From the crack of the bat to the slide on into home, NCAA baseball packs a wallop of home run frenzy for what’s oft called America’s favorite pastime. Diamond action starts in January, continuing through most of June.
CUA Cardinals, Coppin State Eagles, George Mason Patriots, George Washington Colonials, Georgetown Hoyas, Howard Bison, Maryland Terrapins, Navy Midshipmen, Towson Tigers, UMBC Retrievers.
A military color guard salutes memory of the slain civil rights leader at the Lincoln Memorial, where Dr. King delivered his “I Have A Dream” speech. Call (212) 619-7222 for more information.
In January or February, depending on the moon, Washington’s Chinatown takes on renewed life in the streets with traditional firecrackers, drums and colorful dragon dancers. Action concentrates on H Street NW, between 5th and 8th streets. Call (202) 638-1041 for more information.
The doors of Robert E. Lee’s Arlington, Virginia house open for an afternoon of 19th-century music and displays in a tribute to one of the South’s military heroes. Call (703) 557-0613 for more information.
Towards the end of January, Ave Maria University Students for Life, dedicated to promote the dignity of the individual human being from the moment of conception to natural death, present a mass in the Oratory followed by dinner and a presentation at AMU’s The Bean on Annunciation Circle to share stories of this year’s March for Life, organized by the Ave Maria University Founders Club. Call (239) 353-1632 for more information.
On the last weekend in January, the Dulles Expo Center hosts 300 of the country’s best artists and craftsmen, where visitors can talk with the artists and purchase their works, including pottery, sculpture, glass, jewelry, fashion, furniture, home accessories, garden items, and photography, and watch pottery throwing demonstrations, stone carving, metal spinning, furniture making, wood turning, paper making, live entertainment, and enjoy gourmet food samples and children’s activities. Call (800) 210-9900 for more information.
A wreath-laying ceremony and a reading of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address highlight this salute to the nation’s 16th president at the memorial bearing his name. Call (202) 619-7222 for more information.
This five-day event at the Washington Convention Center showcases upcoming models from dinghies to yachts, along with nautical accessories. Call (202) 789-1600.
During the last week in February, Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, VA hosts the largest home and garden show in the area, featuring how-to workshops, presentations by experts, and vendor expositions of every aspect of home furnishing, decorating, maintenance of indoor and outdoor areas. Call (703) 378-0910.
For the first 2 weeks in March, area theaters screen new independent films, various venues host workshops on music, acting and cinematography, and professionals hold public seminars on the state of the independent film industry. Call (202) 717-0700 for more information.
In mid-March, the Fillmore Arts Center sponsors a benefit in which the area’s eminent artists are paired with the perfect patron host for a dinner limited to 8 guests. Call (202) 337-3748 for more information.
Green prevails at this downtown parade featuring floats and bagpipers on a route from 7th to 17th Streets and Constitution Avenue NW. Call (202) 637-2474 for more information.
Next to the Washington Monument, colorful kites signal arrival of spring with kite designers and flyers of assorted ages competing for trophies and other prizes. Call (202) 357-2700 for more information.
Depending on nature’s whim, the capital’s fabled cherry blossom trees bloom from late March through early April. Festivities are capped by the Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, often in early April. Call (202) 661-7599; (877) 44-BLOOM for more information.
Nothing signals advent of spring more than baseball with a capital B, tightly meshed into American culture with historic firsts, icon performances, record-setting events, and traditions from hot dogs slathered in mustard to unexpected curveballs, and seventh-inning stretches. Books and movies about baseball are fine and dandy, but nothing beats Major League Baseball action, playing out each season from April through the World Series.
Baltimore Orioles - To book seats to root for your Baltimore Orioles, click here.
Washington Nationals - To book seats for the Washington Nationals, click here.
There’s no end to the excitement each season as Major League Soccer teams from both the eastern and western conferences vie for glory in regular season matches, on to the play offs and cup finals.
D.C. United - To get in on the action, and book seats for the D.C. United, click here.
Depending on nature’s whim, the capital’s fabled cherry blossom trees bloom from late March through early April. Festivities are capped by the Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, often in early April. Call (202) 661-7567; (877) 44-BLOOM for more information.
