Category Archives: Fall

December 7, 2023 · 10:12 pm

The Weekend Round-Up:
December 8-10

Enjoy a family night out at Georgetown GLOW

 

Happy Weekend!

Find tons of ideas for non-holiday fun in these go-to KFDC posts:
* The Great Indoors
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Off-the-Beaten-Path Museums
* Autumn Adventures
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Kid-Friendly Eats
* Bike Rides
* Baltimore with Kids
* Peaceful Places

Holiday Happenings
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
If you’re looking for holiday activities, you have your pick of them!  There are all kinds of ways to embrace the spirit of the season, and at every price point. Some are listed in this round-up, and details for SO many more in the 2023 KFDC Holiday Guide to the Holiday Season Around DC.

Lights & Ice: Hanukkah Skate Night
Where: Canal Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: December 8
Admission: Free; skating is $15/12+, $12/under 12
The Festival of Lights is back at the Canal Park Ice Rink with Free Skate Rentals for the first 150 attendees to glide around the outdoor menorah. There will also be live music from DJ Ci Ci, free Hannukah-themed donuts, and hot cider from neighborhood confectionary shop Kilwins courtesy of the Capitol Riverfront BID. Plus, enjoy dreidels, glow sticks, gelt, and an exclusive Capitol Riverfront mug & hot cocoa kit for the first 100 attendees! An official menorah lighting will take place at 7pm.

A “Lit” Family Night Out
Where: Around DC
When: Throughout the holiday season
Admission: Free (+ cost of dinner)
The holidays are always a fabulous time of the year in DC, especially in the evenings when twinkling lights make the cityscape sparkle and there is “illuminated” fun to enjoy. Even better, you can make a night of it and experience those lit activities and enjoy a family dinner out, too. This new post has five ideas for doing just that, all of them centered around a main activity with recommendations for places to eat, plus some suggestions for nearby fun to tack on if you want to make a day (or longer night) of it, too.

The Polar Express Pajama Party
Where: Miracle Theater | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: $6
Sip some hot chocolate in your PJ’s while watching the holiday classic, The Polar Express. The film is an inspiring adventure based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. A young boy embarks on a magical adventure to the North Pole on the Polar Express. During his adventure he learns about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas.

Disney Encanto x CAMP
Where: Tysons Corner | Tysons, VA
When: Through March
Admission: Starts at $32
The immersive experience inspired by the beloved movie opens at Tysons this weekend.  Tickets are very limited in December, but you might luck out and get them.  If not, then let this be your heads-up to snag them for a 2024 visit — they would make a great holiday gift!

Step Afrika! Magical, Musical Holiday Step Show
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: Through December 17
Tickets: $56-95 (look for discount)
Easily one of the best holiday show’s in town, Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is a fantastic, vibrant celebration. (And we know from many years’ experience!) This fun, family-friendly performance will have you stomping your feet and clapping your hands to energetic beats from Step Afrika! and special guest, DJ Frosty the Snowman. The internationally-renowned percussive dance company has created a fantastic, contemporary holiday tradition, featuring friendly, furry characters, fun photo ops, and a festive dance party.

Fiddler on the Roof
Where: Olney Theatre | Olney, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Tickets: $35-101 (look for discount)
A great show  during Hanukkah…  Tradition! The word itself is synonymous with this most classic of American musicals, set in the tiny shtetl of Anatevka. People all over the world continue to find universal truths in the story of Tevye and his headstrong, tradition-bucking daughters. Now, Olney Theatre creates a rich and re-imagined Fiddler for a new generation to embrace through unforgettable songs like “If I Were a Rich Man,” “To Life,” and “Sunrise, Sunset.” Like Tevye himself, this Fiddler knows the power of its traditional highlights, but like his daughters Tzeitel, Hodel, and Chava – it also may surprise you with new ways of carrying forward its spirit.

Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: Through December 31
Tickets: $15/age 2+
And one for little kids…  It’s Hanukkah on strings once again at The Puppet Co. this year! In this puppet play, Hershel just wants to celebrate Hanukkah with the community, but the Queen and King of the Goblins have forbidden the lighting of the candles. Can Hershel save the day and lift the curse for this shtetl (village)?

More Holiday Entertainment
Where: Local theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
There’s so much holiday-inspired entertainment on local stages to celebrate the season. The Nutcracker at the Warner Theatre is a classic that will enchant audiences of all ages. Or take littles to see a version on strings 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. Go to a Family Edition of Handel’s Messiah at the National Cathedral.  Get details on these shows and see what else is coming up soon in the 2023 Guide to the Holiday Season.

