The invitation below from the DC Arts District pretty much says it all. An 18' community tree, adorned with over 4,000 lights, will be lit this evening at the corner of 14th and U Streets. Hope to see you there!
Showing posts with label Holidays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Holidays. Show all posts
Friday, December 17, 2010
Community Tree Lighting Tonight @ 5PM at the Reeves Center
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Back From Holiday: Around the Blogosphere
Hello everyone, and apologies for the lack of updates around here recently. Between the holiday and lots of family-related stuff, there just hasn't been a lot of time for neighborhood stuff. One of the explanations for the recent lull in posts is that Mrs. 14thandyou recently completed her graduate school coursework in elementary education. We're very proud of her, and are thankful that there are people out there like her who are willing to put up with the little brats.
With that aside, we're pleased to bring you some interesting tidbits recently from around what the beloved former senator from Alaska referred to as "the series of tubes":
Borderstan has the story on an arrest and charge in the recent stabbing death of a Silver Spring man on 9th Street. (Also, check out Borderstan's new layout--it's pretty snazzy.)
DC Metrocentric has a great shot of the building at 14th and T that is set to become furniture retailer Room and Board, from its days as an auto showroom. Model Ts for everyone!
U Street Girl has the story about a new deli coming in at a long-abandoned spot at 12th and S streets. Interestingly, the owner appears to be the former head of a DC charter school who did some time for his involvement in a computer theft ring.
D.C. Foodies discovers poutine at ChurchKey. How do the Quebecois say "My arteries have the need of the Drano?"
Should DC relax its height restriction? That is the question posed by DC Mud, who looks at the way other cities--such as Paris--have integrated tall structures into their cityscapes while maintaining their unique skylines. One neighborhood suggested as a potential future home for 40 story buildings is Chevy Chase. 'Tis a mighty shame Frank Winstead is no longer on the ANC in order to protest that one.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Happy New Year From 14thandYou
Mr. and Mrs. 14thandyou would like to wish everyone a safe and happy new year! We're pretty much in agreement that the past decade was a pretty crummy one, so we're looking forward to moving on to the next one.
The new year began on an unfortunate tone for at least one local business: one of the trees in front of Cafe Salsa was destroyed sometime last night. It's unclear what destroyed the potted tree, but my guess is either a) someone with a baseball bat, or b) a car that ran up over the curb and struck the plant. Too bad.
As you can probably tell, we're on a bit of blogging hiatus during the holidays, but rest assured we'll be back next week, keeping you up to date on goings-on around the neighborhood. Cheers everyone!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Mid-City Holiday Party Tonight at Local 16
If you're looking for something to do on this chilly Monday evening, you might consider dropping in on the annual Mid-City Business Association's Holiday Party. Taking place from 6p-9p this evening at Local 16 (1602 U Street), the party will feature a lamb roast along with other food, a silent auction featuring items donated from a host of local businesses, and (perhaps most importantly) an open bar.
Tickets are $25 and can be purchased by clicking here. Proceeds benefit the MCBA and small business assistance programs.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Giving Back on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving means time with family and friends, good food and relaxation. It's also a time of year that presents an opportunity to volunteer at many of our city's charities and community organizations. For those of you who may be dining alone, or have some time available on Thanksgiving Day (who needs to watch the Lions and the Cowboys anyway?), we present a brief and far-from-exhaustive guide to volunteering your time at one of these many worthy causes.
A bit of a disclaimer: if you are interested in volunteering with any of the organizations listed below, it's wise to give them a call or send them an email. It's not uncommon for volunteer spaces to fill up quickly.
One final note: while many people's minds turn to charity and volunteering during the holidays, most if not all of these organizations require year-round volunteer efforts and donations in order to be able to continue to serve a needy populace. Thus, with that in mind, we present a few ideas for spending your Thanksgiving Day:
Over at the Whitman-Walker Clinic, SaVanna Wanzer is looking for volunteers on Wednesday at 4 PM to assist in the preparation and cooking of a charity Thanksgiving dinner. Give her a call at 202-797-3509 if you are interested.
Emmaus Services for the Aging: Every year on Thanksgiving, Emmaus coordinates the delivery of over 150 Thanksgiving meals to needy seniors throughout the city. This year, they will be delivering meals from 10a - noon, and they could use some help. Although their website is out of date (at this point, I've given up hope on the October 2007 newsletter "coming soon") I've been told on good authority that you contact Patricia Hughes at 202-745-1200 if you are interested in volunteering.
Burgundy Crescent Volunteers are going to be busy throughout the day on Thanksgiving. They need volunteers from the ungodly hour of 4:45 am - 7:00 am for "unspecified duties". From 10:30a - 2p they will be serving dinner to the needy at Rosemary's Thyme, located at the corner of 18th and S. From noon - 2p, they are organizing a clothing drop-off, also at Rosemary's (if nothing else, it's a perfect opportunity to clean out your closets). Finally (whew) they will be serving lunch from 10a - 3p at the Green Door Clubhouse, a home for those with mental disabilities. Interested in volunteering for any of these events? Contact Jonathan at jonathan@burgundycrescent.org.
Food and Friends needs volunteers to deliver meals throughout the day on Thanksgiving (shifts are available on the hour from 8a - 11a). They also need volunteers to assist with meal preparation and to coordinate activities on what promises to be a very busy day. Click here to learn more about volunteering on Thanksgiving Day.