On the first weekend in April, Montgomery County Fairgrounds in Gaithersburg, MD hosts 300 of the country’s best artists and craftsmen, where visitors can talk with the artists and purchase their works, including pottery, sculpture, glass, jewelry, fashion, furniture, home accessories, garden items, and photography, and watch pottery throwing demonstrations, stone carving, metal spinning, furniture making, wood turning, paper making, live entertainment, and enjoy gourmet food samples and children’s activities. Call (800) 210-9900 for more information.
From April 20 through Earth Day on April 22, exhibits, speakers and international musicians are featured in a concert of jazz fusion and world rhythms to celebrate global awareness. Call (202) 518-0044 for more information.
Aiding Make-A-Wish Foundation, AOL’s hunt involves three- to six-person teams sleuthing for people, places and things in D.C. Teams must each raise minimum $100 pledges to help finance wishes, averaging $7,000. Registration includes breakfast, clues, all-day Metro card, lunch coupon, t-shirt, and post-reception. Call (301) 962-9474 for more information.
The Memorial Amphitheatre at Arlington National Cemetery serves as an inspiring setting for Easter worship conducted by prominent Washington ministers. Call (703) 607-8052 for more information.
The two-week Filmfest D.C., also known as the Washington International Film Festival unfolds at various theaters and reception halls. Call (202) 724-5613 for more information.
This birthday fete for the bard at Folger Shakespeare Library includes theater, music, children’s events, food and exhibits. Call (202) 544-4600 for more information.
Celebrating Fair Housing month, the Equal Rights Center, the D.C. Office of Human Rights, and the D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development present the Fair Housing Symposium to further fair housing in the District of Columbia. Call (202) 347-9151 for more information.
More than 100 juried exhibitors show crafts of ceramics, glass, jewelry, wood, leather and more, at the National Building Museum. Call (202) 357-2700 for more information.
Tours include the Jacqueline Kennedy Rose Garden and the West Lawn Gardens, commencing from the White House Visitor Center. Call (202) 456-2200 for more information.
Children and their parents gather on the White House South Lawn for the annual Easter Egg Roll. Festivities include concerts, storytelling and costumed characters. Call (202) 456-2200 for ticket information.
Over the last weekend in April, the Book Hill neighborhood of Georgetown hosts a shopping event along Wisconsin Avenue Northwest, between P Street and Reservoir Road, where area boutiques, antique shops, galleries and restaurants offer sidewalk specials to strolling visitors. Call (703) 237-2922 for more information.
Private gardens from this renowned neighborhood are showcased on guided and self-guided tours. Call (202) 333-4953 for more information.
Enjoy a country excursion to South Mountain Fairgrounds in Biglersville, PA over the first weekend in May when apple blossoms cover South Mountain, local craftsmen, musicians and food vendors showcase their products, kids enjoy a variety of activities and programs, and the Pennsylvania Apple Queen is crowned, sponsored by the Adams County Fruit Growers Association. Call (717) 677-7444 for more information.
May 8 is National Train Day, and Union Station is filled with displays of railroad technology, history, model trains, and presentations by the national spokesperson for Amtrak. Call (800) 872-7245 for more information.
In early to mid May, children have a wonderful opportunity to explore a host of international cultural exhibits and activities, musical and dance performances, provided by many of the foreign embassies in the DC area, at the Meridian International Center. Call (202) 939-5591 for more information.
Wreaths are placed at the John F. Kennedy grave and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier followed by a service at the Memorial Amphitheatre with the keynote address often given by the President. Call (703) 697-2131 for more information.
Military bands and keynote addresses mark this day of remembrance at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Call (202) 393-0090 for more information.
Each year the mart salutes a different country with themed entertainment, demonstrations and booths, on the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral. Call (202) 537-6200 for more information.
From mid to late May, the grounds of Gaithersburg City Hall will host authors discussing and signing copies of their books, writing contests and workshops, a Coffee House with songs and poetry readings, a Children’s Village, dealers and individuals with lots of new and used books for trade or sale. Call (301) 258-6350 for more information.
In late May, Clifton Community Woman’s Club sponsors of tour of homes in the Clifton / Fairfax Station area, and a silent auction, boutique, art show and sale by local artists, with proceeds going to the Club’s Charitable Trust which benefits recipients throughout northern Virginia. Call (703) 266-5791 for more information.