A sculpture from the Simone Leigh exhibit

Art Cart: Who? You? Express Yourself!
Where: Hirshhorn Museum | Naional Mall, DC
When: Saturday 10am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Art Cart days are a great time to bring kiddos to the Hirshhorn because you can enjoy the exhibits, and they have a fun activity to connect to the art. On Saturday, dive into the world of Simone Leigh’s art! Explore her sculptures and make your own one-of-a-kind portraits and sculptures inspired by the things that make you special. Find the Art Cart in the Lerner Room on the Third Level.

Get Out of Dodge DC
Where: Around the region
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
Mix it up  with a quick getaway to a festive destination! If you feel like you’ve seen and done it all around DC, or just want to add a little extra magic to the season, road-trip-it to a location less than three hours away from the DC metro area — and maybe make some fun stops on the way. Your kids will love the thrill of it all (and, for overnighters, your heavily-tinseled hotel)! This post has ideas for places to go.

Go-Go Santa Caravan
Where: Sycamore & Oak | Congress Heights, DC
When: Saturday, 12-5pm
Admission: Free
Local business, community leaders, go-go bands, and “Go-Go Santa,” will spread holiday cheer as they travel through Congress Heights to The Retail Village at Sycamore & Oak for a day of holiday-themed activities and celebration. Around 5,000 curated holiday gifts will be distrinuted from eight local lifestyle businesses. Meal tickets and shopping coupons (up to $14 each) will also be given out while supplies last. Households will also receive complimentary tickets from Capital City Go-Go.

Capital Art & Craft Festival
Where: Dulles Expo Center | Chantilly, VA
When: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Admission: $10/advance, $12/at door, free/12 & under
Browse the works of over 200 local artisans and crafters and find unique holiday gifts  This festival features art in more than a dozen mediums — jewelry, paintings, prints, glass, leather, photography, pottery, wearable art, and wood, and more.   Visit the website for more details.

Winter’s Eve
Where: Glen Echo Park | Glen Echo, MD
When: Saturday, 3-6pm
Admission: Free
It’s Glen Echo Park’s annual Winter’s Eve celebration, a holiday event designed with all ages in mind. The Park will be abuzz with activity throughout the event:Open studios, artwork sales, refreshments, and the Puppet Co. will present it’s beloved The Nutcracker at 4pm. There will also be free children’s holiday crafts, and many of the Park’s resident arts organizations will offer holiday activities, including performances by Washington Revels, a hands-on blown glass ornament workshop (pre-registration required), Washington Conservatory of Music student performances, holiday portrait photography (pre-registration encouraged), and more!

Holiday Extravaganza
Where: The Boro | Tysons, DC
When: December 9, 11am – 2pm
Admission: Free
Here comes Santa Claus, right down Boro Lane! Get into the holiday spirit with a festive and fun morning in Boro Park to kick off the holiday season! At Santa’s Workshop at The Boro, guests of all ages are invited to enjoy a fun filled morning of holiday kids crafts, a DJ dance party, specialty hot chocolate bar with lots of fun fixings from Bluestone Lane, a holiday themed bounce house, and calligrapher on site to customize ornaments. And don’t forget to stop Santa’s Workshop in Boro Park, where you can take pictures with Santa — he’ll be there from 11:30am to 1pm.

Holiday Lights
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Parks and gardens around the area are brightening up the season with twinkling holiday light displays. Some you can walk through for an up-close experience, others you tour by car. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a dazzling good time.  See where you can enjoy them in the KFDC Holiday Guide.

Hike & Aprés Hike
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
If al the holiday hoopla is getting overwhelming, the get out for a family hike — then extend (and elevate) the day with some some snacks (or a whole meal) and sips after. Find some great combos to do that in this post about place to hike & aprés Hike.

Second Sunday Barn Dance
Where: Glen Echo Park | Glen Echo, MD
When: Sunday, 1-3pm
Admission: $5 ages 4+
Bring the fam to the Barn Dance! The fun-spirited event is for all ages and ability levels, featuring live music and a caller who teaches all the dances and keeps everyone moving to the music. Expect a variety of circles, squares, longways sets, contras, waltzes, and ceilidhs. Families with pre-school kids, tweens and teens, grandparents, and everyone in-between will have a rollicking good time with Glen Echo’s intergenerational community.