The Community for Creative Nonviolence, the nation's largest homeless shelter, is preparing to serve Thanksgiving meals to over 2,000 needy individuals on Thanksgiving Day. If that sounds like a formidable task, that's because it is--and they could use some help with all that needs to be done. Specifically, they could use some assistance preparing food, serving meals and spending time with their guests. No sign-up is necessary, but those who are interested should call 202-393-1909 in advance for information.
Finally, while not specifically Thanksgiving related, while we're on the subject of food, the Capital Area Food Bank is always looking for donations in time and goods to help them fulfill their mission--now and throughout the year. Click here to learn more about what you can do to assist them.
And with that, we would like to wish everyone a safe, happy and enjoyable Thanksgiving. 14thandyou is going to take a bit of a break in order to spend some time with family over the weekend, and we hope you will get an opportunity as well.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
At least, it is at the Columbia Heights Target. Spotted this display this afternoon while stopping in to pick up a few things. I love how even Halloween doesn't get any time by itself in the spotlight anymore...
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas from the 14thandYous
The 14thandYous, Lizzie and Spike (pictured here in festive dress--trust us, no animals were harmed during the shooting of this photo) would like to wish everyone a merry Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa, Pagan Winterfest and/or December 25 (if you do not celebrate anything at all). We hope your holiday was enjoyable and relaxing, and that--for one day at least--you were able t tear yourselves away from the neighborhood drama an enjoy some time with friends and family.
The 14thandYous are taking a little holiday time off from the blog due to travel, family obligations and so on. We'll be back online soon. In the meantime, we hope everyone has a safe and wonderful New Year.
Monday, December 8, 2008
2008 Christmas Gifts: Gifts for Your Host
For your shopping pleasure, I present gift ideas for your December party hosts. All suggestions can be found in and around Logan Circle.
Food:
Food, particularly sweets, is a classic gift to one's host. Fortunately, we have an abundance of treats in the neighborhood.
Chocolate lovers like myself rejoiced when ACKC opened a year ago. If you're looking for a host gift, I recommend the traditional box of truffles. The staff there can suggest selections or you can make your own assortment. Also available are baked goods from cookies to cakes, which you can take as a dessert offering at the next dinner party.
Artfully Chocolate Kingsbury Confections
1529 14th Street, NW
http://www.thecocoagallery.com/
More fine chocolate can be had at Locolat, a Belgian chocolatier unfairly located in the same building as the Mint gym. A delectable menu is available on their website.
Locolat
1781 Florida Avenue, NW (near the intersection of 18th Street, U Street, and Florida Avenue)
http://www.belgiumlocolat.com/menu.html
If you prefer your chocolate baked or desserts without any chocolate at all, you may like the ever-popular Cake Love. This bakery has earned cheers and jeers. Cakes and cupcakes are dense -- they even feel heavy when you hold them. The flavor comes out best when they are served at room temperature, but they take almost as long to thaw as the Christmas turkey. The drier cakes are complemented by the butteriest of slightly sweet buttercream frostings that nearly melt as the cakes warm. Cakes are priced from $40 to $175, depending on size. Delivery is available for another $18 to $45 depending on location.
Cake Love
1506 U Street, NW
http://www.cakelove.com
The couture cupcake trend is apparently alive and well. Skip Krispy Kreme and head across Connecticut Avenue at Dupont Circle to the new Hello Cupcake for your holiday desserts. Each day of the week, Monday through Saturday, the available flavors vary, but there are always 12 to 14 options baked daily, including vegetarian and vegan recipes. Cupcakes I am dying to try include chocolate with peppermint frosting, the peanut butter and banana Velvet Elvis, and the Mexican chocolate inspired cupcake with a cinamon and chili kick.
Hello Cupcake
1351 Connecticut Avenue, NW
http://www.hellocupcakeonline.com/index.html
Chocolate Moose, a Dupont resident for an age, has a number of good sweet treats. You can get the classics there, such as Leonidas chocolates, but also some fun candies like swirlie lolipops, Swedish fish, and caramel cubes. Moose will put together a gift bag with your guidance and then ship or courier it wherever you please, a good option if you want to send a gift to your host after an event.
Chocolate Moose
1743 L Street, NW
http://www.chocolatemoosedc.com/
The classic baked goods at Firehook, 1909 Q Street, NW, and Marvelous Market, 1511 Connecticut Avenue are also worth a gander.
Serving Ware:
If you're bring food along to a party, consider bringing it on/in a piece of serving ware given as a gift to your host.
Miss Pixie's Furnishings and Whatnot has had some very attractive crystal items in the window lately. Check in weekly and act quickly to buy your favorites as the inventory changes over rapidly.
Miss Pixie's Furnishings and Whatnot
1626 14th Street, NW
http://www.misspixies.com/home/index4.shtml
Reincarnations has fabulous serving ware, decorative plates, and barware. The colors are bright and the patterns are fun.
Reincarnations Furniture
1401 14th Street, NW
http://www.reincarnationsfurnishings.com/
Home Rule's inventory of kitchen and home goods is fun and affordable. Cheese-lovers may like the three-piece satin finish cheese knife set. Elegant serving platters and bowls in neutral colors are always available. If you prefer something more quirky, bring your food contribution on a plate decorated with a robot.
Home Rule
1807 14th Street, NW
http://www.homerule.com/
Go Mama Go has an abundance of glazed ceramic dinner plates and sushi accessories. Finishes and patterns range from crackled glazes, floral designs, and subtle matte solids.