From May through August at the U.S. Marine Corps Barracks, Friday nights bring performances by the United States Drum and Bugle Corps and the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon starting with United States Marine Band concerts. Tuesdays at sunset, May through August at Arlington National Cemetery’s Iwo Jima Memorial, attract visitors with blankets and picnics to enjoy the Drum and Bugle Corps and the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon. The Potomac River serves as a backdrop. Call (202) 433-4173 for more information.
Throughout May, free concerts are presented by the U.S. Marine Corps Chamber Orchestra, known for performing at diplomatic receptions and state dinners. Call (202) 433-4011 for more information.
Organized as a tribute to veterans and war dead from the American Revolution to Iraq, the National Memorial Day Parade includes floats, celebrities, equestrian units, and more, moving from 5th and Constitution toward the White House. Call (202) 408-0944, ext. 227 for more information.
Over Memorial Day Weekend and into the first week in June, Animal World USA sponsors a variety of programs featuring adoption shows, talks on animal care and hygiene by representatives of shelters, veterinary clinics, humane organizations, groomers, plus horses and other farm animals. Call (901)791-2455 for more information.
During the first half of June, more than 40 venues throughout the DC area host musicians in a continuous festival of jazz, bebop, blues, swing, soul, Latin, and world, including free concerts on the National Mall. Call (202) 457-7628 for more information.
Kicking off with a Saturday parade along Georgia Avenue, the two-day Caribbean Carnival features food, crafts, and entertainment at Banneker Recreation Park. Call (347) 671-1673 for more information.
In early June, more than 50,000 competitors, including over 3,000 breast cancer survivors, gather at the National Mall and participate in a 5K race for the Komen Foundation with proceeds supporting breast cancer research and community outreach organizations involved with breast health. Call (703) 416-RACE for more information.
With exhibitions, live music, food and fun, the Dupont Kalorama Museums Consortium invites walking exploration of Dupont Circle, home to museums, galleries, embassies, restaurants, and more. Call (202) 387-4062 for more information.
From June through August, Marine Band Summer concerts take place on Wednesday and Sunday evenings at the U.S. Capitol‘s west terrace and White House Ellipse Visitor Pavilion. Call (202) 433-4011 for more information.
In mid-June, The Federal Triangles Soccer Club (FTSC) of Washington, D.C. and the International Gay / Lesbian Football Assocation (IGLFA) sponsor annual championship soccer games in the D.C. area at Trinity University Soccer Stadium and RFK Stadium Starplex. Call (202) 448-9473 for more information.
Area youth from age 8 to 17 race gravity-powered vehicles down Capitol Hill in a Soap Box Derby competition where division winners move on to compete in July’s All American Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio. Call (410) 531-5268 for more information.
In mid-June, Lake Taylor High School in Norfolk, VA hosts the Battle of 7 Cities where all competitors in all styles of martial arts are welcome to participate in championship contests of form, sparring and weapons. Call (757) 671-1020 for more information.
Free professional performances of Shakespearean masterpieces unfold during a two-week period drawing enthusiastic crowds to the Carter Baron Amphitheater. Call (202) 334-4790 for more information.
On a weekend in mid to late June, the Thomas Jefferson Community Center in Arlington hosts an antique show and sale, with free parking and shuttles operating from the Virginia Square Orange Line Metro. Call (240) 295-1307 for more information.
Free family fun at the National Children’s Museum, presented in conjunction with AOL, includes celebrity appearances each year. Call (202) 675-4175 for more information.
American University‘s Washington Internships for Native Students (WINS) hosts a powwow in late June which features native dancing, authentic native food, music, and jewelry for sale, on campus across from the Kay Spiritual Center. Call (202) 885-5934 for more information.
Safeway’s Barbecue Battle, the last weekend in June, celebrates great food, music and family fun as contestants vie for the National Pork Barbecue Championship title and $40,000 in cash prizes. More than 30 national and regional bands perform on three stages, and NBA players lead kids’ basketball games all weekend. Along Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest between 9th and 14th Streets. Call (202) 828-3099 for more information.
From the end of June through the second week after Independence Day, the Smithsonian Institution hosts the annual Folklife Festival which showcases American and other cultures, featuring live entertainment, food and crafts, children’s activities, and a variety of programs throughout the greater Washington, D.C. area, all centered among the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall. Call (202) 633-6440 for more information.
