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Whether you need to know local public holidays or highlights through the seasons, we hope you will find the facts gathered below useful tools for your travel planning. Please feel free to contact us if we can assist you further.

General information

Washington, DC ... a monument to America’s history. Conceived in 1791 by George Washington and architect Pierre L’Enfant as the fledgling country’s new capital, Washington has blossomed into a dynamic, beautiful city that reaches far beyond its political roots. This cosmopolitan city is a thriving urban centre with a reverence for its historical treasures.

Time zone

GMT -5 hours
Eastern Standard Time

Language(s) spoken

English is the primary language.

Electrical system

Local voltage is 110 to 120 volts AC. Adapters available; please request through the Concierge.

Shopping hours

Smaller stores and boutiques are generally open Monday to Saturday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Department stores are open Monday to Saturday 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Sunday 12:00 noon to 6:00 pm.

Working hours

Most Washingtonians work from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Time and distance to city centre

5 minutes/2 miles/3 kilometres

Time and distance to shopping

Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. is located in historic Georgetown, the city's prime shopping district. Within walking distance of the Hotel, guests will discover unique art and antique galleries, quaint one-of-a-kind shops and myriad shopping and dining options. This shopper's mecca is anchored by The Shops at Georgetown Park, a former tobacco warehouse now decorated in classical Victorian style.

Time and distance to financial district

K Street corridor: 5 minutes/1 mile/2 kilometres

View in–depth travel advice from Frommers.com

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Seasonal highlights

Winter

The holiday spirit is alive in the nation's capital. Enjoy the American Holiday pageant of chorus and performances following the National Christmas Tree Lighting Pageant of Peace.

Throughout December, the lobby of the Hotel will become the festive backdrop for 15 beautifully decorated trees, each sponsored on behalf of a child at the Children's Hospital. Throughout Georgetown, 50 merchants will also feature their own holiday trees for the same fundraiser. The decorations of each merchant's tree will be available through silent auction, with proceeds benefitting the hospital.

Spring

Springtime brings the glorious cherry blossoms, a favourite of visitors and Washingtonians alike. Another popular event is the annual White House Easter Egg Roll.

Fall

Washington offers spectacular autumn colours and magnificent twilight boat tours on the Potomac River.