As the new year begins, it’s time to look ahead to a new year in travel. Washington, DC has a stellar line up of new openings, events and exhibitions which promise to engage and excite both new and returning visitors. History and innovation come alive in the US capital, where travellers can explore iconic landmarks, enjoy seasonal attractions, dining hotspots, and cultural experiences that reflect the energy and promise of the year ahead.   Inventive new restaurants, unique events and fascinating exhibitions are guaranteed to keep any Washington, DC itinerary packed with excitement, while luxury hotel openings promise a quiet and calm city escape.   New Developments   Georgetown Market Reopens The shuttered Georgetown Market has been given new  life. Partners Stephen Starr (of Le Diplomate and St. Anselm’s) and Michelin-star chef Nancy Silverton opened the new 20,000-square foot Osteria Mozza restaurant and market at the close of 2024. The market has a pizza grill and bars dedicated to granita and juice, mozzarella, salumi and cocktails, as well as a produce and grocery area showcasing specialty olive oils, spices and Italian delicacies. Seating is available throughout at tables, bars and in the solarium lounges. https://www.osteriamozza.com/   Buzzard Point  Buzzard Point, located at the confluence of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers, is undergoing a significant transformation from its industrial past into a vibrant, mixed-use waterfront community. Key projects include The Stacks, a substantial mixed-use development featuring residential units, retail spaces, and public amenities, scheduled for completion in 2025. https://buzzardpointdc.com/   Union Market  New restaurants are coming to the Union Market district, a culinary hotspot in the city. Recent openings include Minetta Tavern and Pastis, storied Manhattan restaurants. Other exciting additions include Apapacho Taqueria, Cordelia Fishbar and La’Shukran from acclaimed chef Michael Rafidi. Chai Pani, a new Indian restaurant by acclaimed chef Meherwan Irani, is coming in spring of 2025. Hotel Nell-Union Market has relaunched as a stylish property. https://unionmarketdc.com/     Upcoming Events   National Zoo Giant Pandas Public Debut (24th January 2025) Following the giant pandas’ much anticipated return to DC in October, and an acclamation period, the National Zoo prepares for the panda pair’s official debut on Jan. 24. The zoo will host a public celebration for the pandas from Jan. 29 through Feb. 9, with special events and programs. Visitors can see the pandas for free. https://nationalzoo.si.edu/dcpandas   National Ballet of China: Chinese New Year (29th January – 2nd February 2025) The National Ballet of China returns to the Kennedy Center to tell the story of a family’s Chinese New Year celebration. The show shares Chinese culture and customs with the audience through a captivating ballet performance with lively characters and impressive choreography. https://www.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/explore-by-genre/dance/2024-2025/chinese-new-year/   Black History Month (1st February – 28th February 2025) African American history and culture are an essential part of DC’s identity, which means there are numerous ways to celebrate Black History Month in the city. Visitors can spend an afternoon at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, stand beside the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial or take a culinary tour of the many Black-owned restaurants across the city. https://washington.org/visit-dc/celebrate-black-history-month   Ice Rink at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden (present – 2nd March 2025) Ice skate amid magnificent works of art and towering sculptures in a lush garden. The ice rink at the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden is a quintessential winter experience in Washington, DC. It opens each year in late November and lasts until early March, and its scenic atmosphere is firmly planted on the National Mall. https://www.nga.gov/visit/ice-rink.html   National Cherry Blossom Festival (20th March 20 – 13th April 2025) Nothing signifies the end of winter and the arrival of spring in the nation's capital quite like the blooming of the cherry blossom trees and the National Cherry Blossom Festival to celebrate the occasion. Visitors descend upon Washington, DC each year to admire the 3,000-plus trees. The festival is full of free events that honour American and Japanese cultures and represents a close bond forged between the two countries that began with Tokyo Mayor Yukio Ozaki’s gift of the trees in 1912. https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/   DC Cocktail Fest (29th March 2025) DC Cocktail Fest brings a premiere cocktail tasting