Your DMV Winter Bucket List: Festivals, Skating, Restaurants To Try

Winter in the DMV doesn’t mean staying home. From festive markets and scenic ice rinks to seasonal menus made for hanging out with your friends and fam, here’s your curated guide to what’s happening this month across DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.

Winter Festivals

Twinkling lights, hot drinks, live music, and just enough cold to justify another snack. These winter festivals are peak cozy-season energy.

1. Union Market Winter Pop-Ups

Location: 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
When: January (rotating winter pop-ups)
Why Go: Heated indoor spaces, seasonal food vendors, winter-only retail pop-ups, and a cozy escape from the cold.

2. The Square at Union Market

Location: Adjacent to Union Market, NE DC
When: Winter season through January
Why Go: Winterized outdoor space with seasonal décor, pop-up vendors, and cold-weather food designed for strolling in layers.

3. Downtown Silver Spring Winter Market Series

Location: Veterans Plaza, 1 Veterans Pl, Silver Spring, MD
When: Select January weekends
Why Go: Short-run winter markets featuring hot food, local makers, and community vibes without holiday crowds.

4. Alexandria Old Town Winter Artisan Pop-Ups

Location: Various indoor venues along King Street
When: January (select weekends)
Why Go: Indoor artisan browsing, seasonal gifts, and a warm, walkable way to enjoy Old Town during winter.

5. National Harbor Winter Weekend Markets

Location: 165 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD 20745
When: January weekends
Why Go: Waterfront winter vibes, pop-up vendors, warm drinks, and an easy excuse to get outside without committing to a long outing.

Ice Skating Spots
Lace up, wobble like a baby deer, and pretend you meant to do that. Visit these scenic rinks across the DMV for first-timers and triple-axel dreamers alike.

1. Washington Harbour Ice Rink

Location: 3000 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Season: Mid-November to March
Hours: Daily; extended evening hours on weekends
Why Go: Classic Georgetown backdrop with canal views and twinkling lights.

2. The Wharf Ice Rink

Location: 970 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
Season: Winter months
Hours: Afternoon through evening
Why Go: Waterfront skating with easy access to food, drinks, and holiday décor.

3. Reston Town Center Ice Rink

Location: 1818 Discovery St, Reston, VA 20190
Season: November to March
Hours: Daily, with public skating and lessons
Why Go: A family favorite surrounded by shops and restaurants.

4. Rockville Town Square Ice Rink

Location: 131 Gibbs St, Rockville, MD 20850
Season: November – March
Hours: Vary by day
Why Go: Community-friendly rink with nearby dining and events.

Local Restaurants Releasing New Menus

What’s one sure thing that would get anyone out of hibernation mode this winter? I don’t know about you, but for us, it’s comfort food, seasonal cocktails, and plates that absolutely deserve a second visit (and maybe a third).

1. Founding Farmers

Location: Multiple DC-area locations
Menu: Seasonal winter comfort food and cocktails
Why Go: Familiar favorites with fresh seasonal twists.

2. RPM Italian

Location: 650 K St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Menu: Winter pastas, seasonal cocktails, and classic Italian favorites
Why Go: Elevated dining perfect for date nights or celebrations.

3. Clarity

Location: 103 E Maple Ave, Vienna, VA 22180
Menu: Farm-to-table seasonal menus
Why Go: Cozy, refined dining with locally sourced ingredients.

4. Iron Gate

Location: 1734 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Menu: Mediterranean-inspired winter dishes
Why Go: Intimate, romantic atmosphere with a heated courtyard.

Don’t Hibernate! Winter Has Plans for You

January may have fewer decorations, but it comes with shorter lines, cozier vibes, and way better parking. It’s the perfect time to explore and actually enjoy the DMV without the rush.

So grab a coat, pick a plan, and get out there. Winter still has plenty of good stuff left… and now’s the best time to find it.