2015 dc metro 06 dec jan f hi (1)

DECEMBER / JANUARY 2015

All the

FUN & SOUNDS of the Season

HARBOR HOLIDAY DINING HOW ABOUT A

CLASSY HOLIDAY BAR CRAWL?

Follow us @DCMetroMagazine

Winter Skating at Washington Harbour

December / January 2015

CONTENTS

Features

Departments

4

Gift Guide

15

EVENTS 7

19

THEATER 24

Holiday Concerts Holiday Dining

22

Cocktail Crawl

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

EXHIBITS 26

WELCOME TO WASHINGTON, DC A Star-Spangled Holiday Experience!

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For advertising or distribution (703) 455-9223

DCMetroPlus.com

Follow us @DCMetroMagazine

STAFF

isitors and residents alike love this city year ‘round for its abundance of things to do and see, but when it’s time to ring in the holidays, there’s no better place to be! Besides our first-class museums, beautiful monuments and awe-inspiring institutions, the city’s vibrant neighborhoods of Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Penn Quarter and Old Town Alexandria are now buzzing with activity and decked out in holiday splendor.

While away a day museum hopping, holiday shopping, or sightseeing.

Then spend an evening viewing the National Christmas Tree or one of the area’s fabulous seasonal light shows. There’s also theaters and concert halls galore presenting yuletide songs and stories: a performance of A Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker or Handel’s Messiah are sure to make you feel merry and bright. And of course there’s no better place to be on a cold winter’s night than a cozy corner in one of the city’s coolest bars or hottest restaurants.

And if you’re hungering for even more holiday fun, you’re in for a treat, because National Harbor’s more than 30 dining establishments are celebrating this most delicious time of the year! Dine, shop, and play at DC’s unforgettable waterfront wonderland, where holiday magic happens daily at the Gaylord National’s ICE! display, and throughout the Harbor, where festive lights and amazing decorations make the season truly unforgettable.

So while you’re here, let DC Metro+ Magazine be your guide to the entire metropolitan area and all its holiday happenings. There’s so much to explore and so little time to experience all the history, culture, delectable dining, and shopping that’s waiting for you at every turn.

Have fun visiting our hometown and Happy Holidays!

— THE STAFF OF DC METRO +

PUBLISHER & EDITOR JOHN PARISI DESIGN & LAYOUT EMILY CHRISTENSON EVENTS EDITOR KATHLEEN McDONOUGH CONTRIBUTING EDITOR EVA LEONARD DINING EDITOR CHEF DANIELLE TURNER TRAVEL EDITOR AMY TROTTER HOUSTON CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AMY TROTTER HOUSTON KATHLEEN LANDRUM KATHLEEN McDONOUGH ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES JOHN PARISI SABRINA SHETH ROSALIND SMITH SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR TIM ATKINS CAP MEDIA, INC. 6200 ROLLING ROAD, #2356 SPRINGFIELD, VA 22152 ISSUE 0706 All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material within the publication is strictly prohibited without the written consent of the publisher. Single copy $3.75. While every precaution is taken to ensure the accuracy of information herein, CAP Media, Inc. assumes no responsibility for losses incurred due to inaccurate information.

CAP Media, Inc., 6200 Rolling Road, #2356, Springfield, VA 22152 (703) 455-9223.

Published 6 times per year.

PHOTO CREDITS Cover Courtesy of Washington Harbour Pg 2 Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Alexandria Pg 8 A Longwood Christmas, photo by Albee Larry Pg 9 Boat Parade by R. Kennedy for Visit Alexandria Pg 12 First Night by J. Clifford f or Visit Alexandria Pg 25 The Nutcracker, Photo

by Paul Zamrana

For detailed, up to the minute event information, visit us online at

DCMetroPlus.com

October/November 2015 •

3

DC METRO+

Gift Guide

AN APHRODISIAC FOR THE HOLIDAYS – YES! BOSS THE SCENT boasts an exclusive ingredient from Africa: the aphrodisiac Maninka fruit, evocative of passion fruit and rum. It also evokes something deeper: the tug of desire. Available exclusively at Macy’s – $85

THIS IS WHAT IT IS ALL ABOUT On Christmas morning, your children will be looking their best (and cutest) in sleepwear from Petite Plume. Petite Plume sleepwear is made with the highest quality cotton. These are the most luxurious children’s sleepwear on the market.

Period. The proof is in the details. Sleepwear retails for $46-$58 and can be purchased at www.petite-plume.com.

RELIEVE STRESS – STAY WITHIN THE LINES Who knew — coloring books for all ages are all the rage these days.

That’s because coloring can be a meditative experience and can relieve stress — which, when you think about it — makes a lot of sense. So, if you’re looking for something unique fun and playful these coloring books from Kitanie will fit the bill. Starting at $9.95 www.kitanie.com or amazon.com

FOR YOUR WICKED WAYS! A naughty, but ohso-nice candle. Three Wicked uses, all in one — can be used as a naturally-fragranced candle, a paraben-free moisturizing body and massage oil and a 16 oz. stemless wine glass. Burn for a solid 80+ hours. $33.

At www.3waybeauty.com

NO MORE STIFF NECK PILLOW! The Original Znzi Travel Stuff Pillow reimagines what high quality travel comfort should be. It’s unique structure changes shape and form as it adapts to each user’s unique setting. $38.99 at www.ZnziTravelStuff.com.

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

SHE’LL THINK YOU SPENT MUCH MORE These clean simplistic designs and accents will add a crisp finish to any outfit. These Dakota Watches resemble high-end pieces at an affordable price. The Ladies Leather Cord ($49.95) genuine leather cords encircling the side of the case for an interesting fashion look.

FREEZE YOUR COCKTAILS! With the new Chill Factor™ Cocktail Maker Kit, you can freeze your favorite cocktails and mocktails in minutes — ­ making for an enjoyable time for all!. Simple and convenient to use. Available online at www.thechillfactor.com.

THE HAPPY TRUNK FOR TRAVEL FUN TIME The “Trunk” arrives as a pre-planned, ready to go activity for children ages 3–11. Whether traveling or spending quality time with your kids at home it has never been easier. Every box has 2–3 projects. Kits start at $19.95. www.thehappytrunk.com ONE WAY NOT TO LOOK LIKE A TOURIST! Seriously, a DC Metro map on your wrist, designed and made for women who would rather explore than look like a tourist. Sustainably crafted and range from $45–$80, these gold or stainless steel cuffs make ideal gifts for travelers or adventurers. www.designhypeinc.com or Wake Up Little Suzie,3409 Connecticut Ave NW, 20008 (202) 244-0700 THE FEEL-GOOD GIFT Bunnyjuice lovekits — popular in the hottest hotels around the world — are the perfect gift for a sensual, intimate, and playful holiday. The “mybunny” collection offers two individual lovekits — 4 him and 4 her — each featuring a fun toy, lubricants, and condoms presented in beautifully designed packages and priced at only $19.99. These and other fine Bunnyjuice products can be purchased directly at bunnyjuice.com

FESTIVE BOTTLE – FESTIVE BUBBLES This season “Moet’s Festive So Bubbly” bottle of its Imperial Brut Champagne makes giving luxuriously without spending extravagantly. Elegantly embellished with three-dimensional golden bubbles in place of its label, a visual representation of the beautiful bubbles inside.

