DC Archives - Beltway Bambinos

The King’s Speech at National Theatre + GIVEAWAY

January 21, 2020

The King’s Speech will be at The National Theatre February 11 – 16, 2020.

The King’s Speech is based on the true story of King George VI’s struggle with a speech impediment and the friendship he formed with his unconventional speech therapist, Lionel Logue. With the Nazi threat looming and civil unrest at home, royal secrets explode around the King as he’s thrust onto the world stage. David Seidler’s original play – which inspired the 2010 Oscar-winning film starring Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush – will make its long-awaited U.S. debut in a production The Mail proclaims “A right royal treat.”

This show is recommended for ages 13 and up. Find tickets here.

Giveaway: Enter to win a pair of tickets to opening night – Tuesday, February 11^th at 7:30pm. Comment on our Facebook page with a favorite theatre show you have seen at National Theatre or a favorite in general. Winner will be announced February 1, 2020.

Contest Regulations
Anyone associated with Allied (promo partners, employees, etc.) are not eligible to enter the contest. Winners cannot win on multiple outlets.

Byrdsmiles Orthodontics in Tenleytown provides orthodontic care for patients of all ages

December 2, 2019

Dr. Sonia Talley is a board-certified orthodontist at Byrdsmiles Orthodontics. Dr. Talley is going to offer her knowledge with Beltway Bambinos as it relates to orthodontics for children and adolescents and we are so pleased to share this information with you. Her first blog post is about orthodontics and how the field has progressed and improved thanks to advances in research and technology. The following post is written by Dr. Sonia Talley.

Dr. Sonia Talley and Dr. Kathryn Clark with the Byrdsmiles Team

Our Philosophy:

At Byrdsmiles Orthodontics we provide orthodontic care for patients of all ages. From a first phase of treatment that can begin around age 8 to a more comprehensive treatment to resolve crowding and misalignment in adults. We love treating the whole family!

Our philosophy is to take a conservative, research-based, preventative approach to orthodontic care. Each patient has a customized treatment plan developed. The plan takes into consideration the patients dental anatomy, skeletal structure, facial proportions and smile. It is through careful planning that we can set our patients up for a lifetime of excellent oral health.

What’s changed in Orthodontics?

Advances in technology have changed the way we drive, cook and even make phone calls. Life wouldn’t be the same without a rear view camera, an Instant Pot and Facetime. Forward strides of similar magnitude have changed the field of orthodontics, making your children’s orthodontic experience more comfortable and easy.

In order to move teeth a consistent force is needed, teeth don’t mind whether that force comes from a clear aligner such as invisalign or from braces. With the advent of Invisalign we as orthodontists have more tools to provide our patients with happy healthy smiles.

Do you think your experience with braces is a great way to prep your kids for their first orthodontist visit? Think again! Much has changed since the days where stainless steel wires were used that exerted high forces on teeth causing none too easily forgotten pain and soreness. Research has shown us that these traditionally used high forces were not ideal for the health of the teeth so they’ve been upgraded to gentle, consistent forces. With the advent of nitinol; a memory form wire, teeth are gently guided into better alignment while minimizing discomfort.

Before and after photo shows what a difference orthodontic treatment can make

Why early treatment?

Ever wonder why age 7 is when the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child have their first orthodontic exam? This is an age when children are in the early mixed dentition i.e. they have some baby teeth and some permanent teeth. At this visit we typically procure a Panoramic x-ray from your child’s dentist. This x-ray contains a wealth of information, it can tell us if the adult teeth are developing properly and on a good path of eruption, if there are missing permanent teeth or if there is crowding of permanent teeth in the bone that we cannot see with the naked eye. Using this imaging we are better able to determine if early treatment is indicated or if it’s best to monitor growth and development.

Panoramic x-ray of a patient in the mixed-dentition. Note the missing permanent lower left second premolar.

There’s been a shift in the way we, as orthodontists, approach treatment. Forty years ago it was typical to wait for all the permanent teeth to erupt before initiating treatment. Often times, crowding was so severe that the teeth struggled to erupt and in cases of severe crowding, extraction of permanent teeth was recommended. Nowadays, we take a more proactive approach and create a harmonious skeletal structure through growth modification. The key is to initiate treatment at the quintessential time, when the permanent teeth are at the ideal stage of development and the skeletal structure is still in formation. This occurs in pre-pubertal children, where the bones of the jaw are not yet fused.

8 year-old patient after getting her braces at Byrdsmiles

In this small window of opportunity with the use of partial braces, expanders and space maintainers we are able to create more space and preserve existing space to alleviate crowding and allow the developing teeth to erupt. I liken this as needing to create a parking space for each tooth to pull into, similar to a car in a garage. By setting ourselves up for success in this way, teeth erupt into healthy bony and soft tissue support. While not every child needs a first phase of treatment, when indicated, it sets us up for success and lifetime of healthy teeth.

