In Northeast Fairfax County, “Tysons Corner” located just 13 miles from the nation’s capital, is known for its enormous mall with more than 300 specialty shops and restaurants making it the largest on the East Coast.  Becoming its own metropolis, Tysons Corner has a large concentration of fine dining restaurants, mostly large well known chains such as, McCormick & Schmick’s (8484 Westpark Dr.) for fresh seafood and steaks, popular happy hour, The Palm (1750 Tysons Blvd.) famous for its Italian classics, lobster from Nova Scotia, and prime bone-in rib eye. Nearby Clyde’s (8332 Leesburg Pike) is best known for its crowd pleasers: creamy crab-and-artichoke dip, lump crab cakes, and char-grilled burgers. Legal Sea Foods (2001 International Dr.) located in the Tysons Galleria offers New England’s faves: think clam chowder, steamers, lobster rolls, and jumbo lump crab cakes. Chef Geoff’s (8045 Leesburg Pike) offers contemporary American cuisine and is well known for their Monday half-price Wine Nights and daily 3-course Sunset Special for $19.95, available 4-6:30 p.m.

Sweet leaf Cafe (1359 Chain Bridge Rd.) is a homegrown local favorite for fresh salads, like the Asian Chicken and sandwiches, including their take on a classic Italian hoagie. Nostos Restaurant (8100 Boone Blvd.) offers authentic Greek dishes, fresh fish, and mezedes, small plates for sharing. If you love Greek food, it’s a must visit while in the DC area.

In the heart of central Fairfax, are a variety of continental, international and American restaurants. A local foodie favorite in the area, Villa Mozart (4009 Chain Bridge Rd) offers creative Northern Italian cuisine in an intimate dining room. Take advantage of their three-course $39 fixed-price menu available Monday through Thursday, which is a steal. Nearby, the Bollywood Bistro (3955 Chain Bridge Rd.) stands out with a creative spin on traditional Indian fare and a great wine list. Among the best of their starters, try the mango aam palak chaat—a cool, crunchy salad of green mango, flash-fried spinach with spicy tamarind. Artie’s (3260 Old Lee Hwy.) offers modern American cuisine with impeccable service. Enjoy classics like hickory smoked rib eye with a loaded baked potato. For dessert, the warm chocolate waffle with house-made vanilla ice cream is a crowd-pleaser. Izakaya BlueOcean (9440 Main St.), a traditional Japanese-owned eatery offers expertly cut and rolled sushi, as well as, slurpable soba-noodle bowls and hot pots. Temel (3232 Old Pickett Rd.) serves Mezze and kebabs, like most Turkish restaurants, but Temel goes the extra mile by offering many authentic home-style dishes, the cornerstones of Ottoman cooking.

After a long day, when you’re ready to kick back and enjoy a glass of wine, visit the Wine House (3950 University Dr.). The friendly staff are quite generous with their pours when sampling wines by the glass. If something strikes your fancy, you may purchase by the bottle from their in-house “shop”, where there are more than 500 vintages.

In Reston and Herndon, there is an abundance of international dining for those with an adventurous palate. Angeethi (645 Elden St.), with two Northern Virginia locations, offers some of the best authentic Indian cuisine in the area with fine dining service. This time of year, many diners go to warm up with their velvety, creamy stews made with spices from India—chicken in a chili-stoked cashew sauce, shrimp korma, or Mulligatawny Soup simmered in mild spicy broth or Rasam, a traditional spicy and tangy South Indian style soup. Minerva Indian Cuisine (2443-G1 Centreville Rd.), with two outposts in the area (others in Fairfax and Chantilly) offer authentically spiced regional cuisine and the area’s most expansive lunch buffet. The butter chicken with its creamy tomato-based sauce is one of their best dishes and could make an India native homesick. TurCuisine, located in the Worldgate shopping center is a standout in the area, offering authentic Turkish and Mediterranean fare in a modern atmosphere. Start off with the Meze Tabagi – a mixed mezze platter. Be sure to try the Doner Kebab, their house Specialty, prepared fresh daily with a mixture of thinly sliced marinated lamb and beef, grilled in front of a spitfire. They also offer Kebabs and Pides (Turkish pizzas).

Visitors will enjoy a mecca of shopping and restaurants in the Reston Town Center, where eateries like Jackson’s Mighty Fine Food (1927 Democracy Dr.) offer American comfort food in a comfortable and upbeat environment. Enjoy classics with a creative twist, including their deviled eggs with sugared bacon and lobster mac and cheese.. Nearby, PassionFish (11960 Democracy Dr.) offers fresh sustainable fish and seafood in an upscale/casual fine dining atmosphere. The dining room is clean, crisp, and modern and boasts a stunning raw bar. Fine dining with kids has never been so easy. Their Kid tested mother approved “Beach Bucket” menu with choices of Fish, Shrimp, or Chicken and Fries arrives in a jaunty nautical blue & white tin bucket, and at a bargain with entrees just $6 [including a drink]. After dinner, take a gander over to Pitango Gelato (11942 Democracy Dr.), where the friendly staff scoop some of the creamiest gelato and smoothest sorbet around. With milk and eggs locally sourced, it’s a win-win for everyone.

