Monday, December 22, 2025
With holiday deadlines fast approaching, the Washington region’s holiday markets are proving that last-minute shopping does not have to feel rushed! Across the District and nearby Maryland and Northern Virginia, seasonal markets are offering a festive, community-focused alternative to crowded malls and shipping cutoffs, pairing authentic gifts with music, lights and local flavor.
The DowntownDC Holiday Market, running through Dec. 23, continues to be a centerpiece of the city’s holiday season. Stretching along F Street NW in Penn Quarter, the open-air market brings together more than 100 vendors offering handcrafted jewelry, home décor, apparel, art and homemade specialty foods. During a recent visit, I was struck by how lively and welcoming the market felt, with live music, glowing lights and families browsing together. One standout find was a candle from Dr. Silkman that transforms into a nourishing body lotion when warmed. It’s a gift I found both thoughtful and unexpected. The market’s emphasis on local makers and small businesses reinforces its reputation as a space rooted in community and celebration.
Just a short walk away, the DC Holiday Market in Dupont Circle also remains open through Dec. 23. Located along New Hampshire Avenue NW, the market features artisans and small businesses from across the region, selling handmade accessories, specialty foods and holiday décor. In addition to gift shopping, food vendors draw steady crowds, including one offering Dubai-style chocolate-covered strawberries that look too good to pass up. Its neighborhood setting and walkable layout make it a popular stop for shoppers looking to combine gift hunting with a seasonal stroll.
Elsewhere in the District, Union Market continues to host rotating holiday pop-ups throughout December, highlighting local brands and makers alongside its year-round food offerings. The mix of retail, dining and festive décor makes it an easy destination for shoppers hoping to check multiple items off their lists in one stop.
Outside the city, regional markets are extending the holiday spirit as well. In Maryland, the Bethesda Holiday Market offers a curated selection of handcrafted goods and artisanal treats near downtown shops and restaurants. In Northern Virginia, markets in Old Town Alexandria continue to draw visitors with locally made art, jewelry and gifts set against a historic backdrop.
Together, these markets demonstrate a growing shift in how residents approach holiday shopping. Rather than relying solely on big retailers, many shoppers are choosing experiences that feel personal, festive and connected to the community. For those still searching for meaningful gifts in the final days before the holidays, local markets offer a festive opportunity to enjoy live music, sample seasonal treats and discover truly special finds.