Nature Calling
Where: Nature centers around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free
If you’re not feeling outdoorsy, you can still get a dose of the outside world in the comfort of the indoors at a nature center. There are several great ones around the area that with lots of interesting exhibits, including live creatures. Buddie Ford Nature Center in Alexandria, Watkins in Upper Marlboro, Potomac Overlook in Arlington, Long Branch in Falls Church, and Brookside in Silver Spring all make for a great outing.

Day Trip from DC
Where: Around the region
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Get out of dodge for a day to enjoy some fun in areas that require a bit of a drive, but not an overnight stay (though you could consider it). Explore the spectacular underground world of Luray Caverns. Discover the charm and awesome attractions of Baltimore.  Enjoy hiking and history at Harpers Ferry. Take an ice cream making museum tour at Turkey Hill in Lancaster, PA. Or venture out to the Calvert Marine Museum to experience fascinating exhibits that highlight the history of the Chesapeake Bay.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* There’s a new giveaway for a chance to win a Holiday Stocking filled with a music lessons gift certificate and more from International School of Music!
* It’s peak holiday shopping season, and the KFDC Holiday Gift Guides have loads of ideas for DC-inspired gifts and for specific age groups.
* Looking for an activity especially for little ones on Tuesday morning?  Check out Art in the AM at the American Art Museum!
* National Gallery of Art shares tips for peaceful visits to the museum during the holiday season.
* Aristocrafts, an local mom-owned company that runs after school programs, now has their own studio and will be offering creative workshops for kids and adults.
* Always looking for organizing solutions, and this is a good one. Or this if you have a spare drawer.
* A few sales to check this weekend: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Tea Collection, Bose, Pottery Barn, Anthro,
* Vanity Fair’s Best Movies of 2023.
* This Hanukkah, Light the Candles 💙

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December 6, 2023 · 9:00 am

Five Things: December 6, 2023

 

 

1. The National Museum of Women in the Arts recently reopened after a two-year renovation.  The redesigned spaces are lovely, more open and light-filled, perfect for showcasing the permanent collection and a fantastic exhibition currently on view. The Sky’s the Limit features large-scale installations that are delightful, thought-provoking, beautiful, and some on display for the first time ever. A great time to visit the museum is on one of their Free Community Days on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of the month, when there is no admission, though you do still need timed tickets. They tend to get snatched up, so find a date that works and reserve yours! Otherwise, admission is $16/adult, $13/DC residents, free for ages 21 and under.  Hours are 10am – 5pm, Tuesday – Sunday.  I’d recommend the museum for older kids, tweens and up.

 

2. Chanukah begins tomorrow evening, and if you’re looking for ways to celebrate throughout the eights days and nights, the KFDC Holiday Guide has a whole section of things to do, from the National Menorah Lighting to smaller menorah lightings to ice skating parties to theatre productions…and more!

 

3. I just wrote about  my first taste of Love, Makoto, the Japanese food hall that opened last spring. Have you been?

 

4. Latest and greatest TV binge: Squid Game: The Challenge, thanks to Darcy’s recommendation (see below).  Anyone else watching it?  Can’t wait for the finale tonight!

 

5. 10 Happy Things for December 🤗

 

PS:  In case you missed it yesterday:  5 Ideas for a Family Evening Out in DC During the Holiday Season.

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November 30, 2023 · 5:14 pm

The Weekend Round-Up:
December 1-3

Ice skating on the National Mall…so quintessentially DC

 

Happy Weekend!

Quick links to ideas galore for ongoing DC fun:
* The Great Indoors
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* Off-the-Beaten-Path Museums
* Autumn Adventures
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Kid-Friendly Eats
* Bike Rides
* Baltimore with Kids
* Peaceful Places

‘Tis the Season
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
There’s holiday fun to be had all over the area in all kinds of ways at every price point. See the delightful model trains and festive decor at the US Botanic Garden’s Season’s Greetings exhibit.Check out Light Yards, the annual illuminated installation at Yards Park.  Experience holiday magic at National Harbor. Take a street car ride with Santa at the Holly Trolley Fest.  Find details on all of these events and more in the 2023 Holiday Guide. (And see some of them listed in this round-up, too.)

Glow with It
Where: Around Georgetown, DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Free 
See Georgetown in a whole new creative light — literally. Georgetown Glow is back and brightening the neighborhood with modern light art installations on exhibit around the bustling community. Plan to make an evening of it and take the family to dinner at one of the many restaurants there pre- or post-light tour — see some suggestions for kid-friendly dining spots.  Get a glimpse of a past Glow here and a look at last year’s here.