Available at ReserveBar.com for the same cost as a regular bottle, $43

A “SMARTERGARTER” SAYS IT ALL! A versatile option for staying hands-free while still keeping items close. This new fashion forward travel bag wraps securely around the thigh (over jeans or under dresses) for quick access, keeping items safe and close. A great gift for the traveler and adventurer in your life! $37.50 at www.smartergarter.com DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

5

Introducing the New

DCMetro+ App Finally, DC has a real-time, easy-to-use,

informative and integrated “one stop” app that uniquely focuses on the activities, dining, shopping, arts and entertainment experiences that energize the DC area’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Coming Soon

REPORTING VIETNAM Now through Sept. 12, 2016

Explore how journalists brought news about the Vietnam War to a divided nation.

Contributing support for “Reporting Vietnam” is provided by CBS Corporation, in memory of CBS News correspondent Bob Simon.

REPORTING VIETNAM NEWSEUM.ORG 555 PENNSYLVANIA AVE., N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. TripAdvisor’s 2014 Travelers’ Choice Top 10 Museums in the U.S.

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

Courtesy Steve Northup

to iTunes and Android stores!

EVENTS

TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT’S GOING ON IN AND AROUND THE DC AREA

Through December 23rd

11th Annual Downtown Holiday Market

DC’s annual sidewalk marketplace returns to the Penn Quarter with its festive shopping “village”. Enjoy a unique seasonal shopping opportunity with hundreds of diverse gift items offered by 60 exhibitors and artisans each day, including jewelry, pottery,

Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple

paintings and textiles. While shopping, enjoy lively seasonal entertainment and festive treats. FREE! Noon to 8pm daily.

Sidewalk on F Street between 7th and 9th Streets, NW, Washington, DC 20001  www.downtownholidaymarket.com Through January 1

38th Annual Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple One of the DC area’s great community traditions, visitors will view more than 600,000 lights that illuminate the Washington Temple grounds as well as decorated international-themed Christmas trees and a crèche exhibit featuring nativities from around the world. Lights are illuminated at dusk, with live musical performances at the indoor theater. FREE! Tickets (free) required for performances in the main theater and are available 90 minutes prior. Washington DC Temple Visitors’ Center, 9900 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MD 20895  www.dctemplelights.lds.org

Downtown Holiday Market

Through January 2

ZooLights

The National Zoo presents its seasonal display of more than 5000,000 sparkling animated lights, fun activities, live entertainments and more, sure to please visitors of all ages. Ride the Conservation Carousel, head to Lion/ Tiger Hill for snowless Zoo Tubing or take a tour on the Zoo Choo-Choo!

Admission to the Zoo is FREE! ($3 for carousel, tubing and choo-choo rides).

5-9pm. (Closed December 24,25,31).

National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008  www.nationalzoo.si.edu Through January 3

Christmas on the Potomac

Visitors to the Gaylord National resort at National Harbor won’t believe their eyes as leaping water and more than 2 million twinkling lights “dance” to holiday music, the 60-foot-tall Christmas tree made entirely of “candy” glass glows brilliantly and a flurry of snow falls inside the 19-story atrium!

DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

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EVENTS

immersed not only in the breathtaking surroundings but a rich history as well. The spirit of the holidays clearly overflows with the fountain-inspired display: blue and white twinkling lights, whirling fountain features, thousands of seasonal plants, and a bounty of trees with icicles and fountain-inspired glass ornaments filling the Conservatory.

Outside, a magical world awaits with a half-million lights illuminating the gardens. From the Italian Water Garden illuminated with a 20-foot tree form, to a maple tree with roots aglow, to the colorful fountains of the Open Air Theatre, holiday magic is everywhere! Timed admission required. Visit website for complete details and tickets.

Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348  www.longwoodgardens.org

ICE! Featuring Santa Claus is Coming to Town

These delightful holiday shows are a “must-see” during the Gaylord’s annual Christmas celebration and are sure to mesmerize. FREE! 6, 7, 8 and 9pm. The Atrium at the Gaylord National Resort, 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD, 20745  www.ChristmasOnThePotomac.com Through January 3

ICE! Featuring Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town

The thrilling, chilling one-of-a-kind holiday attraction ICE! returns for the holidays with an all-new theme and jaw-dropping scenes carved entirely of ice. And in celebration of its 45th anniversary, a beloved holiday TV classic comes to life in an interactive world of colorful ice sculptures and five incredible ice slides carved entirely from two million pounds of ice. And don’t miss the “Frostbite Factory” where visitors will see first-hand how master icecarving artisans from China create ICE! This “cool” winter attraction (all kept at a frigid 9 degrees!) is sure to warm every visitor’s heart. Gaylord National Resort at National Harbor, National Harbor, MD 20745. For schedules and tickets:  www.ChristmasOnThePotomac.com

December 2 rarely seen third floor of the Mansion!

Christmas at Mount Vernon has been named as one of the “12 Places to Catch the Holiday Spirit” by AAA! 9am-4pm.

Included with regular admission. Adult (12-61):$17; Senior (62+):$16; Youth (6-11):$9 (5yrs and under, FREE).

Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Alexandria, VA 22309.  www.mountvernon.org Through January 10

A Longwood Christmas

This holiday season, take a trip to one of the world’s great gardens, Longwood, near Wilmington, DE and become

Through January 6

Christmas at Mount Vernon

The halls will be decked for Christmas at Mount Vernon, with themed Christmas trees and festive holiday touches, including live demonstrations of 18th century chocolate making.

Visitors will also get a peek at the

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

A Longwood Christmas

Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Lit by the Speaker of the House, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree has been a tradition since 1964. Music provided by the U.S. Navy Band and the Congressional Chorus. Following the lighting ceremony, the Capitol Christmas Tree will be lit from dusk until 11 p.m. each evening through January 1, 2015. FREE! 5:00pm. West Lawn of the U. S. Capitol, Constitution and Independence Avenues, Washington, DC 20001 (Access for ceremony through security gates at 1st St. and Maryland Ave., SW and 1st St. and Pennsylvania Ave., NW.)  www.capitolchristmastree.com

Lighting Ceremony of the National Christmas Tree – 2014

December 4-January 1

National Christmas Tree

Catch the seasonal spirit with a visit to the National Christmas Tree and the Pathway of Peace, which are illuminated each evening from dusk until 11pm. Enjoy musical performances held nightly on the Ellipse stage. FREE! The Ellipse, 1600 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20002. Visit the website for performance schedules.  www.thenationaltree.org December 4, 5 and 20

Mount Vernon by Candlelight

Mount Vernon sparkles with seasonal cheer during its candlelight tours.

Join “Mrs. Washington” as she hosts an enchanting evening with fireside caroling and hot cider and ginger cookies. Tours include dancing, merry music, a reproduction of Martha’s “Great Cake” and Aladdin the Christmas camel! 5-8pm. Adult:$22; Youth (11yrs&younger):$15. Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Alexandria, VA 22309.  www.mountvernon.org December 4-20 (Fri-Sat-Sun), December 21-23

Alexandria Christmas Market Alexandria’s Holiday Market is an annual signature event that transforms the Carlyle District into a lively European-style festival that creates the feeling of the unique European Christmas Markets of Germany and France. While shopping for unique art and craft items, enjoy live

entertainment, traditional European food, sweets and drinks. FREE! 11am-7 pm. John Carlyle Park, 300 John Carlyle Street, Alexandria, VA 22314  www.alexandriaholidaymarket December 5

45th Annual Scottish Walk Parade

Ranked one of the “Top 20 Events of the South”, you know the holidays have arrived when the sound of bagpipes fills the air! Scottish clans, pipe and drum bands, Scottish dancers, re-enactment groups, Scottie dogs, dignitaries and, of course, Santa Claus will march through the streets of Old Town. A local Christmas tradition. FREE! 11:00am.

