Bethesda's Winter Wonderland & Holiday Market
Celebrate the holiday season in downtown Bethesda with live ice sculpting demonstrations, visits with Santa Claus, and choral performances by local student groups. Browse handcrafted gifts, holiday ornaments, and vintage finds from dozens of artisan vendors at the URBNmarket. Families can also enjoy face painting, children's craft activities, and food from local Bethesda restaurants.
All ages
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47th Christmas Bazaar in McLean, VA 2026
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DC Holiday Market
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Christmas Markt
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Plan Your Visit
Hours
12pm–4pm; live ice sculpting demo 12–1:30pm; visit with Santa Claus 2–4pm.
Neighborhood
Woodmont Triangle
Food & Drink
Bethesda restaurants Cubano’s, Olazzo, and The Red Bandana will be onsite.
Location
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Tips & Advice
- Bring a new toy for Toys for Tots, as visitors are asked to contribute one.
- Leave time to browse the holiday market, which brings around 50 artisans selling handmade and vintage goods.
- Visit Santa during the scheduled Santa session and catch the ice sculpting demonstration during its listed session.
- Plan to buy food from one of the onsite Bethesda restaurants if you want a meal during the event.
- Bring children ready for face painting, games and arts and crafts offered by participating local organizations.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa Claus will be at the event on December 5.
- The Winter Wonderland now includes a holiday market.
Links & Contact
Run by Bethesda Urban Partnership
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during the ice sculpting presentation?
An ice sculptor uses chainsaws, ice picks, and other specialized tools to carve blocks of ice into works of art before a live audience.
What items are available at the holiday market?
The URBNmarket features local artisans selling handcrafted and vintage goods, such as crocheted toys, Christmas tree ornaments, vintage clothing, purses, art prints, soaps, knitted items, and jewelry.
What activities are available for children?
Children can visit with Santa Claus, get their faces painted, play games, and take part in arts and craft activities presented by local arts and educational organizations.
Who performs during the student concert?
Choral groups and students from local schools and arts organizations perform seasonal and winter-inspired music.
What can attendees donate at the event?
Visitors are encouraged to bring a new toy to contribute to the Toys for Tots toy drive.
Browse Christmas in Bethesda
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.