Celebrate America's 250th at theWaterfront!

Soar high above the waterfront! Tickets start at $18 for adults and $14.50 for children (11 & under), with senior and military discounts available.

Soar to New Heights

Tickets

Waterfront Lounge

Flight Deck

Classic fun & new memories

Spirit Park Carousel

Celebrate the Holiday Season at National Harbor!

Celebrate the magic of the holidays at National Harbor—where festive lights, soaring views, and holiday cheer collide along the Potomac River. From the shimmering glow of the nightly tree lighting to cozy evenings by the water and spectacular Saturday fireworks, join us for an unforgettable holiday season filled with magic, warmth, and memorable moments for the whole family (and pets, too!).

Discover Holiday Magic at National Harbor:

  • The Capital Wheel & Santa Visits: Soar 180 feet above the glowing skyline, share your wish list with Santa, and bring your dogs for festive photo ops on select dates!
  • Flight Deck Waterfront Bar & Lounge: Enjoy Holiday Happy Hours, specialty festive drinks, and cozy firepit sunsets along the river.
  • Tree Lighting & Saturday Fireworks: Catch the nightly tree lighting and spectacular fireworks every Saturday over the Potomac.
  • Spirit Park Carousel: Enjoy timeless family fun and magical rides wrapped in holiday cheer.
  • National Harbor Waterfront: Explore 300 acres of festive dining, boutique gift shopping, and sparkling waterfront strolls.

What's Spinning

Upcoming Events

Harbor Holidays

Saturday, November 7
Meet Santa from Noon to 4 p.m. and greet toy soldier stilt walkers before the tree at National Harbor comes to life for the first time of the season. The tree lighting ceremony begins at 5:30 with fireworks immediately following.

Veterans Day

Tuesday, November 11
All Active & Retired Service Members Ride The Capital Wheel Free. Accompanying family members are eligible for the military discount. Valid ID required.

Photos with Santa Paws

Saturdays November 28 - December 19
Meet Santa from Noon to 2 p.m. every Saturday where dogs ride free with a paying adult.
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Fireworks at National Habor

Saturdays November 7 - December 26
View the National Harbor fireworks from the best seat at the top of The Capital Wheel! Every Saturday at 5:30 from November 8 through December 27.

Photos with Santa

November 27, 28 and 29. December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20
Meet Santa at The Capital Wheel every Saturday and Sunday beginning November 29!

Holiday Happy Hour

Friday-Sunday from 4-7 p.m.
Join us for Holiday Happy Hour from 4 – 7 p.m. featuring handcrafted holiday drinks, seasonal favorites, and magnificent river views! Weekends beginning November 7 and then daily from Dec. 19 - Jan. 3.

Celebrate Your Event in Lights

Whether you’re planning a gender reveal, proposal, anniversary, or any other momentous occasion, The Capital Wheel is the perfect way to share your exciting news in dazzling, colorful lights. Create an unforgettable experience that friends, family, and loved ones will talk about for years to come.
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Silver Spin

Purchase a regular priced General Admission ticket to The Capital Wheel and present your ticket at Silver Diner to receive a free dessert with the purchase of an entrée.
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The National Harbor
OUR PLACE ON THE POTOMAC: A LEGACY 250 YEARS IN THE MAKING

National Harbor sits proudly on the banks of the historic Potomac River, just minutes from the heart of our nation’s capital. As we join the country in celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States, this 300-acre waterfront destination stands as a modern tribute to American ingenuity and spirit. Developed by Peterson Companies, this vibrant district has become a "must-visit" landmark, home to 160 stores, 40 restaurants, and the best sunsets in the D.C. area. The Waterfront District offers a revolutionary blend of boutique shops and entertainment along picturesque promenades. At its center, The Capital Wheel—our 180-ft observation wheel—invites guests to soar for unprecedented views of the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol, truly the "high point" of any 250th-anniversary pilgrimage. National Harbor is also home to two of Maryland’s Four Diamond rated hotels, The Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center: The East Coast’s largest non-gaming hotel, featuring nearly 2,000 rooms and sprawling event spaces. Along with MGM National Harbor: A luxury integrated resort with chef-driven dining, a state-of-the-art theater, and world-class gaming. From the incredible deals at Tanger Outlets to interactive public art and a robust calendar of patriotic events, National Harbor welcomes more than 12 million visitors a year. Whether you are a resident or a guest, come experience the Spirit of '76 and beyond at the premier destination on the Potomac.