We at Byrdsmiles Orthodontics would love the opportunity to get to know you and answer your questions. Please call us to schedule a complimentary new patient exam. You can also find us on Google, Facebook, and Rate a biz.

Location: 4110 River Rd. NW Washington, DC 20016
Phone: (202) 686-2108

Ice skating, holiday light displays and outdoor fun this holiday season in Washington, DC

November 19, 2019

Get outdoors this winter season; ice skating, light displays and more fun is in this post! Bundle up, grab your thermos of hot cocoa and enjoy the season.

Outdoor ice rinks
Most rinks offer ice skating lessons in addition to skate rentals

Canal Park Ice Rink– 202 M Street, SE Washington, DC 20003
November – February and open on holidays

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink– National Mall at 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20408
November 15 – March 15

Washington Harbour Ice Rink– 3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007 November 18 – March 15 and open on holidays

Silver Spring Veteran’s Plaza Ice Rink– 8523 Fenton St., Silver Spring, MD 20910
October 29 – ?

Rockville Town Square Ice Rink– 131 Gibbs St., Rockville, MD 20850
Mid-October – mid-March

Wharf Ice Rink– 960 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
November 26 – late February and open on holidays

Pentagon Row– 1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202
October 25 – mid-March

Outdoor festivities, light displays and more

Holidays on the Harbor– Now – Dec.
Holiday movies and fireworks takes place each Saturday through December. Be sure and warm up inside the Gaylord Resort, see the hanging tree and Christmas Village and then bundle up to check out ICE!. Get your tickets in advance.

Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens– Nov. 8 – Jan. 5
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. Revisit perennial favorites such as the Lakeside Lights, the Fountain of Lights, and the Holiday Nature Walk – and look for new displays each year. Put on your walking shoes and bring the family to experience a Northern Virginia festive tradition. Round out your visit by roasting marshmallows, and sipping on hot beverages by the fire. (Available for purchase at Light Refreshments).

The Polar Express Train Ride– Nov. 16 & 17, 23 & 24, 29 & 30
Dec. 1
Cold weather may be just around the corner, but so is The Polar Express! Don’t miss out on the journey of a lifetime as scenes from this celebrated holiday classic come to life before your very eyes! The conductor will punch your golden tickets and make sure you make it to The North Pole right on time, but not before you’ve enjoyed hot chocolate, cookies, and receiving the first gift of Christmas from Santa Claus himself! So don’t wait – get your tickets to The Polar Express Train Ride 2019 at the B&O Railroad Museum: where Baltimore BELIEVES!

Enchant Christmas at Nats Park– Nov. 22 – Dec. 29
Unwrap new traditions and make memories big and small as you wind your way through a luminescent land of beautiful arches, larger-than-life sculptures and decadent delights. Welcome to Enchant. Where magical memories are made. 2.5 million Christmas lights in 90,000 square feet of pure holiday magic with incredible food and beverage to accompany the experience. This is the World’s Largest Holiday Light Maze and Market debuting at Nationals Park. Tickets for Enchant start at just $19.00, and include access to the 200-foot long Ice-Skating Trail, Ice Bars, Artisanal Holiday Market.

Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens– Nov. 22 – Dec. 31 (closed Nov. 25-28 & Dec. 24 & 25)
Step into a magical winter wonderland illuminated with more than one million dazzling colorful lights shaped into hand-crafted, original art forms of flowers, animals and other natural elements. Stroll from garden to garden enjoying twinkling tree forms, fountains, sparkling snowflakes overhead and more.

Bulls Run Festival of Lights- Nov. 22 – Jan. 5
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. The festival happens annually at Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville, Virginia. Avoid crowds and go Mon-Thurs at a discounted rate.

Merriweather Symphony of Lights– Nov. 27 – Jan. 1
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!

Seasons Greenings at The U.S. Botanic Gardens– Nov. 28 – Jan. 5
Explore botanic gardens from Hawaii to Maine in this year’s holiday show. The best times to visit are weekdays early in December or on select Tuesday and Thursday evenings in December when the Conservatory is open until 8 pm with live seasonal music. Aside from these extended holiday hours, the Conservatory is open every day of the year, from 10am-5pm, free of charge.

Zoo Lights at The National Zoo– Nov. 29 – Jan. 1 (exception: Dec. 24, 25 & 31) hours are 5:00pm-9:00pm
Join the thousands of visitors who make ZooLights, powered by Pepco, a part of their annual holiday tradition. A free event, ZooLights includes live music performances, tasty winter treats and plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping. More than 500,000 environmentally friendly LED lights transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland! New this year: enjoy dozens of large, glowing animal lanterns and stroll through thousands of reflecting lights as part of the interactive ⁠art exhibit called “Entre Les Rangs.”

Christmas at Mount Vernon– Nov. 29 – Dec. 31
Christmas past meets Christmas present at George Washington’s estate. Just as the Washingtons celebrated the holiday with family and friends, visitors can start a new tradition of visiting Mount Vernon this holiday season.