Happy 20th, Udvar-Hazy!
Where: Udvar-Hazy Center | Chantilly, VA
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free (parking, too!)
It’s been almost 20 years since the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, the Chantilly arm of the Air & Space Museum, opened and they’re celebrating with a day packed full of everything you know and love about the museum. From a behind-the-scenes look at the Mary Baker Engen Restoration Hangar to talks with curators about fascinating artifacts to hands-on activitiesfor the whole fam, the event promises to highlight why the museum is a must-visit destination and look forward to what’s next.

Santa Fly-In
Where: College Park Aviation Museum | College Park, MD
When: Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Admission: $5
This will be an experience to remember as you watch Santa fly into the historic College Park Airport (it’s the world’s oldest continuously operating airport)! Make some holiday arts and crafts, then have your picture taken with Santa Claus after his big flight. Photos will be scheduled by reserved time slot. To reserve a slot, send an email to collegeparkaviation@pgparks.com. All guests over the age of 2 must have a ticket.

Festival of Lights
Where: Watkins Regional Park | Upper Marlboro, MD
When: ThroughJanuary 2, 5-9:30pm
Admission: $10-15/vehicle
We’ve been doing this one since the kids were babes… Watkins’ sweet holiday drive-through event of more than one million twinkling lights has been dazzling holiday-goers for over 25 years. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit from the comfort of your car — bring a thermos of hot chocolate, put on some holiday music, turn on the seat warmers, and take in the adorably festive illuminated scenes.  Purchase tickets in advance online and pay only $8. Even more, if you can snag a limited spot, they are also offering horse-drawn carriage rides this year (extra cost, and preregistration required). For more about Watkins Regional Park, including all there is to enjoy during the day, see this KFDC post.

More Night Lights
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Even more parks and gardens in the area are brightening up the season with twinkling holiday light displays. Some you can walk through for an up-close experience, others you tour by car. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a dazzling good time.  See where you can enjoy them in the KFDC Holiday Guide.

Holidays on the Ellipse
Where: President’s Park | National Ellipse, DC
When: Starting Saturday
Admission: Free
The National Christmas Tree, the National Menorah, plus trains and displays representing all 50 states will be accessible for viewing starting Saturday.  It’s a staple on many a holiday activity repertoire.  The whole scene lit up at night with the White House and Washington Monument glowing in the distance makes for a brilliant holiday scene. There are often musical performances throughout the season, too.

Old Tyme Christmas
Where: Harpers Ferry, WV
When: Friday – Sunday (& December 8-10)
Admission: Free
Take a little road trip to experience some holiday magic! This two-weekend-only Christmas celebration offers seasonal activities for the whole family. Featuring historic tours, wagon rides, caroling, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, shopping at the Handmade Holiday Market, and much more. View the full schedule of activities here.

Dinosaur Park Open House
Where: Dinosaur Park | Laurel, MD
When: Saturday
Admission: Free
Discover an ancient world right in Prince George’s County! On the first and third Saturdays of every month, Dinosaur Park in Laurel welcomes the public to their interpretive programs. Paleontologists and educators will display fossils, casts, and models of Astrodon johnstoni, Maryland’s state dinosaur, along with other 112 million-year-old creatures found there.

Skate Under the Sky
Where: Ice rinks around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink
All of the local ice rinks are open for the season, so get out there for some cold weather recreation!  Skate amid art at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, with river views at Washington Harbour, or above the river at The Wharf.  Or enjoy skating at one of many other area rinks.  See this post for details on all of the places you can glide the day (and night) away.

Heurich Christmas Markt
Where: Heurich House Museum | Dupont Circle, DC
When: Friday – Sunday
Admission: $10-16/ages 15+ and $2/ages 2-15
Heurich House’s annual holiday market, Christkindlmarkt, is back this weekend. Stroll through the festive German-style craft market from the Heurich House garden up New Hampshire Ave towards Dupont Circle to find holiday gifts. The Markt will feature over 50 local small-scale makers, a mcaini exhibit about the historic revival of the Chr. Heurich Brewing Co.’s Senate Beer, children’s ornament making, and more!  Hours are Friday 4-8pm, Saturday 12-8pm, and Sunday 12-6pm.  (PS:  There are some other holiday markets happening this weekend — see them all here.)

Bethesda Winter Wonderland
Where: Norfolk & Cordell Avenues | Bethesda, MD
When: Saturday, 1-4pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate the holiday season in downtown Bethesda with Santa Claus, live ice sculpting, live music, and more! At this annual outdoor street bazaar, see blocks of ice transformed into wintery works of art before your eyes, enjoy a student concert, and partake in more festive activities.

