Beltway Bambinos

(re) discover Washington DC through the eyes of your children

Winter bucket list

This winter we will be spending much more time outdoors and so we have invested in an awesome fire pit, cozy blankets and outerwear to make it bearable. This winter bucket list is so much fun; even if some of the typical winter and holiday events are not listed due to covid-19. Happy holidays and here’s hoping for health and happiness to you all.

Quick links:
A Wider Circle
Holiday cookies
Holiday light displays
Ice skating
Holiday drinks
Gingerbread ornaments
Holiday treats
Games
Paper snowflakes
Camp out
Donate
Solo Stove

Celebrate The Season With A Free, Virtual Holiday Crafting Workshop With The Station At Riverdale Park!

WHAT: Following the speedy sell-out of their first holiday crafting session, join The Station at Riverdale Park for a Letter to Santa Watercolor Workshop. Santa is pulling into The Station! Join Santa’s crafting workshop and unleash your inner elf with a Letter to Santa watercolor workshop. Pick up your complimentary crafting kit at The Station PLUS a $10 gift card from participating restaurants at The Station.

WHEN: Pick up your free watercolor kit at The Station (6621 Baltimore Avenue, Riverdale Park, MD 20737) on Saturday, December 19 from 11am – 2pm and then tune in for a Zoom workshop at 4pm with local artist and maker, Serena Martin Designs. Can’t make the workshop live? They’ll send a recording to all registrants.

HOW: This activation is free and open to the public, registration required. Click here to register.

Cut-your-own tree farms in Virginia and Maryland

Maryland

Gaver Tree Farm: Mt. Airy, MD
November 27 from 9am – 5pm daily for cut your own and fresh-cut Christmas trees, Wreath Shop and Farm Market! Beautifully sheared Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, Canaan Fir, Fraser Fir and White Pine trees. They provide hand carts to pull your tree from the field, saws, shaking, baling and drilling. Fresh wreaths, pine roping and swags PLUS apples, cider, donuts, pies, fudge, jams, jellies and more in the Farm Market. Hayrides will be available to the back fields on weekends only (weather and guidelines permitting). No pets allowed.

Mayne’s Tree Farm: Frederick, MD
Christmas trees at Mayne’s Tree Farm in Frederick, MD are available from the November 26 – Christmas! Mayne’s allows you to cut your own trees or choose from their pre-cut selection. Hayrides are available on weekends. No pets allowed.

Naughty Pine Nursery: Dickerson, MD
Open November 27th and every Saturday & Sunday that follow through 12/20. Hours are from 10am – 4pm. Naughty Pine Nursery grows a large selection of Douglas Fir, Blue Spruce and Norway Spruce Christmas trees offering cut-your-own trees for the holiday season! They also sell firewood.

Triadelphia Lake View Farm (TLV): Glenelg, MD
Open on November 27th from 9am – 5pm. Santa will be there 10am to 4pm. Pets are allowed on leash. Masks required, social distancing required. Wreaths, roping, cut your own, and precuts available.

Otterdale View: Union Bridge, MD
Open November 27 – December 20, Thursday- Sunday from 9am-5pm. Come and cut your own Christmas tree! They have hundreds to choose from in various varieties and sizes up to about 7′ tall. Bring your own saw this year. A limited supply of disinfected hand saws will also be available. No baling/wrapping – Please be prepared to secure your tree or tie it down yourself. They will provide twine- you may use it to tie your tree down or even bale it by hand. No restrooms  available this year.

Butler’s Orchard: Germantown, MD
Holiday Harvest Days & locally grown pre-cut trees will begin November 27th and then open Tuesday-Sunday 9:00am- 6:00pm. Pre-cut trees will be arranged in the Farm Park this year to allow to safely social distance and shop for Christmas trees!  Stop by the Farmer’s Porch for a hot beverage, visit the animals and stroll through Christmas Trees. $5.00/car entrance.  Does Santa drive a tractor or a sleigh?  Santa will be at the Farm from 11:00am- 3:00pm on December 6, 13 & 20!  Cut your own trees are by RESERVATION ONLY.

Homestead Farm: Poolesville, MD
CLOSED FOR 2020 SEASON

Linden Hill Farm: Upper Marlboro, MD
CLOSED FOR 2020 SEASON

Virginia

Clouse’s Pine Hill Farm: Winchester, VA
Opening November 27 and open Thursday-Sunday from 9am – 5pm. Bring your gloves and tie down straps with a tarp and you will be set to wander this farm looking for your perfect tree or choose from a pre-cut tree. This farm offers a variety of events for families. Dogs on leashes are welcome.

