National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Tickets for the National Christmas Tree Lighting will be distributed in a new way for 2009 - a lottery system. Tickets are required and will be distributed for FREE. The lottery system will be available at 12:01 a.m. EST on Wednesday, November 4 and will remain open until 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, November 6. To participate, visit www.thenationaltree.org or call
(877) 444-6777. Successful ticket seekers will be notified by email or US mail (if applied by phone). Status of the lottery will be available online or by phone beginning on November 9. Tickets will be mailed to the lottery winners by November 15.

The lighting cremony for the National Christmas Tree will be held on thursday, December 3, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.

(Article from Rachel Cooper's Washington, DC Blog, dc.guide@about.com)

Fall for the Book

Fall for the Book is Northern Virginia's largest and oldest literary celebration, which has grown into a week-long, multiple-venue, regional festival that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate reading.

This year's exciting event will be conveniently held throughout Maryland, DC and Northern Virginia, bringing famous writers to your backyard. Currently there are over 75 authors confirmed in fiction to nonfiction and poetry, covering a wide range of topics such as the Civil War, mind-body medicine, politics, the environment, economics, folklore, children's books, and more. Authors coming to sign and speak about their books include Fairfax Prize winner E.L. Doctorow, author of Ragtime and The March, American Indian writer and Mason Award winner Sherman Alexie, James Ellroy, author of international bestsellers, L.A. Confidential and The Black Dahlia, and many more.

A growing list of authors and more information is available at http://www.fallforthebook.org/. The festival is from September 21 - 26.

Unseen DC Photography Contest

Harpreet Toor, UC Riverside summer term student, recently won Best of Show in the UC Washington Center's Unseen DC photography contest for her image entitled, "Sunsetting at Dupont." The Unseen DC photography contest challenged summer term students, faculty and staff to expose the behind the scenes working of Washington, DC. The theme of the competition was to show what the news cameras don't see on Capitol Hill, in the White House & the Federal agencies, the places the tourists don't see or overlook and the thousands of things that happen, unheralded or unnoticed, everyday in this great, international city. Participants were given wide latitude as to how best to protray this challenge. For her work, Ms. Toor was awarded a $50 gift card.

Memorial Day Weekend Special Events 2009

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died serving our country. This is a great time to honor our veterans and famous Americans by visiting the monuments in Washington, DC. The Memorial Day weekend also marks the beginning of the busy summer season and the Washington, DC region celebrates with family friendly events and special services. Here is the 2009 Memorial Day event schedule:

PBS' National Memorial Day Concert Sunday, May 24, 2009, 8 p.m. PBS sponsors a FREE concert on the West Lawn of the U. S. Capitol. The concert features actors Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise, and other guest artists along with conductor Erich Kunzel and the National Symphony Orchestra.

National Memorial Day Parade Monday, May 25, 2009, beginning at 2 p.m.The parade of Marching Bands and Veterans units from all 50 states steps off at the corner of Constitution Avenue and 7th Streets, NW and proceeds along Constitution Avenue, past the White House, ending at 17th Street. The National Memorial Day Parade is sponsored by the World War II Veterans Committee and includes patriotic floats and helium-filled balloons. This year’s parade will feature Ernest Borgnine, Lee Greenwood, Edith Shane, and Gary Sinise.

Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally Sunday, May 24, 2009. Departure from the Pentagon at 12 p.m. Speaker Program and Musical Tribute 1:30 p.m. at the Reflecting Pool across from The Lincoln Memorial. Thousands of motorcycles ride through Washington in an annual demonstration seeking to improve veteran benefits and resolve POW/MIA issues.

GI Film Festival May 13-17, 2009. In its 2nd year, the festival will be held prior to Memorial Day weekend. See classic and premier films celebrating the heroic stories of the American Armed Forces including a variety of films presented by award-winning Hollywood actors and directors. Participate in panel discussions with soldiers, journalists, authors, and filmmakers.

Arlington National Cemetery Monday, May 25, 2009, 11 a.m. A wreath-laying ceremony and concert will be held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in honor of Memorial Day.

Navy Memorial Saturday, May 24, 2009. 11 a.m. Rolling Thunder visits the Navy Memorial and holds a wreath-laying ceremony. Monday, May 25, 2009, 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. wreath-laying ceremonies; 12:30 p.m. Navy Band concert; 2:00 p.m. Film screening of a PBS documentary about the last reunion of Air Group 16 at the dedication of the WWII Memorial.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Monday, May 25, 2009, 1:00 p.m. This year's annual Memorial Day ceremony includes Presentation of the Colors, remarks by a special guest and wreath-laying service.

Air Force Memorial Monday, May 25, 2009, 9 a.m. wreath laying ceremony. Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley is the keynote speaker at this ceremony, which is open to the public.

Kennedy Center National Memorial Day Choral Festival May 24, 2009, 2 p.m. A 90-minute program features American choral classics in honor of those who have fought to preserve our nation's heritage. Admission: $10.