Scottish Christmas Walk Parade
Where: Old Town | Alexandria, VA
When: Saturday, 11am
Admission: Free
The 52nd annual Scottish Christmas Walk will be a showcase of marching units filled with the magnificent tartans of Scottish Clans, the stirring sound of Scottish bagpipes and drums, Scottish dancers, reenactment groups, Scottie dogs, dignitaries, classic cars, Santa Claus, and more. The parade usually begins at St. Asaph and Wilkes Streets and ends at Market Square with a massed band concert – rain or shine.

First Saturday at NGA
Where: National Gallery of Art | National Mall, DC
When: Saturday, 10am – 3pm
Admission: Free
The NGA’s monthly program will celebrate the winter season with holiday card making, face painting, and more. Free activities for all ages will take over the East Building this weekend. Author and illustrator Susan Stockdale will read her children’s book during a bilingual Storytime program (on Friday morning, too). You can also stop at a station with supplies in the atrium to create a holiday card for loved ones, visit the pop-up library, explore one of  the new exhibitions (the Mark Rothko is wonderful!), and more.

Frosted
Where: Franklin Park | Downtown DC
When: Starting Saturday through December 17
Admission: Free
Step into an illuminated winter extravaganza as Franklin Park is transformed into a glistening Frosted wonderland aglow with thousands of lights. There will be lots of fun holiday festivities to enjoy, too… this weekend witness holiday toys come to life during the Favorite Christmas Toys Parade, watch artists create ice sculptures, see stories illuminated, browse the makers market, and more.  See the schedule of festivities on the website.

Holly Trolley Fest
Where: National Capitol Trolley Museum | Colesville, MD
When: Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 4:30pm
Admission: $10/adults, $8/ages 2-17 (includes unlimited rides)
Explore a unique DC area museum this holiday season. Visit with Santa down our mile-long woodland railroad, featuring a holiday ride on our historic street cars. In addition, enjoy a holiday model railroad display in collaboration with the Washington, Virginia & Maryland Garden Railway Society, crafts for children, photo opportunities, and more.

The District’s Holiday Boat Parade
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: Saturday, 6-9pm
Admission: Free
It’s the 30th anniversary of an iconic DC holiday event:  The District’s Holiday Boat Parade, featuring over 60 festively decorated boats parading along the Washington Channel. On land at The Wharf, spectators can get into the spirit with ornament decorating, roasting s’mores at the Camp Wharf fire pit (for purchase), visiting the lighted 45-ft Christmas Tree, and skating at The Wharf Ice Rink ($10-13).  Plan on pictures with Santa, too!

Alexandria Boat Parade of Lights
Where: Alexandria City Marina | Alexandria, VA
When: Saturday, 5:30pm
Admission: Free
Alexandria’s harbor will also shine as dozens of brightly lit boats cruise the Potomac River at the historic waterfront for the 21st annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Enjoy festivities out on the dock 1-5:30pm and a holiday bazaar and food options 3-7pm. And stop in the Torpedo Factory were there will be a holiday festival, too. The parade begins at 5:30pm.

Holiday Entertainment
Where: Local theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
If you’re looking for holiday-inspired entertainment to get into the spirit, there is plenty of it!  The Nutcracker at the Warner Theatre is a classic that will enchant audiences of all ages.  Dorrance Dance is also presenting  a tap dancing version at the Kennedy Center. Or take littles to see a version on strings at The Puppet Co.  Adventure Theatre has a wonderful production of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.  Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead Scrooge on A Christmas Carol journey at Ford’s Theatre (review here). Get details on these shows and see what else is coming up soon in the 2023 Guide to the Holiday Season.

(W)Hoop it Up!
Where: Universities around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Tickets prices vary
The college hoops season is happening, and with so many universities in the area, there’s always some good on court going on. Here’s what you can see this weekend:
* American men vs St. Francis on Saturday at 2pm
* Catholic men vs Wilkes on Saturday at 2pm
* Catholic women on Saturday at 4pm
* Georgetown men vs TCU on Saturday at 5pm
* Maryland women vs George Mason on Sunday at 1pm (Go, Terps!)

Season’s Treatings: Holiday Gingerbread Decorating
Where: The Garden at Building Momentum | Alexandria, VA
When: December 3, 10:30am – 12pm & 1-2:30pm
Admission: $35-250
Join UpCycle Creative Reuse Center to unleash your creativity and decorate gingerbread houses . Get into the holiday spirit and indulge in the joy of creating edible masterpieces. Sign up in advance!