Route: Begins at the corner of Wilkes and South Saint Asaph Streets and ends at Market Square, Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314  www.campagnacenter.org Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

December 5

Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

From the docks of Old Town Alexandria to the District’s Southwest Waterfront, the annual parade of lighted boats returns! Dozens of festively illuminated boats will light up the sky along the Potomac River and be creatively decorated as they compete for prizes and bragging rights. Viewers on both sides of the river will enjoy live holiday music, photos with Santa and much more.

FREE! Festivities begin in Alexandria at 4pm with a Holiday Festival at the Torpedo Factory Art Center; Old Town boat parade starts at 5:30pm; festivities begin in DC at 6pm; parade begins in Washington Channel at 7pm.

Waterfront along Union Street, between King and Cameron Streets, Alexandria, VA 22314 and at The Wharf, 690 Water Street, SW Washington, DC 20024.  www.visitalexandriava.com  www.wharfdc.com December 6

National Chanukah Menorah Lighting Ceremony

Celebrate the Festival of Lights while enjoying musical performances and activities for the kids along with hot latkes and donuts. Following the “first night” lighting, the menorah will be lit each of the eight nights of Chanukah.

FREE! 4pm (gates open at 3:15pm). The Ellipse, 1600 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20002. Tickets (free) for general seating required.  www.nationalmenorah.org DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

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EVENTS

Get Your Skate On – Ice Rinks Around Town Through February

Skating at Washington Harbour’s Ice Rink

Larger than New York City’s Rockefeller Center rink, the skating pond at Washington Harbour has the notable distinction of being DC’s largest outdoor ice skating venue. Transformed from its interchangeable use as The Harbour’s picturesque fountain, this 11,800 square foot rink brings exciting winter energy to the already-bustling Georgetown waterfront every day–including holidays!–during the 2015-2016 winter season.

Children/Seniors/Military: $9; Adults: $10; skate rental $5.

Mon-Tues: 12-7pm; Wed-Thurs: 12-9pm; Fri: 12-10pm; Sat: 10am-10pm; Sun: 10am-7pm.

Washington Harbour, 3000 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007  www.thewashingtonharbour.com

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

Daily, Through February

The Ice Skating Pavilion at Reston Town Center

The Center’s Pavilion floor has been transformed into a gleaming open-air ice skating rink! Come learn to skate with classes for all ages and skill levels or plan a party with a private rental. Adult: $10; Child (12&under):$9; Senior(55+)$9; skate rental (figure & hockey):$5.

Sun-Tues:11am-7pm; WedThurs:11am-10pm; Fri-Sat:11am11pm. Reston Town Center, 1818 Discovery Street, Reston, VA 20190  www.skating@restontowncenter.com Through March 13 (weather permitting)

Ice Skating at the Sculpture Garden

A favorite Washington winter tradition! View magnificent works of sculpture while skating in the open air and enjoying music

from the rink’s state-of-the-art sound system. Adult: $8.50; Child (12&under)/Student with ID/ Senior (50+): $7.50; Skate rental $3. Mon-Thurs: 10am-9pm; Fri-Sat: 10am-11pm; Sun: 11am9pm. (Closed December 25th and January 1st.) The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, 7th and Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20565  www.nga/gov Daily

Pentagon Row Outdoor Ice Skating

Get ready to strap on your skates and take a spin around this 6,840 square foot outdoor ice rink for a year-round skate experience. Then cozy up by the stone fireplace and sink into awesome! December 7-January 1 snow falls nightly on the ice rink with “Snow on the Row” skating (6:30-8:30pm). Open everyday including holidays–even in warm weather– with extended hours when schools are closed.

Adult$9; Child(12&under):$8;Sen ior(55+)$8; skate rental (figure & hockey):$3. Mon-Wed: 12-10pm; Thurs: 12-7pm or 10pm*; Fri:12-11pm; Sat:10am-11pm; Sun:10am-7pm or 10pm. On the Plaza at Pentagon Row 1201 South Joyce Street, Arlington, VA 22202  www.pentagonrowskating.com

December 12

Arlington National Cemetery Wreaths Across America

Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon

December 10, January 14

Second Thursday Art Night

Enjoy a special after-hours event at the Torpedo Factory Art Center where visitors can browse open studios and galleries, interact with artists, and enjoy special programming. Stop by on your way to dinner at one of Old Town’s fine restaurants and make an evening of it! FREE! 6-9 pm. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria, VA 22314  www.Torpedofactory.org

The SeaSon biDS US

Each year volunteers place evergreen holiday wreaths on Arlington’s hallowed white tombstones in recognition of the sacrifices made by our nation’s fallen heroes. This solemn event has continued to expand to recognize even more of our nation’s honored dead, with volunteers expected to lay more than 150,000 wreaths in remembrance and thanks. FREE! Wreath laying: 8am-3pm; Opening Ceremony at McClellan Gate: 9:30am. Wreaths to remain in place until mid-January. Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA 22211  www.arlingtoncemetery.mil  www.wreathsacrossamerica.org December 12

33rd Annual Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade

Well worth the trip out of the city, holiday magic will be happening at the Annapolis, MD harbor...boats suddenly appearing out of the cold winter night illuminated with thousands of colored lights and crewed by jolly revelers.

FOLGER “the most musically satisfying holiday concert in the city” – DCist.com

Christmas musiC

THEATRE 2015/16 SEASON Parisian violinist JuLiEN ChauviN

soprano rOsa LamOrEaux

Arlington National Cemetary Wreaths Across America

Lose yourself in the enchanted woods

Featuring Charpentier and Guido’s Four seasons

December 18-23 on historic Capitol hill

Folger Consort TickeTs on sale now

202.544.7077

British vocal ensemble stiLE aNtiCO

www.folger.edu/consort

The WonDer oF Will

photo (c) marco borggreve

Early and New music Celebrating shakespeare

“perhaps the most ravishing sound I heard this year” –The New Yorker

JanUary 22 & 23 at Washington national cathedral

Featuring henry iV songs by modern classical composer nico muhly

SHAKESPEARE’S TIMELESS ROMANTIC COMEDY Directed by AARON POSNER

JANUARY 26–MARCH 6 www.folger.edu/theatre | 202.544.7077

EVENTS

First Night Alexandria

Spectators from near and far will gather at favorite viewing spots along the waterfront to see this yearly spectacle, cheer on the decorated boats and their crews and welcome the season.

FREE! 6-8pm. Annapolis Harbor and Spa Creek above the Spa Creek Bridge, Annapolis, MD 21403. For information on parking and viewing access:  www.eastportyc.org December 12-13

Historic Alexandria Candlelight Tours

Come “home for the holidays” this year with a tour where you can see–and taste–historic Alexandria in a whole new light! Travel through time as you learn more about Alexandria’s history and foodways of the holiday season.

Tour the Carlyle House, Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Lloyd House and the Lee-Fendall House. Enjoy each site by candlelight, hear live musical performances and taste period-inspired food! Free shuttle bus service between sites. Adult: $25; Senior (65yrs+)/ Active Military: $20; Child (ages 6-17): $5. Sat: 6-9pm, Sun: 3-6 p.m. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal Street, Alexandria, VA 22314  www.alexandriava.gov/CandlelightTours December 18-19

Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon

Ring in the holidays with sparkling fireworks over the Potomac River as Mount Vernon opens its doors for an evening of holiday-themed fireworks and special programs. Guests can step back in time as they stroll through George Washington’s historic mansion and grounds while being serenaded by local choirs. There will be a bonfire, 18thcentury music and dancing and more, all culminating with sparkling fireworks overlooking the Potomac River. This is a truly unique holiday experience!