experience to Union Market with tastings from the city’s top mixologists. With the purchase of tickets, visitors can redeem 15 different beverage samples while enjoying the event’s live music and paired bites. https://www.dccocktailfestival.com/   FilmFest DC (24th April – 4th May 2025) The largest and longest-running annual international film festival in Washington, DC, Filmfest DC returns with another varied lineup featuring quite the genre exercise: comedies, dramas, thrillers, shorts and documentaries will all be on display. https://www.filmfestdc.org/   Passport DC (1st – 31st May 2025) Passport DC is a month-long festival in May that pays tribute to Washington, DC's thriving international diplomatic community and diverse culture. Visitors can use the festival as a chance to stroll Embassy Row – a stretch of Massachusetts Avenue NW that runs through Dupont Circle and Upper Northwest – and visit some of the more than 170 embassies and cultural institutions based in the nation's capital. https://eventsdc.com/passportdc   Flower Mart (2nd – 3rd May 2025) During Passport DC’s first weekend, the Washington National Cathedral hosts its annual Flower Mart, a two-day event that allows visitors to shop for plants and gifts, eat fun festival food, enjoy children’s activities, ride a historic carousel and take in the beauty of the International Floral Exhibit. https://allhallowsguild.org/programs/flower-mart/   Financial Times Weekend Festival (10th May 2025) Experience the Financial Times weekend paper come to life at the FTWeekend Festival: US edition. In previous years, the lineup has been both online and in-person, featuring FT writers in conversation with names like Nancy Pelosi and Jake Sullivan. The event will feature everything from debates and performances to wine and whiskey tastings. https://usftweekendfestival.live.ft.com/   Running of the Chihuahuas - May TBD The Wharf celebrates Cinco de Mayo with this too-cute-to-be-true chihuahua race. Watch the little pups run their way to glory at one of the most exciting places in DC. Guests will also be able to enjoy a beer garden, a 360-degree pet photo booth, a DJ, an adoptable pet parade, an all-breed costume contest and music throughout the afternoon. https://www.wharfdc.com/chihuahuas/   WorldPride (17th May – 8th June 2025) Washington, DC is gearing up to host an unforgettable celebration of love, diversity, and unity at WorldPride 2025. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and pivotal role in championing civil rights, DC is the perfect backdrop for this iconic event. Next year’s WorldPride event is of great historical significance, with 2025 marking the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride, first held in 1975. Festivities will include the International Choral Festival, in addition to several music concerts, and the Capital Cup Sports Festival, with currently over 20 planned sports taking place. Washington, DC will also host the International WorldPride Human Rights Conference, allowing visitors to hear from guest speakers, participate in workshops, learn more about queer history and reflect on the issues that greatly impact the global community. https://worldpridedc.org/ and https://www.capitalpride.org/   FIFA Club World Cup (15th June – 13th July 2025) DC’s Audi Field was named as one of twelve stadiums across the United States to host games for the FIFA Club World Cup. It will host three group stage matches between the 18th – 26th June with teams including Italy’s Juventus, Austria's Red Bull Salzburg, and Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia. https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/club-world-cup/usa-2025   New Exhibitions   Go-Go Museum and Cafe (Opening February 2025)  Located in Anacostia, the 3,000 sq. foot museum will include digital and interactive exhibitions to guide visitors through go-go’s roots, pivotal moments, best songs, landmark music venues and community impact. Go-go’s history will also be woven into the cafe’s offerings. The food will be a blend of African, Caribbean, Latin and mumbo-sauced dishes. https://www.gogomuseumcafe.com/   National Museum of Asian Art: “The Print Generation” (present – 27 April 2025) In the early decades of the twentieth century, a new generation of print artists broke from existing traditions in Japanese printmaking. While the labour of print production was historically divided among different craftspeople, these ambitious artists sought to reinvent the medium by undertaking all aspects of a work’s creation - designing, carving, and printing themselves. https://www.si.edu/exhibitions/print-generation:event-exhib-6744   National Portrait Gallery: “Always to Return” (present – 6 July 2025) Felix Gonzalez-Torres explores portraiture and the construction of identity