THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND DC
Join Washington Walks for Nation’s Capital Christmas
One of the highlights about the holidays are the festivities, decorations and everything in between. A Nation’s Capital Christmas is here to give you the ins and outs of just that—DC style. The three hour guided tour starts at McPherson metro station and takes guests around the city to see the National Christmas Tree, best holiday decorations and more.
The National Christmas Tree Lighting
The whole year has been building up to this. It’s finally time for the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony. In 1923, President Calvin Coolidge walked from the White House to the Ellipse to light a 48-foot fir tree. On December 1, 2011 the 89th National Christmas Tree Lighting will take place on the Ellipse in President’s Park at the White House. This year’s event is set to be bigger and better than ever. For the first time, the pre-show and lighting ceremony will be streamed live and will be available on demand.
Things To Do for Thanksgiving in DC
Thanksgiving isn’t just tables full of great food — although that’s definitely a plus — it’s about spending time with family and friends. We’ve pulled together some of the family-friendly events happening around the District for this year’s festivities.
![Hiking the Billy Goat Trail [on the blog]](http://dceventjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC00152-150x150.jpg)
Hiking the Billy Goat Trail [on the blog]
Today I hiked the Billy Goat Trail in Potomac, Maryland with some friends. Who knew we had such wonderful scenery in our backyard? A mere twenty-minute drive from DC, the trail follows a path between the C&O Canal and the Potomac River within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Outdoor enthusiasts come to walk, hike, run or bike, and water babies have options to paddleboard, canoe or kayak.
Dancing Under the Stars at Glen Echo Park
Glen Echo Park is a magical place where musical, artistic and educational worlds come together. Formerly an amusement park, Glen Echo has been a National Park since 1971. Located in Montgomery County, Maryland, it is easily accessible through the Beltway or public transportation. There is something for everyone at this cultural Mecca. At the Park, you can take classes in pottery, painting, photography, writing, music lessons and so much more!
Explore Annapolis: America’s Sailing Capital
Lazy, summer weekends present DC residents with an excellent opportunity to take a short drive out Route 50 East to historic Annapolis for a relaxing day in Maryland’s capital city. Tour Annapolis’ quaint cobblestone streets while soaking up some sun and history on the captivating waterfront. Wander through this charming little nautical city bordering the Chesapeake Bay and experience small-town hospitality paired with big-city culture.
Four Events on The Fourth
There’s plenty of noise on July 4th, from parades and fireworks to friends and family! Expects crowds on the National Mall early in the day, all claiming space for the 9:15 PM fireworks show. If you’re not up for the mall crowds check out Metromix’s map of all planned firework shows in DC, Maryland and Virginia. The National Independence Parade will begin at 11:45 AM and Jimmy Smits will be broadcasting live on PBS from the West Lawn of The Capitol from 8:00 – 9:30 PM. Here’s four events on the fourth a little more low-key, yet in full spirit of the holiday. Enjoy your Fourth!
Stepping Back Into History at the Antietam National Battlefield
About an hour’s drive away from Washington, DC is an eerily calm, huge expanse of land called the Antietam National Battlefield. The Battle of Antietam is known as one of the bloodiest battles in American History. 23,000 Confederate and Union soldiers were either hurt or killed during this Civil War campaign on September 17, 1862. To commemorate this historical event the National Park Service (NPS) preserved this piece of land and erected a Visitor’s Center.
Pop by Pope-Leighey House
Virginia is filled with wonderful places to visit – least of all magical wineries. But perhaps one of its best-kept secrets is a home designed by renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. In 1939 Pope-Leighey House was commissioned by a journalist, Loren Pope, whose salary was all of $50/week.
Sunday Afternoon Tea at the Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens
Washington, DC is peppered with large estates hidden behind tall walls and formidable iron gates but not all require a formal invitation for access. Fortunately, Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens opens it gates to the rest of us. Home of Post Cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, her mansion is located in a residential neighborhood in NW Washington DC and sits on 25 beautiful acres with 13 acres of formal gardens and a working greenhouse.
Visit the Beautiful Gardens and Shrines at The Franciscan Monastery
Need a moment to get away from the noise of the city? Not far from Catholic University of America within Washington, DC lies The Franciscan Monastery Memorial Church of the Holy Land. Built in 1899, it is located on top of a hill and overlooks the suburb of Brookland. Its secluded location offers a quiet, spiritual experience whether you’re a religious fanatic, an agnostic, an atheist or just someone who is craving a little bit of silence.
The National Arboretum Boasts Acres of Scenery and Greenery Right in DC
It’s that time of the year… when the world falls in love…with SPRING that is! But does the thought of fighting it out with the Cherry Blossom tourists flocking to the National Mall leave you cold? What if I told you that you didn’t have to? A mere three miles away from Capitol Hill is a little garden called the National Arboretum. The Arboretum boasts 446 acres of greenery with 9.5 miles of winding roadways.