Moose Apple Christmas Tree Farm: Berryville VA
Starting Friday November 27 they will be open for customers to come, pick out a tree, and cut it the same day,  Pre-taggers and customers who want pre-cut Frasers or pre-cut Concolors will also be able come.  They will be CLOSED Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s after Thanksgiving and open the other days 9am-4pm.

Country Loving Christmas Tree Farm: Leesburg, VA
Open 9am – 5pm Saturdays & Sundays beginning November 27. Appointments for Monday-Thursday visits by calling (703)-398-7018. They also deliver, install, maintain, remove, and store outside holiday lights, garland and other decorations.

Hartland Farm: Markham, VA
No updated information for 2020 yet.

Joe’s Trees: Chantilly, VA
Open 7 days a week through December 20 from 9am-5pm. Offering trees ranging from 6-15 feet. They have a seasonal store, festive food & hayrides (weather permitting). Santa makes appearances on weekends in early December too!

Krop’s Crops: Great Falls, VA
Opened on Nov. 14 and open from 9am-5pm daily. Cut your own is closed his year but they offer pre-cut trees.

Snickers Gap: Bluemont, VA
A family owned choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm is located near Bluemont, Virginia, situated on the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For 40 years they have been growing beautiful fir and spruce trees that we shape exclusively with hand tools. They also offer exquisite farm made mixed green wreaths. While searching for your tree, enjoy a view of the Loudoun Valley. It is appreciated if customers bringing their own straps to secure trees onto cars.

Middleburg Christmas Tree Farm: Round Hill, VA
Beautiful views and scenery! The farm was voted most attractive farm in Loudoun County in a poll conducted by Leesburg Today. Cut your own tree! Saws provided (plenty of them). Tree carts to carry the trees from the fields provided. Free twine to tie your tree down and baling is available. No pets allowed.

Day Star Farm: Leesburg, VA
CLOSED FOR 2020 SEASON

Holiday light displays, outdoor markets and celebrations

Bull Run Festival of Lights- Nov. 6 – Jan. 10
Experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays. Drive the festival route from the comfort of your car; turn out your headlights and just follow the magical glow. After viewing the lights, bring your family and friends to the holiday village to enjoy rides, refreshments, and of course, photos with Santa Claus.

Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens– Nov. 11 – Jan. 3
Bring the family to enjoy the magical Winter Walk of lights in Vienna, Virginia. The garden is transformed into a half-mile, animated walk of lights. Put on your walking shoes and bring the family to experience a Northern Virginia festive tradition. Purchase tickets online.

Downtown Holiday Market- Nov. 20 – Dec. 23
The 16th Annual Downtown Holiday Market, Washington D.C.’s outdoor shopping village is a beloved outdoor market which continues to support small businesses and entrepreneurs across the region, welcoming shoppers for a safe, secure and enhanced shopping experience in the heart of the District this year. This year’s retail lineup will feature more than 70 exhibitors including Black-owned and minority-owned businesses from the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development’s (DSLBD) Made in DC program and this season’s trending styles from the BID’s District of Fashion Show local designer collections.

Ride the Reindeer Railway at B&O Railroad Museum– Nov. 20 – Jan. 3
The B&O celebrates the wonder and joy of the holiday season with family-friendly festivities. Our famous train is no exception! This year, the Mile One Express transforms into the Reindeer Railway offering a festive train ride on the nation’s first mile. The train ride includes child-size reindeer antlers for all child tickets. You can also reserve tickets to have breakfast with Santa.

Seasons Greenings at The U.S. Botanic Gardens– Nov. 23 – Jan. 10
The United States Botanic Garden will have expanded online programming and limited holiday decorations this year. Festive adornments, winterberries, lights, and greenery will be placed in the Terrace Gardens and Bartholdi Park from Nov. 23, 2020, through Jan. 10, 2021. There will not be a train display this year, and the Conservatory and gated outdoor gardens remain closed at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Merriweather Symphony of Lights– Nov. 25 – Jan. 2
The Symphony of Lights has been a time-honored Howard County holiday tradition set in historic Merriweather Post Pavilion. Made up of more than 300,000 bulbs, this family-oriented spectacular is a dazzling display of larger-than-life animated and stationary holiday light creations. With the addition of new lights and a refreshed course, your time through the twinkling, winding path will surely be a night to remember! You can even celebrate New Year’s Eve with the entire family at the Symphony of Lights + a final walk through the light displays!

