In just a few short weeks the holidays will be here, which means there’s no better time than the present to start shopping for everyone on your list. DC has plenty of wonderful places to shop for unique holiday gifts for all your loved ones. The following are just a few suggestions of our favorite stores in the area for the best presents during everyone’s favorite season of giving.
Downtown DC Holiday Market
Downtown Washington, DC, centered at 8th and F Streets, NW
Now – December 23. Open 12pm to 8pm DAILY
For holiday shopping with a bonus of seasonal food and entertainment that you can’t find online, the annual outdoor Downtown Holiday Market is the place to be. Located in the heart of Washington D.C’s Penn Quarter, shoppers will find over 150 exhibitors offering gifts that include jewelry, pottery, clothing, crafts, accessories, photography, specialty foods, and more. This is a great opportunity to find a unique present for someone special while also supporting local businesses.
Museum Gift Shops in Washington, DC
With so many museums in our area, museum gift shops are among the best places for locals to find unique gifts. Books, jewelry, decorative art, fun mugs, crafts, videos, toys and souvenirs can all be found in the plethora of museums in the District. Each gift shop has their own unique offerings, so be sure to get out and explore.
Procrastinator’s Holiday Market
Art Enables, 2204 Rhode Island Ave NE
Saturday December 14th from 12-8pm
Local artisans gather at this holiday exhibit designed specifically for those looking for the most unique gifts. Spend the afternoon here as you shop, listen to live entertainment, sample from a variety of food trucks, and even partake in the winter-themed drink bar. There’s holiday card-making and more; the event is fun for all ages, so bring the whole family.
CityCenterDC
825 10th St NW
This 10-acre development is full of high-end stores for the fashion-forward individuals on your list. Kate Spade, Burberry, Allen Edmonds, Zadig & Voltaire, BOSS and others are all there for luxury shopping. After a morning of shopping, grab lunch at one of the center’s restaurants such as DBGB Kitchen and Bar known for its world-renowned chef.
Shop at the Washington National Cathedral
3101 Wisconsin Ave NW
Despite being the sixth largest cathedral in the world, this spot is often overlooked as an option for holiday gift giving. Yet the Herb Cottage at the Washington National Cathedral offers a variety of natural gifts such as specialty teas and food, dried herbs and garden accessories. You’ll also find statues, jewelry, books, and music. Go to shop but then stop inside for a tour of the impressive structure and amazing architecture.
Tysons Corner Center
Leave your coat at home, wear your best sneakers and get ready for some serious shopping. This shopping mall, just 13 miles outside of DC, is one of the largest in the United States. We’ve saved this stop for last, because once you finish here, there’s no doubt you’ll be done with all your shopping. Even better? If you can’t fit all your shopping bags in your car, the center will deliver them same-day for $5.
Have you started your holiday shopping? Do you go around DC or do you do most of it online? Let us know your favorite places in the area in the comments.