A Gallic Independence Day celebration features live entertainment and waiters running tray races to the Capitol and back. Call (202) 296-7200 for more information.
American folklife heritage plays out in lectures, concerts, working villages and exhibits at the National Mall. Call (202) 357-2700 for more information.
Fourth of July on the National Mall, between Independence and Constitution avenues, includes a parade, colonial military maneuvers, concerts at the Sylvan Theatre, and a performance by the National Symphony Orchestra on the U.S. Capitol‘s west steps. Fireworks, viewed from both sides of the Potomac River, cap off festivities. Call (202) 619-7222 for more information.
Latin-American music, dance, art, food and more star at this two-day heritage festival at the National Mall. Call (301) 588-8719 for more information.
Over the weekend closest to July 21, the city of Manassas commemorates the first battle of the War between the States (Civil War) with live battle reenactments between North and South, period music, food and kids’ activities, parades and more. 2011 marks the 150th anniversary. Call (703) 257-8200 for more information.
Arlington County’s four-day fair includes crafts, exhibitors and food at the Thomas Jefferson Center. Call (703) 228-6400 for more information.
Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” performed by the U.S. Army band gets firepower backing from the Salute Gun Platoon of the 3rd U.S. Infantry on the White House Ellipse Visitor Pavilion. Call (202) 208-1631 for more information.
If it’s fall and you’re ready for some football, count on the National Football League to deliver non-stop grid action, leading to playoffs, and the incomparable Super Bowl. The NFL has come a long way since its 1920 founding in Canton, Ohio at Ralph Hay’s Hupmobile dealership. NFL action was first televised in 1939 when NBC broadcast within New York City. The NFL’s Longest Day was on Christmas, 1971, in a playoff between the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins, and Miami’s 17-0 Perfect Season unfolded the following year. But that’s history, and prospects for new milestones start in September.
Baltimore Ravens - To book seats for the Baltimore Ravens, click here.
Washington Redskins - To book seats for cheering on your Washington Redskins, click here.
NCAA Football, created in 1997 to promote college football ideals, makes no bones about the importance of each game. Losing at any time during the season can thwart a team’s chances for postseason action or an NCAA Championship. No wonder NCAA Football marketers have adopted a tagline of “NCAA Football: Every Game Counts.”
Maryland Terrapins, Navy Midshipmen, Towson Tigers, CUA Cardinals, Coppin State Eagles, Georgetown Hoyas, Howard Bison, Morgan State Bears
Maryland Terrapins - To cheer on your favorites and book seats for the Maryland Terrapins, click here.
Navy Midshipmen - To book seats for the Navy Midshipmen, click here.
Towson Tigers - To book seats for the Towson Tigers, click here.
Expanding from a day into a weekend, Adams Morgan celebrates with multicultural music — reggae, jazz, R&B and salsa — as well as international cuisine, featuring a Green Pavilion, Pet Zone and DJ Pavilion, along 18th Street Northwest. Call (202) 232-1960 for more information.
The Ambassador’s Ball, which has raised more than $14 million for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, kicks off Washington’s glittering social season, at the Ritz Carlton Washington. Call (202) 296-5363 for more information.
Attracting more than 500,000 to the National Mall and supported by the National Council of Negro Women, the two-day Black Family Reunion celebrates with free gospel concerts, health screenings, food, fun and an international marketplace. Call (202) 383-9130 for more information.
Drawing Hispanic entertainers and politicians, this fashionable gala helps fund scholarships for Hispanic design students. Call (202) 619-7222 for more information.
Tours begin at the Woodrow Wilson House, a museum property of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and include the Kalorama Guest House at Kalorama Park. Call (202) 387-4062 for more information.
The annual open house of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington’s premier performing arts center, includes free concerts and performances. Call (202) 467-4600 for more information.
Disk-catching canines, top dogs and others are judged on showmanship, leaping agility and execution, on the grounds of the Washington Monument. Call (800) 423-3268) for more information.
Over a weekend in mid to late September, Washington - Dulles International Airport hosts an annual festival featuring live music and other entertainment, kids’ rides and activities, a car show, and a plane pull (bus pull for the kids) with proceeds benefitting the Special Olympics. Call (703) 359-4301.
Environmental, recreational and historical programs dominate this daylong tribute to Rock Creek Park, one of the world’s largest urban parks. Call (202) 426-6829.
