Thanksgiving Day in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region is about more than just a traditional feast—it’s a time for family gatherings, festive events, outdoor activities, and seasonal attractions. Whether you’re looking for a classic holiday experience, a unique adventure, or a memorable dining experience, this guide highlights the best things to do in the DMV on Thanksgiving Day 2025.
Table of Contents
- Thanksgiving Day Events & Parades
- Best Places for a Traditional Thanksgiving Feast
- Outdoor Activities & Fall Foliage Spots
- Cultural Attractions & Historical Sites
- Thanksgiving Weekend Shopping & Markets
- Family-Friendly Activities
- Travel Tips for Thanksgiving in the DMV
- Conclusion
Thanksgiving Day Events & Parades
The DMV region hosts festive parades, holiday kick-offs, and community gatherings that bring Thanksgiving spirit to life.
1. Reston Holiday Parade (Reston, VA)
📅 Date: Thanksgiving morning, November 27, 2025
🎭 Why Go?
- A family-friendly event featuring giant balloons, floats, and marching bands.
- Santa’s arrival marks the start of the holiday season.
- Free hot cocoa and festive entertainment throughout the town center.
2. Turkey Trots (Multiple Locations)
🏃 Best Races to Join:
- Alexandria Turkey Trot (Alexandria, VA) – 5-mile scenic race through Old Town.
- Bethesda Turkey Chase (Bethesda, MD) – Proceeds go to local charities.
- D.C. Turkey Trot (Washington, D.C.) – Starts at the National Mall and benefits hunger relief programs.
3. Christmas Light Displays Begin
- ZooLights at the National Zoo (D.C.) – Opens Thanksgiving weekend.
- Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville, VA) – A drive-through light show covering 2.5 miles.
- Winter City Lights (Olney, MD) – A winter wonderland with millions of lights and holiday treats.
Best Places for a Traditional Thanksgiving Feast
For those looking to skip the cooking and dine out, these top restaurants in the DMV offer gourmet Thanksgiving meals.
1. The Willard InterContinental (Washington, D.C.)
🍽 What’s Special?
- Elegant buffet with roast turkey, prime rib, and seafood stations.
- Live music and a historic setting in a grand ballroom.
2. 1789 Restaurant (D.C.)
🍷 Why Go?
- A classic Thanksgiving dinner in Georgetown with locally sourced ingredients.
- Cozy, colonial-style ambiance with a fireplace.
3. Founding Farmers (D.C. & MD)
🥧 Best For:
- A farm-to-table holiday menu featuring organic turkey, stuffing, and pecan pie.
- Affordable pricing and a cozy, rustic setting.
4. The Prime Rib (Baltimore, MD & Washington, D.C.)
🥩 Great Choice For:
- Those looking for Thanksgiving with a fine-dining twist, featuring dry-aged steak and turkey dinners.
- Live jazz music and a classic steakhouse atmosphere.
Outdoor Activities & Fall Foliage Spots
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to enjoy the crisp fall air and breathtaking autumn scenery.
1. Great Falls Park (VA & MD)
🌊 Why Go?
- Stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.
- Perfect for family walks or post-Thanksgiving dinner hikes.
2. Shenandoah National Park (VA)
🍂 Best Views:
- Skyline Drive offers some of the best late-season fall foliage.
- Low-crowd hiking trails with scenic overlooks.
3. National Arboretum (Washington, D.C.)
🌿 Why Visit?
- Gorgeous fall colors and quiet walking trails.
- Open on Thanksgiving Day, making it a peaceful retreat.
4. Mount Vernon Estate (VA)
🏛 Best For History Lovers:
- Special Thanksgiving-themed tours of George Washington’s home.
- Traditional colonial-era cooking demonstrations.
Cultural Attractions & Historical Sites
Many of D.C.’s museums and historical landmarks remain open on Thanksgiving.
1. Smithsonian Museums (Washington, D.C.)
🎭 Top Picks for Thanksgiving Day:
- National Museum of American History – Features the original Star-Spangled Banner and a history of Thanksgiving.
- National Air and Space Museum – Great for families and aviation lovers.
- Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – Perfect for kids and dinosaur fans.
2. Arlington National Cemetery (VA)
🇺🇸 Why Visit?
- A solemn place to pay respects and reflect on history.
- The Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier takes place every hour.
3. U.S. Botanic Garden (D.C.)
🌺 Why It’s Special:
- Features a Thanksgiving floral display and seasonal greenery.
- Warm indoor gardens—perfect for a chilly day.
Thanksgiving Weekend Shopping & Markets
The holiday shopping season officially kicks off after Thanksgiving with Black Friday and local holiday markets.
1. Black Friday Shopping Destinations
🛍 Best Malls & Outlets:
- Tysons Corner Center (VA) – Best for high-end brands and exclusive deals.
- Tanger Outlets (National Harbor, MD) – Designer brands at outlet pricing.
- Pentagon City Mall (VA) – A prime location for Black Friday shopping.
2. Holiday Markets & Small Business Saturday
🎄 Where to Find Unique Gifts:
- Downtown Holiday Market (Washington, D.C.) – Art, crafts, and gourmet treats.
- Baltimore Christmas Village (MD) – European-style market with German food.
- Alexandria Christmas Market (VA) – Handmade gifts from local artisans.
Family-Friendly Activities
Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to bond with family through fun experiences.
1. ICE! at Gaylord National (National Harbor, MD)
❄ Why Kids Love It:
- Massive holiday ice sculptures and tubing slides.
- Interactive winter wonderland experience.
2. Enchant Christmas (Nationals Park, D.C.)
🎅 What’s Special?
- The world’s largest Christmas light maze.
- Ice skating and holiday shopping in a festive setting.
3. Smithsonian’s National Zoo (D.C.)
🦁 Why Visit?
- See zoo animals in a quieter setting before the holiday rush.
- ZooLights holiday display starts Thanksgiving weekend.
Travel Tips for Thanksgiving in the DMV
🚗 Expect Heavy Traffic – If you’re driving, avoid peak travel times (Wednesday afternoon and Sunday evening).
✈ Book Flights Early – DCA, BWI, and IAD airports get busy—arrive early.
🕙 Check Opening Hours – Some attractions close early on Thanksgiving Day.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region offers a mix of festive events, outdoor adventures, fine dining, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re watching a parade, enjoying a scenic hike, indulging in a gourmet meal, or starting holiday shopping early, there’s something for everyone.
For more holiday guides and travel tips, visit CarVata.