5 things to do for the holidays in the Capital

Holiday expeditions spice up winter break.

1. National Christmas tree in D.C

The nation’s national Christmas tree was lit Dec. 1 and will remain lit until Jan.1 from dusk to eleven in the evening. It is located in the northeast quadrant of the Ellipse near the White House. The national Christmas tree is a popular place to visit in Washington, D.C during the holiday season. The large, 40 foot tree is the center piece while fifty-six smaller trees surround it. The smaller trees represent all 50 states, the District of Columbia and United States territories. A date in D.C is a great way to go; the Christmas tree itself is a popular place where many couples get engaged every year. Parking on Constitution Avenue is limited so it is recommended to take the metro.

2. Ice Skating in the Gardens

In addition to visiting the national Christmas tree, the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden skating rink is only a walk away. Located on Constitution Avenue, northwest Seventh Street and is open Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 11pm. On the weekends (Friday-Saturday) it opens one hour later and closes one hour later going from 10 am to 12 am. On Sunday, it is open from 11 am to 9 pm. Its location is very close to the national mall, and is surrounded by beautiful sculptures created by well known artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Alexander Calder. Admission is $8 for an adult but $7 for children and seniors.

3. Delectable treats

After visiting the national tree or ice skating, a popular café called Artfully Chocolate is a favorite to many visitors. It is located on northwest Fourteenth Street.  The café is home to D.C’s first cocoa bar where many hot cocoa choices and combinations are available. Sweet pastries are also available in the Bread and Chocolate Bakery section of the cafe. Everything on the menu is a delicious sweet treat from ice cream to hot chocolate and from cakes to cookies. The full menu can be found on the website http://www.ackccocoabar.com/index.htm.

4. The National Theater

The National Theater is the place to be to see a great show, musical or concert. It is located on northwest Pennsylvania Avenue which is in between thirteenth and fourteenth streets. On the main stage through Jan. 7 is the Broadway show Jersey Boys which has gotten spectacular views. The price range for tickets falls between $35 to $200. It all depends on what seats you want, the better the seats the more expensive the ticket. The show runs about two and a half hours. The theater is surrounded by many other shops and restaurants so after or before the show you can enjoy Christmas shopping or a nice meal.

5. The Willard Hotel

The Willard Hotel is a historic luxury hotel which has been around since the year 1816. The hotel has hosted almost every U.S president since Franklin Pierce. The Willard Hotel is only a small walk from the National Theater and many other attractions that can be found in D.C. Many walk in just to check out the beautiful Christmas decorations and relax in the beautiful lobby. During the holiday season, the Willard hosts free musical performances every evening from Dec. 1 to the 23. It is a beautiful place to spend time during the holiday season.

Arts & Style, Issue 3, Print