This magical holiday marketplace in Washington, DC is worth multiple trips, thanks to a rotating cast of local vendors and performers.
Where is the DowntownDC Holiday Market? What’s nearby?
This year's edition of the DowntownDC Holiday Market will occupy the street and sidewalk on F Street between 7th and 9th Streets, NW. Now in its 20th year, its bright lights bring Penn Quarter and Chinatown to life, providing a holiday spark to the neighborhood. The DowntownDC BID has partnered with The Makers Show to revitalize the market. The spacious, open-air village is free and open to the public, opening just ahead of Thanksgiving on Nov. 22 (closed on Thanksgiving Day) and closing for the season on Dec. 23.
After you peruse the market, you can check out the free-to-enter Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery, both housed in the same building nearby. Dinner and cocktails can be enjoyed at nearby restaurants like Jaleo, Zaytinya, Clyde’s of Gallery Place and Carmine’s, or you can get your food to-go.
What will I find at the DowntownDC Holiday Market?
The DowntownDC Holiday Market's roster features 110 vendors, many of them new to the event this year. With The Makers Show now involved, this year's edition promises upgraded vendor kiosks, even more vendors in total, community and family activations, an expanded food and beverage program and more sponsor collaborations. Visitors can expect a range of family-friendly offerings including emerging artisan makers, returning favorite vendors, festive decor and lights.
What else will I find there?
Music will be provided by Sounds of the City: Holiday Style, with local performers set to conjure up plenty of holiday spirit during these live concerts. There will also be a zone specifically dedicated to kids. Kimpton Hotel Monaco DC and Dirty Habit are right next door; the property features fun and festive holiday décor, outdoor fire pits, blankets and specialty cocktails at Dirty Habit's Winter Chalet. Additionally, don't miss the DowntownDC Holiday Skate Spectacular over at the National Building Museum from Dec. 16 to Jan. 4, 2025, which will include an indoor ice rink inside the museum's Great Hall.
What’s there to eat and drink at the DowntownDC Holiday Market?
Food and drink vendors include Old Blue BBQ, The Capital Candy Jar, S'MORES N'MORE, Baked Cheese Haus and many others. The market will also offer its very famous churros throughout the season.
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