It starts with a chill on the Mall and ends with a candy cane cocktail in your hand because in December, Christmas bars in Washington, DC are the stuff of local legend. You step out of the Smithsonian Metro, snowflakes swirling, and suddenly you're sipping spiked cider under string lights in Shaw or ducking into a decked-out bar near Logan Circle that looks like Santa’s lost weekend cabin. Miracle on 7th Street? Absolutely packed. But DC doesn’t stop there. It has rooftop igloos in Navy Yard, peppermint martinis in Adams Morgan, and even a cocktail or two inspired by Capitol Hill scandals. Whether you're planning a party or just want to escape the cold with a mug of something merry, the city’s got you. Scroll down and find your festive hideaway.
Booking costs of Christmas bars average $2000 minimum spend per event. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Washington, DC, based on Tagvenue data from December 2025:
| From $1250 | to $4000 | minimum spend per event |
| From $48 | to $75 | per person |
| From $95 | to $500 | hire fee per hour |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated December 2025), the best options include:
Tavern Second Floor Space at Shaw's Tavern
in Shaw - rated 5/5
Our user said: ‘This was a marvelous space with a very friendly staff that made for a marvelous event.’
Lounge at Johnny Pistolas
in Adams Morgan - rated 5/5
Our user said: ‘All of our guests had a blast. We will definitely be renting this out again!’
Atrium and Cocktail Bar at Atrium and Cocktail Bar
in Northeast - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘Responsive and friendly staff. Professional service. I didn’t have to worry about anything for the event.’
You'll find Christmas bars in various sizes, from smaller spots to larger venues; keep in mind that the type of space and your chosen layout will affect the capacity! Below you can see the typical venue sizes in Washington, DC, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (December 2025):
| Small | up to 50 guests | prices average $1325 minimum spend per event |
| Medium | between 70 and 105 guests | prices average $4000 minimum spend per event |
| Large | over 125 guests | prices average $3500 minimum spend per event |
These are the venues within 0.3 mi from central Washington, DC, available to book on Tagvenue:
DC has great outdoor and rooftop bars perfect for a winter-themed event. El Techo in Shaw is a local favourite. This covered rooftop bar with heating, festive décor, and a lively Latin-inspired menu is one of the most budget-friendly rooftop options with a listed price from just $35 per session (based on minimum spend).
Hush Rooftop Bar in Logan Circle offers skyline views and a more upscale feel, with per-person packages around $85.
Both venues are well suited to holiday parties with drinks, music, and city atmosphere.
Many DC venues offer private areas or full buyouts for smaller Christmas parties. The Pub and The People offers a cosy space for 25 seated guests with a starting minimum spend of just $440 per session.
The Feel Room in Northwest DC is another great pick, hosting up to 60 guests in a stylish, self-contained space.
If you're after something quirky, Johnny Pistolas in Adams Morgan has small rooms starting from just $20 per person, and is popular for casual gatherings with tacos and tequila.
Page last updated in December 2025
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