Snow in D.C.: What to do in the nation’s capital during the winter

Winter is here, and you know what that means. Snow is coming. According to the Washington Post’s Capital Weather Gang, it seems “reasonably likely” that this year’s first snow will occur between Thursday and the weekend.

Sure, it’s not all fun and games once the Metro system starts limiting hours and cars start getting stuck in the snow. But once you get around that, the cold is tons of fun, and Curbed can prove it.

Below, see all of your options for making this season the best ever, from sledding to ice skating to visiting holiday markets.

---

Go ice skating.

Photo courtesy of The Watergate Hotel

With over 20 ice skating rinks in the area, what’s your reason to not have fun in the winter? Some of the rinks are also located inside for year-round enjoyment.

Hit the slopes with your sled.

Photo via Shutterstock/FamVeld

Yeehaw! Feel the breeze as you fly down the slopes of Washington, D.C.

Watch the trees glow.

Photo via Shutterstock/Orhan Cam

Oh, Christmas tree. Oh, Christmas tree. There are so many to choose from. This map will guide your way to finding one near you.

Or watch Georgetown glow.

Photo via Geraud Periole, courtesy of the Georgetown Business Improvement District

For the fourth year in a row, Georgetown is hosting public art installations, including neon sculptures and projected videos. Take a look at what to expect here.

Visit a holiday market.

Photo via SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images

There are so many to choose from, from the Downtown Holiday Market to NoMa’s Winterfest. Here’s the best guide to lead your way. If still stumped on what to get your loved one for the holidays, check out these locally focused suggestions.

Remember past snowpocalypses.

Photo via the Library of Congress.

With historic photos all the way back to 1889, take a blast to the wintery past with this photo gallery of previous snow storms in the nation’s capital.

Take a tour of the White House’s decorated rooms.

Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images

The winter season isn’t here until the White House debuts their twinkling, wreath-filled rooms. Here’s a look at this year’s decorations (which have gotten a few criticisms).

Design your own ugly Christmas sweater.

Illustration by Michelle Goldchain

Would you prefer to stay indoors, away from the snow? No problem. Why not do something a little creative, and create your own winter sweater? Here are a few D.C.-themed ones Curbed drew up.

Still looking for more events?

Have yourself a merry end to the holiday season by checking out one or more of the city’s fun, seasonal events, mapped here.