During the last week in September, the Hyattsville Arts District sponsors an exhibition of local artists, craftsmen and jewelers, featuring kids’ activities, food, beverages and live entertainment. Free shuttle from the west Hyattsville metro station to 5500 Baltimore Avenue. Call (202) 468-5277 for more information.
Over 500 home design and remodeling experts converge at the Dulles Expo Center to offer advice, demonstrate products and exhibit the latest in green and money saving ideas and services. Call (800) 274-6948 for more information.
Over the last weekend in September, the First Lady hosts an annual festival along the National Mall, sponsored by the Library of Congress, where thousands of book lovers gather to celebrate literature and literacy, and listed to over 70 well-known authors make presentations and read from their works. Call (202) 828-5063.
When the Shenandoah Valley is in full bloom, Winchester’s pet-friendly Marker-Miller Orchards Farm Market stages its Farm Fun Festival with hot dogs and country ham sandwiches, a bounce house, apple pitch, and other family activities. No admission. Call (540) 662-1980 for more information.
The National Hockey League’s rough and tumble world packs a motherlode of milestones, from 1917’s NHL opener, to when Maurice Richard was first to score 50 goals in one season in 1944-45, to when Clint Benedict was the first goalie to put on a mask after a shot knocked him unconscious, to when Manon Rheaume made headlines in 1992 as the first woman playing in one of the four major sports leagues, goaltending for the Tampa Bay Lightning against the St. Louis Blues. From October on, it’s non-stop action in the world of hat tricks — three goals in a game by a player — and sudden death overtime.
Washington Capitals - To book for the Washington Capitals, click here.
At the beginning of October, The Vienna Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Vienna sponsor a festival of beer, music, food and children’s entertainment, all along historic Church Street. Vienna, VA. Call (703) 281-1333 for more information.
Benefitting the Lombardi Cancer Center at Georgetown University Medical Center, the Lombardi Gala features dinner and a silent auction, at the Hilton Washington and Towers. Call (202) 687-1067 for more information.
Highlighting Baltimore foods, wines, family fun, and musical entertainment, Taste of Baltimore showcases radio personalities and more than 70 area restaurants with a sampling pavilion in Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Call (410) 296-1019 for more information.
In mid to late October, browse an exhibition of crafts and art presented by local artisans, a rare opportunity to find that perfect gift while mingling with artists from all over the DC area. Cecil W. Garrison Park, 17755 Main Street, Dumfries. Call (703) 221-3400 for more information.
To celebrate a sense of community on Capitol Hill, St. James’ Episcopal Church hosts its art, antique, and craft auction including lithographs, watercolors, photographs, and prints by Matisse, Miro, Pastore, and more. Auction items range from fine arts to weekend getaways. Call (202) 546-1746 for more information.
As America’s largest 10-mile race, the Army Ten Miler starts and finishes at the Pentagon, passing national treasures such as the Lincoln Memorial, Capitol, and the Washington monument. A 200M Youth Run Walk is also staged. Call (202) 685-3361 for more information.
This celebration on the 88-acre Theodore Roosevelt Island honors the nation’s 26th president, known for conservationism. Call (703) 289-2530 for more information.
Winchester’s Marker-Miller Orchards Farm Market, about an hour from Washington, D.C., stages its Apple Harvest Festival with 20 ready for pickin’ varieties. The shindig includes apple caramel sundaes, pies, and cobblers, with wagon rides and more. Call (540) 662-1980 for more information.
Winchester’s Marker-Miller Orchards Farm Market’s Pumpkin Festival features searches for the Great Pumpkin, along with pumpkin pie, hot apple cider, and renowned apple-cider doughnuts. Call (540) 662-1980 for more information
Toronto, Canada was the site of the National Basketball League’s first game on Nov. 1, 1946, with the Huskies hosting the New York Knickerbockers at Maple Leaf Gardens. Thirteen original rules were drafted by Dr. James Naismith, creator of basketball. Pro basketball suffered in popularity in the early 1950’s, but one rule change — that of the 24-second clock — transformed the sport from a dull, stalling game to an exciting, offensive showcase. Icons along the way, from Bob Cousy and Wilt Chamberlain to Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, have immortalized what’s now the National Basketball Association’s game, creating long-standing rivalries from coast to coast.
Washington Wizards - To book seats to root for your Washington Wizards, click here.