Go Mama Go
1809 14th Street, NW
http://www.gomamago.com/
Flowers:
Flowers on 14th makes fantastic arrangements. You can walk in or call ahead for pick up or delivery. The quality is far far better than what you would get if you allowed FTD to farm out your order.
Flowers on 14th
1718 14th Street, NW
http://www.flowersonfourteenth.com/
Consider a live plant as a gift. Christmas classics include, of course, papperwhite, amaryllis, and poinsettias. If you're an overachiever, grab a small Christmas tree from Garden District and decorate it. (Miss Pixie's has some great glass ornaments in the window.) Plants that will endure past the holidays are also a good idea. Orchids can be easier to keep than you may think and complement many decorating styles. Succulents are as easy to care for as cacti, come in unusual shapes and textures, and look great in a modern home.
Garden District
1520 14th Street, NW
http://www.gardendistrict-dc.com/
Whole Foods and Trader Joe's also sell seasonal live plants.
Clean Up:
At the end of any event comes the ugly clean up. Make it a little more pleasant with Caldrea's wonderful cleaning products from Home Rule. Available are orignal scents that won't overwhelm pleasant cooking smells. Some of the exotic combinations are ginger pomelo, lavender pine, and basil blue sage. All wrapped up in gorgeous packaging are household basics like dishwashing powder, stainless steel cleaner, and home fragrance.
Home Rule
1807 14th Street, NW
http://www.homerule.com/
Logan Hardware carries Mrs. Meyers cleaning products, which are unique and upscale without being quite as expensive as the Caldrea line. Scents include basil, lavender, lemon verbena, and geranium. Gifts to consider are dish soap, counter top spray, surface wipes, hand soap, and lotion.
Logan Hardware
1416 P Street, NW
http://www.acehardwaredc.com/
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Holiday Happenings
I've made a listing below of some of the fun holiday (mostly Christmas) themed events in and around our fine city. Later on, I'll try to take the time to enter some events that will be occurring in the latter half of this month. Events are listed in vaguely chronological order. I've made an effort to highlight the event themes in italics. Enjoy!
Throughout December:
A great reason to shop locally: DC is having a sales tax holiday on items totaling under $100 until December 7th.
The Model Train Garden at the U.S. Botanic Gardens winds its way both indoors and out. While you're there do not miss the models of DC landmarks constructed entirely from plant materials (see Thomas Jefferson sculpted with an acorn head and moss hair).
At Union Station take in an impressive model train exhibit and towering tree presented as part of the Norwegian Christmas display.
The National Zoo will be lit up on weekend evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m. through the 14th for ZooLights. You can also take in the display every night until the 30th with the exception of the 24th and 25th.
December weekends through 14th, you can tour George Washington's home at Mount Vernon by Candlelight between 5 and 8 p.m.
Willard Intercontinental Hotel will have choral concerts in its lobby Mondays through Saturdays until December 23rd. The Hotel, between 14th and 15th Streets on Pennsylvania Avenue, NW is an easy stop to make going to or from the National Christmas Tree.
Take in the classic play, A Christmas Carol, at theater from December 2nd through 28th at the Lansburg Shakespeare Theater in Penn Quarter.
A Christmas classic, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, with the Rockettes will come to 1st Mariner Arena in Baltimore from December 2-7.
The National Christmas Tree will be lit on the 4th and performances will take place nightly from the 6th through the 23rd.
Fans of David Sedaris might enjoy the performance of his essay, The Santaland Diaries, at Warehouse Theater, 1017 7th Street, NW from the 4th through the 24th.
In Upper Marlboro, take in the Gingerbread House Contest and Show on display from December 4th through 7th and again on the 11th through 14th at the Darnall's Chance House and Museum. The competition will feature entries from both children and adults.
The Downtown Holiday Market opens on December 5th and runs through the 23rd. Local artists and craftsmen will show their wares from noon to 8 p.m. daily next to the Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum on F Street between 7th and 8th Streets, NW (Penn Quarter).
At Constitution Hall from Friday the 5th through Sunday the 7th, see the U.S. Air Force Band play its holiday concert.
Anglophiles, take note: The Fairmont Washington Hotel, 2401 M Street, NW, will hold holiday teas on Saturdays and Sunday through the 27th.
Beginning on the 6th, the Newly reopened National Museum of American History will have performances several times a day of Christmas songs from the World War II era. This show will run until the end of the month.
At some time between December 6 and January 1 it is worthwhile to take in the Festival of Lights, a vast display of Christmas lights, and live nativity scene at the Mormon Temple Visitors Center. Another impressive light display can be seen not far from the Temple at the Bishop's House on the corner of North Portal and Birch Drives, NW.
The Christmas Revels combine music, dance, poetry, and storytelling for a performance "in celebration of the winter solstice" at Lisner Auditorium from the 6th through the 14th.
The Washington Ballet will perform the Nutcracker at the Warner Theater from December 11th through 28th.
The Joffrey Ballet will perform the Nutcracker at the Kennedy Center from December 11th through the 14th.
The National Symphony Orchestra Pops will have a Happy Holidays program from December 11th through 14th.
At the Folger Theater on Capitol Hill, take in A Spanish Christmas featuring organ, winds, and strings performing music from Spain's Golden Age from the 13th through the 21st.
As part of the National Gallery of Art concert series, there will be sing-along carols in the West Building rotunda from December 14th through the 21st. Check the website for times.
