Downtown Holiday Market DC – Your Guide to the District’s Holiday Cheer
As the crisp air rolls into the nation’s capital and twinkling lights begin to sparkle, the Downtown DC Holiday Market returns this year from November 21 to December 23, 2025, to transform Penn Quarter into a magical outdoor shopping village. This beloved annual tradition is a must-see for locals and visitors, offering a festive marketplace packed with handcrafted gifts, gourmet foods, entertainment, and holiday cheer in the heart of downtown DC.
Penn Quarter Turns into a Winter Wonderland
Step into the holiday spirit as the Downtown DC Holiday Market brings joy and enchantment to Penn Quarter.
Located on F Street NW between 7th and 9th Streets NW, the market is just steps from the Smithsonian American Art Museum, National Portrait Gallery, and Capital One Arena, making it a lively spot that blends city sights with holiday charm. Its convenient location lets visitors enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring DC’s cultural core in one trip.
Mark Your Calendars for Holiday Fun
The Downtown Holiday Market DC is open daily from November 21 through December 23, 2025 (closed Thanksgiving Day, November 27).
Weekday market hours are 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with extended hours of 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. The market features over 100 artisans and boutique businesses, live concerts, kids’ activities, food trucks, and photo ops (including the iconic DC Mistletoe installation). Each day brings a rotating set of vendors, so there’s always something new to discover.
Perfect for Families, Couples & Holiday Lovers
This walkable, stroller-friendly market is ideal for family outings, date nights, and group adventures.
Couples can share hot chocolate under festive lights, while families enjoy live performances and the Rudolph Reindeer Games kids’ play area. Many vendors highlight local, minority-, and women-owned businesses, giving every purchase extra meaning.
Why This Market Shines Bright
Discover the magic and charm that make this market a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
- Over 100+ Rotating Vendors: New shopping opportunities every visit, including handmade jewelry, art, home décor, clothing, and gifts from small businesses and global artisans.
- Minority- and Women-Owned Focus: Strong support for diverse local entrepreneurs.
- Live Entertainment: Daily performances from choirs, jazz bands, cultural groups, and “Sounds of the City: Holiday Style” concerts.
- Food & Drink: Enjoy the Capital Candy Jar, S’MORES N’MORE, churros, Old Blue BBQ, and seasonal specialties.
- Family Activities: Dedicated children’s zone featuring games and holiday-themed play.
This market is more than shopping—it’s a vibrant celebration of DC’s creative spirit and winter magic.
Getting There and Parking Made Easy
Parking is available in nearby garages on 7th, 8th, and 9th Streets NW, typically costing around $10–$20 depending on the day and time.
Public transportation is easiest with the Gallery Place–Chinatown Metro Station (Red, Green, and Yellow Lines) just steps away. The event is accessible for cyclists via nearby Capital Bikeshare stations.
Downtown DC Holiday Market FAQs
Where is the Downtown DC Holiday Market located?
You’ll find the Downtown DC Holiday Market on F Street NW between 7th and 9th Streets NW, right by the Smithsonian American Art Museum and Capital One Arena. It’s smack in the heart of Penn Quarter, making it super walkable and accessible.
What can I expect at the Downtown DC Holiday Market?
Over 100 rotating vendors set up shop with everything from handmade jewelry and art to gourmet foods. Each visit feels different thanks to daily vendor swaps, live music, and surprise photo ops (hello, giant mistletoe!).
Is the Downtown DC Holiday Market good for families?
Yes! It’s stroller-friendly and full of family fun, including the Rudolph Reindeer Games kids’ zone and live performances. Parents can sip cider while kids go full sugarplum-mode.
What makes the Downtown DC Holiday Market stand out?
Aside from the constant festive FOMO? The market highlights local, minority-, and women-owned businesses, making your gift-giving even more meaningful. Plus, live jazz, choir performances, and global eats add to the experience.
What kind of food is at the Downtown DC Holiday Market?
Bring your stretchy pants—favorites include The Capital Candy Jar, Old Blue BBQ, churros, S’MORES N’MORE, and other seasonal treats. It’s a holiday food crawl disguised as a market.
Can I visit the Downtown DC Holiday Market without a car?
Definitely. The Gallery Place–Chinatown Metro Station (Red, Green, and Yellow lines) is just steps away. If you're biking, Capital Bikeshare stations are nearby, too.
Where can I park near the Downtown DC Holiday Market?
There are several garages on 7th, 8th, and 9th Streets NW, typically costing around $10–$20 depending on time and day. Pro tip: bring a little cash or download a parking app to save time.
How can I make a full holiday trip around the Downtown DC Holiday Market?
Use Tripster to bundle hotel stays, tours, and events into one dreamy, budget-friendly package. From art museums to seasonal walking tours, Tripster helps you build a custom itinerary without the stress.
Deck the Halls in D.C. with Tripster
With Tripster, you can bundle hotels, attractions, and seasonal events for a magical city getaway. From walking tours to the National Gallery of Art, Tripster makes planning your holiday trip easy, affordable, and stress-free with discounts and vacation packages. Book your Washington, D.C. holiday adventure now with Tripster and create festive memories in the nation’s capital.
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