Festival of Lights at Watkins Regional Park– Nov. 29 – 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!

Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park– Nov. 29 – 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.

Festival of Trees– Nov. 29 – Dec. 1
A three-day, family event featuring more than 800 uniquely decorated holiday trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses, live entertainment, over 100 gift boutiques and Santa himself. All gathered to support the children of Kennedy Krieger Institute at the Maryland State Fairgrounds.

City Center Tree Lighting– Nov. 30 at 6:00pm
The evening will include a joyful music performance by The Washington Chorus, balloon artists, face painters, holiday activities and more. NBC4’s Eun Yang hosts the official tree lighting ceremony and countdown. Enjoy the dazzling 75-foot tree, visit two resident 25-foot reindeer, and capture the spirit of the holidays with a photo under the Palmer Alley Dream Closet display!

Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street Holiday Lights – Dec. 1 – 31
Check out this new month-long community event. The businesses along Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street and the 800 Block of Upshur Street will be decked out with holiday lights. As part of the fun, the local businesses will be competing for the chance to win one of seven different awards for their Holiday Lights displays, and will be organizing amazing holiday events, activities, and promotions throughout the month. 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.

Union Station Norweigian Christmas Tree Lighting– Dec. 3, 2019 at 6:00pm
In the Main Hall of Union Station, a consortium of partners will present the annual Norwegian Christmas Tree Lighting to the people of Washington, D.C. This beloved holiday event, which attracted 5,000 guests in 2018, is presented free to the public and will feature performances by The String Queens, whose members have collaborated with artists such as Ledisi, Janelle Monáe, and Common, and the Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir.

National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse– Dec. 5 – Jan. 1
The National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is on December 5 and kicks off the holiday celebrations. You can view the lighting on TV on Dec. 9. Musical groups from Washington D.C. and across the country provide holiday entertainment to the countless visitors for a one of a kind holiday experience set against the backdrop of the National Christmas Tree. The tree is lit each day at 4:30pm and will stay up through Jan.1.

Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple– Dec. 5 – Jan. 4
As one of the D.C. area’s great community traditions, the Festival features free performances nightly in the comfortable, state-of-the-art theater located in the Visitors’ Center while the Temple grounds glow with 650,000 lights.

Christmas Village at Leesburg Animal Park– December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22 & 23 from 6:00-9:00pm
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.

Georgetown Glow– Dec. 6 – Jan. 5
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.

20th Anniversary Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights– Dec. 7 at 5:30 pm
View dozens of brightly lit boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. Enjoy dockside festivities from 2pm to 8pm in Waterfront Park including a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company and holiday music and giveaways from 97.1 WASH-FM. Take part in hands-on activities including a Letters to Santa postcard station from paper goods boutique Penny Post, a holiday craft activity from AR Workshop Alexandria and a bookmark making station from Old Town Books. Enjoy savory meatballs from Pizzeria Paradiso and a hot chocolate bar from Dolci Gelati. On the Alexandria City Marina, Riverside Taco Company presents a Parade Day Patio Party with hot cider and bottomless bites included in admission. At 3:30pm, Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by fireboat at the Alexandria City Marina to take photos with children and families at the annual Torpedo Factory Art Center Holiday Festival.

The District’s Holiday Boat Parade– Dec. 7, 2019 – 6:00pm-9:00pm
Celebrate the holidays and watch beautifully decorated boats pass by The Wharf. Get into the spirit as you decorate ornaments or warm up by the Camp Wharf fire pit while making a s’more. Go ice skating and sample winter drinks at the Waterfront Beer and Wine Garden. And bring the whole family to meet Santa at the lighted Christmas tree and make memories during this annual DC tradition.

Holly Trolley Fest at National Capital Trolley Museum– Dec. 7-8, 14-15, & 21-22
Celebrate the season with toy trains and Santa aboard the streetcars from 12:30pm-4:30pm, and on December 28 & 29 without Santa. Also see the Winter Wonder Garden and Winter in Washington displays.

Light Yards– On display Dec. 7 – Jan. 4
The DC region’s premier outdoor public light art installation, returns for its fourth year at The Yards, with two must-see, worldwide traveling light installations, The Pool, by New York-based Jen Lewin Studio and Angels of Freedom, by Israel-based OGE Group. The Poolwill invite visitors to hop, skip, and jump across 106 interactive circular pads of light, roughly 3 feet in diameter and 2.5 inches tall. As multiple visitors play in The Pool, their movements will come together to create a giant canvas of shifting and fading colors in mesmerizing patterns.A beautiful and social sculptural installation, Angels of Freedom aims to reveal the inner beauties of everyone by visually turning visitors into real-life angels. Visitors will be invited to pose with five giant, neon-colored wings and white halos as a reminder that everybody counts and deserves love.