The Choral Arts Society of Washington presents Christmas music at the Kennedy Center from December 15th through the 24th.
If the National Symphony Orchestra's classical repertoire is more to your liking than pops performances, you may enjoy their presentation of Handel's Messiah from December 18 to 21. If you're feeling like belting out a song or two, there is also a Messiah sign-along on the 23rd.
The Christmas season is a great time for choral concerts. The Washington Chorus will perform music for Christmas at The Kennedy Center on December 20th through 22nd.
The Choral Arts Society of Washington's Annual Holiday Gala and Silent Auction will be held following the Monday, December 15th Christmas music performance.
Host your own event at Longview Gallery at no charge. Call (202) 232-4788 for details.
Wednesday the 3rd:
Pop down to 2401 M Street between 5 and 6:30 p.m. to the Fairmont Hotel to see its fifth annual tree lighting. This event is a great time to hear a capella singing from local high school students and to sip some free hot chocolate. Please also consider bringing an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots.
Thursday the 4th:
The National Christmas tree at the White House will be lit in a ceremony to begin at 5 (gates open at 3:30). Tickets for this event are snatched up, but there will be a standby line to get in. In past years, those waiting standby have been able to claim seats.
Longview Gallery, 1302 9th Street, NW, is hosting a holiday celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. Visit the gallery to see works large and small from some of its most popular artists.
The Washington National Cathedral is hosting its annual holiday shopping evening. Both the Herb Cottage and the Cathedral Store will be open. Refreshments will also be provided from 5 p.m. onward.
The Anderson House at 2118 Massachusetts Avenue will be hosting “A Gilded Age Christmas: Celebrating Yuletide with the Anderson Family.” During the event, visitors can tour the historic mansion and learn about various Christmas traditions from the "gilded age."
Jazz lovers will like the Jazz Piano Christmas at the Kennedy Center's Terrace Theater at 9:30 p.m.
Friday the 5th:
Tudor Place, 1644 31st Street, NW, in Georgetown will have a holiday wreath-making workshop at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Shop the Norwegian Christmas Bazaar at Union Station from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
If you enjoy oggling gorgeous homes, consider the St. Albans School Christmas House Tour which runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. View five houses and one pool house in Georgetown by shuttle bus or on foot .
The entirety of Handel's Messiah will be performed at the Washington National Cathedral at 7 p.m. Go to their website for tickets ($20 to $80).
The basilica at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception will be holding a Christmas concert beginning at 7 p.m. It is suggested that you arrive by 7 in order to claim a seat.
Dumbarton House, 2715 Q Street, NW, will host a holiday family open house to feature music, refreshments, and crafts.
From 6 to 9 p.m., catch the prints and greeting cards from local artist Johanna Mueller at the boutique Redeem, 1734 14th Street, NW.
At 7 p.m. join the International Club for A Holiday Party In Paris to include music, dancing, buffet, open bar, and a silent auction hosted at the Embassy of France.
Saturday the 6th:
If you like to ogle gorgeous homes, consider the St. Albans School Christmas House Tour which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. View five incredible Georgetown houses by shuttle bus or on foot .
Check out ACKC's Alexandria location before or after touring Del Ray's annual holiday market featuring local arts and crafts from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This event is part of Del Ray's Holiday on the Avenue event with festivities along Mount Vernon Avenue from Nelson to Calvert. At 6 p.m. there will be a tree lighting at Colosanto Park followed by a parade down Mount Vernon Avenue, which will be lit with luminarias. Most retail establishments will be open until 9 p.m.
Shop the Norwegian Christmas Bazaar at Union Station from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
In Old Town Alexandria, catch the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade and Concert. The parade begins at 11 at Wilkes and South Asaphs Streets and will end at 1 at King and Royal Streets. The concert will start at 1:30 at King and Royal streets in front of City Hall at Market Square.
Give a charitable gift in honor of someone you care about. At DC Gifts for Good, from 11 am – 3 pm at St. Patrick's Episcopal Day School in the Great Hall, 4700 Whitehaven Parkway, NW, you can learn about many organizations in need of your donations. If you contribute, you will be given a small gift which you can then give to a friend or family member.
Hear "Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus" read at the Newseum at 2:30.
At 3 p.m. enjoy a performance by handbell ringers at the Historical Society of Washington, 801 K Street, NW.
Plan B Gallery, 1530 14th Street NW, will host a gallery opening from 6 to 8 p.m. to show off its holiday show which includes many giftable items in addition to the canvasses and sculpture that you usually find in the gallery.
It's worth the 45 minute trip north to Baltimore to see the Parade of Lighted Boats in the Inner Harbor and Fells Point beginning at 6 p.m.
Can't make it to B'more to see lighted boats? There is also a lighted boat parade in the Alexandria Marina from 4 to 6 p.m.
Take advantage of a 20% off jewelry sale at Caramel's Faso Jewelry trunk show, 1603 U Street, NW.
Dumbarton Church in Georgtown will hold A Celtic Christmas holiday concert. Saturday's performances are at 4 and 8 p.m.
Sunday the 7th:
Shop at the DC JCC's Holiday Bazaar from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for Chanukah items crafted by Jewish artists.
Tudor Place, 1644 31st Street, NW, in Georgetown will have a holiday wreath-making workshop for children and adults at 1 p.m.