(article by Rachel Cooper, About.com)

DC Embassies Open House

Saturday, May 9, 2009, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. The Embassies of the European Union and the Delegation of the European Commission to the United States will open their doors to the public, offering a rare look at the diverse EU cultures. Take a rare behind-the-scenes look at the European Embassies, many of which are among Washington's historic and architectural treasures. Each Embassy offers a unique program featuring the country's cuisine, its music and special events.

Yoga on the National Mall

Yoga on the Mall will take place at the SW corner of 15th St. and Constitution Avenue, near the Washington Monument, on Saturday, May 9 from 2-5pm. Nearest metro is Smithsonian. This will be the second annual gathering of this free collective yoga practice on the grounds of the National Mall.

There is no rain date for Yoga on the Mall, but it will be cancelled in the event of heavy rain or thunderstorms - Yoga on the Mall will take place in light drizzle. Any Yoga on the Mall cancellation will be posted on the DC Yoga Week homepage (http://www.dcyogaweek.com/dcyogaweek2009) no later than 11am on Saturday, May 9, so please check the website before coming.

George Washington Invitational Regatta

This Saturday, April 11, from 8:00AM - 5:00PM, there will be the George Washington Invitational Regatta featuring some of the nation's top collegiate rowing teams on the Potomac River. Races take place in Georgetown, between the Washington Harbour and the Thompson Boathouse.

Washington Harbour
3050 K St. NW
Washington, DC
Information:703-849-9300

U.S. Arboretum

Instead of fighting crowds at the tidal Basin, consider taking this self-guided tour. Pick up a brochure from the center's administration building to help you find the flowering cherry trees.

US National Arboretum
3501 New York Ave. NE
Washington, DC
Information:202-245-2726
Price:Free
8:00AM - 4:30PM Saturday-Sunday, April 11-12

National Cherry Blossom Fireworks Show

This Saturday, April 11, from 8:30 - 9:00PM, there will be the National Cherry Blossom Fireworks Show at the Southwest Waterfront in Washington, DC. Get the best view from East Potomoc Park or the Southwest Waterfront Promenade.

Before the fireworks, from 5 - 8:30PM, there will be a free family festival with live music featuring military bands and food from local restaurants.

Location: Southwest Waterfront
7th Street and Maine Ave. SWWashington, DC
Price:Free
Information: 202-547-1500

Spring Forward!

Daylight Saving Time Begins on Sunday, March 8th—

Spring Forward!

By an act of Congress, on Sunday, March 8, areas on Standard Time returns to Daylight Saving Time at 2:00 a.m. Don’t forget to turn your clocks forward one hour!
Did you know that some areas of the United States not using Daylight Saving Time include, Arizona, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa.

Free Admission to Mount Vernon on February 16, 2009

Admission is FREE on Presidents’ Day, Monday, February 16, 2009! Historic Mount Vernon celebrates George Washington's 277th birthday with three days of special events. Presidents’ Day is a great day to explore George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens and learn more about the life of the first president of the United States.

Schedule for Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Join "George Washington" for breakfast as he enjoys his favorite morning meal, "hoecakes swimming in butter and honey", cooked over an open fire Pull up a hay bale and chat with the Father of Our Country about politics, farming, the Revolutionary War, and life in the 18th century.

1:30 p.m. "America's Smallest Hometown Parade", complete with fife and drum corps, early-American music and heritage breed animals, lines up to march past "General Washington", the Mansion and around the circle drive.

Schedule for Monday, February 16
10:00 a.m. An official wreathlaying ceremony is held at Washington's tomb, followed by a performance and Revolutionary War battle demonstration by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Fife and Drum Corps and the Commander-in-Chief's Guard. "General Washington" will be on the grounds to greet visitors and receive their birthday wishes.

1:30 p.m. "America's Smallest Hometown Parade" makes its Monday debut with an encore of its weekend performances. The parade includes a fife and drum corps, early-American music and heritage breed animals marching past "General Washington", the Mansion and around the circle drive.

Schedule for Saturday, February 21
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Beginning February 21, Historic Mount Vernon's F.M. Kirby Gallery in the Donald W. Reynolds Museum hosts a special new exhibition, "George Washington & His Generals." For the first time, a collection of over 120 paintings, personal artifacts and manuscripts associated with the generals of the Continental and French armies who served under George Washington will be on display. "George Washington & His Generals" exhibition is co-sponsored by the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and The Society of the Cincinnati and will remain on view through January 10, 2010. Admission to the F.M. Kirby Gallery is included with regular admission.

Schedule for Sunday, February 22
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. George Washington's Real Birthday! Anyone named George, or whose birthday, like Washington's, is February 22, will be admitted FREE upon presenting identification.

(Article from About.com by Rachel Cooper)

National Archives Special Display

February 12-16, 2009. The highlight of the year-long celebration of Lincoln's birthday will be a special display of the original Emancipation Proclamation signed by President Lincoln, in the National Archives East Rotunda Gallery. The special display of the original Emancipation Proclamation is free and open to the public.