Also in Reston, Ariake (12184 Glade Dr.), arguably one of the best Japanese restaurants in Northern Virginia serves the best sushi rolls around. Chef Aoki brings 30 years of experience straight from Tokyo and it shows.

In Springfield, there are many familiar chains like Austin Grill (8430-A Old Keene Mill Rd.),  Outback Steakhouse (6651 Backlick Rd.,) but one stand out is Mike’s American Grill (6210 Backlick Rd.) known for it’s impeccable service, delicious bread basket, fresh piled high salads, and boisterous happy hour. A few minutes from Springfield, but worth the drive is Lorton Station with Pane e Vino (9020 Lorton Station Blvd.), offering authentic Italian cuisine, combining Old Italian traditions with a hint of modern taste. Adjacent to the courtyard, Fireside Grill (9000 Lorton Station Blvd.), offers fresh salads, tasty flatbreads, and tender free-range chicken breast. Both restaurants have a busy Sunday brunch buffet with carving station.

By Lisa D. Shapiro

The most prominent structure in the city is the Washington Monument, honoring George Washington, who led our country to independence in the Revolutionary War, and then became our first president in 1789.  Located at Constitution Avenue and 15^th Streets, the monument is shaped like an Egyptian obelisk, standing at 555 feet, the tallest stone structure in the world.  You’re bound to wonder what the view looks like from the top—it looks stunning!  On a clear day, one can see 20 miles in all directions to include the White House backyard, the Reflecting Pool, Lincoln Memorial, and the whole length of the National Mall.

The words of Thomas Jefferson, some written more than 200 years ago, have shaped American ideals. Today, these words adorn the interior walls of his memorial. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial stands as a symbol of liberty and endures as a site for reflection and inspiration for all citizens of the United States and the world.  Situated on the tidal basin, it commemorates our 3^rd president, the author of both the Declaration of Independence and the Statute of Religious Freedom, and the father of the University of Virginia.  Open daily; 900 Ohio Drive, S.W.

As one of the Library of Congress buildings, The Madison Building serves as the nation’s official memorial to James Madison, the “father” of the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the 4^th president of the United States of America.  It was Madison’s suggestion to form the library of Congress by proposing a list of books that would be useful to legislators.  101 Independence Ave., N.E., Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

No trip to Washington, D.C., is complete without a stop to the Lincoln Memorial to appreciate the breathtaking view east across the Reflecting Pool, toward the Washington Monument and beyond to the U.S. Capitol. This is the nation’s capital at its most majestic. The Lincoln Memorial is a fitting tribute to the U.S. president who steered the country through a bitter Civil War. Architect Henry Bacon designed the building, and Daniel Chester French sculpted the seated statue of Abraham Lincoln, 19 feet tall and carved from 28 blocks of white Georgia marble. On the memorial walls, you’ll find inscribed the Gettysburg Address and Lincoln’s second inaugural address. The memorial’s 36 massive columns represent the 25 U.S. states at the time of Lincoln’s death as well as the 11 seceded Southern states. Open daily; park rangers are on hand to answer questions from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.; Admission is free.

The Ulysses S. Grant Memorial is a monument honoring Civil War general and our 18^th president.  Located at the base of Capitol Hill, it faces west toward the Lincoln Memorial, honoring Grant’s wartime president

Theodore Roosevelt Island, off the George Washington Memorial Parkway, is a 91-acre wilderness preserve that serves as a memorial to the nation’s 26th president.  The preserve honors his contributions to conservation of public lands for forests, national parks, wildlife and bird refuges, and monuments. The island has 2 1/2 miles of foot trails where you can observe a variety of flora and fauna. A 17-foot bronze statue of Roosevelt stands in the center of the island.

The William H. Taft Bridge carries Connecticut Avenue over Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway. The bridge was built between 1897 and 1907, named after President William Howard Taft in 1931, and added to the national register of historic places in 2003.  It is an arch bridge, considered the largest unreinforced concrete structure in the world.

The Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge was named in honor of the 28^th president, who, when elected in 1912, spent an average of two hours a day riding in his automobile to relax, or to “loosen his mind from the problems before him.”  President Wilson was an advocate of automobile and highway improvements in the United States. In 1916, he stated “My interest in good roads is . . . to bind communities together and open their intercourse, so that it will flow with absolute freedom.”  The bridge was planned and built as part of the Interstate Highway System created by Congress in 1956. Construction of the bridge began in the late 1950s, and it opened to traffic on December 28, 1961.

