Where to Play on the Weekdays: December 14-18

Monday – See an art show full of special works at the Hemp Hill Carroll Square Gallery in Chinatown. Presented by Tracy’s Kids Art Therapy Program, a non-profit that does art therapy with pediatric oncology patients, Who We Are showcases art created by the kids they help. This was recommended to me by a KFDC reader who is an art therapist for the organization, and I think it sounds wonderful. The Gallery is located at 975 F Street NW. Hours are 8am – 6pm. Admission is free.

Tuesday – Hike the woods and wetlands of Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria. Look for little creatures along the way and stop to take in some gorgeous vistas. Bring along food for a picnic, or plan to grab a bite before or after — though it doesn’t feel like it while you’re there, the park is located close to a busy area with plenty of dining options. Open daily from dawn to dusk. Admission is free.

Wednesday – Do some shopping, enjoy a little live entertainment, and treat yourselves to some tasty eats at the Downtown Holiday Market. It’s like a little village in the heart of the city, where you can find all kinds of unique gifts, plus there will be live music from 12-2pm and 5-7pm. Make the most of your outing and pop into the National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum, which are practically a backdrop for the market.

Thursday – Catch a colorful magic show with The Great Zucchini at Jammin’ Java. Doors open at 10am and the fun begins at 10:30am. General admission tickets are $5.

Friday – Visit Season’s Greenings, the U.S. Botanic Garden’s annual holiday exhibit on a weekday when the crowds thin out. See Pollination Station, the adorably whimsical model train display, easily one of the best around. Stroll the festively adorned conservatory and admire replicas of DC landmarks built entirely from plant materials. Be sure to pick up a plant scavenger hunt at the front desk for some fun as you tour the rest of the gardens. Hours are 10am – 5pm. Admission is free.