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.
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.
Without a package, minimum spends can start as low as $440 for intimate bars and go up to $15,000 for large premium venues.
For per-person packages, costs typically range from $20 to $85, depending on location, food, and drink inclusions. Some venues offer festive food and open bar packages at $66 per person, while others keep things affordable with rates under $30 per person. (All data from Tagvenue.)