through this exhibition The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery and the Archives of American Art present Felix Gonzalez-Torres: Always to Return, an exhibition focused on the artist’s deep engagement with portraiture and the construction of identity, as well as how history is told and inherited. https://www.si.edu/exhibitions/felix-gonzalez-torres-always-return:event-exhib-6724   New in Gastronomy and Mixology   Washington, DC Michelin Guide Update Washington, DC solidified its status as a premier culinary destination as the Michelin Guide unveiled its latest honours in December 2024, showcasing the city’s exceptional talent, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. Two new restaurants, Mita and Omakase at Barracks Row, joined the prestigious ranks of Michelin-starred establishments this year, bringing DC’s total to 25 Michelin-starred restaurants. Among other notable accolades, Oyster Oyster earned a Michelin Green Star for its pioneering work in sustainable gastronomy. Individual recognition highlighted DC’s culinary excellence; Carlos Delgado of Causa received the Michelin Young Chef Award; exceptional talent at Moon Rabbit, Albi, and Tail Up Goat earned awards for cocktails, sommelier, and service, respectively. In addition, Amparo Fondita and L’Ardente were awarded Bib Gourmand status, celebrating exceptional food at a great value, while Jônt and minibar retained their coveted two-star status. DC is one of only seven U.S. destinations with its own Michelin Guide, a distinction that resonates with international visitors. While overseas travelers make up just 7% of the capital’s visitation, they contribute a staggering 27% of overall spending, underscoring the impact of culinary recognition on global tourism.   For more information, visit Destination DC’s website.   Gaia The Supperclub will offer a tavern with 78 seats and a picturesque summer garden with 34 seats, with a total capacity of 199 guests. Expect a lively atmosphere, a full bar, and live entertainment. https://www.instagram.com/gaiasupperclub/   Minetta Tavern The New York City staple opened its first DC location in Union Market in December. The restaurant has a two-level space with a private dining room and a secret rooftop bar, seating up to 210 guests inside and 20 on its outdoor patio. It has the famous Black Label Burger and a similar menu to the NYC original. https://minettataverndc.com/   Bar Angie An upcoming concept from the Balos Restaurant Group will open in DC’s West End as an upscale brasserie. This new spot will bring an elevated dining experience with a brasserie-style menu and refined ambiance to the neighbourhood. https://www.instagram.com/barangiedc/   Life Alive A new organic cafe is coming to DC’s West End this winter. With an emphasis on plant-based, wellness-focused dining, Life Alive will use locally sourced ingredients to create nourishing, vibrant meals. Their mission is to inspire health and sustainability within the community through mindful, health-conscious choices. https://www.lifealive.com/locations#washington-dc   Manifest Set to debut a speakeasy in Union Market in 2025, this hidden, upscale bar will add to the current barbershop and boutique offerings. Known for its modern vibe and community focus, the speakeasy will deliver a luxurious experience that aligns with brand’s blend of sophistication and style. https://www.instagram.com/manifest.us/   New Accommodations & Venues in 2025   Arlo (November 2024) The independent lifestyle brand recently debuted its seventh property and first in Washington, DC. The 12-story, 445-room property incorporates the historic, five-story Harrison Apartments, the city’s oldest surviving traditional apartment building, built in 1882. It features a café and lounge, restaurant and bar, interior courtyard, meetings rooms, a rooftop lounge and pool. https://www.arlohotels.com/   The Ned (January 2025) Situated in President's Park across three floors, Ned’s Club will be a place for diverse professionals to meet, work and have a good time. Members will have access to everything the club has to offer, from a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the White House, US treasury and other iconic landmarks, to club restaurants and late-night bar. Guests will be able to enjoy a daily schedule of live music, event programming, digital content, plus benefits across The Ned’s global collection of Clubs, hotels, restaurants, bars and spas, as well as perks from much-loved brands. https://www.thened.com/dc   The Canal House of Georgetown (February 2025) A five-story former office building will be combined with adjacent townhouses to create a 108-key property under Marriott’s Tribute portfolio. Located in the heart of charming Georgetown, between Washington Harbour and