Skip to main content

Festive Holiday Displays in Arlington

The boulevards and public spaces in Arlington get all dressed up for the holidays, making winter in Arlington a jolly one. Marvel in front of gigantic trees, stroll through festive neighborhoods, experience magical holiday surprises, and ice skate outdoors to catch the holiday spirit. Brighten your spirits with a visit to these outdoor holiday displays – they’re sure to spark holiday cheer.

Rosslyn Central Place Plaza

Throughout December, you can enjoy the Rosslyn neighborhood’s dazzling Christmas tree the corner of Wilson Boulevard and North Lynn Street, just steps from the Rosslyn Metro Station. See the magic come to life at their Christmas Tree Lighting and enjoy a variety of additional holiday events happening in Rosslyn.

Rosslyn Christmas Tree lighting at Central Place Plaza
Holiday Cheer in Rosslyn

Ballston

In the heart of the Ballston neighborhood, the Ballston Quarter shopping and entertainment district is all decked out for the holidays. While you’re there to admire the tree, stop in for some Christmas shopping or a hot cocoa doughnut from District Doughnut. Brighten your day by stopping at any of their exciting and festive holiday events.

Ballston Quarter Christmas Tree lighting
Ballston Quarter via @paulyv93

The Village at Shirlington

On the other side of town, The Village at Shirlington always puts on its seasonal best with hanging light ornaments, holiday lights and a Christmas tree. Attend their tree lighting on December 1, browse the boutiques for some unique holiday gifts, and pop into one of the sidewalk cafes to warm up with a to-go drink.

The Village at Shirlington Christmas Tree
The Village at Shirlington via @Rbaumga7

National Landing

Fashion Centre at Pentagon City goes all out for the festive season with a Christmas tree, glitzy decorations and a Santa Photo Experience. Stop into major retailers to do some holiday shopping and pick up a few goodies for yourself.

Across the way, Pentagon Row brings the Christmas spirit outdoors with a has an ice skating rink adorned with giant glowing stars, a menorah and a Christmas tree. Grab some hot cocoa and hit the ice.

Pentagon Row holiday decorations
Pentagon Row via @_danielccardoso_

Crystal City's new installation "Rhizome" at The Bell Courtyard is a sight to behold. This installation by Light Art Collection's Belgian artists, Tom & Lien Dekyvere consists of a web of hundreds of meters of illuminated rope, Rhizome symbolizes the many ways in which human exchanges occur both on- and offline. Stop by to view this mesmerizing and unique holiday display.

Rhizome Light Installation via National Landing BID

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

Prepare to be dazzled by Meadowlark Botanical Garden’s magical Winter Walk of Lights. The beautiful light display is open nightly starting November 11.

Author: Talia Salem