The holiday season in DC is the best time of the year to safely enjoy the festive spirit and iconic decorations while all our horrible drivers are stuck in traffic, and lost tourists are still reading the metro map. However, before you traverse the nation’s capital during this special time, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Huge Crowds:

Underestimating the crowds in DC during the holidays would be a misjudgement of epic proportions. The allure of iconic landmarks draped in holiday decorations and the festive seasonal events in DC are a must-see for thousands of people and tourists. From the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony to the enchanting displays along the National Mall, the sheer volume of visitors often leads to unexpectedly large crowds. These seas of pedestrians often create dense traffic and clogged public transportation that could easily set you back hours and ruin plans. Navigating these congested masses demands patience and strategic planning to fully savor the holiday spirit without getting trampled. Although it is fun watching confused tourists attempt to decipher our labyrinthine metro system, visiting the main attractions during off hours is a great way to experience the vibrant energy that makes DC a holiday destination like no other.

Street Vendors:

As you explore downtown DC, you will notice a surplus of food trucks and street vendors scattered across the city. But don’t be fooled, these friendly looking businesses often use the holidays to jack up prices until you are wondering how you just paid $18 for a hotdog and a bottle of water. I recommend bringing food and drinks from home while exploring the capital to spare yourself the cost and the long lines. 

Public Transportation:

While DC’s public transportation is robust, relying solely on it during the holidays could leave you stuck without a plan B. Metro trains and buses are packed tight with festive Washingtonians and brave tourists that believe they can understand our metro system (they can’t). As a result  an overall slowdown due to massive crowds and total chaos occurs. Finding other options of transportation like capital bikes, e-scooters, or rideshare is a good way to ensure you get from point A to point B safely. 

Overlooking Cultural Attractions:

While it’s tempting to focus solely on the iconic monuments and main attractions, don’t overlook D.C.’s vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to numerous theaters, art galleries, and museums that offer special holiday-themed events, such as seeing The Nightmare Before Christmas at Extraordinary Cinema, visiting the Native Art Market at the African Indian Museum, and going to the Winter Solstice Soiree at the Anacostia Community Museum. If you take the time to explore these lesser-known gems, you are sure to get a more well-rounded and enriching winter experience.

A holiday visit to Washington D.C. can be an enchanting experience if you approach it with careful planning and consideration. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can make the most of your time in the nation’s capital and create lasting memories during this festive season.