bustling M Street, the hotel will boast a lobby bar/lounge, courtyard and two two-bedroom rowhouses. https://www.pfarc.com/the-canal-house-hotel/   Hyatt House Washington, DC – Convention Center (Summer 2025) The former Cambria in Shaw, adjacent to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, has been reflagged under the Hyatt portfolio. The 182-key hotel plans a comprehensive property-wide renovation in March 2025, and upon its anticipated completion in June 2025, it will convert to the Hyatt House brand. Amenities include a fitness centre, bar and lounge, meeting rooms and rooftop terrace with stunning views. https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/washington-dc/hyatt-washington-dc-convention-center/wasxc   The James (2025) From Royal Sonesta comes a high-end lifestyle option in top urban and resort destination markets. The James DC will be one of three properties nationwide under this flag. The James brand caters to both visitors and locals, offering unique experiences and destination-worthy beverage and food. https://franchise.sonesta.com/brands/the-james-hotels/   CitizenM Georgetown (2025) Just east of Key Bridge, along the Georgetown waterfront, the Netherlands-based chain plants to open its third DC property. A 100-year-old building will be expanded, renovated and converted into a stylish 230-room, seven-story hotel. www.citizenm.com   Moxy Hotel Southwest (2025) Situated on one of the last development sites between Nationals Park and Audi field, the 163-room hotel will be part of a mixed-use property with residential, rooftop views and a farmers’ market. www.moxy-hotels.marriott.com   Tribute Portfolio Hotel Georgetown (2025) A five-story former office building will be combined with adjacent townhouses to create a 106-room property under Marriot’s Tribute portfolio. www.tribute-portfolio.marriott.com

Each year the Capital Region USA, comprising Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C., sparkles with Christmas lights and festive spirit Here’s what’s on this Christmas holiday season across the region.   Light Up The Holidays: The National Christmas Tree is a holiday highlight in Washington DC. This conifer resides in President’s Park on the White House Ellipse. It’s surrounded by trees adorned with handmade ornaments from all US states and territories and features nightly musical performances throughout the season. During Chanukah, the majestic golden National Menorah graces the top of the tree. Busch Gardens Christmas Town in Williamsburg, Virginia, is a festive event featuring over 10 million lights, holiday shows, seasonal treats and plenty of holiday shopping. It’s a magical experience for the whole family and a must-see. Maryland boasts the Winter City Lights in Olney which features over one million twinkling lights spread across 18 acres creating a magical winter wonderland including a 52 foot high programmable Christmas tree. The drive through Lights on the Bay at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis is another highlight along the Chesapeake Bay with more than 70 animated and stationary displays.   Christmas Rinks: There are plenty of ice skating rinks across the Capital Region USA. In Virginia, Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion makes for a picturesque spot. Kings Dominion WinterFest near Richmond is a wonderland during WinterFest and the ice rink is set up in the iconic fountain on International Street. In Maryland, the Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis is a scenic outdoor rink. Glen Burnie’s Outdoor Ice Rink located in the heart of the town centre offers skating with live music. The rink on the pier at The Wharf in Washington, DC is particularly unique because it’s above the water, offering a special skating experience. The ice rink at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden is another favorite. Step inside a holiday showplace like no other as you wind your way through the larger-than-life sculptures, zoom down thrilling frozen slides. Escape to Gaylord National to enjoy the splendor of the holiday season.   Christmas markets Christmas Village in Maryland returns to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor from 29 November to 24 December. Offering the largest footprint to date, new surprises, more vendors, festive lights and holiday cheer will be found at an authentic German Christmas Market, also in Baltimore. Maryland Christmas Show, held in Frederick spans two weekends (22-24 November and 29 November -1 December) and includes seven buildings filled with artisans offering a wide range of holiday items. Whilst in Maryland, visitors should visit Kris Kringle Christmas Market or Williamsport Christkindlmarkt both offering a traditional holiday experience. Multiple holiday markets feature around Washington, DC, including a revamped DowntownDC Holiday Market, celebrating its 20 year anniversary this year, and a new DC Holiday Market in Dupont Circle. Virginia boasts an array of holiday markets to get in the Christmas spirit. Whether it be Virginia Beach Christmas Market, Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market or enjoying seasonal food at Charlottesville City Market or Williamsburg Farmers Market. Christmas shopping In Washington, DC CityCenterDC, a premier shopping destination, will have even more decorations, including a new interactive light display and expanded holiday pop up shops.  