Season’s Greetings is on display at the U.S. Botanic Garden. Courtesy of Devin Dotson, U.S. Botanic Garden
By Southwester Staff
Whether you’re entertaining visiting friends and family or enjoying a quiet staycation in the neighborhood, Southwest is brimming with holiday cheer. For special events, menus, parties and celebrations, reach out to your favorite neighborhood restaurant or hotel.
Local events include:
The U.S. Botanic Garden offers its annual holiday display “Season’s Greenings” from Thanksgiving Day through New Year’s Day (closed on Christmas Day). Model trains will run each day in the gated outdoor gardens and holiday decorations will include nearly 2,000 colorful poinsettias and the Garden’s collection of D.C. monuments and landmarks, such as the U.S. Capitol building and the Lincoln Memorial, all made from plant parts. Free, 100 Maryland Ave SW, www.USBG.gov/SeasonsGreenings
Arena Stage hosts its annual holiday celebration of the African American tradition of stepping, billed as the world’s first step-themed holiday show. Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show runs December 9-18. Tickets from $56, 1101 6th Street SW, www.arenastage.org.
For a high-end seasonal treat, the Salamander Hotel is offering holiday-themed afternoon tea service twice daily through January 1. Homemade pastries, sandwiches and tea are included, along with a glass of sparkling wine, surrounded by festive decor. $95, 1130 Maryland Avenue SW, https://www.salamanderdc.com/activities.
ARTECHOUSE’s holiday exhibition, Spectacular Factory, runs from December 20 through January 8. The cinematic experience includes giant swinging Christmas bells, thousands of nutcrackers, train rides through wreaths, spinning candy cane carousels and more. 1238 Maryland Ave SW, www.artechouse.com/program/spectacular-factory-2023/.
Capitol Riverfront BID presents the return of Light Yards, a free interactive light installation on display from November 20 to January 7. Other holiday events at Capitol Riverfront include Hanukkah Lights & Ice Skate Night on December 8 and a holiday tree lighting on December 14. December 16 brings the Jolly Jog Fun Run and December 18 the Jingle Jam Holiday Concert featuring the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington DC. Events occur across Canal Park and Yards Park, SE. https://www.capitolriverfront.org/