Adult: $30; Youth (6-11): $20 (5yrs and under, FREE). 5:30pm - 9pm (fireworks at 8:45pm). Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Alexandria, VA 22121  www.mountvernon.org December 19

DC Santa Crawl

Get your holiday “spirits” on and explore DC’s Dupont Circle area while celebrating the holiday season with thousands of festively clad bar crawlers as they amble from stop to stop on a jolly winter excursion. Come discover

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

some of downtown’s best bars and enjoy some holiday shenanigans along with food and drink specials with friends old and new. 3pm-2am. Must be 21 years or older. For details and tickets:  www.pubcrawls.com December 24

Waterskiing Santa!

Before he loads the sleigh, the “Fat Man” will be waterskiing the Potomac River — for a 30th year — along with his crew of high-flying elves, jet-skiing Grinch, Frosty the Snowman and more.

Best views are along the Alexandria waterfront between King Street and Oronoco Street (including Founders Park and City Marina). FREE! Pre-show at 12:45pm; skiers start at 1:00pm, rain, snow or shine. Waterfront, Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314.  www.waterskiingsanta.com December 28

8th Annual Military Bowl

Featuring a matchup between teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference and the American Athletic Conference,

the Military Bowl marks its eighth post-season NCAA football game that benefits the USO and honors the U.S. military. The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales return to lead the Military Bowl Parade from Annapolis’ City Dock, one of several gameday traditions leading up to kickoff. Parade: 11am; Game: 2:30pm. Navy-Marine Corp Memorial Stadium, 550 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401.  www.MilitaryBowl.org December 31

First Night Alexandria

A great family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration with more than 100 performances at venues throughout old Town, featuring live music, dancing and loads of activities for the kids! It’s festive, affordable, safe and venues are alcohol free. The fun begins in the afternoon with the 7th Annual Fun Hunt and continues with entertainment performances beginning at 7pm that continue throughout the evening, culminating with a spectacular fireworks display over the Potomac River (at the

Waterskiing Santa

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foot of King Street) at midnight. Adult: $30 ($20 on-line through 12/13); Child (12&under) and active duty military: FREE! 2pm-Midnight. For schedule, maps and tickets:  www.firstnightalexandria.org Saturdays and Sundays in January

“Mercy Street” Tour: Medical Heroism in Alexandria

Experience an inside access tour of 19th century Alexandria, VA inspired by the new PBS mini-series “Mercy Street”. Guests will be led by a trained military historian on a walking tour along Old Town’s streets to rediscover Civil War-era Alexandria while learning the actual history behind the TV show.

Get behind the scenes of “Mercy Street” locations to better understand how Alexandrians of the day lived, worked, and played. 4:30pm. Tour starts at the Visitors Center, 221 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. For more information on tour and tickets:  www.dcmilitarytour.com January 8-10

Washington Winter Antiques Show

Founded in 1955 as a fund raising event for local charities, the Washington Winter Show is one of the longest running antiques shows in the country with premier dealers from the United States and Europe. General Admission: $25.00 (good throughout the weekend).

Fri-Sat: 11am-8pm; Sun: 11am-5pm.

Katzen Arts Center at American University, 4400 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20016  www.washingtonwintershow.com January 22-31

The Washington Auto Show

Find your own auto “nirvana” among more than 700 new vehicle makes and models, along with live entertainment, celebrity guests and special giveaways.

Adult (13yrs+): $12.00; Senior: $10; Child (6-12yrs): $5.00, under 5yrs: Free.

Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW Washington, DC 20001. See website for complete schedule and tickets:  www.washingtonautoshow.com

For detailed, up to the minute event information, visit us online at DCMetroPlus.com

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

SPORTS NHL Hockey

WASHINGTON CAPITALS  Verizon Center

601 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20004  Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com

Home Schedule December

Tuesday, December 8 – 7:30pm vs. Detroit Red Wings Wednesday, December 16 – 7pm vs. Ottawa Senators Friday, December 18 – 7pm vs. Tampa Bay Lightning Saturday, December 26 – 7pm vs. Montreal Canadiens Wednesday, December 30 – 7pm vs. Buffalo Sabres January

Sunday, January 10 – 7pm vs. Ottawa Senators Thursday, January 14 – 7pm vs. Vancouver Canucks Sunday, January 17 – 5pm vs. New York Rangers Friday, January 22 – 7pm vs. Anaheim Ducks Sunday, January 24 – 12:30pm vs. Pittsburgh Penguins Wednesday, January 27 – 8pm vs. Philadelphia Flyers

NFL Football

WASHINGTON REDSKINS  FedEx Field

1600 FedEx Way Landover, MD 20785  Tickets: www.redskins.com

Home Schedule

NBA Basketball

WASHINGTON WIZARDS  Verizon Center

601 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20004  Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com

Home Schedule December

Wednesday, December 2 – 7pm vs. Las Angeles Lakers Friday, December 4 – 7pm vs. Phoenix Suns Sunday, December 6 – 6pm vs. Dallas Mavericks Wednesday, December 9 – 7pm vs. Houston Rockets Saturday, December 19 – 7pm vs. Charlotte Hornets

story

Monday, December 21 – 7pm vs. Sacramento Kings

Wednesday, December 23 – 7pm vs. Memphis Grizzlies Monday, December 28 – 7pm vs. Los Angeles Clippers January

Friday, January 1 – 7pm vs. Orlando Magic Sunday, January 3 – 6pm vs. Miami Heat Wednesday, January 6 – 7pm vs. Cleveland Cavaliers Friday, January 8 – 7pm vs. Toronto Raptors Wednesday, January 13 – 7pm vs. Milwaukee Bucks

December

Saturday, January 16 –7pm vs. Boston Celtics

Monday, December 7 – 8:30pm vs. Dallas Cowboys

Monday, January 18 – 2pm vs. Portland Trailblazers

Sunday, December 20 – 1pm vs. Buffalo Bills

Wednesday, January 20 – 7pm vs. Miami Heat Saturday, January 23 – 6:30pm vs. Utah Jazz Monday, January 25 – 7pm vs. Boston Celtics Thursday, January 28 – 7pm vs. Denver Nuggets

SOUNDS OF THE

SEASON

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, so sit back and relax with joyful music and audience singalongs, sure to get you in the right holiday mood!

Holiday Concerts 2015 December 5

Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long

Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap. This annual musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan area. FREE!, no tickets required. And be sure to bring along a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots, a candle for the traditional exit processional, and a bell for the musical “Jing-A-Long”! 4pm. The Filene Center, Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182  www.wolftrap.org December 5-6

Handel’s Messiah at Washington National Cathedral Enjoy this musical masterpiece as it was meant to be heard! The Cathedral Choir, a Baroque period orchestra, the cathedral’s beauty, and the Christmas season all combine to make this the perfect setting for some of the season’s most joyous music, performed by a team of international soloists with the

Cathedral’s own combined choirs and Baroque orchestra. There is no better way to start off your holiday season.

Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20016  www.nationalcathedral.org

renditions of traditional Christmas songs, bringing audiences an extraordinary concert experience, complete with light show and pyrotechnics. 7:30pm.

Verizon Center, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004  www.verizoncenter.com

December 5-6, 12-13

December 10

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington Presents: Rockin’ The Holidays

Come celebrate the holidays in style!