Chocolate Binge Festival
Where: Downtown Annapolis, MD
When: December 3, 11am – 4pm
Admission: $5
Everyone loves chocolate and Annapolis will be celebrating by filling West Street with all things chocolate to help chocoholics get through the holiday season. Prepare your sweet tooth with an afternoon of chocolate decadence as over 20 local and regional chocolatiers vend their specialties, plus make s’mores at a bonfire in the street, and enjoy hot cocoa. The Festival will also feature family friendly entertainment, lots of holiday shopping, and the lighting of West Street’s BGE Holiday Light Canopy.

Holiday Market
Where: Congressional Cemetery | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Sunday, 11am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Hit a holiday market in an unexpected place: a cemetery!  For the first time ever the Historic Congressional Cemetery is hosting a holiday market, featuring one-of-a kind gifts, hand crafted treasures, and delectable treats, all made by local makers, bakers, artists, and vendors.  Even better, it a really cool place that is interesting to explore anytime (one of my most frequented spots int he city with Teddy the Aussiedude).  Dogs on leash are welcome to the market, too!

Dreidel Workshop
Where: Home Depot | 901 Rhode Island Ave NE, DC
When: December 3, 1:30-2:30pm
Admission: Free
How about a DYI project to celebrate the upcoming holiday? Kids can make a dreidel game boards using wood, hammers, etc. There will also be chocolate coins, music, and other Chanukah goodies! Be sure to register in advance!

Inside Info
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
Looks like there may be some wet weather this weekend, so if you’re seeking indoor fun or just want ideas for extra activities, there are plenty of options for things to do inside. This post has over 100 suggestions.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* In case you missed it, there’s a new post with 5 festive, kid-friendly destinations for the holiday season, all within 3 hours from DC.
* Hanukkah begins this coming week, and if you’re looking for ways to celebrate, the KFDC Holiday Guide has a whole section of ideas!
* Have you seen all the KFDC gift guides?  There are recommendations for little kids, teens, grown ups, and gift that are DC-inspired.
* This “Parents Are People” episode of This American Life is a really good listen.
* We saw Dream Scenario last weekend, and it was fantastic. Such an interesting premise, and Nicolas Cage once again shows why he is one of the best actors around (and it all started with this totally awesome gem).
* Has anyone tried the viral butter candle recipe?
* Don’t mess with Dolly 💙

 

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November 28, 2023 · 9:35 am

Five Things: November 28, 2023

 

 

1.  It’s Giving Tuesday! If you want some ideas for where to donate, the GIVE page here on the blog has a long list of charities and causes, all of them shared by KFDC readers. If you have one you’d like to highlight, leave a comment on that page or on these Five Things, and I’ll add it.

 

2. If you’d like to give your time to organizations that help those in need, the post about Volunteer Opportunities Around the DC Area Where Kids Can Help Out , Too is a good one to check out.

 

3.  The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting takes place TONIGHT at 5pm!  If you didn’t score tickets in the lottery to the National Christmas Tree Lighting, this is a great alternative to viewing a tree illumination at an iconic DC spot.  While you can’t get up close, you can easily watch from across the street by the Reflecting Pool. The moment the lights come on is always so delightful — see last year’s here.  And great idea: Go to Season’s Greenings at the US Botanic Garden beforehand!  See where more tree lightings are happening around the area.  And plan for menorah lightings (and more Chanukah events) starting next week.

 

4. 100 notable books of 2023.  (Just added this to my list. Getting this one for my mom.)

 

5. Cold weather clothing options for tweens 🤣

 

 

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November 23, 2023 · 10:59 am

The Weekend Round-Up:
November 23-26

The wonderful pollinator themed model train display at Season’s Greenings

 

Happy  Thanksgiving… and, as always, Happy Weekend!

Link up to posts full of ideas for local fun:
* Best Outdoors in the DC Area
* The Great Indoors
* Off-the-Beaten-Path Museums
* Autumn Adventures
* Local Hikes with Kids
* Kid-Friendly Eats
* Bike Rides
* Baltimore with Kids
* Peaceful Places

Thanksgiving Day Play
Where: Around the DC area
When: Thursday (and beyond)
Admission: Varies by activity
How about a side of recreation to go with your Thanksgiving meal? If you’re looking for pre- or post-feast activities, this post suggests some ways to complement the main event of the day.

