As the holiday season rolls in, our communities across Northern Virginia, Washington DC, and even nearby Baltimore transform into magical winter villages filled with artisan gifts, twinkling lights, festive bites, and family-friendly cheer. Every year, I love sharing the best local markets with my clients — it’s the perfect excuse to explore charming neighborhoods, support small businesses, and kick off the season in style. Since I grew up in Switzerland as a German Citizen I am used to really good Holiday markets in Europe, but since tickets to Germany are on the expensive side again, we can make the best out of what we have here.
If you’re looking for unique gifts, holiday décor, handmade treats, or simply a fun weekend outing, here are the top holiday markets to visit in 2025.
✨ Northern Virginia Holiday Markets (2025)
Stonebridge Tree Lighting & Christmas Market – Woodbridge, VA
Date: November 21
Right here in Woodbridge! Local vendors, seasonal décor, and fun holiday-themed events make this a favorite for residents. Stonebridge always offers great events, this one is featuring live entertainment and selfies with Santa.
Old Town Manassas Christmas Market – Manassas, VA
Date: November 29
The historic streets of Manassas come alive with seasonal vendors, treats, and holiday charm. Perfect for a post-Thanksgiving outing.
Swiss Bakery Christkindl Market – Springfield, VA
Date: December 14
A festive “Swissmas” celebration with European baked goods, holiday treats, and Swiss holiday traditions. Perfect for foodie gifts and international-style holiday inspiration. I simply love everything that has to do with The Swiss Bakery and normally attend all of their events. The Christmas Market is always special with Samichlaus (Santa) und Gritibaenz (A traditional Swiss pastry or sweet bread).
Occoquan Holiday Artisan Market – Occoquan, VA
Dates: December 6–7
Set right along the river in historic Occoquan, this artisan market features 70+ vendors, fire-pit stations, s’mores, glow sticks, and Santa arriving by boat — truly one of the most magical markets in the region.
Northern Virginia Christmas Market – Chantilly, VA
Dates: November 7–9
This massive indoor market at the Dulles Expo Center features more than 200 artisans from all over the country. From fine art to gourmet gifts, you’ll find something here for everyone on your list. As German this doesn’t really sound right to me as Christmas markets should always be outside, with Gluehwein or hot chocolate.
Mosaic Holiday Village Market – Fairfax, VA
Dates: November 22–23 & December 13–14
Mosaic District turns into a festive open-air village with 60+ local makers, boutiques, and seasonal treats — a perfect mix of holiday spirit and urban style.
City of Fairfax Holiday Market – Old Town Fairfax
Dates: December 5–7 & December 12–14
A charming, small-town style market in the heart of Old Town Fairfax. Expect handcrafted goods, tasty treats, and classic holiday ambience. This one sounds interesting. and is close by.
Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market & Holiday Craft Show – Alexandria, VA
Date: December 13
One of the most popular markets in the region. Over 100 vendors, festive entertainment, kids’ activities, and the beautiful Carlyle Square backdrop make this a full-day experience.
URBN Holiday Market – Clarendon (Arlington, VA)
Dates: December 6–7
A modern, curated shopping experience with trendy makers and artisan vendors. Great for unique, design-forward gifts.
McLean Holiday & Craft Festival – McLean, VA
Dates: December 5–7
An upscale indoor craft show featuring quality artisans, home décor, and gourmet gifts. Great for clients or friends in the Tysons and McLean area. Admission is $5, free for children 12 and younger. Good for all three days of the show.
Herndon WinterMarkt – Herndon, VA
Date: December 13
A traditional German-style Christmas market with mulled cider, European-inspired treats, and unique handmade crafts. A must-visit for those who love Old World Christmas charm. This one has several European vendors, like Little Austria, What the Schnitzel and Baekerhaus.
Springfield Town Center Holiday Pop-Up Market – Springfield, VA
Dates: November 23–December 19
Running through most of the season, this indoor pop-up is ideal on cold or rainy days — easy, accessible, and full of variety.
✨ Washington, DC Holiday Markets
Downtown Holiday Market – Washington, DC
Dates: November 21–December 23
One of the biggest and most iconic markets in the DMV. With dozens of rotating vendors, global gifts, gourmet treats, and twinkling lights, this is a can’t-miss stop for holiday shopping. I have been to this one several times and have to admit I prefer it over the Dupont Circle Holiday Market, due to its location. I actually enjoy going there on date night or with friends and spending the night in a hotel.
Dupont Circle Holiday Market – Washington, DC
Dates: November 14 to December 23
This neighborhood market is known for local artisans, small batch goods, cozy cafés, and a festive, community-focused vibe. Perfect for a relaxed day of holiday strolling.
✨ Baltimore Christmas Village – Baltimore, MD
Christmas Village in Baltimore – Inner Harbor
Dates: November 28–December 24
A full European-style Christmas Village featuring wooden huts, German foods, mulled beverages, artisan gifts, a carousel, and a huge holiday tree. It’s well worth the drive — especially if you love traditional German Christmas markets. This one I have to admit really surprised me. It is very close to a European Holiday Market. I have been there several times and enjoy it each time.
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🎄 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re staying close to home in Woodbridge, exploring Northern Virginia, or making a day trip into DC or Baltimore, each of these markets offers something special. I always tell my clients — these markets are perfect not just for gift shopping, but for picking up unique pieces to stage your home for the holidays or simply enjoy some festive inspiration. It also helps everyone that is a little bit home sick over the holidays, I know it always helps me going to the Swiss Bakery Swissmas event. I still miss my family but it gives me the feeling of being a bit closer to them.
Claudia S. Nelson
eXp Realty
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