Performing songs you know and love ­— with a twist — the GMC offers some of your favorite holiday songs, but as you’ve never heard them before. Come join the Chorus as they ring in the season with glitter and glamour! The Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street, NW, Washington DC 20009  www.thelincolndc.com December 10

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

This exciting new production by the TSO has to be seen to be believed! The acclaimed rock orchestra brings its mix of progressive rock, symphonic metal, and heavy metal, with influences from classical music, to create unique

Not So Silent Night

Get ready for the music event of the holiday season! DC’s 94.7 Fresh FM proudly presents the 3rd Annual “Not So Silent Night” — featuring Rob Thomas with special guests George Ezra and Karmin. 8pm. The Fillmore Silver Spring, 8656 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910  www.fillmoresilverspring.com December 12-13

The Joy of Christmas

The Cathedral Choral Society presents a perennial holiday favorite. Celebrate the season in the magnificent setting of Washington National Cathedral with a program that features the Advent wreath procession, seasonal favorites, and carols for all to sing. Sat: 12pm; Sat-Sun: 4pm. Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20016  www.nationalcathedral.org DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

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Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long

unforgettable night of holiday mischief — now even Holier and Dirtier — with his critically acclaimed and darkly hilarious one-man show, a staged monologue about all things merry and dark. Waters pokes fun at the holiday season with adult-appropriate humor, offering a show for the open minded and slightly left-of-center audience that reminds us not to take the holidays too seriously. 7:30pm. The Birchmere Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22305  www.birchmere.com December 13

December 14

December 23

The magic of Christmas is found in the eyes of children and this one-hour, highly participatory concert is sure to delight the young–and young-at-heart– with songs of Santa, Rudolph, and Frosty. Perfect for children 5 and older... and don’t forget the grandparents! 2pm.

In the Concert Hall, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566  www.kennedy-center.org

This fifth annual holiday concert, sponsored by Hot 99.5 Radio is part of the national iHeartRadio Jingle Ball 2015 Tour, the season’s biggest annual music event. This year’s star-studded lineup includes top recording artists 5 Seconds of Summer, Demi Lovato, Shawn Mendes, Zedd, Tove, Lo Charlie, Puth, Hailee Steinfeld, R. City, Alessia Cara, and Natalie La Rose. 7pm. Verizon Center, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004  ww.hot995.com/go/jingleball2015

Be part of Washington’s most popular free holiday event! Back by popular demand, this evening concert joins the Opera House Orchestra, professional soloists, and a very enthusiastic audience in a performance of Handel’s masterpiece. A family and community tradition since 1971! FREE! (Note: tickets distributed beginning at 6pm on Dec. 23 in the Hall of Nations. Two (2) tickets only per person in line.) 8pm. In the Concert Hall, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566  www.kennedy-center.org

A Family Christmas Concert

December 13

Andrea Bocelli

Bocelli, fresh off a performance for Pope Francis in Philadelphia arrives in DC just in time for the holidays.

7:30pm. Verizon Center, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004  www.monumentalnetwork.com December 13

Sweet Honey in the Rock: Celebrating the Holidays

Grammy Award-nominated and revered a cappella ensemble, Sweet Honey in the Rock, returns to DC with their international infused mix of classic and traditional holiday songs. 4pm. The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852  www.strathmore.org December 13-22

The Washington Chorus: A Candlelight Christmas

Celebrate the splendor of the season with this beloved holiday event. With brass, organ, percussion, harp, and the 200-voice chorus, the program features Christmas classics, sing-alongs, theatrical lighting, and the glorious candlelight processional. These concerts sell out early! In the Concert Hall, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566  www.kennedy-center.org

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Jingle Ball

December 14-15

Aimee Mann & Ted Leo Christmas Show

Featuring Jonathan Coulton, Liz Phair & other special guests. 7:30pm. The Birchmere Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22305  www.birchmere.com December 16

Asleep At The Wheel “Merry Texas Christmas Y’all”

7:30pm. The Birchmere Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22305  www.birchmere.com December 17-20

National Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah

Get in the holiday spirit with Handel’s epic masterpiece, performed each year with a fresh perspective by the NSO and acclaimed guest artists. In the Concert Hall, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566  www.kennedy-center.org December 21

A John Waters Christmas

John Waters (of ‘Hairspray’ and ‘Pink Flamingos’ fame) presents an

Messiah Sign-along

December 31

A Jazz New Year’s Eve: Diane Schuur and Strings, Celebrating Sinatra’s Centenary Mark the new year by celebrating the centenary of Frank Sinatra with pianist and vocalist Diane Schuur.

Accompanied by a jazz quartet and a full complement of strings, Schuur performs lush arrangements of Sinatra standards. 7 and 9pm. In the Terrace Theater. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566  www.kennedy-center.org December 31

New Year’s Eve at the Kennedy Center with Chaka Khan

Usher in the New Year with an electrifying performance of greatest hits by 10-time Grammy winner and international music icon, Chaka Khan. 8:30pm in the Concert Hall. After the concert, enjoy dancing, a countdown to 2016, and a balloon drop in the Grand Foyer!

(10:30pm-1am) Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20566  www.kennedy-center.org

CONCERTS

Rosanne Cash Blood Sweat & Tears

BIRCHMERE  3701 Mount Vernon Avenue Alexandria, VA 22305 (703) 549-7500  www.birchmere.com

December 3 – 7:30pm

Sheila E

December 4 – 7:30pm

Blood Sweat & Tears featuring Bo Bice December 9 – 7:30pm

Rosanne Cash

Todd Rundgren

THE FILLMORE SILVER SPRING  8656 Colesville Road Judy Collins

America’s

lives here.

Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301) 960-9999

 www.fillmoresilverspring.com December 11-12 – 7:30pm

Judy Collins

December 22 – 7:30pm

An Evening with Todd Rundgren

January 8-9 – 7:30pm

Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder

January 12 – 7:30pm

Travis Tritt

December 29 – 8pm

The Roots

THE HAMILTON  600 14th Street NW

Washington, DC 20005 (202) 787-1000  www.thehamiltondc.com

December 13 – 7:30pm

Emmylou Harris

January 21 – 7:30pm

DAR CONSTITUTION HALL  1776 D Street, NW

January 22 – 7:30pm

January 31 – 7:30pm

January 27 – 7pm

Morris Day & The Time Marshall Crenshaw and The Bottle Rockets David Cassidy

Washington, DC 20006 (202) 628-4780  www.dar.org/conthall

Nick Jonas

TUDOR PLACE Historic House & Garden w hourly tours w Georgetown w

www.tudorplace.org

Macklemore & Ryan DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

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1

Taverna Cretekou Nationally Recognized • Festive Atmosphere

PREMIUM ENTRÉES. MOUTHWATERING STEAKS. EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. Celebrated Chef Mike Cordero unveils Old Town’s newest steak destination

N

EW

0777 808 KING STREET ALEXANDRIA, VA

!

Celebrating our 40th year!

Reservations: 703 299 0777

Daily Lunch Buffet - 11:30am to 2:30pm | Dinner - 5pm to 10pm Saturday - 12pm to 10:30pm | Sunday Brunch - 11pm to 3pm Sunday Dinner - 5pm to 9:30pm

808 KING ST. ALEXANDRIA, VA

818 King Street, Old Town Alexandria, VA (p) 703.548.8688 (w) www.TavernaCretekou.com

TavernaCretekou_1-4pg_v1.indd 1

RESTAURANTS

SPECIAL EVENTS

OFFICE

12/5/08 8:12:23 AM

RESIDENTIAL

Holiday Dining at the National Harbor

I

t’s the most delicious time of the year and whether your holiday wish is a decadent dinner or bountiful brunch the National Harbor is the place to dine this holiday season. You can celebrate with a delicious meal at one of the more than 30 dining establishments currently open for business. Make a day of it with a visit to the Gaylord National’s ICE!, a winter wonderland attraction made of two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, take in the magical waterside holiday decorations and take your pick of holiday food and drink.

