Millions of pounds of ice carved into larger-than-life scenes from your favorite journey to the North Pole. Our very own snow factory, where snowball making is the goal. Light shows and scavenger hunts. Cookie decorating and all the hot cocoa you can drink. Visits with Santa and carols all around.
At Christmas, all roads lead to Gaylord National. And thankfully, this winter wonderland is a short two-hour drive from Richmond.
So Much Christmas
Nestled on the banks of the Potomac River in the heart of National Harbor, Gaylord National becomes the ultimate holiday destination from November 14, 2025, through January 4, 2026. In this immersive winter wonderland, beloved holiday traditions meet extraordinary moments against the backdrop of stunning festive decor.
Blue Is the Coolest Color of the Season
Bundle up and see the magnificent Polar Express as you’ve never seen it before — carved into 2 million pounds of ice! ICE! featuring The Polar Express™ showcases handcrafted ice sculptures depicting beloved scenes from the classic story. Slip into your complimentary blue parka because the massive ice blocks the artisans have carved into the Conductor, Santa, and the magical locomotive itself are kept at a frosty 9 degrees.
So Much Snow
Christmas spirit is in the air at the Christmas Village, where Bavarian-style storefronts house more than 10 festive-themed events and activities. Race down Snow Flow Mountain, our two-story ice tubing tracks, or hurl real snowballs at targets to power up our snowmaking machines at Snowball Build & Blast. If you don’t have whipped cream on your nose, a blue parka wrapped around you, and a bell in your pocket, you’re doing it wrong!
Traditions Become Memories
Storytime, singalongs, and fresh-baked cookies fill the air with the scent of the season at Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions. Little ones can create their perfect furry friend at the Build-A-Bear Workshop, decorate gingerbread masterpieces in the decorating corner, and snap those all-important holiday selfies with Santa himself.
Twinkling Lights, Hot Chocolate, and Cookies
When it’s time to warm up, find a cozy spot to sip hot chocolate and browse the charming retail shop filled with festive Christmas décor, apparel, ornaments, and toys. Tempting seasonal treats and beverages are never far away, ensuring your energy stays as high as your holiday spirit.
Wake Up in a Winter Wonderland
Extend your holiday escape and spend endless hours soaking up Christmas entertainment before exploring the vibrant boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment of National Harbor. Stroll along the harbor or ride the iconic Capital Wheel for breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Here, Seeing Is Believing
Come share hot chocolate and decorate gingerbread together before soaring down ice slides almost as fast as The Polar Express itself. Board the magical train bound for the North Pole at ICE! featuring The Polar Express™ and experience everything the season has to offer.
It’s looking like So Much Christmas at Gaylord National — and it’s all just a couple of hours from home.
Explore overnight packages, ticket passes, and special offers at ChristmasAtGaylordNational.com.
