One of many clever details in Santa’s Workshop on the Ellipse. Where do you fall on the Naughty-or-Nice-O-Meter?
We’re getting 70-degree weather on the weekend that winter officially begins, and I’m barely blinking an eye. That’s because meteorological ironies are starting to become the norm around here. So, even though many of the events in this round-up take place indoors, I strongly suggest heading outside, too. Take advantage of the unseasonable conditions while they last, because you never know when Snowmageddon II is going to hit. And if you’re all about holiday fun, there are activities galore to make you merry. Happy Weekend!
Holiday, Celebrate!
Where: Throughout the area
When: All weekend long
Admission: Varies be venue
All of the area’s big holiday events and activities are in full swing. Holiday on the Ellipse, Season’s Greenings at the U.S. Botanic Garden, Holly Trolley Fest, Christmas on the Potomac, train and light displays, and more. Get the full rundown on all of them in the 2013 Guide to the Holidays in DC.
Night Lights
Where: Around the area
When: Evenings
Admission: Varies by locale
Twinkling lights forming enchanting displays are easily a holiday season favorite. Visit one of several parks or gardens (or the Zoo!) in the area that has transformed into a sparkling wonderland. Some you can walk through for an up-close experience, others you tour by car. If you opt for the latter, dress the kids in PJ’s, turn up the holiday tunes, and bring along a thermos of hot chocolate — it doesn’t get much cozier than that!
Be the Artist Family Program
Where: National Portrait Gallery
When: Saturday, 2-4pm
Admission: Free
Children are invited to explore portraiture in depth. Participants will take a look at the portrait by Lucy Fradkin and create a multimedia piece. While the class is free, tickets are required.
The Polar Express 3D
Where: American History Museum
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12-2:40pm
Admission: $5
Catch a short flick at the American History Museum. Based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express follows a doubting young boy as he embarks upon an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole. Multiple 12-minute screenings will be shown each hour.
Recreation on Ice
Where: Local ice rinks
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
If unseasonably high temps don’t melt the ice, hit the rink at Canal Park for its first open weekend. Or Skate with Santa at Washington Harbour. And for more places to glide the weekend away, both indoors and out, see this post listing area ice rinks.
Rocknoceros Holiday Singalong
Where: Jammin’ Java
When: Saturday, 11am & 2pm
Admission:
Get in the holiday mood and ready to sing as one of the area’s favorite kids bands returns to Jammin’ Java for their seventh year of fun holiday songs and Rockno classics. Belt out the tunes along with them, and enjoy a full lunch and drink menu, too.
More Holiday Entertainment
Where: Local theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
Much of the live entertainment on area stages right now is holiday-inspired. Enjoy the ultimate holiday classic The Nutcracker performed by the Washington Ballet at Warner Theatre or catch a tot-friendly version at The Puppet Co. Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead Scrooge on A Christmas Carol journey at Ford’s Theatre. Enjoy The Twelve Days of Christmas at Adventure Theatre. Get details on these shows and others in the 2013 Holiday Guide.
Aquarium
Where: Imagination Stage
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $10-12
This is a show best for ages 1-5. With gentle music, beautiful puppets, and props, Jack and Calypso lead children and caregivers to a magical, interactive world where giant jellyfish fly through the air, sheep graze in the grass, and lemons create the sun in a “let’s pretend” sky.
Lyle the Crocodile
Where: Imagination Stage
When: Saturday & Sunday
Admission: $12+
Recommended for ages 4-12, Lyle the Crocodile will run through January 10: When the Primm family moves into their New York City apartment, they are quite surprised to find a crocodile in their bathtub! But Lyle is a rather extraordinary crocodile and quickly becomes part of the family. Unfortunately, a nasty neighbor, Mr. Grumps, has it out for the reptile. He thinks poor Lyle is unfit for the neighborhood simply because he’s different. After a parade, a trip to the department store, and a stint in the zoo, Lyle saves the day and earns his place as a beloved friend and neighbor.
Chocolate House Workshop & Tea
Where: Tudor Place
When: Saturday, 1:30-3pm
Admission: $25/child, $10/adult
Begin by sampling period teas and delicious desserts at a festive holiday tea. After the tea ceremony, costumed interpreters lead children in a chocolate workshop, helping them craft deliciously decorated chocolate houses to take home. Recommended for ages 5 and up.
Christmas at Mount Vernon
Where: Mount Vernon Estate
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: $17/adults, $8/ages 6-11, free for ages 5 and under
Mount Vernon decks the halls with themed Christmas trees on the estate and festive greenery in the Mansion. Tour the rarely-open third floor of the Mansion and get a glimpse of how the Washingtons might have decorated and entertained during the holiday season. Other special activities to enjoy: Watch chocolatiers produce chocolate using 18th-century techniques. Learn dances and hear stories about Christmas at Mount Vernon from costumed friends and family of the Washingtons. Meet Aladdin the Camel and see the National Thanksgiving Turkey after its official “presidential pardoning” at the White House.
Think Outside
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Savor the warm weather while its here! The round-up of the Best Places in the DC Area to Spend a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids is full of ideas for alfresco adventures.
