Holidays at National Harbor
Visitors can watch a 60-foot RGB tree come to life with a light show synchronized to a holiday medley recorded by the United States Air Force Band. The waterfront celebration also features a spectacular fireworks display following the tree lighting show. Guests can also browse shops in the Waterfront District, dine at local restaurants, or take a ride on The Capital Wheel.
All ages
See more other Christmas activities near National Harbor
Washington District's Holiday Boat Parade & Party
Washington · 7 mi
Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Alexandria · 2 mi
Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Mount Vernon · 6 mi
Hill Family Biking Holiday Lights Ride 2026
Washington · 7 mi
Snow Flow Mountain at Christmas at Gaylord National
National Harbor · <1 mi
Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden
Washington · 7 mi
Plan Your Visit
Neighborhood
Waterfront District
Food & Drink
Restaurants offer special Christmas meals and sweet treats to enjoy at the restaurant or take to-go.
Location
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-season visitors
Vibe
Festive and scenic
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Tips & Advice
- Browse the Waterfront District and Tanger National Harbor shops if you are looking for holiday gifts.
- Consider dining at a National Harbor restaurant for a holiday meal or sweet treats.
- Include a ride on The Capital Wheel if you want to see the waterfront from above.
- Choose whether to shop, dine, or ride the Wheel before setting out, since the seasonal offering spans several experiences.
Special Events & Promotions
- Fireworks follow the tree lighting show on Saturday nights from November 7 through December 26.
- Photos with Santa at The Capital Wheel are offered on November 27–29 and December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20; a ticket purchase is required for the photo opportunity.
- Photos with Santa Paws at The Capital Wheel are offered on Saturdays from November 28 through December 19; a ticket purchase is required for the photo opportunity.
- Donate a new, unwrapped toy on December 6 and receive a Capital Wheel ticket; one ticket per family, valid December 5.
Links & Contact
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 can visitors do around National Harbor during the holiday season?
Browse shops in the Waterfront District or Tanger National Harbor, dine at local restaurants, or ride The Capital Wheel.
Where can visitors find holiday meals and sweet treats?
National Harbor restaurants offer holiday meals and sweet treats, with options to enjoy at your table or theirs.
What shopping options are highlighted for the season?
The Waterfront District and Tanger National Harbor are highlighted for holiday shopping.
Can visitors ride The Capital Wheel as part of a visit?
The Capital Wheel is one of the activities highlighted at National Harbor.
What kinds of holiday experiences are available around National Harbor?
The seasonal offering includes shopping, restaurant dining, holiday meals and sweet treats, and a ride on The Capital Wheel.
Browse Christmas in Alexandria
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.