Bond 45

Fiorella Italian Kitchen

 149 Waterfront Street National Harbor, MD 20745 (301) 839-1445

Bond 45 brings a taste of old New York to the National Harbor. Holiday diners can look forward to a menu reminiscent of an old school Italian steak and seafood house. Their New York steaks are dry-aged for 28 days and the house made mozzarella is paired with prosciutto from their Mozzarella and Prosciutto bar. Handmade pastas, a Porterhouse steak for two and their famous veal parmigiana are just a few of the dishes the kitchen at Bond 45 is famous for. Savor international wines or sip a cocktail from antique tea cups for the full Bond 45 experience.

 152 National Plaza

Oxon Hill, MD 20745 (301) 839-1811

Dining at Fiorella Italian Kitchen is all about charm. Watch the holiday lights twinkle and take in expansive views of the Potomac while you enjoy traditional Italian pizza, pasta and calzones in a rustic Italian setting. Italian hospitality, their infamous Fiorella Lasagna and fish served four ways — Livornese, Calabrese, Oven Roasted and grilled — are all excellent reasons to stop into Fiorella’s. Come back in summer to take advantage of their outdoor dining areas.

National Harbor Christmas Tree

DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

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National Skyline Tempo Harbor Advert 10/27/04

3:19 PM

Page 1

Old Hickory Steakhouse

 Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

201 Waterfront Street National Harbor, MD 20745 (301) 965-4000

The kiddos will love Brunch with Santa at Old Hickory Steakhouse. This award-winning restaurant offers a fourcourse holiday brunch menu featuring a bounty of MidAtlantic favorites like a seafood tower with a petit filet, a lobster-stuffed omelet and more. Take a picture with Santa Clause between courses and smile pretty — a professional photographer is onsite to capture the moment. Brunch with Santa will be held on December 13 and 20 from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pre-purchase is required by calling the restaurant.

“European & Californian cuisine consistently hits the high notes.”

Joan Horwitt,Mid Atlantic Magazine

One of Alexandria’s Best kept secrets...

Nestled in the West End, this elegant but unpretentious neighborhood restaurant is where the locals dine.

Ample free parking. Reservations are suggested. All major credit cards accepted.

4231 Duke Street • Alexandria, VA

703-370-7900

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

Pienza Italian Market  201 Waterfront Street

National Harbor, MD 20745 (301) 965-5200

Leave the cooking to the chefs at Pienza Marketplace on Christmas morning. Their Christmas Day Grand Buffet features everyone’s Christmas favorites, as well as ham and beef carving stations, a raw seafood bar and a fabulous assortment of holiday desserts that will blow your tastebuds away! Buche de Noel, Eggnog Cream Shooters, and Candy Cane Mouse Dacquoise are just a few of the sweet treats on display. Christmas dinner is served from Noon – 5:00 p.m. and reservations are highly recommended.

Pose Rooftop Lounge  201 Waterfront Street

National Harbor, MD 20745 (301) 965-4000

Take in all the holiday sights from your 18th floor perch in the dining room at Pose Rooftop Lounge. Gaze out over the Harbor, Old Town Alexandria and The Capital Wheel while you dine on an exclusive Christmas Family Feast featuring fresh charcuterie, cheese and seafood displays, as well as prime rib, turkey and more. The Family Feast is served on Christmas Day from 11:00 a.m.

– 4:00 p.m. Seats must be purchased in advance, so call now to reserve your family’s spot.

The Walrus Oyster & Ale House  152 Waterfront Street

National Harbor, MD 20745 (301) 567-6100

Guests at The Walrus Oyster & Ale House can enjoy a casual atmosphere with a menu chock full of seafood and other fare. The shucking bar menu offers more than a dozen varieties of oysters.

Guests booking holiday parties of 20 guests or more can choose options from the standard menu or a special holiday menu served family style.

Traditional Roast Turkey, Rum-Glazed Country Ham with Raisin Sauce, Pumpkin and Duck Bisque, and Cheddar Cheese Grits are a few standouts from the holiday menu.

Old Hickory Steakhouse

DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

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W Hotel

A CLASSY COCKTAIL CRAWL IN WASHINGTON, DC

By Amy Trotter Houston

U

tter the words “bar crawl” and images of frat boys wearing backward-facing baseball caps daring each other to do stupid stuff while yelling, “Hey, Bro, watch this!” come to mind. Bar crawls are great for some, but many of us prefer to get together with a small group of friends for something a bit more sophisticated.

Classy, if you will. Hence, the idea was born for a cocktail crawl or, as we call it, a Christmas Tree Cocktail-a-thon, Drink-a-Palooza!

The concept is simple. Gather your friends, family members or fun people you’ve just met on the metro, pick a place to meet and let the good times pour.

Here we propose an itinerary that includes stops at chic hotel bars, seeing a few sights along the way and some spectacular chandeliers. Sometimes visiting a hotel bar in your own city is more fun than when you are out of town. We also feel that gathering your group for a photo in front of the Christmas tree or other decorations in the hotel lobby before moving on to the next stop is key.

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

W HOTEL Due to its proximity to public transportation — Metro Center is but two blocks away — start your party at the W Hotel (515 15th Street NW) directly across the street from the Main Treasury Building. The original glass awnings for the old Hotel Washington hang over the entrance making it easy to spot. A funky vibe permeates the lobby from the furnishings to the lighting, with seating Off the Record — The Hay-Adams areas grouped for easy conversation. The Living Room Jewel Box Bar is located at one end and they mix a mean Manhattan. Once your pals are gathered and a photo has been taken, head out for a bit of sight-seeing as follows: Stroll over to The Ellipse to see the National Christmas Tree and the National Chanukah Menorah. These two highlights, along with views of the White House and the Washington Monument, are sure to put you in an even more festive mood, especially if there is snow on the ground and a nip in the air.

Continue along past the White House, always a great place for another group photo, and cut through Lafayette Park to our next stop.

THE HAY-ADAMS One of the most elegant hotels in town, The Hay-Adams (800 16th Street NW) boasts a classic bar called Off the Record. Located on the lower level, you can enter it from the corner of 16th and H Streets. Red walls are lined with caricature sketches of past and present influential political players that are fun to peruse. These witty drawings also appear on the coasters. Gather at the bar or amid the cozy banquette seating. Order a few nibbles from the great bar menu to pair with a pear martini or club soda with a twist. This is just the place where you can imagine running into a well-known politician and having a meaningful discussion about the state of US affairs. Or, it might just be easier to order another drink and turn your attention back to your friends. Once you’ve enjoyed yourselves and taken another group photo, climb back into your coats for a quick walk up the block.

THE SAINT REGIS WASHINGTON, D.C. The Saint Regis (923 16th Street NW) is as impeccable as it is inviting with a nice bar adjacent the lobby that sports classic yet hip furnishings and large light-filled windows.

If you’re lucky, a pianist may be tickling the ivories of the baby grand. Gather in one of the comfortable seating areas and enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere. This is the place for a classic drink. The bar is known for its signature preprohibition cocktails, and offers a notable list of fine wines.

Once your band of merry friends has enjoyed the scene and,

you’ve guessed it, taken the requisite group picture, be sure to turn your gaze up – the carved ceiling and crystal chandeliers in the lobby are too beautiful to be missed. Once outside, take K Street NW across Farragut Square to Connecticut Avenue, turn right and walk one and a half blocks to our final destination.

