The holiday season is full of festive lights, parades, and cozy gatherings, and Washington, DC, offers plenty of dog-friendly holiday events for you and your furry friend. From exploring glittering light displays to parading in style, there’s something special for every pup. Here’s a guide to some of the best dog-friendly holiday events in the DC Metro area so you and your dog can make the most of the season!
1. Georgetown Jingle: A Festive Evening Stroll
Are you looking for a charming, festive stroll with your dog? The Georgetown Jingle is an annual event in the historic Georgetown neighborhood that features beautiful holiday lights and seasonal decorations. This free event is perfect for you and your dog to explore the twinkling streets while enjoying the holiday spirit.
Georgetown’s dog-friendly shops and restaurants also welcome you to stop in, whether shopping for gifts or grabbing a bite. It’s a delightful way to experience DC’s holiday magic with your dog by your side.
When: December 7, 2024
Where: Throughout Georgetown, Washington, DC
More Info: Georgetown Jingle
2. Holiday Boat Parade at The Wharf
The annual Holiday Boat Parade at The Wharf is a unique waterfront event that’s perfect for dogs who enjoy being outdoors. Watch as festively decorated boats sail down the Potomac River, lighting up the night with holiday cheer. While your pup won’t be boarding the boats, you can enjoy the scenic views and the lively atmosphere along The Wharf’s pet-friendly promenade.
In addition to the parade, enjoy s’mores, live music, and a breathtaking fireworks display. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re on a leash and comfortable with crowds.
When: December 7, 2024
Where: The Wharf, Washington, DC
More Info: Holiday Boat Parade
3. Ugly Sweater Party for Dogs by the Pet Unity Project
Dress up your dog in their most outrageous holiday sweater and head to the Ugly Sweater Party hosted by the Pet Unity Project. This festive event is all about showing off your pup’s quirky style and celebrating the season with other dog lovers. The party includes a parade of pups, contests for the best-dressed dogs, and plenty of holiday treats for both humans and canines.
It’s a fun and lighthearted way to get into the holiday spirit. The event also supports local pet rescues, making it a feel-good outing for a great cause.
When: December 10, 2024
Where: Pet Unity Project Event Space, Washington, DC
More Info: Ugly Sweater Party
4. 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting
A highlight of the holiday season in Washington, D.C., is the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting. The 2024 ceremony will occur in early December, marking the beginning of the tree’s nightly illumination on the Capitol’s West Lawn. This year, the tree will arrive in DC on November 22, 2024, and will be lit from dusk until 11 p.m. each evening through January 1, 2025.
Leashed dogs are welcome to enjoy the spectacular view of the tree and surrounding monuments, making this a perfect evening outing for you and your pup. While the lighting ceremony can get crowded, visiting on a quieter night allows you and your dog to enjoy the festive atmosphere at your own pace.
When: Early December 2024 (lighting ceremony); tree lit nightly through January 1, 2025
Where: U.S. Capitol, West Lawn, Washington, DC
More Info: U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
5. Grand Illumination in Annapolis
Take a short trip outside the city to the Grand Illumination in Annapolis, where you and your dog can enjoy a spectacular tree-lighting ceremony and holiday festivities. Located in charming downtown Annapolis, this event features music, holiday cheer, and the ceremonial lighting of the city’s holiday tree. The event is family- and dog-friendly, so your pup can be part of the fun as you explore the decorated streets and enjoy the season.
Annapolis is known for its maritime heritage, and many of the shops and restaurants downtown welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs, making it a perfect destination for a holiday outing.
When: December 1, 2024
Where: Downtown Annapolis, MD
More Info: Grand Illumination
6. Greater Manassas Christmas Parade
A short drive from DC, the Greater Manassas Christmas Parade is a festive event that welcomes families and their pets. This long-running parade features a joyful procession of floats, marching bands, dancers, and, of course, Santa Claus. Many parade-goers bring their dogs to watch the spectacle, making it a fun holiday event for the whole family.
After the parade, stroll around the historic streets of Old Town Manassas, which are beautifully decorated for the season. Many shops in the area are pet-friendly, so your dog can join you as you explore the holiday charm of this quaint town.
When: December 7, 2024
Where: Old Town Manassas, VA
More Info: Greater Manassas Christmas Parade
Safety Tips for Attending Dog-Friendly Holiday Events
To ensure your dog enjoys the festivities as much as you do, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Leash Your Dog: Even in dog-friendly spaces, keeping your dog on a leash is essential for its safety and the comfort of others.
- Pack the Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a doggy coat if the temperature drops—DC can get chilly in December!
- Watch for Crowds: Some events may be overwhelming for dogs, especially those not used to big crowds or loud noises. If your dog seems stressed, consider quieter holiday events or a festive walk through the neighborhood.
- Know Your Dog’s Limits: If your pup is sensitive to the cold or gets tired quickly, plan for shorter outings or pack warm layers for both of you.
Metro Mutts: Pet Care for the Season
While the holiday season brings excitement and joy, it can also be busy, especially if you have travel plans or host out-of-town guests. If you can’t take your dog to all the holiday events around DC this season, Metro Mutts is here to help with reliable pet care services so your furry friend is well taken care of during the holidays. Whether you need dog walking, boarding, or other services, Metro Mutts ensures your dog is safe, comfortable, and happy.
Enjoy the Holidays with Metro Mutts
The holiday season is a magical time in Washington, D.C., and with so many dog-friendly events to enjoy, there’s no reason your pup can’t join in the fun. Whether taking in the lights at the Georgetown Jingle, watching the boats at The Wharf, or dressing your dog in a festive sweater, DC offers plenty of opportunities to create holiday memories with your furry friend.
Contact us today for more information about how Metro Mutts can support you and your dog this holiday season.