Ice Maze at City Center DC– Dec. 13 – 15
Get lost in the a-MAZE-ing, magic of the holidays with CityCenterDC’s icy tradition. This year, CityCenterDC is building the largest clear ice maze in the United States built with 110,000 pounds of ice. Washingtonians will not want to escape the towering seven foot walls of this chilly challenge.

Christmas Caroling at the Wharf– Dec. 21 from 5:00pm-7:00pm
Enjoy music from strolling Christmas carolers and a meet-and-greet with Santa and one of his elves! More info to come.

Family fun pancake battle fundraiser supporting Generation Hope

October 7, 2019

On Sunday,November 17, 2019 {NEW DATE} head to Nationals Park for a festive afternoon celebrating education, family, and delicious food for a family-friendly fundraiser supporting Generation Hope! Enjoy pancake masterpieces from the region’s leading “education celebrities,” a full brunch and mimosa bar, activities for kids, lawn games, the festivities of Nats Park, and a silent auction—all while supporting the life-changing work of Generation Hope. This is a family-friendly event, and children 5 and under are FREE!

Generation Hope surrounds motivated teen parents and their children with the mentors, emotional support, and financial resources that they need to thrive in college and kindergarten, thereby driving a two-generation solution to poverty.

WHEN: Sunday, November 17, 2019 from 11:00am – 1:30pm {NEW DATE}
WHERE: National’s Park: 1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003
WHY: A fundraiser to support Generation Hope, a DC nonprofit that surrounds motivated teen parents and their children with the mentors, emotional support, and financial resources that they need to thrive in college and kindergarten, thereby driving a two-generation solution to poverty.
BUY TICKETS, starting at $20
MORE INFORMATION

With excitement the following local education champions will be joining the fun as pancake team chefs:

Rushern L. Baker III, Former Prince George’s County Executive
Dr. DeRionne Pollard, President of Montgomery College
Hans Riemer, Councilmember At-Large, Montgomery County

Look forward to seeing you there!

FitCampNation Summer Camp at Deal Middle School

April 30, 2019

FitCampNation Summer Camp is back this summer with more fun, excitement, activities and games than ever before! They focus on fitness, intro to sports and enrichment, structured play, and nutritional education, all in a fun and nurturing environment!

Session information is as follows:

Session 1: June 24th through June 28th
Session 2: July 1st through July 5th (no camp July 4th or 5th)
Session 3: July 8th through July 12th
Session 4: July 15th through July 19th
Session 5: July 22nd through July 26th

$350 per session ($225 for session 2, Independence Day week)
$75 per day drop in rate
10% sibling discount & 10% multi-week discount

Please email us with questions or visit FitCamp Website.
REGISTER FOR FITCAMP HERE!

Where to spend Martin Luther King Day with kids in Washington, DC

January 18, 2019

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’” There are plenty of places open and needing assistance on Monday to serve those less fortunate and other places open to remember King. Here is our list of volunteer opportunities that aren’t necessarily MLK related but welcome you any time. We’ve got some events and opportunities you can share with your child to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. below.

In case you are in need of mid-winter break camp or MLK Day camp, check the list of engaging camps here.

What is Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Why is it a “Day of Service?” explained from the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Legislation signed in 1983 marked the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as a federal holiday. In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service and charged the Corporation for National and Community Service with leading this effort. Each year, on the third Monday in January, the MLK Day of Service is observed as a “day on, not a day off.” MLK Day of Service is intended to empower individuals, strengthen communities, bridge barriers, create solutions to social problems, and move us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.”

Monday, January 21, 2019:

8:00am-9:00am: Wreath laying service at MLK Monument

9:30am-11:30am: MLK Day of Service at Tregaron Conservancy

10:00am:MLK Day of Service at Anacostia Park

10:00am-6:00pm: MLK Dare to Dream at The American Visionary Art Museum
A celebration in honor of one history‘s greatest visionaries. Join us for special performances by DewMore Baltimore, Chin-Yer Wright, Kondwani Fidel, Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women, and Keur Khaleyi African Dance Company. Plus, enjoy birthday cake, a hands-on art workshop, and more at this FREE, fun-filled day! See our latest exhibition “PARENTING: An Art without a Manual” with FREE admission all day.

11:00am: 2019 Peace Walk

12:00pm: 38th Annual Martin Luther King Jr., Parade

3:00pm: Dr. MLK Jr Tribute & Celebration at Strathmore
Montgomery County celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King’s life through dramatic readings, music, and dance performances. This will be the first time in many years the holiday falls on his actual birthday, making this program particularly significant, with very special entertainment including a choral performance by the civil rights iconic Carlton Reese Memorial Unity Choir from Birmingham, Alabama. A visual art display from students interpreting what their dreams are for the future will also be presented. Free tickets are required for this event, and will be distributed onsite the day of the performance (Monday, January 15) starting at 2:30pm. All patrons must be in line to receive tickets, and one ticket will be distributed per person. The line will form in the Music Center foyer, starting near the café. Patrons may enter on the 3rd floor near the skybridge. Tickets are for general admission seating, which will begin at 3pm. Come early for the best seating.