Winter Glow at Mount Vernon– Nov. 27 – 29, Dec. 11 – 13 & 26 – 28
Join for an enchanting evening of winter lights at Mount Vernon.  See the estate illuminated with soft lights and holiday patterns as you listen to Christmas carolers and visit an 18th-century winter encampment.

Festival of Lights at Watkins Regional Park– Nov. 27 – Jan. 1
Bring a little twinkle to your holidays. Don’t miss this spectacular holiday drive-through event featuring more than 2.5 million twinkling lights! This year’s Festival features fun new displays.You won’t want to miss the giant, 54-foot LED musical tree! Purchase your tickets ahead of time.

Santa at B&O Railroad Museum and Northeast Maglev– Nov. 27
The holiday season is officially here when Santa comes to town, and we hope you’ll join us in greeting him when he arrives back in Baltimore aboard the B&O No. 6944! Santa’s locomotive will pull into the B&O Railroad Museum’s spacious Roundhouse, creating the perfect opportunity to take the first safe, socially distanced festive photos of the season. Once Santa enters the B&O to celebrate the Holiday Festival of Trains with you, additional seated photos will be available for purchase. Santa and his helpers will be wearing masks and the photo area is expanded to incorporate safe physical distancing. All activities and events are designed for a safe and fun visit so families can focus on the joy of the season. Tickets include full access to the B&O Holiday Festival of Trains offering a holiday wonderland of lights, Santa’s Winter Village shops and spectacular model train layouts to explore.

The Grinch’s Grotto at Tyson’s Corner– Nov. 27 – Dec. 31
This 2020 Holiday Season belongs to the Grinch. From the creators of The Dr. Seuss Experience, step into the Grinch’s Grotto, and commemorate the Grinchiest of years with our favorite green resident just north of Whoville. When you reserve your spot, you and your loved ones will get a rare opportunity to visit the Grinch in his special cave and strike a pose (or two) with him. Plus, you won’t leave empty-handed. Each group will emerge with not just a photo taken by a professional photographer, but also with a few extra special Grinchy surprises. Space will be very limited to ensure social distancing, so make sure and reserve your spot early! Now doesn’t all of this sound like a wonderful, awful idea?

Tenley WinterFest– Nov. 27 – Dec. 5
Tenley WinterFest is an eight-day celebration of the holiday season designed to showcase local businesses, community groups, and the neighborhood – all with a unique Tenleytown flair and lots of yetis.

Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park– Nov. 27 – Dec. 31 (closed on Dec. 25)
The wondrous themed display of lights at Seneca Creek State Park is a 3.5 mile drive through the enchanted setting taking you past more than 450 illuminated displays and 65 animated vignettes that light up the night. Purchase tickets ahead of time.

Festival of Trees– Nov. 27 – Nov. 29
The festivities you love will be online. Tree and wreath sales, gift boutiques, games, auction and raffle will happen 24 hours a day. Plus, family entertainment each day! All to support the kids of Kennedy Krieger Institute.

Lighting of the Wharf Tree– Nov. 27 at 6:00pm
Kick off the holiday season at The Wharf as we officially light our Christmas tree and transform the waterfront into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights. Bring your family to The Wharf for photos next to the 45-foot pine tree, then enjoy dinner together at one of our many restaurants. End your evening by roasting s’mores around the firepit at Camp Wharf!

Movies at the Wharf– Nov. 27 – Dec. 31
The holidays are the perfect time to cozy up by a firepit with hot drinks and a classic holiday movie on the big screen. Head to The Wharf throughout this holiday season for a pop-up outdoor movie theatre on Transit Pier where you can enjoy all the Christmas classics from your private firepit in front of a 20′ LED screen.