The 30th Annual Logan Circle Community Association will hold its house tour from 1 to 5 p.m. Buy your tickets online prior to the event.
Make merry at the Merriment in Georgetown festival from 2 to 6 p.m. The event features a variety of performances, free horse-drawn carriage rides, and special discounts from retailers.
Dumbarton Church in Georgtown will hold holiday concerts. Sunday's performance is at 4 p.m.
The entirety of Handel's Messiah will be performed at the Washington National Cathedral at 4 p.m. Go to their website for tickets ($20 to $80).
Monday the 8th:
Kennedy Center's free Millennium Stage will feature Merry TubaChristmas. If you play tuba, sousaphone, or euphonium, show up at 3 p.m. for the open rehearsal. If you are a spectator only, arrive at 6 for the performance.
At Blues Alley be pleasantly overwhelmed by the Capitol Big Bones Band - with over a dozen horn players - performing a Stan Kenton Christmas. Performances are at 8 and 10 p.m.
Tuesday the 9th:
There will be harp music and singing at the U.S. Botanic Gardens from 5 to 8 p.m.
At Blues Alley be pleasantly overwhelmed by the Capitol Big Bones Band - with over a dozen horn players - performing a Stan Kenton Christmas. Performances are at 8 and 10 p.m.
Wednesday the 10th:
DC is filled with large, attractive historic homes. Explore one such home for free at the Daughters of the American Revolution Christmas Open House, 1776 D Street, NW. From 5:30 to 8:30 view 31 period rooms decorated for Christmas, have some refreshments, and listen to carolers. This event is an easy stop to make going to or from the National Christmas Tree on the ellipse. You can also get some great shopping done at the museum store.
At the Sixth and I Historic Synagogue, attend Rekindling the Chanukah Flames: Infusing New Techniques Into Your Chanukah Festivities at 7 p.m. to learn about new and creative ways to celebrate the holiday.
Thursday the 11th:
From 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., tour McLean homes at the 2008 Holiday Homes Tour and MarketPlace organized by the Woman's Club of McLean. Go to their website for information on how to purchase tickets. The MarketPlace, held in Immanuel Presbyterian Church at 1125 Saville Lane, is free and open to the public.
Have some lox and vodka from 6 to 8 p.m. at the U.S. Botanic Gardens while listening to Klesmer music.
Attend the Santa Jam at The State Theater in Falls Church, VA to help raise money to benefit the Fairfax Battered Women's Shelter and the Arlington Homeless Shelter. The doors open at 7 p.m. and the half dozen musical performances kick off at 8. Be sure to stick around until at least 10:30 for the raffle.
Friday the 12th:
Shop and enjoy some holiday refreshments at the 4NX¢ boutique's Fashionista's Fridays Holiday Party at 1019 U Street, NW. During the festivities you can subtract a holiday discount from your purchases and enjoy a fashion show.
Tudor Place, 1644 31st Street, NW, in Georgetown will have holiday wreath-making workshops at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
At 6 p.m. see a free holiday performance by the DC Youth Orchestra at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage.
Saturday the 13th:
Holiday wreath making workshop at the U.S. Botanic Gardens at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. See the website for cost and registration information.
Hear "Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus" read at the Newseum at 2:30.
Dumbarton Church in Georgtown will hold A Celtic Christmas holiday concert. Saturday's performances are at 4 and 8 p.m.
Tour Old Town Alexandria by candlelight. Tours depart from Gadsby's Tavern Museum from 5 to 8 p.m.
The House of Sweden is hosting a St. Lucia Ball for young professionals from 8 p.m. to 1 p.m. Festivities are to include dancing, a holiday buffet, and a rooftop bar.
Sunday the 14th:
Dumbarton Church in Georgtown will hold a Celtic Christmas holiday concert. Sunday's performance is at 4 p.m.
Shop at the DC JCC's Holiday Bazaar from 2:30 to 7 p.m. for Chanukah items crafted by Jewish artists.
Fans of opera may enjoy Music of the Sea: A Norwegian Christmas at the National Gallery of Art's rotunda in the west building, 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Fifth Day of Christmas (Shopping): Travel Gifts
I'm going to have to speed up my gift ideas postings before Christmas is upon us. Accordingly, gifts for the travelers in your life:
Little Luxuries
Go Mama Go (1809 14th St.) has a bunch of small items that make trips a little easier and more pleasant. Consider subtly scented luggage refreshers in fun patterns. For tired eyes, silk covered eye pillows and eye shades may help. Find all three of the above on a table in the center section of the store. Go Mama Go also stocks mini Archipelago Botanicals face and body products small enough to make it though airport security. For a little on-the-road soothing for mind a tummy, you can also pick up travel tins of five tea bags each. Flavors range from fruit-infused black teas to holiday spice, and a variety of greens.
To freshen the guest bedroom or hotel room, Candleman (1745 Connecticut Ave.) has Botanicus candles in mini tins. For Yankee Candle haters these are strong but not cloying candles scented with essentials oils -- from a Maryland company to boot.
We would all love to have the cashmere hoodie and travel blanket from Horchow. If you can't justify breaking the bank on a blankie for big kids, West Elm (1020 G St.) has very soft cotton bamboo blend throws. Weird, bamboo.