6:00pm: Let Freedom Ring! at Kennedy Center

Events happening all weekend long:

Various MLK volunteer opportunities can be found here

Visit the Martin Luther King Memorial

Join Rock Creek Conservancy
There are volunteer events in your neighborhood as well as other locations throughout Washington, DC, and Montgomery County, MD. Schedule below-

I Have a Dream weekend at Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy through hands-on educational activities exploring African-American history and heritage during Port Discovery’s “I Have a Dream Weekend.” Join in a variety of interactive programs designed to educate, inspire and help children of all ages to understand the impact Martin Luther King, Jr. made on America and the world throughout the weekend.

DC Libraries have celebrations all weekend long

Saturday & Sunday: Portrait Story Days: MLK

Saturday & Sunday: MLK Painting for Peace Freestyle Sessions at Art Jamz

~~Montgomery County MLK Day of Service~~: ALL FULL. Keep in mind for next year

Thanksgiving in and around Washington, DC

November 20, 2018

Thanksgiving

Season’s Greenings at the United States Botanic Garden –This year, take a train ride across America as the annual holiday show Season’s Greenings showcases train stations! Plant-based recreations of iconic train stations from across the United States will be represented in the train room. Explore classic stations like New York City’s Grand Central Terminal, St. Louis’ Union Station, and many more. Thousands of blooms will be on display throughout the Conservatory, including a showcase of heirloom and newly developed poinsettia varieties. Our collection of D.C. landmarks made from plant materials will return to fill the Garden Court, this year including a botanical version of Washington, D.C.’s Union Station. Celebrate the holidays and America’s railroad history.
Volunteer with your family
ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas at the Gaylord National Resort- ICE! is a signature holiday attraction open Nov. 16-Jan. 1. Watch Charlie Brown rediscover the meaning of Christmas as the beloved story unfolds through two million pounds of ice sculptures and displays. Cirque Dreams Unwrapped will entertain your family in the Atrium, get festive at the Christmas Village which allows you to decorate gingerbread houses, ice skate, enjoy milk and cookies with Mrs. Claus and more.
Mount Vernon by candlelight- Join Mount Vernon’s residents and visitors for a festive evening. The experience begins in the Ford Orientation Center, where you can enjoy the sounds of the holiday season and view spectacular Christmas trees highlighting the lives of the Washingtons. After the tour concludes, continue the experience by visiting the Greenhouse and participating in 18th-century dancing, just as the Washingtons might have done during the holidays. Enjoy cookies while sipping warm cider, listening to fireside caroling, and paying a visit to Aladdin the Christmas camel. The evening will conclude with live music in the Education Center Lobby and an opportunity to visit the Education Center exhibits and The Shops.
Go to a movie: Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2, Grinch 2, The Nutcracker and the 4 Realms, Mowgli

Need last minute Thanksgiving decor? Check out Caravan Shoppe for downloadable (send to a local print shop) interactive decorations! Pictured below

Friday and beyond
#OptOutside with REI
REI thinks spending time outdoors is more important that shopping! They pay their employees to #OptOutside on Friday and invite you to join.

Zoo Lights at The National Zoo opens Friday
Downtown Frederick Partnership in celebrating their 16th annual Frosty on Friday. Help spread holiday cheer with a full day of early and late shopping hours, carriage and trolley rides, caroling & , and fun seasonal activities.
Reston Town Center Holiday Parade & The Reston community kicks off the holiday season with a full day celebration including a holiday parade, visits with Santa, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and more on Friday.
Plenty of volunteer opportunities
ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas at the Gaylord National Resort ICE! is a signature holiday attraction open Nov. 16-Jan. 1. Watch Charlie Brown rediscover the meaning of Christmas as the beloved story unfolds through two million pounds of ice sculptures and displays. Cirque Dreams Unwrapped will entertain your family in the Atrium, get festive at the Christmas Village which allows you to decorate gingerbread houses, ice skate, enjoy milk and cookies with Mrs. Claus and more.
Mount Vernon by candlelight- Join Mount Vernon’s residents and visitors for a festive evening. The experience begins in the Ford Orientation Center, where you can enjoy the sounds of the holiday season and view spectacular Christmas trees highlighting the lives of the Washingtons. After the tour concludes, continue the experience by visiting the Greenhouse and participating in 18th-century dancing, just as the Washingtons might have done during the holidays. Enjoy cookies while sipping warm cider, listening to fireside caroling, and paying a visit to Aladdin the Christmas camel. The evening will conclude with live music in the Education Center Lobby and an opportunity to visit the Education Center exhibits and The Shops.
Maryland Christmas Show at the Frederick Fairgrounds –Nothing brings back the yuletide spirit quite like the Maryland Christmas Show. For the 34th season visitors from near and far will discover the joys of shopping at Maryland’s premier Christmas event. The Maryland Christmas Show, located in historic Frederick City, brings together many fine artisans and merchants to make your holiday shopping an enjoyable event. Two weekend event; November 16, 17 & 18 November 23, 24 & 25
Cut Your Own Christmas Tree with this great list from Trip Savvy
Downtown Holiday Market– The 14th Annual Downtown Holiday Market is located on the F Street sidewalk in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum & National Portrait Gallery between 7th & 9th Streets, NW. Bringing a unique and festive shopping “village” to the heart of Downtown DC, the market features more than 150 regional artisans, crafters and boutique businesses of ethnically produced goods. Hundreds of diverse gift items, such as jewelry, pottery, paintings, and textiles will be offered by 60 exhibitors each day.
Washington Capitals take on Detroit on Friday for a 4:00pm face-off
NSO Pops: Walt Disney Animation Studios—A Decade in Concert at The Kennedy Center. Scenes from Frozen, Moana, Zootopia & more with LIVE music. Friday-Sunday