  • Home Alone: Fri. Nov. 27, 6pm | Sat. Nov. 28, 2 & 6 pm | Sun. Nov. 29, 2pm
  • Elf: Fri. Dec. 4, 6pm | Sat. Dec. 5, 2 & 6 pm | Sun. Dec. 6, 2pm
  • How the Grinch Stole Christmas:Fri. Dec. 11, 6pm | Sat. Dec. 12, 2 & 6 pm | Sun. Dec. 13, 2pm
  • A Christmas Story: Fri. Dec. 18, 6pm | Sat. Dec. 19 , 2 & 6 pm | Sun. Dec. 20, 2pm
  • Miracle on 34th Street: Thu. Dec. 24, 2pm
  • Die Hard: Sat. Dec. 26, 2pm & 6pm
  • Tyler Perry’s A Madea Christmas: Sun. Dec. 27, 2pm & 6pm
  • The Polar Express: Mon. Dec. 28, 2pm & 6pm
  • The Santa Clause: Tue. Dec. 29, 2pm & 6pm
  • National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: Wed. Dec. 30, 2pm & 6pm
  • Gremlins: Thu. Dec. 31, 2pm

Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street Holiday Lights– Dec. 1 – 31
Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting for a few days—stop by Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street Holiday Lights to explore, shop, and play this holiday season. The businesses along Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street and the 800 Block of Upshur Street will be decked out with holiday lights. Wander the corridor with neighbors and visitors to enjoy amazing holiday events, activities, and promotions throughout the month. And don’t forget to VOTE for your favorite light displays between December 1st and 14th. Learn more about the competition and award categories.

National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse– Dec. 3 – Jan. 1
The show will be available to stream on-demand throughout the holiday season. Due to COVID-19-related public health concerns, the National Park Service (NPS) and National Park Foundation (NPF) will not host a live audience at the 2020 National Christmas Tree Lighting. The National Christmas Tree will be lit every evening throughout December. Visitors are invited to President’s Park to view the National Christmas Tree and 56 trees representing every U.S. state, territory and the District of Columbia, decorated with ornaments designed by students from across the country.

Christmas Village at Leesburg Animal Park– December 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 22, & 23
Photos with Santa Claus from 6:30-8:30pm, Christmas arts & crafts room, live animal encounters, holiday photos with live animals, kid’s indoor play zone and more, bonfire & marshmallow roasting, thousands of outdoor holiday lights, nativity scene, animal petting & feeding, Christmas tree & wreath sales from local farms.

Merry & Bright at Tudor Place– Dec. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19
This holiday season, the Tudor Place garden will be illuminated with an array of lights. Explore sparkling garden rooms, twinkling lawns and shimmering tunnels of light. Stroll through the 5 ½ acre garden and celebrate the season at Tudor Place. Enjoy hot chocolate or hot cider on the South Lawn. Hourly tickets are available for purchase at 4:30pm, 5:30pm and 6:30pm.

Georgetown Glow– Dec. 4 – Jan. 10
Experience the sparkle of the season at Georgetown GLOW, the region’s only curated exhibition of outdoor public light art installations. Set against the historic backdrop of DC’s oldest neighborhood, it’s a whole new way to shine.

Holiday Market- Dec. 5, 12, & 19 from 10am – 2pm
Park View Farmers Market at Hook Hall this December for the Park View Holiday Market! The market will feature local artisans, makers, and food vendors. You will find hand-crafted gifts and holiday cheer. COVID-19 safety precautions will be strictly followed.

Lighting of the Menorah at the Wharf– Dec. 6 at 5:00pm
Come to The Wharf to celebrate the Festival of Lights. We’re continuing the annual tradition of lighting the menorah in District Square for each night of Hanukkah.

Light Yards from 2019

Light Yards– Dec. 7 – Jan. 10 from 6:00pm-10:00pm
The Yards is bringing back Light Yards for its fifth year at The Yards Park! Light Yards will continue its tradition as an opportunity to safely celebrate the holidays in a fun and socially-distant way during a time when many holiday traditions and events are not possible. The annual holiday installation will feature the premiere of the installation “Stars” by Australian-based immersive light design sculptors Amigo & Amigo. The larger-than-life stars constructed from metallic mesh feature dancing lights and play festive music, making for a perfect socially-distanced stroll for guests of all ages who want to safely experience some holiday cheer. This free-to-all installation will begin on December 7th and be illuminated nightly from 6-10pm at The Yards. 

National Menorah Lighting on the Ellipse– Dec. 10 at 4:00pm
Grab tickets in advance!

Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple– December 11- December 28
The annual Festival of Lights is one of Washington, DC area’s great community traditions. The tradition continues for the 2020 Christmas season in a modified way, putting safety and health first. Beginning December 11th, the Festival of Lights will open as a drive-through experience.

Chanukah Experience– Dec. 12 & 13
The Chanukah Story comes to life with an epic audio-visual presentation in a Covid-safe manner. From the safety of their cars, families will literally drive-thru the Chanukah story as multiple illustrations, props and actors bring the 2500-year-old Chanukah story to life. Guided by a professionally created soundtrack, they will experience the Chanukah events as it would be happening in real-time. Participants will meet [at a distance] the Chanukah characters and pick up souvenirs and treats as they move through the Chanukah story.