#OptOutside
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
This initiative started by REI a few years ago was so good it became one of the most popular hashtags… Skip the Black Friday shopping (or do it off-hours online) and get out to enjoy some family QT outdoors. You’ve got your pick of places around the DC-Metro for adventures in the fresh air. Take a hike, hit a playground, explore a garden, or see what else there is to do al fresco in this post with loads of inspiration for fun in the sun.

Season’s Greenings
Where: US Botanic Garden | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Through January 1, 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
DC’s most popular holiday attraction just opened for the season. The highlight is the garden railway, which never fails to impress and enchant with intricate, imaginative designs — all of them constructed of plant materials.  This year’s pollinator theme is adorable , and kids will love seeing model trains chug around  The conservatory exhibit features Washington landmarks also constructed from plant materials — see if you can find all 22 of them! Get a glimpse of the train, and be sure to make a plan to see it all this holiday season!

Crafting for the Holidays
Where: Library of Congress | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Friday & Saturday, 10:30am – 3:30pm
Admission: Free
A great activity with the kids over Thanksgiving weekend… Join the Library of Congress for a family crafting program to celebrate the upcoming holiday season. Learn about the Library’s holiday collections while you take part in crafting activities for Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and more.

ZooLights
Where: National Zoo | Woodley Park, DC
When: Friday & Saturday, 5-9pm & Sunday, 6-9pm
Admission: $6
For the first time, this beloved light display is not free admission. But it’s the same fun, festive seasonal joy at a favorite DC spot.  Thousands of environmentally-friendly lights and animal lanterns transform the Zoo into a holiday wonderland in the evenings. There are also live music performances, tasty winter treats, and lots of opportunities for holiday shopping.

Night Lights
Where: Around the DMV
When: Evenings throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by locale
Even more twinkling lights forming enchanting displays are easily a holiday season favorite. Several parks and gardens in the area have transformed into sparkling wonderlands. 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.

Native American Heritage Day: Honoring the Jingle Dress Dance
Where: American Indian Museum | National Mall, DC
When: Friday, 11:30am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Learn about the origin and significance of the jingle dress and Jingle Dress Dance with dancers Misty Solorio (Brokenhead Ojibway First Nation/Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation), Jennifer Night Bird Miller (Red River Métis), and Nathan Solorio (Brokenhead Ojibway First Nation/Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation). The dancers will be accompanied by father-and-son duo Ralph Zotigh (Kiowa/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo/Isante Dakota Indian) and Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa/Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo/Isante Dakota Indian). Performances begin at 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1pm, 3pm, and 4pm.

Caps vs. Oilers
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Friday, 7pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary 
Watch some sports action on ice. The Caps are hosting the Edmonton Oilers on Friday afternoon. Plan on a pre-game lunch in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood — or some time at the Downtown Holiday Market.

Small Business Saturday
Where: Around the DC area
When: Saturday
Admission: Free, but plan to buy & support local
If you’re planning to do some holiday shopping this weekend, make a point of going to local, independent stores, both to score great, unique gifts and to support people and places that help make our communities thrive. The KFDC Holiday Gift Guide: DC-Inspired has all kinds of suggestions for gifts from many local businesses.

Penguin Ornament Workshop
Where: Home Depot locations around DC
When: Saturday, 9am – 1pm
Admission: Free
Head to Home Depot for their free monthly workshop that welcomes kids to complete a hands-on project, this weekend a penguin ornament to hang on your holiday tree. All attendees must be accompanied by a parent or adult at all times. All supplies are provided, including a little apron, and kids get to keep their craft along with a certificate of achievement and collectible pin (while supplies last).  Register in advance!

Enchant
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: Starts Friday 0 December 24
Admission: $32+/adult, $24+/age 3-17
Explore the 90,000-square foot Christmas light maze, this year with a “Santa’s Magic Timepiece” theme. Stroll through lighted tunnels, travel to magical illuminated lands as you search for stars, and find your way to the 100-foot tall Christmas tree.  Held at Nationals Park, Enchant Christmas also features an ice skating trail, live entertainment, food and drink, a Play Place just for little ones, a Christmas market,  and Santa and Mrs. Claus.  View scenes from last year’s event and read a KFDC review (from the first season it was here in 2019) of this newer-to-DC holiday attraction.

Recreation on Ice
Where: Ice rinks around the DC area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by rink
With sunny skies and cool temps in the forecast, conditions over the next few days should be great for outdoor ice skating. Many ice rinks have already opened for the season, and Canal Park in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood will be joining starting Friday.  See this post for details on all of the places you can glide the day (and night) away!