Holiday shows, ballets and concerts

Holiday tea

2018 Guide to holiday shows, ballets and concerts in and around Washington, DC

November 3, 2018

Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker at Warner Theatre: Nov. 29-Dec. 28, 2018
DC’s perennial favorite, Septime Webre’s The Nutcracker, celebrates 15 years in 2018 with 40 performances! This celebrated production is set in historic 1882 Georgetown with George Washington, King George III, and other historical figures. Join us again with family and friends or start a new holiday tradition with your loved ones. The Nutcracker running time is approximately two hours including one intermission.

Offerings from The Washington National Cathedral

Messiah- G. F. Handel: Dec. 7-9, 2018
A beloved Christmas favorite featuring the Cathedral Choir.

Cathedral Choral Society: Joy of Christmas: Dec. 15 & 16, 2018
Celebrate the warm spirit of the season in a majestic setting. A well-loved Washington, D.C. holiday tradition, this concert includes Christmas favorites and a festive carol sing-along. The program will feature a newly commissioned carol by popular British composer Paul Mealor.

Offerings from The Kennedy Center

Ballet West: The Nutcracker: Dec. 5-9, 2018
Ballet West returns to perform the D.C. premiere of its whimsical new production of The Nutcracker, which was unveiled in Salt Lake City last year. Pairing reimagined designs with beloved choreography, the opulent production delivers treasured moments and surprising new delights.

The Washington Chorus presents A Candlelight Christmas: Dec. 7-22, 2018
It’s not Christmas without The Washington Chorus! Featuring brass, organ, sing-alongs, and the magnificent candlelight processional.

Merry TubaChristmas!: Dec. 10, 2018 at 6:00pm
This year marks the 45th anniversary of MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS!, founded by Harvey Phillips, in which hundreds of tuba, sousaphone, and euphonium players from around Washington, D.C., play traditional Christmas music. Free general admission tickets will be distributed in the Nations Gallery starting at approximately 4:30 p.m., up to two tickets per person.

Washington National Opera: Holiday Family Opera: The Lion, the Unicorn, and Me:Dec. 14-16, 2018
As the first Christmas nears, a special character will share the Nativity story from his perspective: the donkey! Director Francesca Zambello brings the award-winning children’s book to vibrant life in this heartwarming family opera, revived after its acclaimed 2013 world premiere.

National Symphony Orchestra: A Holiday Pops! Under the Mistletoe with Ashley Brown: Dec. 14-15, 2018
Warm your spirit with fresh takes on comforting classics in this singalong tradition with the NSO and The Washington Chorus, a perfect holiday treat for the entire family! Join us in the festively decorated Concert Hall for this year’s program that welcomes musical theater darling Ashley Brown—originator of the title role in Mary Poppins on Broadway—in her NSO debut.

Getty Music Presents Keith & Kristyn Getty and Friends: SING! An Irish Christmas: Dec. 15, 2018 at 8:00pm
Join Ireland’s own Keith and Kristyn Getty, writers of modern hymns and carols, for their seventh annual tour of An Irish Christmas.

The Choral Arts Society of Washington presents Songs of the Season: Dec. 16-24, 2018
Choral Arts brings Songs of the Season to the Kennedy Center Concert Hall.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze at MGM National Harbor
This critically acclaimed extravaganza is the nation’s iconic holiday stage spectacular and part Broadway musical, new cirque adventure and a family show – all wrapped into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family. Weekday performances are scheduled to begin nightly at 7:30 p.m. and weekend shows are scheduled to begin at 2 p.m.

National Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah: Dec. 20-23, 2018
Join the NSO, exceptional singers, and a heavenly chorus in the festively decorated Concert Hall for our holiday tradition! Experience all of the hope, redemption, and grace of Handel’s much-loved Messiah, conducted by Nicholas McGegan.