Laurie Berkner’s ‘holiday party’– 12:00pm & 5:00pm
“Get out your holiday lights, dreidels, nutcrackers, candy canes, Hanukkah gelt, wreaths, and stockings!” says Laurie Berkner. “Maybe your Christmas tree or menorah is already out. You could make a gingerbread house, an ornament, or some hot cocoa, and bring them to the show. Let’s build a winter wonderland together!”

Holiday Market at Victura Park (Kennedy Center)- Through December 20
Trim the trees and light the candles, this winter season, Victura Park is transforming into a festive holiday market! Every weekend our weekend outdoor market will feature an amazing line up of local artists, craftspersons, and other specialized vendors.

Zoo Lights at The National Zoo– 
EFFECTIVE MONDAY, NOV. 23: As a public health precaution due to COVID-19, all Smithsonian museums will temporarily close. They are not announcing a reopening date at this time and will provide updates on websites and social media. 

The District’s Holiday Boat Parade– 
Cancelled this year

Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens– 
Will not open this season

Holidays on the Harbor– 
Events are cancelled as of now

Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights–
Cancelled this year

Holly Trolley Fest at National Capital Trolley Museum–
Currently closed

Holiday tea for families in and around Washington, DC

Holidays are a time for creating memories, whether it be continuing a family tradition or beginning new ones. I’ve been lucky enough to go to a few high teas; my favorite was at The Plaza Hotel in New York City with my best friend followed by a Holiday Tea at the Willard Intercontinental with family. For those of you looking to take your Bambinos {or go without kids} here’s a list of some venues in our area where you can enjoy tea and crumpets; most with a holiday theme and following covid guidelines.

Photo: Pentagon City Ritz Carlton Kids Tea at Fyve

The Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City is now offering Afternoon Tea, bringing a time-honored tradition at an affordable price – all with safety and the health of guests in mind. Offered in their fyve restaurant, the hotel’s Afternoon Tea service is available at three price points, including a Teddy Bear Tea for children. It’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or for those just looking for a weekend respite from the day-to-day. The selection includes:   

  • Teddy Bear Tea
    • Selection of Children’s Tea Sandwiches
    • Chef’s Sweet Plate
    • Hot Chocolate or Tea

Afternoon Tea is currently available Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Starting November 12, tea will be offered Thursday- Sunday, 12:00pm – 3:00pm. Come December 3, tea will be served every day from 12:00pm – 3:00pm. guests can make a reservation at (703) 412-2762. 

Served Saturday & Sunday, 12:00pm to 4:00pm, as part of the regularly served Afternoon Tea. Enjoy the Ritz-Carlton Tea experience with your young ones with a menu especially designed for guests ages 12 and under.

They offer a Kids Dessert Tea Tour as well as high tea and various other kids events.

The Willard’s Holiday Afternoon Tea is one of the hotel’s most cherished holiday traditions. Seated in the grandeur of Peacock Alley, among the festive decor and elegant sounds of the harp, guests can enjoy a tantalizing array of festive teas, sandwiches and seasonally inspired pastries. Holiday Afternoon Tea is offered Seating Time: 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. (90-minute dining restriction) Offered:  Friday – Sunday, December 4-20, 26th.

The soothing sounds of local musicians fill the room, as you enjoy Afternoon Tea in the cozy atmosphere of The Shapiro Music Room at Strathmore. They do hold special events around various holidays so check their schedule to plan ahead. Charles Dickens’ Tea and Mrs. Claus Tea are a few of the popular holiday teas.

Not holiday specific. Seating is limited, so reservations are encouraged. $28.50 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity.All tea sandwiches and pastries are served family-style. 

Creativity is called for every Christmas season.  This year it is especially important to create good times and fun memories for all. Joyfully, in the past years, Mrs. B and St. Nick often sat together for a private tea party to review the ‘naughty and nice’ list of little children. Now Mrs. B invites little ones to join her and Santa for a special event. This is the 9th year for them getting together for tea and you are invited! Please join in what promises to be a merry and memorable time for you and your children.  It will be a festive party as only Mrs. B can create with her team of hard working little elves who love Christmas time.  All ages are welcome but children under 4 years old are required to have a parent in attendance. Tickets are limited to children only. Each and every child will have professional photos available for downloading to share with family and friends, far and near, the week following. This holiday season will be so special by starting it with Mrs. B, Santa Claus and her merry team of elves.