Pack It
Stop using those paper luggage tags from the airline flight desk. Now that you're an adult, try durable and more attractive alternatives. Go Mama Go stocks plain and elegant leather tags in neutrals and soft contemporary tones. Home Rule (1807 14th St.) stocks vinyl tags in bright colors and psychedelic patterns. Candida's World of Books (1541 14th Street) has super durable hard plastic and nylon webbing ArtTags with attractive photos of world landmarks encapsulated within. At Go Mamma Go and Pulp (1803 14th St.) find passport covers to coordinate with you new luggage tags.
Go Mamma Go also carries every size zip pouch and reusable shopping tote. Designs here are modern, not froo-froo, and include small metal mesh zippered bags on keychains, leather pencil cases, and bags made of woven plastic.
Stay Fresh and Clean
Germ phobes will appreciate adorably packaged Cheeky Monkey hand wipes from Pulp. Whole Foods has some less adorably packaged but nicely scented antibacterial hand gels. Fight travel breath with mints in novelty tins from Pulp. High maintenance travelers will like beauty products from Blue Mercury (Kiehls, Bliss, Dermalogica, Acqua di Parma). With a rotating stock of special holiday gift sets, it may be easier than usual to find travel-appropriate sizes.
Travel Books and Maps
Travel narratives will get your giftee in the mood for the journey ahead. I particularly like Bill Byson's yarns. In a Sunburned Country should be required reading for anyone going to Australia. Find numerous other travel stories at Candida's World of Books
In a twist on the traditional guide book, Go Mama Go has pocket size guide books to major US and international cities. The guides are bound in durable vinyl and even include a useful compass on the spine. Candida's stocks guides from the major publishers as well as maps. For your relatives who always get lost in DC, pick them up a full or pocket size local map.
One of my favorite romantic ideas for travelers is Places to Check Out: A Do-It-Yourself Travel Guide, a spiral-bound notebook decorated after the design of US passport pages for your travel thoughts. Any sort of travel journal is well suited for the introspective globetrotter. Try Written Word or Pulp for some nice ones.
For anyone who's ever griped about travel, there are books for the surly adventurer. At Kramer's or Candida' have a look for the following: Jon Krakaeuer gives us a ton or reasons never to go into the back country from Into the Wild to Into Thin Air and Under the Banner of Heaven, a story of fundamentalist nuts holed up in the desert southwest. Stephen Clarke indulges in a favorite pastime of Americans in Europe -- poking fun of the French-- in his book A Year in the Merde. The paranoid will like Worst Case Scenario Handbook: Travel. Folks who have had a State Department assignment or leisure travel experience in the developing world might like the Jetlag Travel Guides. Countries explored in the Jetlag series include Phaic Tan, San Sombrero, and Molvania.
Nostalgic Traveler or Homesick Ex-Pat
Candida's carries travel books that are more than just guides to other locales. To get in the cultural spirit of your favorite places, you can find poetry, travel narratives, fiction, and cookbooks from around the world.
Remind your giftee of his favorite place(s) on the globe with a photo from Claude Taylor’s Gallery (1627 Connecticut Ave.) A great coffee table book is Transit Maps of the World from Proper Topper in Dupont or Georgeotwn; some of the maps themselves are art and others will help you figure out where you took a wrong turn in Rome. Food can be another happy reminder of time spent abroad. Try some sweets and treats from World Market or pre-fab international cooking kits from Whole Foods or Trader Joe's.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
The Fourth Day of Christmas (Shopping): For Arts Lovers
Logan and Dupont are perfect for finding gifts for your artsy and arts-loving giftees. So if you didn't get all of your holiday gift buying done on cyber Monday, I have a few suggestions for you. I'll keep rolling them out by category over the next few days or so. For the most part gift suggestions are ordered by approximate cost.
Gifts for Artists
Help your favorite starving artist with a gift of high-end supplies from Utrecht at 1250 I St. My personal favorite are the uber-creamy Prismacolor pencils.
Surprise a musically inclined giftee by refurbishing his college guitar. Sophocles Pappas’ Guitar Shop (
Visual artists may also appreciate having their opus framed. Gallery 2000 (
Classes for Arts ‘n’ Craftsy Types
Crafty folks may enjoy offerings from G Street Fabrics (11854
This area has two institutions offering professional level instruction in a variety of media – the Arts League of Washington at the Torpedo Factory (
Gifts of art
We have quite a few galleries and other retailers selling art in our neighborhood. Photography is usually the least expensive type of artwork to buy, but if you want to splurge you can buy one of Tipper Gore's masterpieces at Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams (
If black and white photography is more your style, and Tipper is beyond your desired price point, Pulp (
We also have a few galleries in the area featuring gorgeous paintings. My mostest favoritest artist, Chris Stephens is current exhibiting at Longview (
For art lovers whose pockets aren’t as deep, Plan B (1530 14th Street) has a December show of art priced at $500 and under. I haven’t seen the exhibit yet so I can’t really say what types of art are hanging, but I can say that I’ve liked past shows there – everything from non representational abstract art to more traditional landscapes.
I will also recommend the Nevin Kelly Gallery at
Monday, November 19, 2007
The Third Day of Christmas (Shopping): Gifts for the Working Stiff
Unfortunately, I can't picture the gifts I talk about without potentially violating the copyrights of manufacturers and policies of some stores. I've linked to the websites of the various stores mentioned below so that you can preview some their merchandise and get a sense for their respective styles. Many of the sites also have online ordering.