Messiah Sing-Along: Dec. 23, 2018 at 6:00pm
Be part of Washington’s most popular free holiday event, the Kennedy Center’s Messiah Sing-Along. Back by popular demand, the evening concert features conductor Nancia D’Alimonte as she leads members of the Opera House Orchestra, guest soloists, a chorus of 200, and a veryenthusiastic audience in Handel’s masterpiece. A family and community tradition since 1971! Free general admission tickets will be distributed in the Hall of Nations starting at approximately 4:30 p.m., up to two tickets per person.

All-Star Christmas Day Jazz Jam: Dec. 25, 2018 at 6:00pm
Join in the 20th annual All-Star Christmas Day Jazz Jam, a Millennium Stage tradition, with host/vibraphonist Chuck Redd, drummer Lenny Robinson, trumpeters Robert Redd and Tom Williams, bassist James King, and vocalist Delores King Williams.

Music for Young Audiences: Timbalooloo Live: Dec. 26-31, 2018
Explore the thrilling language of instruments! Grammy Award®–winning clarinetist and composer Oran Etkin and his band use games, stories, songs, and movement to teach children rich musical and cultural heritage. Age 3+

Offerings from Strathmore

Manheim Steamroller: Dec. 2, 2018
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for over 30 years! Grammy Award-winner Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics along with a selection of compositions from his groundbreaking Fresh Aire series which introduced the distinctive Mannheim sound to all of America. Experience the magic as the spirit of the season comes alive with dazzling multimedia effects and the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller.

National Philharmonic Holiday Pops: Dec. 7, 2018 at 7:30pm
Experience the joy and magic of the holidays! Hear Ms. Blake sing O Holy Night and other favorite holiday solos and sing along to seasonal classics including White Christmas with your family and friends at Strathmore. Ms. Blake was recently seen in Signature Theater’s Titanic. Come early to this special concert, supportiing military families of the USO-Metro, to view the Polar Express Train, decorate an ornament and hear young carolers. Members can enjoy a delicious hot chocolate bar.

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra: Cirque Nutcracker: Dec. 13, 2018 at 8:00pm
The awe-inspiring talents of Troupe Vertigo come to the concert hall as acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, strongmen and high-flying aerialists join the BSO for this spectacular holiday-themed show.

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker: Dec. 16-17, 2018
Christmas is coming and so is the one and only Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Presenting world class Russian artists, hand-painted sets, Russian Snow Maidens, and jubilant Nesting Dolls—Great Russian Nutcracker brings the Christmas spirit to life for all ages. “Kids wide-eyed with delight!” says The New York Times. Experience the Dove of Peace Tour, spreading goodwill in over 100 cities across North America. Get seats now for the whole family and make memories for a lifetime at Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker!

The Hip Hop Nutcracker: Dec. 18-19, 2018
This holiday mash-up for the whole family is back by popular demand! The Hip Hop Nutcracker reimagines Tchaikovsky’s classic score through explosive hip-hop choreography. A dozen all-star dancers, an on-stage DJ, and an electric violinist bring the traditional Nutcracker story to life in contemporary New York City.

A Candlelight Christmas: Dec. 20-21, 2018
It’s not Christmas without The Washington Chorus! Featuring brass, organ, sing-alongs, and the magnificent candlelight processional, A Candlelight Christmas includes audience favorites such as “The Dream Isaiah Saw,” “Hallelujah Chorus,” and more.

National Philharmonic: Handel’s Messiah: Dec. 22-23, 2018
No Christmas celebration is complete without a performance of Handel’s uplifting oratorio Messiah, a work that has delighted and inspired audiences worldwide since its premiere in 1741. The perennial favorite features such timeless highlights as “And the Glory of the Lord” and the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Messiah will once again infuse audiences with its beauty in a performance by the acclaimed National Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorale and world-class soloists, led by conductor Stan Engebretson.

More shows in and around Washington, DC at various locations:

Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas at Adventure Theatre: Nov. 16-Jan. 6
What could be fancier than Christmas? Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles-and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Oohlala! This year, Nancy is especially excited. After selling some of her old gowns and accessories, Nancy has enough money to buy a brand-new sparkly tree topper. She can’t wait to decorate the Christmas tree. But when things don’t turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous?

Encore Stage & Studio presents Jingle ARRGH the Way! : Nov. 16-18 and Nov. 30-Dec. 9, 2018
A mysterious message left in the crow’s nest of their ship brings Captain Braid Beard and his pirate mates back to North Beach to seek out young Jeremy Jacob to help solve a riddle and find the Christmas treasure. Favorite characters, a rollicking story, great songs, and a trip to the North Pole to find “you know who,” this production is based on a story by Melinda Long, author of How I Became a Pirate. We recommend this musical for ages 4 and older.

A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre: Nov. 15-Dec. 30, 2018
Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Originally conceived by Michael Baron, this music-infused production captures the magic and joy of Dickens’s Yuletide classic. Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returns to play Ebenezer Scrooge. This annual production has been a Washington tradition for more than 35 years.Length: 2 hours with one intermission. Recommended for ages 5 and older.