Enjoy a special dining experience with a variety of dainty tea sandwiches and assorted sweet treats. Several dates for Holiday Tea and Santa events. Situated within Tyson Corner Mall with access to Santa, an ice skating rink, Pottery Barn Kids, the Disney Store and over-the-top holiday decorations! See a guest review on an afternoon at Tysons.

Other establishments that offer tea service, not all with a holiday focus but some with children in mind:
The Tavern at the Henley Park Holiday Tea
Children’s Holiday Tea at The Mandarin Oriental
The Jefferson
Tea Cellar in the Park Hyatt Washington
The St. Regis

Cut-your-own tree farms around Washington, DC

Maryland

Gaver Tree Farm: Mt. Airy, MD
November 29 – December 23 from 9 am – 5 pm daily

Cut your own beautifully sheared Christmas trees: Douglas Fir, Fraser Fir, Canaan Fir, Blue Spruce and White Pine, or select from fresh-cut trees inside the Farm Market. Farm Market with Wreath Shop and Christmas Cafe, home of our famous apple cider donuts. Saws and hand carts are available for cut your own trees. Free shaking, baling and pin stand drilling. Please remember, ALL fall attractions are closed during the Christmas season. No pets. Cash or Credit accepted.

Closed for the season
Linden Hill Farm: Upper Marlboro, MD
Open Thanksgiving and then Friday, Saturday & Sunday’s only from 8:30am-4:30pm until sold out.

Freshly cut trees include Fraser, Canaan, Douglas Firs, and Scotch Pines. In- field varieties include White Pine, Douglas, Norway & Blue Spruce with limited Canaan and Concolor Firs. A blower, baler, bow saws & assistance with cutting and loading your tree are available free of charge. Don’t miss the Snack Shack featuring Nathan’s hot dogs, warm spiced cider, and hot chocolate. Cash or check only.

Mayne’s Tree Farm: Buckeystown, MD
Open Friday after Thanksgiving –  Christmas, daily from 9am – 5pm.

Mayne’s allows you to cut your own trees or choose from a pre-cut selection. Trees are White Pine, Douglas Fir, Fraser Fir, Canaan Fir, Concolor Fir. Pre-Cut Trees are Fraser & Douglas. Hayrides are available on weekends. No pets allowed.

Naughty Pine Nursery: Dickerson, MD
Saturdays & Sundays through December 22 from 10am – 4pm.

Naughty Pine Nursery grows a large selection of Douglas Fir, Blue Spruce and Norway Spruce Christmas Trees offering Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees for the holiday season! Cash or check only. Leashed pets welcome, credit cards accepted.

Triadelphia Lake View Farm (TLV): Glenelg, MD
Regular hours start November 29, 2019. Monday – Thursday from 12:00pm – 5:00pm and Friday-Sunday from 9:00am – 5:00pm.  

Santa comes and visits the farm Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 4pm, stop in and get your picture taken with him. Don’t forget to look around at the handmade wreaths, crafts, ornaments, and Christmas Tree Stands. Several different varieties of live trees for you to choose from with a large selection of fresh cut Fraser Fir trees that are brought in from the mountains. They offer Douglas Fir,  White Pine, Blue Spruce, Cannan Fir, Balsam Fir and Fraser Fir. Tree shaking, baling, drilling and the use of wagons and saws provided at no charge. Cash, check, Visa and MC accepted.

Closed for the season: Otterdale View: Union Bridge, MD
Open November 19 – December 15, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday      9am-5pm.

They offer a “choose and cut” Christmas tree operation and offer handmade wreaths, garland, etc. All Christmas trees are $60. After cutting your tree, enjoy complimentary warm apple cider and watch the toy train overhead as it travels around  inside the Christmas  shop.  The shop offers holiday crafts and Christmas decorations. They provide hand saws to cut trees and do not allow chainsaws. Pines, Firs, and Spruces available up to 6″ tall- no large trees available. Pets must be leashed. They accept cash, check and credit cards.

Butler’s Orchard: Germantown, MD
Tuesday-Sunday 9:30am- 6:00pm

No cut your own trees this year but they have pre-cut trees. Douglas, Canaan and Fraser Fir!  Priced by height and variety. Military Discount, $5.00 off. Custom Designed Wreaths and Gift Baskets!

