DowntownDC Holiday Market at Penn Quarter - Washington, DC

Digital H.

Title: Mixed Merriment at the Downtown Holiday Market

Review:

I’ve visited the Downtown Holiday Market for two consecutive years, and while the festive atmosphere remains a highlight, this year came with a few hiccups. Last year was exceptional: manageable crowds, vibrant live music, various food vendors, and friendly staff. This year, however, was notably busier, which made navigating the market challenging. The number of food vendors seemed to shrink, and the festive music was less prominent.

The vendor selection for gifts has expanded, which is excellent, but the prices felt inflated, with some items seemingly overpriced for their quality. Accessibility for disabled visitors and restroom options also appeared limited.

That said, the market still shines as a hub of holiday spirit, and it’s a fun seasonal experience worth exploring. More organization and balance in offerings could easily make it a five-star visit next year.

Tiffany K.

We were so happy to find this holiday market and all the local artists. Our favorite was Ray Hart, a painter whom we had a fabulous chat with to understand his process and his gift of painting. And oh yes, we did walk away with one of his paintings.

There was nice holiday music playing and some delicious treats as well. Pop into the portrait Gallery to warm up.

Michele R.

Had tickets to see TSO at the Capital One Arena and we know that the Holiday market was one of the things we also wanted to do. Did not realize how perfectly close it was to the arena and the parking so it worked out wonderfully!!

Had one of the best hot chocolates at Kilwins.

Some of the food booths had incredibly long lines. Lots of amazing vendors. Couple photo opportunities very well put together

Hilda K.

There are now two DC Holiday Markets. This one in Penn Quarter is under new management with a variety of local and international stalls to explore and places to get a meal or snack. If you can't find a special favorite, try the Dupont Circle holiday market on 19th Street.

ERROR E.

had a good time; lots of vendors, lots of food

got a beer bratwurst from The Taste of Germany and regret not getting a German hotdog cause my friend got that and it was way better, got a meat lover's empanada from another vendor but I didn't save the name, and then my friend got totally scammed by an overpriced waffle lol don't waste your money on the Naughty Waffle it's just a regular waffle with toppings not worth it (I think they said it was $14) and finally got a beautiful glass heart necklace from Cēcil Art Glass for $22 definitely worth the price it's so nice

Martina T.

The best part about the DowntownDC Holiday Market in Penn Quarter is the array of diverse vendors. There are so many vendors and so many things that catch my eyes, I have to diligently take my time to get through the rows of vendors.

This market’s new look really ups the feel of Christmas and holidays, and the food court/seating area allows for a much needed break when you felt you’ve walked a mile. The food options are plenty; luckily I was able to grab one of the popular s’more hot chocolate drink (hint: grab one during the week day after noon when the crowd is small).

I’ll come back with family to do more last-minute shopping.

Benedict U.

WE happened to be by during Chrismas and i stopped by here to look through the market. I was here quite late and they were closing up so I wasn't able to slowly wander through it. There were quite a few interesting stalls and lots of food stalls.

Pol

- This market is located on the street in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
- The market spans approximately one block in length, with a total of four rows of shops and two walkways, comprising around 100+ stores.
- The main types of shops in this market include jewelry, scented candles, bags, clothing, dishes, Christmas decorations, various crafts, and food and beverages.
- The types of food and drink vendors that I remember include Hotdog, Empanada, Churro, cheese, and Hot Chocolate.
- In the middle of the market, there is a seating area with about 8-10 tables (seating 8 people per table) for enjoying food and drinks and watching music.
- There is a small stage with live music at certain times.
- For parking, you have to find street parking (paid) or use parking garages in various buildings (paid).
- Restrooms can be accessed at the Smithsonian American Art Museum (during operating hours).

[Personal Opinion]
- This market, including the shops and various areas, is beautifully decorated, creating a great Christmas atmosphere, and there are many trash cans at various points, which is convenient for visitors.
- Some shops have poor manners, such as the "Dcollections" shop selling jewelry; we only wanted to take a photo, but the seller even came and said, "Don't spy. If you don't buy, just leave!"
- On Saturdays, between 2-3 PM, it is very crowded, with many people walking around, but not to the point of being overly packed.
- There are people walking in and out of every shop; there are hardly any quiet or empty shops.
- The food stalls have very long queues, requiring a long wait / I tried the Taste of German stall and had a hotdog; the bread was low quality and very hard, while the sausage was just okay / Another stall selling Empanada and Churro (I don't remember the name) had both items that I tried, and they were both quite delicious.