THE MAYFLOWER HOTEL First opened in 1925, The Mayflower (1127 Connecticut Avenue NW) sports a refreshed vibe that is trendy while retaining its original allure. Stroll the long hallway and admire the enormous chandeliers. We recommend taking this stop’s group shot sooner than later, due to the blurry factor that might be seeping in, and because you probably won’t remember later. The best seating is at tables located along the balcony railing overlooking the lobby so you can watch those coming and going. The bar is known for its martini menu.

Since this is our last stop, you may wish to grab dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, or download the new DC Metro+ app for a bunch of great recommendations. The Farragut North metro station is close by for when you decide to call it an evening.

Final Notes

These hotel bars aren’t going to have five dollar “well” drinks and for good reason; this isn’t a bar crawl. It’s a classy cocktail one. Once in a while, it’s fun to get a little dressed up and gather with friends for a fun afternoon of cocktails and conversation. Enjoy. Wear your chic but comfortable shoes for wobbly walking ease. Tip the bartenders. Ride the metro, take a taxi, or decide on a designated driver beforehand.

Connect with DC Metro+ Share your group photos with us @DCMetroMagazine

DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

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THEATER

SEE WHAT’S PLAYING ON STAGES IN AND AROUND DC

Oliver! – Arena Stage

ARENA STAGE  1101 Sixth Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20024 (202) 488-3300 www.arenastage.org

Through January 3 in the Fichandler Stage

Oliver!

Consider yourself invited to the theatrical event of the holiday season! Charles Dickens’ unforgettable characters burst to life in this Tony Award-winning musical about an innocent orphan thrown into the dark world of doubledealing thieves and conmen. Brought to life with new in-the-round staging and modern edges, “Oliver!” serves up a musical feast for the eyes and ears that is sure to delight every theater-lover.

FOLGER SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY  201 East Capitol Street, SE 

Washington, DC 20003 (202) 544-7077 www.folger.edu

Through December 20

Pericles

In Shakespeare’s most fantastical tale, Pericles, Prince of Tyre, embarks on a tempest-tossed quest in search of adventure, wealth and family. As he travels to parts unknown, he is confronted by villains, pirates, goddesses and kings, to discover, at journey’s end, an essential truth: the renewal of love and life itself. This outstanding

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

Matilda The Musical – Kennedy Center

production incorporates striking visual projections and live music (by Tony Award-winner Jack Herrick) that creates an extraordinary and magical experience that helps audiences appreciate Shakespeare anew.

FORD’S THEATRE  511 Tenth Street NW



Washington, DC 20004 (202) 347-4833 www.fordstheatre.org

Through December 31

A Christmas Carol

It’s never too early to start celebrating the holiday season with A Christmas Carol, which has delighted Washington audiences for more than 30 years! Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. This

music-infused production captures the magic and joy of Charles Dickens’ ageless tale.

KENNEDY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS  2700 F Street, NW 

Washington, DC 20566 (202) 467-4600 www.kennedy-center.org

January 6–11 in the Opera House

Matilda The Musical

Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl, this is the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. It’s Time Magazine’s “#1 Show of the Year”, winner of 50 international awards — including four Tony Awards — and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages on Broadway

and in London’s West End. You and your family won’t want to miss!

(Recommended for age 6 and up.)

SHAKESPEARE THEATRE COMPANY  The Lansburgh Theatre:

NATIONAL THEATER  1321 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20004 (202) 628-6161  www.thenationaldc.com

450 7th Street NW

 Sidney Harman Hall:



610 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20004 (202) 547-1122 www.shakespearetheatre.org

Through January 3 in Sidney Harman Hall

Kiss Me, Kate

Motown: The Musical – National Theater

December 1–January 3

Motown: The Musical

It began as one man’s story, became everyone’s music, and is now a smash musical. This is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Gordy’s Motown shattered barriers, shaped lives and made the country move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” this is the music that shaped a generation!

It’s “another opening of another show” with Kiss Me, Kate, the American musical theater’s greatest tribute to the Bard! As they try to stage a musical version of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, sparks fly on and off stage between the show’s director and star and his leading lady—and ex-wife. Add to the mix a pair of passionate young lovers, plus a few musically inclined gangsters’ heavies, and the result is a sharp and witty night with some of Cole Porter’s most immortal tunes.

Winner of the first ever Tony Award® for Best Musical, this theater classic features such enduring numbers as “So In Love” and “Brush Up Your Shakespeare.”

SIGNATURE THEATRE  4200 Campbell Avenue



(Shirlington Village) Arlington, VA 22206 (703) 820-9771 www.signature-theatre.org

December 8–Janaury 24

West Side Story

Considered one of the greatest musicals of all time, West Side Story makes its triumphant Signature debut.

The Washington Ballet presents The Nutcracker – Warner Theatre

In the late 1950s two rival gangs struggle for control of their West Side New York City neighborhood. Amidst the chaos, star-crossed lovers find themselves wrenched between their worlds. Beautiful, passionate, with shades of violence and heartache, this innovative adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet still dazzles after more than fifty years. Written by the dream creative team of Leonard Bernstein, Arthur Laurents and Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story’s legendary jazz, Latin and classicalinspired score features the treasured songs including “Tonight,” “I Feel Pretty” and “America.”

SYNETIC THEATER  1800 South Bell Street

Arlington, VA (Crystal City) 22202 (800) 494-8497 www.synetictheater.org 

December 9–January 17

As You Like It

All the world’s a stage for Synetic’s 12th silent Shakespeare adaptation. The witty and resourceful Rosalind, along with her devoted cousin Celia, are forced to flee their lives of luxury for an unfamiliar world – the bleak streets of a rusted urban wasteland. Their grim exile is transformed once Rosalind encounters the lovelorn Orlando, who fails to recognize the object of his affections in disguise! Synetic’s purely physical interpretation promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of traditional gender roles, societal class, and love with visual imagery and original music that will be hard to forget. (This production does not have dialogue.)

WARNER THEATRE  513 13th Street, NW

Washington, DC 20004

 www.warnertheatredc.com December 3–27

The Washington Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

A holiday must-see! Septime Webre’s one-of-a-kind Nutcracker, set in 1882 Georgetown, stars George Washington as the heroic Nutcracker, King George III as the villainous Rat King, and features Anacostia Indians, frontiersmen, and many other all-American delights. Glorious music, swirling snowflakes, magnificent sets and costumes have made this Nutcracker a DC tradition with raves from critics and sold-out crowds.

DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

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FOLGER SHAKESPEARE LIBRARY  201 East Capitol Street, SE Washington, DC 20003  FREE!  www.folger.edu

Through January 3

Age of Lawyers: The Roots of American Law in Shakespeare’s Britain In the 800th anniversary year of the Magna Carta, Age of Lawyers offers a close-up look at the rapid increase of lawyers and legal actions in Shakespeare’s Britain, from the law’s impact on daily life to major political and legal disputes—some invoking the Magna Carta—that still influence American politics and government.

The Great Hall

American Art Museum – Irving Penn: Beyond Beauty

EXHIBITS

SPECIAL THINGS AWAIT INSIDE THESE EXCELLENT GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS

AMERICAN ART MUSEUM  Eighth and F Streets, NW Washington, DC 20004  FREE!  www.americanart.si.edu

NEW!

Irving Penn: Beyond Beauty

This first retrospective of photographer Irving Penn’s work in almost 20 years features 146 photographs, drawn entirely from the extensive holdings of the Museum, both personal and public, within the larger history of modern art.

It reveals how Penn (1917-2009) used photography to respond to social and

Folger Library – Age of Lawyers

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

cultural change by brilliantly describing surface appearances in ways that speak to the depths of human existence.