Georgetown may be DC’s oldest neighbourhood, but its shopping scene features everything, from indie specialty shops such as Shop Made in DC, where all items are made by DC locals, home design and high-end boutiques to national and international retail. Serious shoppers should head to Tysons area with the Corner Center and Galleria accessible by Metro.  There’s more than 100 stores at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets and Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets features a collection of 110 designer and name brand stores. Maryland’s small towns and downtown districts become enchanting winter wonderlands during the holiday season. Holidaymakers can experience Midnight Madness, where shops stay open late, allowing visitors to wander the festively decorated streets, shopping for gifts and souvenirs, and savoring culinary delights. Downtown Annapolis, historic Ellicott City, and St. Michaels on Maryland’s Eastern Shore each host magical events.   Timeless Tidings - Celebrating Christmas Traditions: Christmas traditions around the world are as diverse and enchanting as the cultures that celebrate them. In Alexandria, on the first weekend in December, there is a Scottish Christmas Walk which is an annual parade celebrating Alexandria’s heritage with bagpipes, kilts and fanfare. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights held on the Potomac River, this event features dozens of festively decorated boats parading from Alexandria to Washington, D.C, creating a spectacular sight. Maryland welcomes the Polar Express Train to Cumberland - a magical train ride for adults and children of all ages. Each year, George Washington’s Mount Vernon features Aladdin the Christmas Camel. As well, visiting the immaculately decorated 'Residence of Presidents, the Willard InterContinental Washington D.C. Hotel for a holiday tea and nightly carolling is a popular pastime.   Dreaming of a White Christmas: For those seeking snowy playgrounds, Maryland and Virginia offer the perfect ski escape. Whether skiing, snowboarding or cosying up in a ski lodge these destinations offer the ultimate white winter getaway. In Maryland, the slopes of Wisp Resort average 64 inches of snow annually offering stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and a Black Diamond run called ‘The Face’. There are other ski trails at New Germany State Park, Herrington Manor near Oakland, Seneca Creek near Germantown for its enchanting winter lights display, and Savage River State Forest. Virginia’s Massanutten Resort delights winter enthusiasts with skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. At Wintergreen Resort in Nellysford, Virginia, dash through the snowy Blue Ridge Mountains on skis, boards or tubes. Two hours from Washington, DC by car, Bryce Resort is an upscale, family-friendly retreat in the Allegheny Mountains.   Capital Region USA this Christmas with American Sky   For UK travelers, enjoy seven nights from £1379 per person, departing 4 December 2024. Prices includes return international flights from London Heathrow to Washington Dulles International Airport, three nights in Washington DC at The Churchill Hotel Near Embassy Row, two nights in Baltimore at the Lord Baltimore Hotel, and two nights in Williamsburg at the Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort. Car rental is provided throughout. Based on two people sharing.  www.americansky.co.uk For further information on Capital Region USA, visit www.capitalregionusa.org. 

  Elliott Ferguson, President and CEO of Washington.org, outlines a compelling vision for Washington DC's future during an interview at IPW 24 in Los Angeles. Ferguson discusses upcoming milestones, such as the 250th anniversary of America's independence and the FIFA World Cup, emphasizing DC's inclusivity and diverse offerings. He highlights the city's abundance of free attractions, from museums to festivals, while also showcasing its burgeoning food scene, recognized by Michelin. Ferguson's strategy focuses on engaging international visitors to stay longer and spend more, positioning Washington DC as a premier global destination for years to come.