Local Brief
Your guide to the best holiday markets around D.C.
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The Downtown DC Holiday Market grows again this year. Photo: Courtesy Events DC
Holiday markets are popping up around the DMV.
Why it matters: These aren't just shopping stops — they're full-on festive scenes with live music, local makers, hot drinks and cheer you won't find browsing online.
Good to know: Many markets require tickets — and some sell out fast or offer early-bird deals — so book ahead.
What's new: The Downtown DC Holiday Market (Nov. 21-Dec.23) is bigger than ever. Look for:
- Over 115 vendors, including 20 newcomers and local artisans.
- More than a dozen food stalls, including from Carmine's and Daikaya (try their new cheesesteaks) — plus Dirty Habit's "winter chalet" bar.
- A "Craft Café" with workshops for kids and adults, plus live entertainment.
More markets you won't want to miss:
Lucketts Holiday House (now through Dec. 14)
Set in a century-old Leesburg farmhouse decked out in full holiday decor.
- Shop vintage and holiday finds, then sip wine by a crackling fire.
🎟️ Tickets ($29) required.
DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle (now through Dec. 23)
A newer market with 35+ small businesses selling crafts, jewelry and art — plus sweets from Migue's Mini Donuts and Capital Candy Jar.
Chanukah Holiday Market (Dec. 2)
Shop handmade goods from independent artists and food vendors at the Edlavitch DCJCC.
Heurich House Christmas Markt (Dec. 4-7)
Dupont Circle's historic "brewmaster's castle" turns its gardens into a German-style holiday market with Glühwein, a craft station and 40-plus local artisans.
🎟️ Tickets ($12+) required.
Merriweather District Holiday Market (Dec.5-7)
Combine ice skating and shopping at this pop-up market near the Color Burst Ice Rink. Think: local artisans, cozy fire pits and festive drinks.
Georgetown Jingle and Swedish Holiday Market (Dec. 6)
Enjoy holiday music and lights throughout Georgetown while 40+ shops and restaurants offer special discounts, free treats and pop-ups.
- Don't miss the procession of the St. Lucia Choir from the Embassy of Sweden — which hosts a traditional Swedish Holiday Market — to the waterfront.
- 🎟️ Swedish market tickets are $12-$17.
Holiday Her-Story Market at Hotel Zena (Dec. 6)
The market spotlights women makers and entrepreneurs. Free entry — or upgrade with a Champagne & sparkling wine experience ($65).
Makers' Market at the National Museum of Women in the Arts (Dec. 7)
Shop handmade jewelry, ceramics and art from women and "gender-expansive" creators.
- 🆓 Part of the museum's Free Community Day (but reservations recommended).
Del Ray's Fine Art & Fine Craft Market (Dec. 5-22)
Now in its 30th year, Del Ray Artisans host weekend markets (Fri–Sun) featuring rotating local artists with jewelry, candles, ceramics and more.
Alexandria Market and Holiday Craft Show (Dec. 13)
Old Town's biggest holiday market features 110+ artisans and small businesses, plus caroling, kids' ornament-making, food and drinks (and it's free!).
Winter Wonderland Market + Party (Dec. 13)
At Wonderland Ballroom in Columbia Heights, find a lively neighborhood brunch-and-market mash-up with local gifts, hot drinks and fundraising for the DC Abortion Fund.