By the by, I hope that everyone understands that "Christmas gifts" are also suitable for Hanukkah, Kwanza, Yule, Saturnalia, Pagan Winterfest, or any winter solstice holiday you prefer. That said, here are some gift ideas for the desk-bound in your life:
Unusual and Classy Office Supplies
Fahrney's Pens (1317 F ST.) has elegant pen and pencil sets, a huge improvement over the Bics that your giftee is presently using. Prices range from $30 for basic roller balls to over $600 for a limited edition Parker fountain pen.
Bring some individuality to your giftee's office supplies. Letterpress 4"x4" note sheets from Go Mama Go (1809 14th St.) are an attractive alternative to Post-Its. Next door at Home Rule (1807 14th St.) check out the brightly colored contemporary desk accessories from painted binder clips to scissors shaped like rabbits. Just a hair down the block Pulp (1803 14th St.) stocks fun graphic attache folders from Roger La Bourde.
Anyone who is interviewing, working directly with clients, or thanking donors needs to have attractive thank you cards. A short walk from Go Mama Go, Home Rule, and Pulp is The Written Word at 1427 P St. which stocks lovely paper goods. There you can find all manner of cards as well as address books and day planners that the Palm averse still use.
Caffeine Dependent
Instead of supporting Starbucks or Caribou by buying their gift cards, get a Firehook "DC Born and Bread" gift card. Your giftee need not live or work in Dupont to redeem the card; Firehook now has locations in Alexandra, Tysons, and all over DC.
Tea drinkers will appreciate loose leaf teas from Teaism (2009 R St.) or the unique Tea Forte pyramid tea bags from Sweet Magnolia (1534 U St.).
We caffeine junkies also need desk mugs and travel mugs. Sweet Magnolia has especially beautiful ceramic mugs with brightly colored designs combining floral and stripe patterns for about $9. They also have more masculine designs including chili peppers and mostly solid colored mugs accented with subtle stripes in earthy tones. Pulp has really fun ceramic mugs including "Bush's last day" and designs from Anne Taintor , "the original vintage humor company." Great durable travel mugs from Bodum can be found at Home Rule (1807 14th St.).
If you know someone who insists on Starbucks, consider buying him a day or week wireless access pass. Passes are available from T-Mobile here. The passes can also be used at T-Mobile HotSpots at airports, Hyatts, Borders, etc.
Working for the Weekend
We've all had the friend or coworker who reliably suffers from a Friday morning hangover. Support their Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights with fun cocktail accessories including flamingo-topped picks and mini umbrellas from Go Mama Go at 1809 14th St. Add to the festive atmosphere at holiday parties with bubble soap packaged in mini champagne bottles from Pulp (1803 14th St.) . For the party aftermath consider an elegant silk eye pillow from Go Mama Go and a Mr. Bump gel ice pack from Pulp, which you may want to wrap up with some Advil and Gatorade.
Politically Themed Stuff
We all know that the Federal Government is the largest employer in the area. Lobbying firms and political think tanks can't be that far behind. If your politically-oriented giftee has a sense of humor, get him a Quotable Notable card from The Written Word at 1427 P St. Cards feature die cut full body photos of politicians as well as stickers with "quotes" from that person. For example, stickers with the George W. Bush card include "Rove made me do it" and "WWJD". If your political junkie giftee is not in the mood for poking fun of politics, head over to AMERICA!'s Spirit in the West Hall of Union Station for more serious gifts such as campaign memorabilia.
The democratically aligned among your friends and family may appreciate the numerous anti-Bush offerings from local stores including magnets, mugs, and stickers from Pulp (1803 14th St.) and Wake Up Little Suzie (3409 Connecticut Ave.).
Friday, November 16, 2007
Second Day of Christmas (Shopping): Gifts for Your Host
Late additions have been typed in at the bottom of this post.
With Thanksgiving next week I thought this topic was timely.
Food and Wine
Before you start shopping for the Thanksgiving meal consider going to the farmers market at 14th and U this weekend. Saturday will be its last day of the season. Just amble down to the Reeves Center between 9 and 1 for some great fresh farm goods. If you can't make it on Saturday try the Dupont market right next to the north exit from the Metro station from 9 to 1 on Sunday.
If sending a gift basket is your style, order one up from Whole Foods. (I know that I'm violating my locally-owned standard, but this option still beats ordering from Harry and David.) You can easily order online and either pick the basket up yourself or have it shipped.
Cheese is a good reason to be alive. The amazing Cowgirl Creamery (919 F St.) exists in only two places in the world — Point Reyes Station, CA and Washington, DC. I love it so much that I stopped by the CA location on my honeymoon. At the store you can usually get a sample or two and good advice on selecting cheeses. Online orders and cheese clubs are also available.
For wine try De Vinos at 18th and U (2001 18th Street). The small shop is rated well for having a good selection given its size. It also made the W*USA 9 A-list. If your shopping takes you into Dupont rather than U Street, Best Cellars (1643 Connecticut Ave.) is perennially popular though not truly a local shop. They too are lauded for having great inexpensive wines as well as an easy to understand classification of wines by taste and style. Online orders of "six packs" can be shipped to DC, MA, NY, and VA.
Baked Goods
My favorite bakery in the entire Washington area is Amphora (294 Sunset Park Drive, Herndon). If you happen by some misfortune to be in Herndon you must stop by. Actually it may even be worth renting a Zipcar for this place. Cakes are light and fluffy and have the most heavenly icings and fillings including booze flavored wonders. My wedding cake came from them and I couldn't have been happier.