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
Where: Adventure Theatre | Glen Echo, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Tickets: $25
In a two-person version of the classic tale, Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy discover a secret portal to a magical world called Narnia. With an evil White Witch ruling the kingdom, can Lucy, her new friend Mr. Tumnus, and her family band together to save this land from the eternal winter?

Holidays on the Stage
Where: Local theatres
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by venue
If you’re looking for holiday-inspired entertainment to get into the spirit, it’s starting!  The Nutcracker at the Warner Theatre is a classic that will enchant audiences of all ages.  Or take littles to see a version on strings 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. Get details on these shows and see what else is coming up soon in the 2023 Guide to the Holiday Season.

Holiday Tree Lighting + Santa Firetruck Parade
Where: Mosaic District | Fairfax, VA
When: Friday, 6-9pm
Admission: Free
‘Tis the season for holiday cheer! Join the Mosaic District to welcome the arrival of the holiday season with a merry and bright tree lighting. Bring your family and friends to experience the Jolly Man’s arrival on a firetruck. Visitors can also meet and greet Santa in the Target lobby after the tree lighting and enjoy live entertainment from 6-9pm and a holiday parade from 6:30-6:45pm. The Tree Lighting is at 7:15pm.

10th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
Where: CityCenter | Downtown DC
When: Saturday, 5-7pm
Admission: Free
Kick off the holiday season and celebrate 10 years of CityCenterDC at their annual holiday tree lighting! The evening will include a joyful music performance by fan favorite, The Revels, balloon artists, face painters, holiday treats, and more. Enjoy the dazzling 75-foot tree, see two resident 25-foot reindeer, and capture the spirit of the holidays with a photo under our Palmer Alley Dream Closet art installation.

Wizards vs Hawks
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Saturday, 7pm
Admission: Tickets prices vary (check for discount)
The Wizards are playing at home on Saturday evening — watch them work some on-court magic against the Atlanta Hawks. Plan on a pre-game dinner in Penn Quarter — there are plenty of family-friendly places to go in the neighborhood. Some recs: Jaleo, Carmine’s, Daikaya, Shake Shack, and Hill Country BBQ… details on these and more here.

College Hoops
Where: Colleges around the DC Area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Ticket prices vary
With so many universities in the area, there’s always some good hoops action going on — and it’s also a great time for families. Here are some games you can catch this weekend:
* Georgetown men vs Jackson State on Saturday at 12pm
* George Mason men vs East Carolina on Saturday at 2pm
* Maryland men vs South Alabama on Saturday at 7pm (Go, Terps!)
* American men vs Hood College on Sunday at 4pm

Fallin’
Where: Around the DMV
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
There’s still some autumn splendor left to enjoy. With pleasant temps and foliage still brightening the landscape, this weekend will be a good time to relish in the season. This post has recommendations for where to savor it around the area.

Downtown Holiday Market
Where: 8th & F Streets NW | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through D2cember 23, 12-8pm
Admission: Free
Make a plan to visit sometime during the season.  This one, to me, is the holiday market in DC. It’s not even so much about the merchandise for sale (though there’s always an excellent variety of gift items — I never leave empty handed). There’s something about the usually bustling block in the middle of Penn Quarter transforming into an open air market for a few weeks that is so charming and kind of magical, making our big city feel like a small town. A bonus is the free live entertainment along with treats and coffee drinks available for purchase. And after you’ve done your shopping and enjoyed a snack and music, you can pop into the National Portrait Gallery/American Art Museum that are literally right next to the market.

Off the Beaten Museum Path
Where: Around DC
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by museum
If you want to do some indoor exploring, consider a not-so-well-known place.  Because if you don’t veer from the well trodden path of the National Mall now and then, you could miss out on some amazing museum exhibits and experiences. Check out this round-up of some these places in DC that may not be on your museum radar — but should be.

***MORE GOOD STUFF***
* The holiday season is officially in full swing, so the 2023 KFDC Guide to the Holiday Season Around DC will be good to keep handy.
* Holiday shopping season is also officially in full swing, so be sure to check out all the KFDC gift guides for ideas:  DC-Inspired, Teen Scene, Little Kids, Adults
* Good tips for Thanksgiving.
* One of my favorite instructors at the gym just started a podcast on fitness.
* I don’t usually watch the series, but this season of the show somehow reeled me in — and the long weekend is a golden opportunity to binge it.
* Can’t stress enough how great Rakuten, an online service that gives you cash back on shopping, is during the holiday season.
* Anyone else love Farm Rio?  If so, you’ll love 50% off even more.
* Simple and beautiful.❤️

 

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