Holiday season in the DC region brings full airports, busy highways, and a packed event calendar from late November through New Year’s Day. Travelers flying through DCA, IAD, and BWI face higher traffic volume, longer TSA lines, and unpredictable flight changes, while visitors and locals look for reliable ways to reach the year’s biggest holiday events.
This guide brings together everything in one place. It covers Thanksgiving airport pickups and drop offs, December’s signature celebrations, and the best way to reach these events with American Executive Transportation.
If you are traveling or hosting this season, advance planning is essential. Booking early keeps your schedule on track and ensures you have professional transportation when demand is at its highest.
Thanksgiving Week: Airport Pickups and Drop Offs at DCA, IAD, and BWI
Thanksgiving is one of the most congested travel periods of the year in Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Flight schedules fill early, the Beltway slows down quickly, and rideshare pricing becomes unpredictable on peak days. Whether you are heading home for the holiday or welcoming family into town, a dedicated airport transfer helps you stay ahead of the rush.
Reagan National Airport (DCA)
Expect heavy traffic around the 14th Street Bridge and long lines at TSA. For early morning departures or late arrivals the night before Thanksgiving, reserve your airport transportation in advance to secure your preferred pickup time.
Official site: https://www.flyreagan.com/
Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Dulles sees strong holiday volume due to its mix of domestic and international flights. Security lines grow quickly, and the Dulles Access Road often slows during peak hours. Booking a sedan or SUV ahead of time keeps your schedule predictable.
Official site: https://www.flydulles.com/
Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI)
BWI remains one of the busiest airports in the region for Thanksgiving travel. Parking shortages are common, and the garages often reach capacity. A scheduled airport transfer is the best way to avoid last minute surprises.
Official site: https://www.bwiairport.com/
Reserve your holiday airport transportation here:
https://aetworldwide.com/airport-transportation/
AET chauffeurs arrive early, assist with luggage, and monitor your flight for any schedule changes. If family is flying in from different cities, we can coordinate all arrivals and organize group pickups.
December in DC: Holiday Events, Festivals, and Seasonal Traditions
Once Thanksgiving passes, the DC region moves straight into a month of celebrations. From long-standing traditions on the National Mall to neighborhood light displays and festive markets, December offers a full calendar of activities for visitors and locals. AET supports direct, private transportation to all major seasonal events, along with custom light tours for families and groups.
Below are highlight events and how AET can get you there comfortably.
National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 4, 2025
https://www.thenationaltree.org/
The lighting ceremony takes place on December 4, with the national broadcast airing on December 5. The grounds open to the public from the days following the ceremony through January 1, with lights on from sunset until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
AET can provide direct transportation to President’s Park, eliminating the need to navigate road closures, limited parking, or crowded Metro stations. Private sightseeing tours are also available for families and groups who want to visit the major light displays across the city.
Downtown Holiday Market
November 21 to December 23
https://www.downtowndc.org/holiday-market/
Located across two blocks of F Street, this market features artisans, food vendors, music, and seasonal shopping. The central location makes driving and parking difficult throughout December. AET can coordinate drop off zones and group pickups for your visit.
National Menorah Lighting
December 14, 2025
The world’s largest menorah is illuminated on the White House Ellipse to mark the start of Chanukah. Guests enjoy music, treats, menorah kits, and the nightly candle lighting through the eight days of the holiday. Large crowds and restricted driving areas are common, making pre-arranged transportation the most reliable option.
More Holiday Experiences Across the Region
The DC holiday calendar is extensive. AET regularly supports transportation to:
Season’s Greenings at the U.S. Botanic Garden
Model trains, poinsettias, and illuminated gardens from Nov. 27 to Jan. 4.
U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
A tradition dating back to 1919, with annual trees transported from across the United States.
Frosted at Franklin Park
Festive installations and light displays from Nov. 22 to Dec. 20.
Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Seasonal tours, holiday programs, and waterfront fireworks.
DC Holiday Hunt
A scavenger-style adventure across city neighborhoods from Nov. 23 to Jan. 3.
ZooLights at the National Zoo
LED wildlife displays, live music, and limited-edition treats from Nov. 21 to Jan. 3.
Holiday Markets at Dupont Circle and Heurich House
Seasonal shopping from local vendors, craftspeople, and small businesses.
District Holiday Boat Parade
Dazzling boats along the Potomac River on Dec. 6.
CityCenterDC Holiday Tree
A towering holiday display with music and family activities on Nov. 29.
Performances and Shows
Seasonal favorites including Step Afrika’s holiday show, The Nutcracker, Jingle Ball, national tours, and more.
AET offers private charters, Sprinter vans, and mini coaches for groups attending these seasonal attractions.
Light Tours and Private Group Transportation
The DC region is home to some of the most photographed holiday displays on the East Coast. Families, corporate teams, and visiting groups often book private light tours during December. AET can create a custom route that includes popular displays such as:
• The National Christmas Tree
• The Capitol Christmas Tree
• ZooLights
• CityCenterDC
• Neighborhood light installations
Tours can be tailored to include markets, performances, or dinner stops.
Pro Tip
If your event calendar includes any December attractions or airport pickups, reserve transportation as early as possible. The combination of holiday travel and large public events means vehicle availability tightens quickly across DC, northern Virginia, and Maryland.
Ready to Plan Your Holiday Transportation?
Whether you need:
• A sedan or SUV for airport travel
• A Sprinter or mini coach for group events
• Custom routes for holiday light tours
• Corporate transportation for December gatherings
AET provides reliable service throughout the DC Metro area with 24 hour support.
Schedule your holiday airport or event transportation today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the busiest travel days for the holidays in Washington DC?
The highest volume days are the Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday around Thanksgiving, followed by the last two weeks of December. Expect heavier traffic at DCA, IAD, and BWI during these periods.
Should I reserve airport transportation in advance for the 2025 holiday season?
Yes. November and December bring higher demand across the DC Metro area. Booking early ensures availability for pickups and drop offs at DCA, IAD, and BWI.
Does AET provide transportation to Washington DC holiday events?
Yes. AET supports transportation for holiday markets, concerts, light displays, seasonal shows, and group outings throughout DC, Maryland, and northern Virginia.
Can AET arrange private tours for DC holiday light displays?
Yes. AET offers custom light tours for families, visitors, and groups. Routes can include the National Christmas Tree, ZooLights, the Capitol Christmas Tree, and neighborhood displays.
Is Meet and Greet service available for holiday arrivals at DCA, IAD, and BWI?
Yes. AET provides Meet and Greet service at all three airports. A chauffeur assists with luggage and guides you from the terminal to your vehicle.
Does AET support transportation for corporate holiday parties and large gatherings?
Yes. AET provides Sprinters, SUVs, sedans, and mini coaches for corporate events, holiday parties, and group celebrations throughout the season.
What is the best way to get to the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony?
Road closures and limited parking around President’s Park make pre-arranged transportation the most reliable choice. AET can coordinate drop offs and pickups for individuals and groups.