If, however, you want to stick to places within walking distance, there are myriad options. In my opinion, Whole Foods is worth skipping. A lot of the cakes are dry and not very flavorful. I can recommend the fruit tart though. Cake Love (1506 U St.) gets mixed reviews. People either love the super dense expensive cakes or find them dry and less flavorful. Take a test drive with a cupcake from Love Cafe. If pumpkin is your thing, they have a number of seasonal selections. Of course, Firehook (1909 Q St.) is a fabulous choice for cakes, tarts, and pies. If you don't feel like balancing a cake on your lap for duration of your trip to a holiday dinner, they have locations across DC as well as Alexandria and Tysons.
Flowers
The shop doesn't look like much, but the flowers I've gotten from Flowers on Fourteenth (1718 14th St.) have been great and very well arranged. I think that they prefer you to call ahead, but I've also been helped on the spot. FTD is an overpriced mega company that frequently drops the ball on accuracy and quality during holiday peak order times. So put down your mouse and walk down the street to a family-owned business.
Additional Ideas
Most of you will be enjoying turkey on Thursday, and some of you will dine on it again at Christmas. At Home Rule (1807 14th St.) you can purchase turkey accessories such as lifters, a lacer, stuffing bags, and reusable pop-up timers. They also stock a truly weird candle in the shape of a roasted whole turkey.
After every meal comes the clean-up. Also available at Home Rule are the fragrant Caldrea home products. It is now possible to lust for dish soap and counter cleaner.
Sweet Magnolia (1534 U St.) carries wooden serving trays so beautiful that they could be considered art. The trays feature raised edges and are currently stocked in three different themes — butterfly, vegetable, and desserts. As well potpourri from Sweet Magnolia will help chase away lingering cooking smells.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
12 Days of Christmas (Shopping)
It's about that time when DC residents will wander zombie-like down to Gallery Place, Metro Center, and, worse, suburban malls to buy generic holiday gifts from chain stores. No one wants to receive another faux cashmere scarf, slippers, or coffee table book. In this post and subsequent entries I will highlight more original gifts available from DC businesses, most of them in Logan Circle and Dupont.
Disclosure: I do dislike the early holiday shopping ads, but I feel the need to counter their influence before Black Friday 2007 arrives.
Take Me Out
Your friends and family may already own much of what you could afford to buy them. Give them the gift of time with you and encourage them to try something fun that they may not have done on their own. I've tried to order the following by approximate cost.
Guided Walking tour
Washington Walks offers some really interesting walks on a regular basis including Moveable Feast: A Taste of DC, described as a "snack-a-thon". Take a walk with your giftee for $10 per person or give them a $40 Walkabout Card good for five walks.
House Tour
The Logan Circle Community Association will be holding their annual LCCA House Tour on Sunday, December 2. Enjoy a little house porn and an early holiday gift for only $15 per ticket.
Dinner and Gallery Hop
Dupont has quite a few commercial art galleries. On the first Friday of every month galleries stay open late and often have a unique feature of the night such as food and wine or live music. For more information go here. Before you begin your art stroll have dinner at any one of Dupont's great restaurants. (I recommend Heritage India at 1337 Connecticut Ave.) Similar gallery events also occur in Gallery place on the third Thursday of the month and in Georgetown on third Fridays.
Dance and Dine
You and your giftee want to dance, but you feel awkward about it, and Arthur Murray just isn't your thing. So learn salsa in a casual setting at 14U (1939 14th St.) on the first Friday of the month. For an exotic experience, grab some mezze and free belly dancing lessons at Mezze in Adams Morgan (2437 18 St.) on Sunday nights at 10.
Or combine your dancing with some embassy hopping. The International Club of DC hosts a number of dance lessons and some balls at fantastic locations around the city. Upcoming are waltz and salsa lessons at the French embassy on December 19th for $20-$35 per ticket. They will also be hosting a New Year's Eve gala at the Wardman Park Marriott ($155 per ticket or $215 for VIP tickets), and a Viennese ball at the National Museum of Women and the Arts on February 23rd.
Bar Hopping
Pick up the tab for a night of bar hopping in the neighborhood. Some places I love are Bar Pilar (1833 14th), Saint Ex (1847 14th St.), and Chi-Cha Lounge (1624 U St.). Top off the evening with a Nutella calzone at Coppi's (1414 U St.). Remind new parents what it's like to get out at night by also securing a baby sitter.
Jazz Night
Try HR-57 (1610 14th St.), Bohemian Caverns (2001 11th St.), or Twins (1344 U St.) for a night out. HR has a BYOB policy, very low cover charge, and a really relaxed atmosphere. At Twins you can enjoy two great neighborhood traditions — Jazz and Ethiopian food. Bohemian is arguably the most famous area club with the most unique atmosphere.
Fine Dining
Use this gift as an excuse to treat yourself as well as your giftee to a great dinner. Swanky neighborhood establishments include Komi (1509 17th St.), Restaurant Nora (2132 Florida Ave.), and Viridian (1515 14th St.).
Wine Tour
Tour the wineries of Virginia in a limo. Virginia Wine Country Tours will chauffeur you around in a luxury sedan for $70 per hour or $35 per person (based on a minimum number of people and the reservation of certain type of car). They also have options ranging from hiring a chauffeur to drive you in your own car to renting a luxury yacht. Alternatively you can tour on the cheap by offering to be a designated driver on a self-guided wine tour. See the Virginia Wines website for more information.
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