(from About.com)

Washington DC Restaurant Week 2009

During Washington, DC Restaurant Week, 170 of Washington, DC’s finest restaurants offer 3-course lunches for $20.09 and 3-course dinners for $35.09. Washington, DC Restaurant Week is a great opportunity to experience Washington, DC’s best restaurants at affordable prices. A complete list of participants is posted at opentable.com

Dates: February 16 - 22, 2009

(from About.com by Rachel Cooper)

Lincoln's 200th Birthday Celebration

Washington, DC will host a citywide four-month celebration marking the Lincoln Bicentennial, (February 12, 2009 - Lincoln’s 200th Birthday) with more than 80 exhibitions, performances, lectures, and guided tours honoring Abraham Lincoln. Beginning January 1 and running through April 30, the nation’s capital will offer an impressive lineup of major events and commemorations of one of America’s best loved leaders. Events occurring in February are:

February 12, 2009, Lincoln's Birthday Tribute and Wreath Layingat the Lincoln Memorial, 8:00 a.m. A world-class concert and entertainment special, featuring nineteenth century popular and patriotic music performed by outstanding military bands.

February 12, 2009 – Reopening of Ford’s Theatre Open House and Birthday Celebration. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. An exciting day of speakers, performances and activities to celebrate President Lincoln's 200th Birthday and the reopening of Ford's Theatre after an extensive renovation.

(Article from About.com by Rachel Cooper)

Inauguration Central

Your one-stop shop for all things inaugural, including answers to frequently asked questions about events, parties, crowds and transportation; the Inauguration Watch blog with the latest news stories, panorama photography and webcam images showing construction of the stage; historical photos; a visitors guide; a prediction game and more. All at Washingtonpost.com/inauguration.

Inauguration Weekend Simplified

Below please find one guide from Roll Call Staffer, Emily Yehle that covers logistics/tips/etc:
Inauguration Weekend: Simplified

As President-elect Barack Obama’s inauguration quickly approaches, security officials continue to release dozens of advisories, recommendations and updates. So that you don’t have to read them all, here’s a brief version with all the essentials.
Opening Celebration at Lincoln Memorial: Sunday, Jan. 18
• Entrances open at 8 a.m. The show starts at 2:30 p.m.
• Don’t bring bicycles, pets, coolers, backpacks or large bags, aerosol cans, thermal or glass containers, supports for signs or laser pointers.
• If driving, park at RFK Stadium and take a shuttle bus from Lot 8. It would be best not to drive at all, however, because road closures are rampant and the Memorial and Theodore Roosevelt bridges will be closed.
• If walking, arrive through one of these entrances: Constitution Avenue at 19th Street, Constitution Avenue at Virginia Avenue, 17th Street at North Elm Walk, 17th Street at South Elm Walk or Independence Avenue at the D.C. War Memorial.
• If taking the Metro, get off at the Farragut North or Metro Center stops on the red line; Farragut West, Federal Center or Smithsonian stops on the blue or orange lines; and L’Enfant Plaza or Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter stops on the yellow or green lines.
Bottom Line: Ditch the car, walk or take the Metro, and arrive early.
Getting to the Big Event: Tuesday, Jan. 20
• If coming from Virginia, you can walk or bike across any bridge. Bikes can be parked between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. through free valet services on the south side of the Jefferson Memorial and on 16th Street Northwest between I and K streets.
• Metro stations will open at 4 a.m. Tuesday and close at 2 a.m. Wednesday.
• Don’t make Metro transfers — the crowds will make it difficult and Metro is discouraging it. If you live on the red line, get off at Union Station. Orange and blue liners should disembark at the Capitol South stop. And those on the yellow and green line should plan to make the hike from the L’Enfant Plaza or Gallery Place-Chinatown stops.
• From 4 a.m. to about 6:30 p.m., the Smithsonian and the Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter stops will be closed.
• At 7:30 a.m., the Mt. Vernon Square/Seventh Street-Convention Center station will close.
• Starting at 4 p.m., Judiciary Square station will close.
Bottom Line: Walk if you can. If you must take the Metro, don’t transfer.
The Big Event Itself: Tuesday, Jan. 20
• If going to the parade or swearing-in, don’t bring umbrellas, coolers, thermoses, alcohol, strollers, pets, backpacks or large bags or laser pointers.
• The public will be allowed on the parade route starting at 7 a.m. Enter from the north of Pennsylvania Avenue; the only entrances from the south are 14th or 12th streets Northwest at Constitution Avenue.
• If just going to the National Mall, only alcohol and glass bottles are prohibited. But beware: The rules could change.
• Approach the Mall from the south, if possible. A fence around the Capitol and a security border around the parade route make coming from the north or east more difficult.
• Jumbotrons will be set up along the entire length of the Mall, including next to the Lincoln Memorial, but not along the parade route.
• Eat a big breakfast. Food will be hard to come by, and only “small snacks” are allowed on Capitol grounds.
• Dress in layers. Weather predictions put the temperature in the mid-30s with a chance of snow.
Bottom Line: Pack light. Eat before heading out. And plan your route.
Sources: Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, Presidential Inaugural Committee, Secret Service, inauguration.dc.gov