Homestead Farm: Poolesville, MD
No trees this year

Virginia

Pre-cut trees available only: Clouse’s Pine Hill Farm: Winchester, VA
Opening November 29, and Closing on December 8, 2019 from 9am – 5pm Thursday-Sunday

Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, White Pine, Scotch Pine, Concolor Fir, Douglas Fir, Canaan Fir and Fraser Fir to choose from. In addition to all of the cut-your-own species above, there will also be a selection of pre-cut trees in Douglas Fir, Canaan Fir, and Concolor Fir to choose from. Clouse’s Pine Hill Farm offers a full range of fresh-cut mixed green Christmas wreaths. They accept cash, check, Visa, & Mastercard.

Closed for the season: Moose Apple Christmas Tree Farm: Berryville VA
November 29, 30, Dec 1, 5 – 8, 12 – 15, 19 – 22 from 9am – 4pm.

Santa will make an appearance Saturday December 7 from 10am-2pm & Sunday December 15 from 10am-2pm. There are White Pines, Douglas Fir, Concolor Fir, Canaan Fir, Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, White Spruce, and Blue Ice (Arizona Cypress). If you are looking for a tree in the 9-12 foot range, they will be bringing in a selection of Fraser Firs, Canaan Firs, Concolor Firs, and Douglas Firs ranging up to 12 feet.

Country Loving Christmas Tree Farm: Leesburg, VA
Open 9am – 5pm Saturdays & Sundays between November 30 – December 15and by appointments after that: (703)-398-7018.

White Pines, Scotch Pines, Norway Spruce, Red Cedar in addition to Fresh cut Fraser Firs from the Smokey Mountains. Pets welcome on a leash.

Closed for the season: Day Star Farm: Leesburg, VA
Open December 1 & 2 and December 8 & 9 between 9am-5pm on Saturdays & 12pm – 5pm on Sundays.

A horse farm for over 30 years and a cut-your-own Christmas trees farm in the Winter.

Closed after Dec. 22: Hartland Farm: Markham, VA
Open most days 9am-5pm.

Stocks Fraser Fir, Douglas Fir, Blue Spruce, White Pine and Serbia Spruce to cut down and has Virginia grown precut Fraser Firs. Saws, tie down assistance, shaking and wrapping of trees included with sleds available to help more your tree. Check out the holiday decorations too, such as handmade wreaths. Caramel apples and hot cider are for sale as well as free hot chocolate on weekends. Santa lands at Hank’s Christmas Trees on Sunday, December 1 from 10am-4pm. No pets please. Credit/debit cards accepted.

Joe’s Trees: Chantilly, VA
Open 7 days a week November 16 – December 16 from 9am-5pm.

Trees available: Fraser, Canaan, Concolor & Korean firs, White pine, Blue and Norway spruce. Tree heights 6’-15’.  Call ahead for availability of larger trees. Food & Hayrides (weather permitting) Nov. 29, 30 Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15. Christmas Shop with wreaths, jams, jellies, pickles and other canned goods for the holidays. Christmas decor, ornaments, hand-crafted artisan items, local lamb, beef and bison meats. Cash/Visa/MC/ Discover/Debit cards accepted.

Krop’s Crops: Great Falls, VA
Weekends only, 11am – dark

Cut your own or pick from the pre-cut trees. Noble, Fraser, Douglas, White Pine, Norway Spruce…the list goes on! Santa Claus also visits Krop’s Crops on some December weekends leading up to Christmas Eve (1pm – 4pm). They also sell poinsettias, wreaths, roping, ornaments, lights, tree stands, seasoned firewood and more!

Closed for the season: Snickers Gap: Bluemont, VA
Hours vary, see the daily blog for details.

At the farm they provide a map of the fields, a saw to cut your tree, and a rope to pull your tree back to the sales barn. You can enjoy complimentary hot apple cider before or after venturing into the fields to select your tree. When you bring it back to the barn, they shake every tree clean and bale each one tight on special machines for cleanliness and ease for transportation. They accept cash, checks, all major credit cards and Apple Pay. Pets welcome.

Middleburg Christmas Tree Farm: Round Hill, VA
Already closed for the season!

Subscription boxes for children

The last thing my children need are more toys this holiday season. I love giving my children (and to others as these subscription boxes make for a great gift!) experiences rather than another toy. Subscription boxes have become a great way for kids to make memories, stay busy creating something hands-on and have an experience where all of the necessary materials come delivered to their doorstep. Choose a topic that interests your child and order a box before committing to receiving one every month or every other month. Many of these subscription services offer first time sign-up deals as you visit the homepage which is an added bonus.

