Looking for some fun activities this holiday season? Here are a few of my favorites!

Image courtesy of the Alexandria Visitor Center

Holiday Boat Parade on the Potomac

https://www.visitalexandriava.com/holidays/boat-parade/

From boats decked end-to-end with lights to a flurry of holiday-themed events, the annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights is sure to impress. Visitors can enjoy music, activities, and giveaways throughout the day.  At dusk, the parade stretches along 1-mile of the Potomac from Old Town Alexandria to the Wharf.

Can’t make the first date? Consider attending the Waterskiing Santa event later in the month!

Image courtesy of the National Park Foundation

The National Christmas Tree Lighting

https://thenationaltree.org/

Tune in on CBS as the nation comes together to celebrate the lighting of the National Christmas Tree with special guest appearances in this storied tradition.

Photo by Mark Plötz 

Ride the Polar Express

Romney, WV: https://potomaceagle.com/experiences/north-pole-express/

Cumberland MD: https://wmsr.com/train-rides/the-polar-express/

Baltimore, MD: https://www.borail.org/events/the-polar-express-train-ride/

Take a magical journey to see Santa and Mrs. Clause. Passengers will enjoy cookies & hot cocoa while experiencing a performance of The Polar Express™ come to life.

Image courtesy DowntownDC Business Improvement District (BID) and Diverse Markets Management

DC Downtown Holiday Market

http://downtownholidaymarket.com/

The Downtown Holiday Market spans two blocks on F Street NW and is filled with 70+ retailers, a half dozen food vendors, and some of the region’s top performers.

Image courtesy Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Facebook, Vicki Mallonee

Dominion Gardenfest of Lights

https://www.lewisginter.org/visit/events/dominion-gardenfest-of-lights/

Take in the wonder of millions of lights throughout the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in this awe-inspiring walk-through experience.

Image courtesy The Maryland Zoo

Zoolights 

https://www.marylandzoo.org/special_events/zoo-lights/

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is transformed with a dazzling display of lights each winter. Guests can explore the light display either on foot or by car. Those walking the display can also enjoy train & carousel rides, snacks, visits with Sant, and other winter activities.

*Editor’s Note: for those who typically attend ZooLights at the National Zoo – the DC event has been canceled this year.*