Welcome to Capital Christmas at the Gaylord Resort National Harbor!

December 7–10, 2026

Celebrate the magic of the season in luxurious style! Join Cape Henlopen Senior Center for an unforgettable holiday getaway to Washington, DC—featuring festive touring, elegant holiday dinners, sparkling lights, and three nights at the stunning Gaylord National Resort at National Harbor.

From the glittering displays of the U.S. Botanic Garden and the iconic ICE! exhibit, to candlelit colonial charm at Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria, this trip wraps you in the very best of the season. You’ll enjoy waterfront lunches, private evening experiences, and the joyful sights of the National Christmas Tree, DC’s monuments aglow, and the grand Basilica dressed for Christmas.

No deposit required to sign up—just reserve your spot and let the holiday spirit begin!

You may register at no cost.  You may pay the full portion of the trip cost at any time.  All deposits become non-refundable on 10/1/26. Refund payments may take up to 30 days to process.   

Please note that should your group not achieve the contractual 25 minimum by 10/1/2026, the price package is subject to increase or cancellation.  If cancellation occurs due to low registration, full refunds will be issued to registered passengers.

Important Terms & Conditions:

There is no deposit required to register, and guests are encouraged to register early as space is limited and secured on a first come, first serve basis.   

Each traveler must register for an individual package (multiple packages can be purchased in one booking, but each traveler must have an individual registration).

We recommend purchasing Traveler Protection Insurance.  There are several options to choose from.  It is not included in the package and purchase is at the traveler's discretion.

To help protect your travel investment, we recommend purchasing travel protection from Travel Insured International. These protection plans include pre-departure benefits such as Trip Cancellation and post-departure benefits such as Accident & Sickness Medical, Baggage/Baggage Delay, Evacuation, Missed Connection, Trip Delay and Trip Interruption. In addition, plans include 24/7 emergency assistance.

Click here to purchase travel protection for your trip. Plans may be time sensitive. For questions on the plan, coverage, or procedures, please contact the Group Support Desk at Travel Insured 844-440-8113.

Please note, Travel Insured is a third party, not owned or operated by MARS Tours & Travel.  Travelers are welcome to use any insurance company to insure their trip.

Board your luxury motor coach from Cape Henlopen Senior Center and head to Washington, DC!

Your holiday adventure begins traveling in comfort to Washington, DC, for a festive Welcome Lunch along the waterfront.

Kick off the season at the U.S. Botanic Garden, aglow with sparkling lights and seasonal floral displays.

Then settle in at the luxurious Gaylord  National Resort, a stunning riverside destination brimming with holiday cheer. This evening, explore the festive  National Harbor at your leisure—perhaps take in the views from the Capital Wheel or enjoy the cozy firepits and light displays.

After breakfast at the hotel, step back in time with visits to George Washington’s Mount Vernon and George Mason’s beautifully decorated Gunston Hall, where history meets holiday elegance.

After exploring the charm of Old Town Alexandria, enjoy an exclusive evening at the iconic Gadsby’s Tavern with a private tour and a festive dinner. This day blends colonial grandeur with the warmth of holiday traditions in the heart of Virginia.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing this morning.

Start your day at your own pace amid the splendor of the Gaylord's indoor atrium, glittering decorations, and the spectacular ICE! exhibit.

In the afternoon, enjoy guided sightseeing through elegant Embassy Row and the soaring National Cathedral before visiting the dazzling Hillwood Estate, rich in Russian treasures and holiday beauty.

End the day at DC’s Holiday Market, followed by dinner and a magical evening viewing the National Christmas Tree and Illuminated Monuments.

After a relaxed morning, take in the grandeur of the Basilica of the National Shrine—resplendent in its holiday glory—before a final stop at The Wharf, where boutique shops, fine dining, and waterfront views make for the perfect send-off.

Depart with hearts full of holiday spirit and memories of a truly luxurious Capital Christmas.