Bowie Other Christmas Activities 2026

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree tradition brings a magnificent, specially selected tree from a U.S. National Forest to the West Front Lawn each holiday season. This cherished event culminates in a festive lighting ceremony, hosted by the Speaker of the...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the annual Armory Illumination in Laurel, MD. This cherished tradition kicks off with a vibrant Holiday Parade, starting from City Hall. Following the parade, gather at the Laurel Armory for the ceremonial...

Set sail on Annapolis' beloved Jolly Express Cruise for a magical 45-minute "sleigh ride" along Spa Creek. Captain Santa or Mrs. Claus will guide the festive journey, with an onboard elf serving hot cocoa and spreading cheer. Cozy blankets are...

An overnight, semi-silent Advent retreat at the Saint John Paul II National Shrine delves into the Incarnation and its meaning for embodied life. Drawing from St. John Paul II's teachings, the retreat offers reflection on the body, bodily holiness, and...

The Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade in Downtown Silver Spring features floats, marching bands, inflatable turkeys, stilt walkers, and Santa Claus. Olympic medalists, local officials, and over 150 parade units will participate in the celebration.

St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church holds Masses for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, a Holy Day of Obligation, on Monday, December 7th, and throughout Tuesday, December 8th.

Hill Family Biking leads a nighttime ride to view Capitol Hill's holiday lights. Participants can decorate bikes for the 4-mile, slow-paced tour. Woom Bikes offers free light sets and a bike giveaway. Hot chocolate is provided after the ride at...

Camp Sonshine and Living Word International Christian Church host a Christmas Village event featuring vendor stalls with handmade crafts, live Christmas music, and carnival games. The event includes a photo booth, food trucks, and a Christmas assembly with storytelling and...

Expert guidance on pinch pot and coil techniques is offered in this beginner-friendly pottery workshop for creating holiday gifts or home décor. Up to two custom pieces can be taken home. All materials are included, in a relaxed, social atmosphere.

The Christmas in the Capital tour in Annapolis features a period-attired guide leading tours of colonial and Victorian homes decorated for the season. The Maryland State House and Market House Park displays are highlights. A goody bag with festive treats...

The Holiday Candlelight Stroll is an evening walking tour through historic Annapolis. Guides in period attire lead participants by lantern light past colonial mansions and Victorian homes decorated for the season. The tour explores holiday traditions and concludes at Market...

Adult beginners can learn oil painting techniques for holiday gifts in this three-week class at Washington Printmakers Gallery. Led by artist William Demaria, the class covers intro to oils, layering, and finishing. All supplies are provided for the maximum of...

An instructor from @sheknowsthedeal_shop leads a holiday-themed paint and sip event at Daydrift Books & Cafe. All art supplies and a craft beverage are included as participants create a holiday painting.

Experience the magic of the holidays at The Wharf's annual Holiday Boat Parade & Party. This free event features a stunning parade of over 60 decorated boats, live music, festive activities for all ages, and a spectacular fireworks finale. Join...

Get ready for a season of festive cheer in Bowie! While specific plans for this year are announced in the fall, past events have included magical visits from Santa, charming trainspotting days, and delightful holiday movie screenings. Explore the historic...

Experience the heartwarming tradition of the Bowie Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, a cherished event for over 50 years. Gather with your community to sing beloved holiday songs and witness the enchanting illumination of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. The highlight...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Washington, D.C. This time-honored tradition, dating back to 1923, illuminates President's Park with thousands of lights. Marvel at the beautifully decorated National Christmas Tree and...

Get into the holiday spirit with the Owen Brown Community Association's festive events. They offer unique experiences like Sensory Santa for a special holiday visit and a fun Ugly Sweater Bingo night. Participate in community initiatives like the OB CAres...

Get ready to glide at the Color Burst Ice Rink, returning to Merriweather District in November 2026! This popular seasonal attraction offers 75-minute skate sessions in a festive park setting. Look forward to themed nights, special discounts for community heroes...

Get ready for a magical evening at 'A Budweiser Clydesdale Miracle on West Street,' a festive prelude to the Military Bowl. This event features the renowned Budweiser Clydesdales, alongside a vibrant street scene with food trucks, vendors, and engaging activities...

Experience the magic of winter at the Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden. Glide across the ice surrounded by stunning sculptures and the iconic National Mall. This popular seasonal attraction offers a festive atmosphere for all ages, with skating sessions...

Journey back to 1775 for a Colonial Yuletide celebration in historic Annapolis. Experience the holidays as they were in early America with music, storytelling, and traditional festivities at both the William Paca House & Garden and the Hogshead Trades Museum....

Discover the heartwarming 'Annual Nativity Scenes Exhibit' at Washington National Cathedral. This captivating display, themed 'One Church, One Family,' features a diverse collection of nativity scenes from cultures worldwide, showcasing the universal Christmas story. Explore crèches from the extensive Sommer...

Join the Kings Contrivance Community Association for a delightful 'Cookies with Santa' event. This festive gathering offers families a wonderful opportunity to meet Santa Claus, share some holiday cheer, and enjoy delicious cookies. It's a perfect way to create lasting...

Experience the magic of Festive Fridays at the Downtown Columbia Lakefront, a cherished annual tradition now in its 10th year. Delight in the artistry of live ice sculpting, capture holiday memories at a festive photo booth, and be enchanted by...

Step into a Krampus-inspired Christmas Nightmare, a unique holiday horror event at Laurel's House of Horror. This terrifying twist on festive cheer transforms an abandoned movie theater into a chilling experience with all-new themed areas. Prepare for an enchanted Christmas...

Experience the grandeur of the National Menorah Lighting Ceremony, a globally recognized event that launches the celebration of Chanukah. This spectacular ceremony features musical performances by military bands and a celebrity Jewish artist, alongside readings from the "Mendy Deren National...

Experience the magic of winter at The Wharf Ice Rink, offering a unique skating opportunity with breathtaking views of the Potomac River and iconic D.C. landmarks. While the rink is currently closed for the season, it eagerly anticipates welcoming skaters...

Join Santa Claus for a delightful afternoon of festive treats! Children can share their holiday wishes with Santa while enjoying warm cocoa and delicious cookies. It's a perfect, intimate holiday gathering for families looking to create magical memories.