KiwiCo  believes that children learn by playing and doing and children are naturally curious and creative. KiwiCo was created to give children exposure to new materials, new tools, new techniques, and new concepts that encourage hands-on learning and fun. They are dedicated to inspiring these young scientists, artists, explorers. Below are the various crates they offer-

Panda Crate Explore & Discover (Ages 0-24mo)
Koala Crate Play & Learn (Ages 2-4)
Kiwi Crate Science, Art & More (Ages 5-8)
Atlas Crate Geography & Culture (Ages 6-11)
Doodle Crate Create & Craft (Ages 9-16+)
Tinker Crate Science & Engineering (Ages 9-16+)
Maker Crate Art & Design (Ages14-104)
Eureka Crate Engineering & Design (Ages 14-104)

Bookroo is a monthly subscription for kids ages 0-10 that helps them fall {even more} in love with reading by combining the excitement of opening a gift with the discovery of a new, wrapped, treasured book! The mission is to enable and empower parents to build their children’s book collections in an affordable and exciting way through curated monthly book deliveries. Bookroo believes in the power and impact of the written word in the life of a child and believe it’s never too early to start reading to children. Use this link to get 15% off your first order. We’ve raved about Bookroo before and will continue to do so because literacy is so important. Black Friday special: 25% off any multi-month subscription!! (Expires 12/3/19)

Raddish is a culinary lesson, creative project, and mealtime solution all-in-one. Raddish makes it easy for families to share delicious, quality time together with kits that never repeat! They’ll tear into Raddish kits filled with a collectible apron patch, illustrated recipes, tools, and thematic culinary fun like, “Ticket to Japan”, “Food is Art”, and “My Dream Restaurant”. Delicious recipes are packed with math, science, geography, history, culture, and more. Raddish takes the guesswork out of cooking with kids at a fraction of the price of a cooking class. 6 options to choose from for purchase. Also check out Kidstir for another cooking.

Sensory TheraPlay Box are toys to help develop important sensory motor skills and stimulate the senses. Engage your child in fun, silly sensory play! Items are therapeutic and can be calming or help manage anxiety. Curated for children with autism/ sensory needs in mind, but suitable for children of all abilities by a Pediatric OT. Each month’s box is carefully curated by a licensed occupational therapist and includes a description card inside.

Skip & Play is a monthly subscription boxes for babies, toddlers, and kids includes the very best, award-winning toys that encourage learning and development. Each month hand-selected toys will arrive which are matched up with the child’s age and stage of development. In the early years, there are toys including teething toys, a tummy time mat, bath toys, and other great items that your baby needs in their first year of growth. As they enter the second year the toys grow to match their curiosity, with shapes, colors, stackers, puzzles, and more. By ages 3, 4, and 5, there are pretend play sets, advanced puzzles, early writing tools, drawing pads, and more!

Bits Box provides monthly coding projects that teach elementary aged children how to program apps. Kids look through the materials and pick an app. Every box comes with dozens of coding projects, ranging from simple to more advanced. Kids type the app into the Bitsbox website and start with the code from the book, then change it to make it their own. Kids use and share their apps on any mobile device. Bitsbox apps run on any computer, tablet, or phone with a web browser.

Girls Can! Create inspires girls to BE and DO anything by introducing them to fearless women who made the world better. The company believes that real women make the very best heroes and every month, as a subscription service, they deliver them to girls 5-10 years old. Each crate or mini-mailer celebrates the life and work of one woman who changed the world through story, activities, play props, and more. Each month, meet a fearless woman who changed the world. Discover her in a 20-page book filled with games, fun and experiments. Explore her field with 2-3 fun science, engineering or art activities. Play props stickers and more.

Steve Spangler Science Club allows you to choose hands-on science kits. A new theme will be explored every month such as kitchen chemistry, glowing germs, the power of air or bubbling potions, electricity and more. Ideal for kids ages 5-12. Ignite the spark of science and creativity in your child. Learn the real science behind each amazing experiment.

Little Passports is a global adventure. They create award-winning subscriptions for kids that inspire them to learn about the world. Get 15% off all subscriptions using code: JOLLY

Early Explorers (Ages 3-5)
Science Junior (Ages 5-8)
World Edition (Ages 6-10)
USA Edition (Ages 7-12)
Science Expeditions (Ages 9+)

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