Holiday Season 2011 Festivities in Washington DC

Even though it is only the start of fall, when school is in full swing and everyone is back to a more normal schedule after the summer, the months seem to jet by. The holiday season seems to hit us before we know it.
Below find some great, holiday activities in Washington DC.

Thanksgiving Restaurant Deals

Ardeo on Connecticut Avenue, NW in downtown Washington DC is offering a delicious three-course meal for Thanksgiving from 12 noon until 8pm on Thanksgiving day/night. Adults $45 and kids under 12 are $23. Valet parking is available for $6. The restaurant is newly renovated.
Cusine type: Modern American food.

Charlie Palmer Steak House (a delicious place to, and if Charlie is around, he sometimes comes out to chat), is serving a Thanksgiving 3-course meal, with a variety of dishes. $70 per adult, $ 24 for children 12 and under. Great location, close to the Washington DC Capitol.
Located on Constitution Avenue, NW in DC.
Cuisine Type: Big, bold American food.

Jewish Community Center in Washington DC (DCJCC) - Chanukah

On Monday December 5th, families can can help paint menorah's in downtown Cleveland Park (near the National Zoo) at All Fired Up, from 6 - 8pm. The event is free to get into, but you must pay for your crafts such as dreidels, Star of David boxes and more. Register early. This is a popular event.
DCJCC Home page.

The US-Capitol-Christmas-Tree-Lighting
This is not the National Christmas Tree (the one for the White House) but rather the Capitol Christmas Tree. This year the tree will be from the state of California, and a child from California, between the ages of 5-17 will be chosen to help light the tree with the Speaker of the House, John Boehner.
Located on the West Lawn of the Capitol, the date is TBA. Music provided by the US Navy Band.

The National Cathedral Christmas Pageant
On December 17th at 2pm, families are welcome to join The National Cathedral for their 2011 Christmas Pageant. The families are able to be involved in the telling of the "true" Christmas story, so if you choose, get there a half hour early for rehearsal. Kids can come dressed up in costumes such as shepherds and angels.There will be a live webcast from their home page.
Located on Wisconsin Avenue, NW in DC.