The DowntownDC Business Improvement District (BID) is filling Franklin Park with more than 20,000 lights, 3,000 decorative snowflakes, and four holiday events to celebrate the winter season. Frosted at Franklin will be a chance to explore downtown’s largest green space after work, before dinner or a show, or while you walk your dog in the evening.
The setting will make for great photos and is inspired by the natural springs beneath the park that used to provide water to the White House, taking you through a journey of water in its most wonderful winter forms, portrayed by holiday lights.
“Frosted at Franklin will offer a special opportunity for residents and visitors alike to celebrate the season and explore the city’s history,” DowntownDC BID President and CEO Gerren G. Price said. “Franklin Park has become a jewel for the downtown area since it reopened last year, and this is the perfect experience to discover it through the winter months.”
Enjoy Frosted at Franklin Park any day starting December 3, and during free seasonal events:
December 3 and 10, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.: Guests can walk the park to hear and sing along with carolers, learn about the park’s unexpected history, sip hot chocolate, and take home giveaways. When the lights turn on Saturday, December 3, attendees will experience the first time Franklin Park has ever been illuminated with holiday lights.
December 4 at noon: Wreath-making returns to the park, where Blue Ribbon Floral will instruct guests how to make their own custom wreaths. Registration required.
December 17, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.: Kids can hop on a trackless train ride through the park, and visitors can try their skills on an iceless skating rink. Both activities are free. Free skates will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, and guests are welcome to bring their own. (See the event page for skating waiver information.)
Decorating Franklin Park for the holidays isn’t your usual decking of the halls: As the 5-acre space belongs to the U.S. National Park Service, nothing can be affixed to trees, which makes the execution of Frosted at Franklin all that much more magical.
The Frosted experience will fill Franklin Park in the evenings from December 3 through February 3.