday 11 AM – 8 PM
More info: Visit the market page HERE
Heurich House Museum Christmas Markt
Set inside the historic Heurich House Museum’s Castle Garden, this market is one of D.C.’s most atmospheric holiday events. The 2025 Christmas Markt features 60+ local artisans, German-style mulled wine, holiday tours, craft stations, and food trucks.
Proceeds support the museum’s Urban Manufacturing Incubator, which uplifts D.C.’s makers and creative economy.
Location: 1307 New Hampshire Ave NW, Dupont Circle
Dates: December 4 – December 7, 2025
Tickets: Required for entry. Find prices and time slots HERE
Union Market’s Festive Pop-Ups
Union Market brings its own modern twist to the holidays with a series of seasonal pop-ups, featuring rotating vendors, limited-edition goods, and pop-in experiences from local makers and designers.
Location: Union Market District, NE DC
Details: Check their rotating schedule HERE
Holly Days at Eastern Market
A long-loved neighborhood tradition, Eastern Market’s Holly Days transforms the historic marketplace into a festive bazaar full of local vendors. From crafted gifts to seasonal art to handmade accessories, it’s an ideal place to find something personal while supporting D.C. artisans.
Location: 225 7th St SE, Capitol Hill
Dates: Holiday bazaar weekends throughout December
Details: View event updates HERE
Maryland Christmas Show (Frederick, MD)
If you’re up for a short drive, the Maryland Christmas Show is one of the region’s largest, featuring 250+ exhibitors across multiple buildings at the Frederick Fairgrounds.
Expect artisan gifts, home décor, seasonal foods, and a fun small-town holiday setting.
Location: Frederick Fairgrounds
Dates: November 21–23 & November 28–30, 2025
More: information is available HERE
A Seasonal Snapshot of the DMV
From boutique pop-ups to open-air bazaars, this year’s markets capture the best of holiday shopping. Bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and enjoy the magic of Washington, D.C.’s holiday market season.
