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Driving Through on December 27 (Friday evening)

Is traffic lighter the week after Christmas? We’ll be driving through on the way to Florida in the evening of December 27. Thanks.

Driving through Washington DC on the evening of December 27 presents a mix of considerations when it comes to traffic. While the week after Christmas is generally less busy than the days immediately preceding the holiday, DC traffic patterns are influenced by several factors, including commuters returning to work, winter weather, and regional events.

Key points to consider:

  • December 26 (Boxing Day in some areas) and December 27 mark the end of the holiday travel period, so some traffic may be lighter than the peak Christmas Eve/Day congestion.
  • Friday evenings tend to have higher traffic due to the end-of-week commute, so even if holiday travelers are tapering off, local rush-hour traffic can still be significant, particularly on major routes such as I-395, I-66, and the Beltway (I-495).
  • Weather can affect travel speeds. Winter conditions, such as ice or snow, could slow traffic, so it’s important to monitor forecasts and allow extra travel time.
  • Construction projects around DC, which are often ongoing, can cause intermittent slowdowns, particularly on bridges and key highways entering or leaving the city.

Tips for smoother travel:

  • Consider driving either earlier in the afternoon before the evening commute begins or later in the evening after peak rush hour.
  • Use real-time traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze to monitor conditions and find alternative routes if congestion appears heavy.
  • If possible, avoid the busiest sections of the Beltway during typical commuter hours (roughly 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM on Fridays).
  • Check for any holiday-specific closures or events that may temporarily affect major roads in the city.

Overall, traffic may be lighter than during peak holiday days, but Friday evening still carries the risk of regular commuter congestion. Planning your drive with some flexibility will help ensure a smoother passage through DC on your way to Florida.

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