This holiday season, the 350-acre grounds at National Harbor become a festive winter destination, featuring roughly 2 million lights and decorations and a wide array of seasonal activities. The destination is easy to turn into a full getaway with eight hotels, more than 40 restaurants, and entertainment options for all ages. Theater performances at MGM National Harbor include Mannheim Steamroller Christmas on Dec. 7, The Temptations & The Four Tops on Dec. 8, and Leslie Odom, Jr.’s The Christmas Tour on Dec. 15.
Each evening from sunset until 9 p.m., a half-hour light show runs at the animated, 60-foot-tall Christmas tree. On Sundays at 11:30 a.m., Movies on the Potomac screens holiday favorites: The Santa Clause on Dec. 8, Jack Frost on Dec. 22, and The Polar Express on Dec. 29.
© National Harbor
For unique, handcrafted gifts, visit the Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show Series, open each weekend through Dec. 22 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. along American Way. The market rotates vendors weekly and offers textiles, personal care items, dinnerware, leather goods, metal art, home décor, pet accessories, and other artisan-made products—perfect for finding thoughtful, one-of-a-kind presents.
Families seeking colder thrills can experience Gaylord National Resort’s ICE! attraction, which this year features “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Intricate ice sculptures are carved by artisans from Harbin, bringing the beloved Peanuts holiday story to life in glasslike detail with tunnels, frozen slides, and themed displays.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-night stay, National Harbor’s combination of lights, live shows, markets, and family attractions makes it a standout holiday destination. Make reservations early for popular performances and consider arriving before sunset to enjoy the tree light shows and riverside atmosphere.