The Nutcracker on Strings at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo Nov. 23-Dec. 30, 2018
Tiny Tots: Nutcracker Fantasy at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo Nov. 23-Dec. 30, 2018

Holiday Sing-A-Long at Wolf Trap: Dec. 1, 2018 at 4:00pm
Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap’s 2017 Holiday Sing-A-Long! This musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with local choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area. Wolf Trap will be participating in Toys for Tots by collecting new, unwrapped toys at the entrance to the Filene Center before the Sing-A-Long. Donations are voluntary and not required. Admission is free and no tickets are necessary. Parking is free but limited so please plan on arriving early. Bring a candle and join the tradition of exiting the Filene Center with a candlelight processional during the last verse of “Silent Night.” There will also be a ‘Jing-A-Long’ during the singing of Jingle Bells so remember to bring a bell and your holiday cheer!

Frosty the Snowman at The Performing Arts Factory: Dec 1, 8, 15, 22, 27, 29 at 11:30 am. Sundays Dec 2, 16 at 2:00pm

Other Voices Theatre presents an hour long heartwarming original musical that tells the story of the magic hat that brings Frosty to life and also has the magical ability to transform others who wear it.

Seasons of Light at Discovery Theater: Weekdays Dec. 3- Dec. 21 at 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., (with additional 1 p.m. performances on Dec. 13, 18, & 19)
Join in the annual celebration of seasonal holidays from around the world. The history and customs of Diwali (Devali), Chanukah, Las Posadas, Ramadan, Sankta Lucia Day, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the First Nations’ tradition of the Winter Solstice make for an amazing interactive event that bridges communities and cultures. Back for its 20th season, this signature Discovery Theater show sells out early, so get your tickets now!

Madeline’s Christmas presented by Creative Cauldron: Dec. 6-23, 2018
She’s Back!! After sold out runs at the Cauldron in 2014 & 2017, we couldn’t resist one more visit from everyone’s favorite precocious little Parisian. “In an old house in Paris, covered in vines, lived 12 little girls in two straight lines.” And with that familiar phrase, author, illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans sets in motion the adventures of the brave and resourceful Madeline! In this musical adaptation, Madeline’s schoolmates and tutor are all sick in bed on Christmas Eve, unable to go home to be with their families. So, it’s Madeline to the rescue! And with the help of a magical rug merchant she takes her friends on a Christmas journey they will never forget.

(Picture: The Mini-Nut) Maryland Youth Ballet presents Mini-Nutcracker: Dec. 8 & 9, 2018
MYB’s Mini-Nut is a delightful abbreviated version of our classic, award-winning, The Nutcracker, designed to introduce children to the magic of this family favorite. This beloved holiday tradition with soaring music by Tchaikovsky promises to hold the attention of even the youngest theatergoer. Come see the Nutcracker turn into a handsome Prince, see the battle between the Nutcracker and the Seven Headed Mouse King. Watch the sparkling Snow Queen float through her kingdom. See the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy and the magical residents of The Kingdom of Sweets! Suitable for all ages, this version is less than an hour and performed by cast members from MYB’s full-length production. A perfect holiday mini-treat!

The Christmas Revels: A French-Canadian Celebration of the Winter Solstice: Dec. 8-16, 2018
Spend a festive holiday evening with the Queen — Elizabeth the First, that is! The year is 1599, England is swept up in a flowering of music and drama, and master Shakespearian actor and fool Will Kemp has become an overnight sensation by Morris dancing from London to the town of Norwich in just nine days! Queen Elizabeth herself is also on the way to Norwich, and the locals enlist Kemp’s help as they prepare a Winter play worthy of Her Majesty. But Elizabeth has left the trappings of court far behind — and she has much more rustic entertainment in mind.

The Nutcracker presented by Maryland Youth Ballet: Dec. 14-23, 2018
Voted both Outstanding Production in Classical Dance and Outstanding Youth Performance by Metro DC Dance Awards, Lees’ version of the holiday classic is a metropolitan area family favorite. There is something for everyone in this fun and engaging version of The Nutcracker—a huge cannon that fires at the mice, a beautiful growing Christmas tree, whirling flakes in a snowstorm, cute little Ginger Snaps peeking out of a huge Mother Ginger skirt, a lovely Sugar Plum dancing with her handsome Cavalier, and extraordinary costumed characters from the Kingdom of Sweets.

Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show at Atlas Performing Arts Center: Dec. 14, 2018 at 7:30pm
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. Over the last six years, this internationally-renowned percussive dance company has created a contemporary holiday tradition at the Atlas, featuring friendly, furry characters, pre-show instrument-making workshops, photo ops, and even a dance party. Why celebrate the holidays sitting still when you can step with Step Afrika! Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is suited to adults and kids age four and up. Join us in the lobby 30 minutes before show time to decorate your own musical instrument so you can make music with Step Afrika! during the performance. (Pictured below)

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