Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour

Plan to visit before the tour - we do not enter the building on the tour but we meet here so its easy to access if you arrive early to enjoy the carolers! Stepping into the Willard InterContinental during the holidays feels like entering a grand, glittering Christmas postcard. The historic lobby is transformed with towering trees, garlands, and elaborate themed displays that change each year but always echo the hotel’s timeless elegance. Throughout December, the Willard’s famous lobby also fills with the sound of live choral performances—local carollers whose voices carry through the marble halls. The result is a festive, almost magical atmosphere that blends Washington tradition with old-world holiday charm, making the Willard a must-see stop during Christmastime in D.C.

A visit to the World War I Memorial offers not only a place to reflect on the service and sacrifice of American forces, but also a chance to remember the remarkable human stories that emerged from the conflict—especially at Christmastime. One of the most famous is the 1914 Christmas Truce, when soldiers along parts of the Western Front briefly set aside the war to sing carols, exchange small gifts, and even play impromptu games of football in the no man’s land between the trenches. Though the United States had not yet entered the war, this moment of shared humanity remains one of the most powerful and enduring stories from WWI.

Standing at the memorial, with its sweeping bronze reliefs and quiet reflection areas, visitors can consider how these Christmas stories highlight the contrast between the brutality of war and the universal desire for peace. It’s a poignant reminder that even in the darkest moments of history, the spirit of compassion and connection can still break through.

Just south of the White House stands the National Christmas Tree, a beloved holiday symbol since 1923. What makes it special is its blend of tradition and national unity: the tree is lit each December by the President, surrounded by smaller trees decorated by students from every U.S. state and territory. Together, they create the “Pathway of Peace,” turning the Ellipse into a glowing celebration of American communities and the spirit of the season.

EXTERIOR ONLY EXCEPT Dec. 9, 11, 16, 18, 23 2025 - Even from the outside, visitors can enjoy festive lights, sparkling decorations, and the famous outdoor train display—an intricate miniature world that winds through imaginative, plant-based scenes. The exterior gardens are open and beautifully illuminated, making them perfect for an evening stroll.

While the Conservatory’s interior holiday display is usually closed in the evenings, the Botanic Garden offers select late-night openings on certain days each season. On those special nights, guests can step inside to see the elaborate model landmarks crafted from natural materials, lush seasonal plantings, and warm, greenhouse-lit holiday scenes.

Whether enjoyed from the outside or explored during a late-night opening, the Botanic Garden’s Christmas display is a serene and memorable highlight of winter in the nation’s capital.

Step off the bus and into one of Washington, DC’s most cherished holiday traditions—the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. Known as “The People’s Tree,” this towering evergreen is hand-selected each year from a different National Forest, bringing a touch of America’s natural beauty right to the heart of the nation’s capital.
As you approach the West Lawn of the Capitol, you’ll be greeted by thousands of twinkling lights and handcrafted ornaments made by communities from the tree’s home state. Take in the glow of the Capitol dome behind it—one of the most iconic holiday scenes in DC—and enjoy time for photos, strolls, and soaking in the festive atmosphere.
This stop is a perfect blend of tradition, artistry, and seasonal spirit—an unforgettable moment on your Holiday Lights Bus Tour.

Experience an international twist on DC’s holiday sparkle with a visit to the Christmas Tree at the Embassy of Canada. Standing proudly along Pennsylvania Avenue, this beautifully decorated tree brings a warm, welcoming glow from our neighbors to the north.

Adorned with elegant lights and distinctly Canadian touches, the embassy’s tree reflects themes of unity, friendship, and the shared spirit of the season. With the striking architecture of the embassy behind it and the U.S. Capitol framed in the distance, this stop offers one of the most unique and picturesque holiday scenes in the city.

Get ready for a charming dose of holiday cheer at our National Mistletoe stop—an enchanting moment that blends festive fun with a pinch of playful tradition. This beloved installation celebrates one of the season’s most iconic symbols: the mistletoe, long associated with love, laughter, and a little holiday magic.

As you step off the bus, you’ll find yourself under a beautifully crafted mistletoe display—glowing, oversized, and perfect for photos. Whether you’re sharing a kiss, a smile, or simply enjoying the twinkling backdrop, this stop offers a lighthearted celebration of togetherness during the most wonderful time of the year.

A delightful pause on your Holiday Lights Bus Tour, the National Mistletoe is all about joy, connection, and capturing the spirit of the season.

This soaring, jewel-bright tree dazzles with thousands of lights, mirrored ornaments, and shimmering metallic details, all set within the sleek, contemporary plaza of CityCenterDC.

As you wander through the open-air promenade, you’ll be surrounded by glowing installations, chic storefront displays, and festive energy that blends modern style with timeless holiday spirit. The tree stands as the centerpiece—perfect for sparkling photos, quiet admiration, or soaking in the city’s upscale winter ambiance.

A sparkling blend of luxury and holiday cheer, the CityCenterDC Holiday Tree stop adds a touch of glamour to your Holiday Lights Bus Tour. ✨

Your Holiday Lights Bus Tour wraps up in unforgettable style at Frosted at Franklin Square.

Step into a glowing world of twinkling light displays, cozy winter décor, and cheerful holiday energy.

A perfect grand finale, Frosted at Franklin Square sends you off with warmth, joy, and a final dash of holiday sparkle. ✨