🎄✨ Discover the Best Christmas Markets in Northern Virginia! 🎅

As a top Northern Virginia real estate agent and a proud German citizen, I have a deep appreciation for the magic of Christmas markets. The charming atmosphere, twinkling lights, and the scent of roasted chestnuts  in the air make these markets an integral part of the holiday season—not to forget the Glühwein. In this guide, I’m excited to share my handpicked selection of the best Christmas markets in and around Northern Virginia that come close to an actual German Christmas Market. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, these markets are sure to kindle your holiday spirit.

Baltimore Christmas Village

I visited this market last year and was pleasantly surprised. They offered delicious Glühwein, Raclette, and German sausages. Although the Raclette was served on a sandwich instead of over potatoes as in Switzerland, it didn’t detract from the experience. This market runs daily from November 23 to December 24, 2024, from 11 am to 7 pm on weekdays and 11 am to 8 pm on weekends. You can find more details on their official website. Two years ago I recorded a video so you can see more about the market. I will try to go there again this year. 

German Military Christmas Market

This market has grown significantly over the years, becoming quite popular. Last year, I still ran into many of my German friends, but it has certainly expanded. I love the vendors that participate, all offering traditional German Christmas market food and drinks. This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday, December 5, 2024. My favorite bakery, The Swiss Bakery, will be a vendor, along with others like Little Austria for strudel and Binkert’s German Meat Products. Quick video I recorded last year.  

Swissmas & Christkindl Market at The Swiss Bakery

The Swiss Bakery always cures my homesickness; it feels like being in Switzerland. Last year’s Swissmas was delightful, and my family loved the Grittibenz I brought home. They offer great holiday treats like Glühwein and more. This year’s event is on Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 11 am to 4 pm at their Springfield location. Check out some impressions from last years Swissmas

Downtown Holiday Market

If you work in DC, this market is a must-visit. It runs from November 22 through December 23, 2024, daily from 12 pm to 8 pm. With numerous vendors, it’s a great place to find unique gifts. Last year, I enjoyed a hot chocolate that took me back to Switzerland. German Foods will be a vendor, offering authentic German items. This year this market is under new management but I heard it has more vendors now. I will be sure to check it out, in the meantime here is the link to the official website. 

DC Holiday Market – NEW 

This is a brand new holiday market in DC. Coming out of the Metro you will find this great Christmas Market. The DC Holiday Market will open in Dupont Circle on 19th Street, NW – just north of Dupont Circle park – on Friday, November 22nd. Changing its name from Downtown to DC Holiday Market – and in a new location: the 1500 block of 19th Street, NW. I am exited to check out this new market at Dupont Circle. Here are all the details. 

Christmas at Mount Vernon

I have to be honest this has been on my list for a while now but I never made it to Mount Vernon Christmas, maybe this year will be the year I finally make it. Mount Vernon offers various Christmas activities, including Mount Vernon by Candlelight and Christmas Illumination. These events provide a historical perspective on the holiday season. Check their official website for specific dates and details.

Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights

For a different kind of magic, don’t miss the Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. It’s a radiant display of holiday enchantment with illuminated gardens and a charming Holiday Village Gift Shop. The event runs from November 8, 2024, to January 5, 2025. For more details check here. 

Herndon Winter Markt

Scheduled for December 14, 2024, the Herndon WinterMarkt features several great vendors, including the food truck “What the Schnitzel.” It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy traditional German fare. This one will have one of my favorite German Food Trucks: What The Schnitzel, for the full vendor list check the link. 

Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show

Immerse yourself in the past with period music, historical demonstrations, and unique handcrafted goods. This event is on December 14, 2024, from 11 am to 4 pm at John Carlyle Square.

Occoquan Holiday Events

The historic town of Occoquan has several events scheduled, starting with the Tree Lighting on November 29, 2024, and many more to follow. Check their official website for a full schedule of holiday events.

Christmas Village in Philadelphia

 I know this is a bit far from Northern Virginia but this year the Christmas Village in Philadelphia is going to be on my list to visit. I was told by some German Friends this one or the one in Chicago is almost as good as the Christmas Markets back home. Considering Philly is only a short drive from Northern Virginia this is a great option. I will be sure to let you how it was. And of course let me know if you are heading to this or any other Christmas Markets. More details. 

These Christmas markets in and around Northern Virginia make me feel a little less homesick and remind me of my home town and my time in Germany and Switzerland. If you would like to experience the holiday season by enjoying one of our special traditions—a Christmas market—check out some of the markets on my list and let me know what you liked best about them. And if you’re looking to move before the holidays, don’t forget to reach out to me; I am here for all your real estate needs.

 

Claudia S. Nelson
eXp Realty

Call or Text 📞 (571)446-0002
Claudia’s Tips for Home Sellers  👉 click here
Track your Homes Value 👉click here
Find out your homes value 👉 click here to get an instant value
Pro tips for home buyers 👉 click here to learn more
Follow me on Social Media
👉 Facebook 
👉 Instagram
👉 Linkedin
👉 YouTube 

eXp Realty  ~ Woodbridge, VA ~ 703-665-3362
Licensed Salesperson in the Commonwealth of Virginia