While the days are getting shorter and the weather is getting cooler, winter brings a different kind of energy and vibrancy to Arlington. We get to put on our coziest layers while walking through streets that glow with holiday lights. December is packed with seasonal celebrations, community gatherings, and wintery fun throughout the County. Below, ATP is excited to share some of these standout events for you and your out-of-town visitors as well as a few suggestions for getting to each one without relying on a personal vehicle.
*Note: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s policy for riding transit with animals.
Hosted by the Rosslyn BID, several events are coming to Rosslyn during the first week of December. Four days of holiday fun are being hosted at Central Place Plaza including a lighting of the plaza, a dog-friendly happy hour, and a holiday market!
When:
Where: Central Place Plaza, 1800 N Lynn St
Getting there: Located in the heart of Rosslyn, there are several ways to conveniently attend Rosslyn Cheer 2025 via public transportation. There’s even a Capital Bikeshare station located conveniently at the Rosslyn Metro station.
Metrorail: Located just a few feet from the Rosslyn Metro Station, accessible via the Orange, Silver, and Blue lines.
Metrobus: A76, F62
ART: 43, 45, 55, 56
Every winter, National Landing hosts a one-day winter festival in Metropolitan Park. This event provides fun for all ages and is dog-friendly! You can expect live entertainment, themed activities, a holiday market, and even festive train rides.
When: December 6, 1-7pm
Where: Metropolitan (Met) Park, 1330 S Fair Street
Getting there: Metropolitan Park is located conveniently in the center of Crystal City and as such has plenty of public transportation stops and stations within a quarter-mile radius. Capital Bikeshare stations can also be located within a short walking distance from the park.
Metrorail: Located roughly equal distance from the Pentagon City and Crystal City Metro Stations, both accessible by the Yellow and Blue lines.
Metrobus: A11, A27, A40, A66, F44
ART: 42, 87
Founded in Arlington in 1992, Wreaths Across America began in Arlington National Cemetery as a simple effort to honor those who are laid to rest by placing a wreath on their graves. This initiative has grown into an organization that now honors the resting places of veterans across the country. You can attend or participate in the place where it all began. For more information and to register visit the website.
When: December 13, 2025
Where: Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Ave
Getting there: For the event, Arlington National Cemetery will be accessible via its main entrance on Memorial Avenue in addition to the Ord and Weitzel Gate on the north side and the Service Complex Gate on the south side. Capital Bikeshare stations are conveniently located within walking distance of each entry point.
Metrorail: Arlington Cemetery Station is accessible via the Blue line. If entering through the Ord and Weitzel Gate, the Rosslyn Station is a few blocks away and accessible via the Orange, Silver, and Blue lines.
Metrobus: A40 and F44 can be used to arrive a few blocks from the Service Complex Gate.
ART: 56 can be used to arrive a few blocks from the Ord and Weitzel Gate.
Hosted by the Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria – Arlington in Clarendon, enjoy a celebration of the holiday of Chanukah. This outdoor event will feature the lighting of a 9-foot tall Menorah in addition to hot latkes and lively music. While admission is free, registration is required so sign up today!
When: December 16, 6pm
Where: Chabad Lubavitch of Alexandria – Arlington, 1307 N Highland St
Getting there: The event is located just a couple of blocks from the Clarendon Metro station. While no buses drop off directly at this location, there are several nearby bus stops and a Capital Bikeshare station across the street.
Metrorail: Just a short walk north from the Clarendon Metro station, accessible via the Silver and Orange line.
Metrobus: A58
ART: 41, 42, 56, 77
Don’t miss out on your photos with Santa this December! Grab your family, your friends, or your favorite holiday sweater and hop on public transit to snap a classic holiday photo with the big guy in red.
When: December 5 – December 24, various time slots
Where: Ballston Quarter, 4238 Wilson Blvd
Getting there: Located close to the Ballston Metro station and Ballston Bus Bay, there are many public transportation options that will get you to Ballston Quarter. Capital Bikeshare stations are located on practically every corner of this shopping center.
Metrorail: Just a short walk south from the Ballston Station, accessible via the Silver and Orange line.
Metrobus: A12, A58, A70, A71, A76, F50, F60, F61
ART: 12, 42, 51, 52, 70, 71, 72, 75
Winter is a great time to explore Arlington and ATP is here to make your travels easier. While we can’t hope to capture every single event that’s occurring this winter, hopefully you’re now aware of a few events that may be happening close to your home or workplace.
Whether you’re heading to a holiday market, a seasonal event, or simply enjoying the lights around town, we offer plenty of ways to help you get around car free. Consider checking out our Bike Comfort Map, Walkabout Maps, or Quick Glance guides to improve your knowledge of getting around the County via biking or walking and how they can connect you to our public transit systems.
For a more robust overview of the transit options that are available in the region, consider downloading the Regional Transportation Guide for yourself or your guests, and you’ll be set to get around the area with ease all season long.
Photo Credit: Sam Kittner/kittner.com for Arlington Transportation Partners