5 Holiday Activities That You Don’t Want to Miss

Thanksgiving has wrapped which means the Holiday season is officially upon us! Some of the best holiday traditions include attending and experiencing various holiday themed events, and here in the District, we have no shortage of some of the most festive experiences one could have. Continue reading to learn about 5 of our favorite events to attend during this holiday season!

1.) NSO Ugly Sweater Concert at the Anthem

This event is a departure from the standard National Symphony Orchestra experience of formalwear and expensive tickets. Join the National Symphony Orchestra for their annual Ugly Sweater Concert and take part in the fun of this joyous and tacky affair. Musicians and patrons alike will be able to show off their most tacky holiday outfits while enjoying singalongs and other holiday hits. You can catch this event at The Anthem on December 6 starting at just $25 for tickets. Doors open at 6:00PM. Click here for more info and tickets.

2.) Washington Ballet ‘Nutcracker” Family Day at the Warner Theater

The Nutcracker Ballet is a mainstay for many people’s holiday to-do list, and the Washington Ballet’s production is particularly special. You’ll enjoy this rendition set in Georgetown with George Washington starring as the main character. Before the matinee performance, enjoy family day activities such as craft projects, games, and photos with costumed dancers. Catch this event on December 11 with the activities beginning at 11:30AM before the performance begins at 1PM. Click here for more info and tickets.

3.) Lighting of the National Menorah on the Ellipse

The lighting of the National Menorah takes place on the Ellipse on the first night of Hanukkah. Typically, this event is attended by the President, Vice President, and many members of the Cabinet and Congress. Enjoy performances by various military bands and other Jewish artists. This event is free of charge (but do click here for reservations as they are required) and kicks off at 3:15pm on December 18th.

4.) Season’s Greetings at the U.S. Botanic Gardens

Come to the U.S. Botanic Garden to take in their annual Season’s Greetings holiday display from 10am-5pm every day through January 2, 2023. The gated outdoor gardens and the Conservatory will feature poinsettias, holiday décor, and D.C. landmarks makes from plants. Catch the highly acclaimed train display during this same time frame to see them run through a display of agricultural scenes from across the United States and the world. Click here for more info.

5.) ZooLights at Smithsonian’s National Zoo

For the first time since 2019, you can bask in the colorful glow of D.C.’s beloved National Zoo holiday tradition. This is a free ticketed event and includes live music performances, tasty winter treats, and a stunning display of over 500,000 environmentally friendly LED lights that transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland. Be sure to click the link to view the schedule and details.Be sure to click here to view the schedule and details.


Looking to do something a little closer to home? As a resident at The Crest, you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to meet your neighbors at our annual Holiday Party this Friday, 12/2 from 6-8PM!


Not yet a resident at The Crest? What are you waiting for?!