First devised by James Naismith in 1891, with the first recorded collegiate game in 1893, legions testify there’s no sound so soothing as a basketball whooshing through the net after a flick of the wrist. NCAA basketball brings grass roots hoop dreams to an entirely new level each fall, building toward March Madness, the NCAA Division Basketball Championships.
George Mason Patriots, Georgetown Hoyas, Maryland Terrapins, Morgan State Bears, Navy Midshipmen, Towson Tigers, American Eagles, CUA Cardinals, Coppin State Eagles, Gaucher Gophers, George Washington Colonials, Howard Bison, Loyola College Greyhounds, UMBC Retrievers
George Mason Patriots - To book seats for the George Mason Patriots, click here.
Georgetown Hoyas - To book seats for the Georgetown Hoyas, click here.
Maryland Terrapins - To book seats for the Maryland Terrapins, click here.
Morgan State Bears - To book seats for the Morgan State Bears, click here.
Navy Midshipmen - To book seats for the Navy Midshipmen, click here.
Towson Tigers - To book seats for the Towson Tigers, click here.
Early in November, the Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League organizes an all day scavenger hunt, beginning at Port Java City Coffee House at 701 North Carolina Av, SE, and ending at RFD, 810 7th St, NW in Chinatown. Proceeds benefit the League. Call (703) 784-2225 for more information.
In a race that begins and ends at the Iwo Jima Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery, thousands of runners snake through downtown streets and parks in one of the nation’s most prestigious marathons. Call (703) 784-2225 for more information.
Military brass, veterans and the public gather at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in a salute to men and women serving their nation. Call (202) 619-7222 for more information.
The town of Easton, MD hosts celebrated waterfowl artists and craftsmen in a variety of venues throughout the city, with lots of food, presentations and activities for the kids. Call (410) 822-4567 for more information.
Winchester’s Marker-Miller Orchards Farm Market’s Bakery Festival, about an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C., tantalizes with homemade cakes, more than a dozen kinds of pie, and scenic wagon rides through the valley. Call (540) 662-1980 for more information.
During the first weekend in December, all of the Scottish clans represented in the greater Washington, D.C. area parade through the streets playing bagpipes as part of the annual celebration of Scottish culture, sponsored by the Campagna Center and government of Scotland, with most of the exhibition and holiday shopping opportunities in and around the George Washington Masonic Memorial. Call (703) 224-2344 for more information.
Dozens of artists and craftsmen will exhibit their work for sale, accompanied by local musicians, throughout the month of December, with the center of festivities in front of the National Portrait Gallery, along F Street between 7th and 9th Streets Northwest. Call (703) 417-2700 for more information.
With titles over the years including Jericho’s Echo: Punk Rock in the Holy Land, the Washington Jewish Film Festival, presented by the Morris Cafritz Center for the Arts at the District of Columbia Jewish Community Center and other venues, entertains and informs with thought-provoking works, some in Hebrew or other languages with English subtitles. Call (202) 777-3248 for more information.
Capital Area Auto Show at the Washington Convention Center introduces the public to next year’s models as well as to concept cars that some day may hit the market. Call (301) 670-1110 for more information.
Commemorating the International Human Rights Day set by the United Nations, this dinner at the Capital Hilton provide supporters with insider perspective on current human rights issues. Call (202) 393-1000 for more information.
Washington National Cathedral conducts a Christmas celebration and services, with passes required for Christmas Eve services at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Call (202) 537-6200 for more information.
The nation’s chief executive opens the holiday season with lighting of the National Christmas Tree accompanied by the Pageant of Peace. From early December to New Year’s Day, the White House Ellipse Visitor Pavilion features lighted trees from each state and territory, a nativity scene, live reindeer, a burning yule log and choral concerts. Call (202) 619-7222 for more information.
From a humble start in a Boston bar, Matzo Ball bashes in more than a dozen cities including San Francisco and Manhattan have arrived in Washington, D.C. at Lulu’s Club Mardi Gras as a holiday party for Jewish singles on the night before Christmas. Call (202) 861-5858 for more information.
On New Year’s Eve, Old Town Alexandria celebrates with live music, dancing and magic in shops and other venues from the Masonic Memorial to the waterfront, beginning with a Fun Hunt at 3pm and culminating in a fireworks display at midnight. Call (571) 289-7108 for more information.