1st Floor, West B&O RAILROAD MUSEUM  901 W. Pratt Street Baltimore, MD 21223  Adult: $18; Senior (60+):$16; Child (2-12):$12  www.borail.org

December 1-January 3

B&O’s Magical Holiday Express

All aboard the Magical Holiday Express, a holiday spectacular celebration in the B&O Roundhouse devoted to trains of all sizes and shapes, holiday festivities, and a winter wonderland of family fun and activities. Trains are magical during the holidays and there’s no better place to be a child than at the B&O Railroad Museum during these special weeks where visitors will enjoy special guests, train layouts, crafts and more. There’s something to see and do every day at this annual holiday event!

HIRSHORN MUSEUM and SCULPTURE GARDEN  700 Independence Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20024  FREE!  www.hirshhorn.si.edu

NEW!

Marvelous Objects: Surrealist Sculpture from Paris to New York

The first major museum exhibition devoted to a comprehensive view of the Surrealist movement’s threedimensional works brings together more than 100 works created by more than 20 artists from France, Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Great Britain, and the United States—including Man Ray, Dali and Miró—from the 1920s to the 1950s.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MUSEUM  1145 17th Street NW Washington, DC 20036  Adult: $15; Member/Military/Senior/ Student: $12; Child (5-12): $10  www.nationalgeographic.com

Through March 27

Pristine Seas: The Ocean’s Last Wild Places

The Pristine Seas project searches for the last truly wild places in the ocean, remote areas untouched by human activity, with the Nat Geo team exploring, researching, and making powerful films to motivate world leaders to protect these last pristine places. While the ocean covers nearly seventy percent of our planet, only two percent is now protected; this project’s goal is to help increase that protection to ten percent

by 2020. Visitors are invited to journey across the world’s ocean with the team to find and protect these last wild places.

The exhibit features stunning photography and behind-the-scenes expedition images from the Arctic to the tropics as well as an immersive underwater video wall.

NATIONAL MUSEUM of AMERICAN HISTORY  14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20001  FREE!  www.americanart.si.edu

NEW!

Art Pottery and Glass in America, 1880s–1920s

American potters and glassmakers were at the forefront of producing decorative wares that appealed to the growing market for Arts and Crafts design, popular between 1880 and 1910. This display highlights the design movement that embraced the ideals of superior craftsmanship, naturalistic ornamentation and living with beauty in the home.

Among the manufacturers featured are the Steuben Glass Works, Phoenix Glass Company, Rookwood Pottery, Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company, Biloxi Art Pottery, Paul Revere Pottery, and Matt Morgan Art Pottery 1st Floor, Center NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY  8th and F Streets NW Washington, DC 20001  FREE!  www.npg.si.edu

Ongoing Exhibition

Contemporary Americans

Four newly created galleries opening onto the museum’s magnificent thirdfloor Great Hall showcase the major cultural, scientific and political figures

B&O Railroad Museum – B&O’s Magical Holiday Express

of the 20th century. From the reform movements of the first two decades to the movements for social justice and civil rights of the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s and from the Great Depression to the Vietnam era and beyond, visitors can explore the never-ending struggle to attain the American goal of justice for all.

3rd Floor NEWSEUM  555 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20001  Adult: $22.95; Senior (65+): $18.95 Child (7-18): $13.95; Child (6 & younger): Free  www.newseum.org

NEW!

Inside Today’s FBI: Fighting Crime in the Age of Terror

For the past 100 years, the FBI has tackled America’s most dangerous criminals. Along the way, the press helped create — and sometimes shoot down — the FBI’s reputation. This timely update to one of the Newseum’s most popular exhibits explores how the FBI fights crime in the age of global terrorism and cybercrime, with news stories ripped from today’s headlines and dozens of new artifacts. Explore some of the bureau’s top cases and the headlines they inspired.

RENWICK GALLERY  1661 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20006  FREE!  www.americanart.si.edu

NEW!

Wonder National Portrait Gallery – Contemporary Americans

The Renwick Gallery, home to the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s craft and decorative arts program,

reopened to the public in November following a major two-year renovation. The inaugural exhibition, Wonder, transforms the entire museum into an immersive artwork that encompasses all the public galleries, with new room-size installations by major contemporary artists. While the nine artists featured create strikingly different works, they are connected by their interest in creating large-scale installations from unexpected materials. These works are expressions of process, labor, and materials that are grounded in the everyday world, but when combined produce awe-inspiring results.

US BOTANIC GARDEN  100 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC (next to the U.S. Capitol at First St., NW) 20001  FREE!  www.usbg.gov

Through January 4

Season Greenings

The Botanic Garden’s annual seasonal exhibit returns for the holidays and is more enchanting than ever! Despite the cold winter outside, the Conservatory boasts a tropical paradise, one of the largest indoor decorated trees in Washington, D.C., a poinsettia showcase and a grove of conifer trees. Visitors won’t want to miss this popular exhibit which includes Washington landmark buildings, all created with plant materials, set amidst pathways and pools of blooming poinsettias and other holiday plants, as well as the famous garden railway train display in the East Gallery.

And with this year’s theme, “Pollination Station” visitors can enjoy oversized flowers, bees and butterflies in this year’s scenic wonderland.

DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

27

GETTING AROUND

Using Metro THE BEST, MOST CONVENIENT WAY TO GET AROUND THE METROPOLITAN AREA Each person needs his or her own farecard or pass to ride Metrorail.

Passes and farecards can be purchased online or at any Metro station from a vending machine.

Use Metro’s Trip Planner if you wish to determine your exact fare and route.

Purchasing Options

Fares

Off-Peak

Rush Hour

Farecard

Short Trips

$1.75

$2.15

Long Trips

$3.60

$5.90

$1.70 – $45.00

SmartTrip® Card

$2.00

Rechargable up to $300

Day Pass

$14.50

One Day of Unlimited Metro Travel Expires of End of Operating Day

Group Sales call (202) 962-1488 Online at wmata.com

More information is available online at wmata.com. Metro sales offices are located at Metro Center Station, Pentagon Station, and Metro Headquarters at 600 5th Street, NW, Washington DC.

NATIONAL MALL

KIDS 2–12 TRAVEL FOR HALF PRICE. BOOK EARLY AND SAVE 25% OR MORE*

*Restrictions apply. Amtrak and Northeast Regional are registered service marks of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.

DCMetroPlus.com • December/January 2015 •

29

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• December/January 2015 • DCMetroPlus.com

Now – January 3, 2016 The Washington, D.C. Region’s Must-See Holiday Attraction Returns!

Learn how Santa Claus started giving toys to good girls and boys in the retelling of the classic television special, Santa Claus is Comin’ To Town®, celebrating its 45th anniversary this year. Relive the story of how our favorite Christmas traditions came to be through classic scenes, including Burgermeister outlawing toys in Sombertown, the melting of Winter Warlock’s icy heart, and Kris Kringle becoming Santa Claus. It’s all part of Christmas on the Potomac!

ENJOY UNLIMITED ADMISSION TO ICE! WITH OUR OVERNIGHT PACKAGES, starting at $199**

28 ADULT $20 CHILD

Tickets Starting at * $

(ages 12+)

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Located in National Harbor, MD – Conveniently located minutes from Washington, D.C. and across the river from Old Town Alexandria. *Subject to 10% entertainment tax and transaction fee per ticket. **Per room plus tax, resort fee and parking. Package pricing, components, show schedules and entertainment subject to change without notice. See website for restrictions.

Santa Claus is Comin’ To Town © Classic Media, LLC. All rights reserved. PEPSI and Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc.

A PART OF PRESENTED BY