Seasoned tours

The District offers holiday festivities for everyone this season. These tours give participants a great chance to enjoy the lights and decorations throughout the area. You’ll find activities for families, outings for couples and even something for those into the distinct Washingtonian traditions.


ZooLights at the National Zoo

ZooLights offers holiday favorites in the District for all ages. The park is covered in exciting sparkling lights, keepers give talks throughout the zoo, and live entertainment plays every night. The Zoo promises an even greater display than last year. The event is 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday this weekend and every night from Dec. 18 to Dec. 30, except Dec. 24-25. Tickets are $6 for FONZ members, $12 for nonmembers and can be purchased through TicketMaster or at the Zoo’s Visitor Center.


Mount Vernon by Candlelight

This weekend is your last chance to check out “Mount Vernon by Candlelight.” A Mrs. Washington guide leads visitors on candlelit tours that include fireside Christmas caroling, and hot cider and ginger cookies. The estate has revamped the tour, adding more ambiance and authenticity to a traditional Christmas evening at Mount Vernon. Tours will run this Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m. Cost is $18 for adults and $12 for youth. Tickets are available at Mount Vernon’s Ford Orientation Center or at MountVernon.org.


A Nation’s Capital Christmas

For those into the history of Christmas in the capital, Washington Walks offers the perfect opportunity. The tour is Saturday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. and participants will hear all about Washington’s Christmas traditions. The tour begins at the McPherson Square Metro station and concludes at the National Christmas Tree. Along the way, walkers will learn about Christmas at the White House, carols and pageants at the “Church of Presidents,” and why Washington’s earliest residents never put up a Christmas tree. The tour costs $15 per person and no reservations are necessary. For more information, visit www.washingtonwalks.com/tours/dc-christmas.shtml.