Best bets, in case the world doesn’t actually end.
By Anne Kim-Dannibale
We’re playing eternal optimist by counting on the world not ending today. In the event that the world does go on, here are our picks to keep your post-Apocalyptic schedule just as fun and festive.
“The Muppets Christmas Carol” is one of several holiday classics being shown at AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring. (AFI/Photofest)
Cinemaphiles
Holiday Classics
Fri., December 21 – Tue., December 25
AFI Silver Theatre
8633 Colesville Rd.
Silver Spring, MD 20910
301-495-6700 for specific times
Prices vary
If you’re like us, you can’t let a holiday go by without watching Frank Capra’s classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Make a day of it by taking the family out to see this and other classics, including “A Christmas Carol” (the 1951 version starring Alastair Sim) and Jim Henson’s humorous take “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” the way they were meant to be seen — on the big screen.
Newly opened Canal Park in the Navy Yard provides Washingtonians with one more spot for ice skating during the holidays.
Ice Queens
Holiday Ice Skating
Canal Park
Navy Yard Metro (New Jersey Ave. exit)
202-554-6051
$8 adults; $7 children and military; $3 skate rental
The Navy Yard neighborhood finally doesn’t have to go too far to enjoy an afternoon on ice. Canal Park, with its modern and eco-friendly design, joins Washington Harbour as the newest rink where residents and visitors alike can show off their Beillmann spin. Open every day throughout the holidays, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Go all out and rent out the joint for a full holiday on ice.
Cultural Celebrations
“Kwanzaa: A Musical Celebration”
Fri., December 28, 10 a.m.
Anacostia Community Museum
Our Lady of Perpetual Hope Church, Panorama Room
1600 Morris Rd. SE
Washington, D.C. 20020
202-633-4844, to reserve
Free
Join Melvin Deal, who is often credited with being the first to bring Kwanzaa celebrations to Washington, to celebrate African culture through traditional dance and drumming courtesy of the African Heritage Dancers and Drummers organization. Space is limited, so reserve a spot in advance.
“MatzoBall Christmas Eve”
Mon., December 24, 9 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Ultra Bar
911 F St.
Washington, D.C. 20004
202-638-4663
$30 door; $25 in advance
Organized by the Society of Young Jewish Professionals, the 26th annual “MatzoBall” takes place at uber nightclub, Ultra Bar. Expect nothing less than three floors with different music themes.
New Year’s Eve 2012 in New York’s Times Square (Photo by Replytojain via Wikimedia Commons)
Party Like It’s 2013
“The Act”
Mon., December 31, 9:30 p.m.
Howard Theatre
620 T St. NW
Washington, D.C. 20001
202-803-2899
$75 VIP; $50 general
Don your party best and ring in 2013 with a theatrical masquerade ball at the newly revitalized historic Howard Theatre. This burlesque-themed bash features daring aerialists and fire breathers along with deejays and a midnight balloon drop. Online tickets here.
“Grandeur and Glamour”
Mon., December 31, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
W Washington, D.C.
515 15th Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20004
202-661-2400
$75 in advance; $100 at door
Reserve bottle service by emailing kendal.berner@whotels.com
Ring in the New Year at an elegant soiree and one of the best views of Washington at W Washington’s P.O.V. Lounge New Year’s Eve celebration. Too tired to party? Book a room and get two tickets to the party and a 2 p.m. late check out the next day. Use code “NYEBUB” when booking.
