DowntownDC Holiday Market

Holiday Shopping with a Kids Corner

The DowntownDC Holiday Market is back for its 22nd year on F Street, between 7th and 9th, right in front of the National Portrait Gallery. It opens Friday, November 13 and runs every day until December 23, except Thanksgiving. It's free to walk around, and there are 121 vendors this year selling gifts, crafts and food.

Hours are noon to 8 Monday through Thursday, 11 to 9 on Friday and Saturday, and 11 to 8 on Sunday. The part for kids is the Rudolph Reindeer Games play area next to the performance stage. Live entertainment on the main stage runs Thursday through Sunday, starting November 19.

A few practical things: the restrooms are on 8th Street NW, behind the Winter Chalet bar. Most vendors take cards, but having some cash helps. Dogs are allowed. Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro lets you out right at the market, which makes it an easy add-on to a museum day.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Go Thursday to Sunday for music. The main stage has live entertainment those days from Nov 19.
• ✓Find the play area. Rudolph Reindeer Games is next to the stage.
• ✓Bring a little cash. Most vendors take cards, but not all.
• ✓Know where the bathroom is. 8th Street NW, behind the Winter Chalet bar.
• ✓Pair it with a museum. The National Portrait Gallery is right behind the market.

Questions Parents Ask

When is the DowntownDC Holiday Market 2026?

November 13 to December 23, 2026, every day except Thanksgiving, on F Street NW between 7th and 9th Streets.

What are the Holiday Market hours?

Noon to 8pm Monday through Thursday, 11am to 9pm Friday and Saturday, and 11am to 8pm Sunday.

Is the DowntownDC Holiday Market free?

Yes, entry is free.

Is there anything for kids?

Yes. There's a kids' play area called Rudolph Reindeer Games next to the stage, and live entertainment Thursday through Sunday from November 19.