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For more than a decade, DC²’s Procrastinator’s Holiday Market (PHM) has been a community favorite — a joyful, last-minute shopping tradition filled with small business pride and hometown heart. Now, that same spirit is growing into something even more special.
Why We’re Expanding
The holidays can be tough — but in Ward 5, no one has to face the season alone. It’s a Wonderful Ward expands the PHM experience into a full month of community-centered events and opportunities to give back, swap, share, and celebrate — proving that joy can be built, not bought.
The Series Includes:
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The Winter Festival @ the U.S. National Arboretum | Dec. 6, 10:00AM-3:00PM
Hosted by Friends of the National Arboretum, in partnership with DC Squared (DC²) and DC Child Care Connections, this one-day outdoor celebration marks the start of It’s a Wonderful Ward!
Enjoy the Holiday Train + Cocoa Chalet fueled by Zeke’s, festive market shopping, and an onsite collection drive led by Community of Hope, accepting new and gently used infant and maternity clothing for local families.
The 11th Annual Procrastinator’s Holiday Market @ Kraken | Dec. 20, 10:00AM-3:00PM
The grand finale of It’s a Wonderful Ward! Shop local vendors, drop your Giving Tree gifts, participate in the community clothing swap, and hop aboard the returning Holiday Train fueled by Zeke’s, all while celebrating the joy of being together, right here in Ward 5.
Because in Northeast DC, joy is something we share — not something we buy.
The Giving Tree
(All Month, Culminating at PHM on Dec. 20)
Visit one of our corridor hubs to adopt a local family or individual in need this holiday season. The Giving Tree will be on display throughout December, with a heartwarming gift exchange and celebration at the Procrastinator’s Holiday Market on December 20.
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Winter Wonderland Festival @ Woodridge Library | Dec. 14, 1:00PM-4:00PM
Expect big winter vibes — think a Polar Extreme Obstacle Course, a trackless train winding through the fun, free family portraits, candle-making crafts, and yes… a stilt walker roaming the library. Presented in partnership with DC² + Rhode Island Avenue Main Street.
Community Clothing Swap (All Month Long!)
Join us in giving your clothes a second life! Clothing swap opportunities will pop up throughout Ward 5 all month, starting at the FONA Winter Festival. Each event offers neighbors a sustainable way to refresh their wardrobes and help others. Remaining items will be donated to community partners to support those most in need.