The FDR Memorial, dedicated to our 32^nd president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, meanders through 7.5 acres near the Jefferson Memorial, just off the Tidal Basin.  FDR’s accomplishments during his four terms in office are honored through sculptures and words etched in four outdoor granite galleries representing time spans from 1933 to 1945. The president is shown in a bas-relief that depicts him riding in a car during his first inaugural, as well as figures depicted in the sculpture “Bread Line,” conveying the mood of the country during the Great Depression. Open daily; park rangers are on hand to answer questions from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. 1850 W. Basin Drive, S.W.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, commonly referred to as the Kennedy Center, represents a public/private partnership, since it is both the nation’s living memorial to President John F. Kennedy and the national center for the performing arts.  It includes educational and outreach initiatives, almost entirely paid for through ticket sales and gifts from individuals, corporations, and private foundations.  Located on the Potomac River, it is adjacent to the Watergate Hotel.  Opened on September 8, 1971, the Kennedy Center produces and presents theater, dance, ballet, orchestral, chamber, jazz, popular, and folk music, and multi-media performances for all ages.

The Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove, off the George Washington Parkway, consists of a grove of trees and 15 acres of gardens. A memorial to President Johnson and a part of the Lady Bird Johnson Park, the grove honors the former first lady’s role in beautifying the country’s landscape. The Memorial Grove is an ideal setting for picnics and has beautiful views of the Potomac River and the Washington, DC skyline.

The Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center honors former president Ronald Reagan. As a landmark building, it houses international trade related businesses, the DC Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Center, the permanent theater for the comedy troupe the Capitol Steps, a food court, Aria Italian Restaurant and facilities for conferences and weddings. Located above the Federal Triangle Metro Station.

Photo ops abound at each of these memorials.  A truly spectacular and unique way to view many of them is by moonlight.  So, when the sun goes down, take to the streets, and enjoy the sights and sounds of this magnificent city at night; and while you’re at it, wish all our presidents a Happy Birthday!

By  Kathleen Landrum

Photo courtesy of 1789

While the weather outside is frightful, dining by the fire is so delightful. Once the cold sets in, there is nothing more comforting than dining and enjoying a glass of wine or cocktail beside the warmth of a roaring fire. There are many restaurants in the nation’s capital and beyond that offer an opportunity to enjoy an exquisite meal while listening to the crackle of flames.

In Washington, DC

A visit to the nation’s capital around the holidays isn’t complete with a visit to Georgetown, especially if you’re shopping and dining. Immerse yourself in the history and landmark splendor of Georgetown, which was formally established in 1751 on 60 acres of land belonging to George Beall and George Gordon. George Town was named in honor of King George II.

Named after the year that the original site was purchased by Archbishop John Carroll, the founding father of Georgetown University, 1789 Restaurant (1226 36th St., NW) is the perfect spot to dine during the cold winter months with its festive holiday décor and elegant historic fireplace. Request table number 14, for the best view and coziest spot in the main dining room. Situated in an elegant two-story Federal townhouse, the walls are adorned with prints from George Washington’s early years, historic maps of the city, and American antique furniture. New Executive Chef Anthony Lombardo’s contemporary seasonal menu blends the flavors of fresh regional ingredients into unique and delicious autumn dishes. Winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, their wine list is quite extensive. To end the perfect meal, astry Chef Mallory Staley offers a modern twist on classic desserts. Open daily for dinner.

Situated in the 150 year-old restored Canal Square Building located just steps from the charming C & O Canal, Seacatch Restaurant & Raw Bar (1054 31st St., NW) offers fresh seasonal seafood in a dimly-lit cozy dining room warmed by two historic stone fireplaces. Enjoy fresh oysters on the half shell from their raw bar. Don’t miss their popular $1 oyster happy hour. Dinner at Seacatch usually runs a little pricey unless you opt for the $35 3-Course Dinner offered Monday thru Thursday 5-7 p.m. (exclusive of tax and gratuity). Enjoy fresh oysters on the half shell from their raw bar. Don’t miss their popular $1 oyster happy hour.

Come from the cold and warm up at the Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, (3100 South St., NW) a restored turn-of-the-century brick factory, featuring a blazing lobby fireplace and a towering 130-foot smokestack, offering a cozy respite from the cold brisk DC air. If the fire doesn’t warm you up sufficiently, enjoy complimentary s’mores every evening from 6:30-7 p.m. in front of the wood burning fireplace or create your own customized s’more at the outdoor fire pit Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Don’t worry! This is not your childhood s’more with rich melted Valrhona chocolate and homemade marshmallows sandwiched between two slices of French baguette bread prepared French-toast style. Inside the hotel, Degrees Bistro is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and features a contemporary American menu with a French influence. Enjoy with classics such as French Onion Soup with Gruyere Cheese and Steak Frites with Béarnaise Sauce.

Piccolo Main Dining room.

The blazing fireplaces throughout Ristorante Piccolo (1068 31st St., NW), an Italian trattoria sets the mood and makes it an especially romantic spot to get cozy. Enjoy fresh and seasonal rustic fare, including hand-rolled pastas. Their sunset three-course prix-fixe menu is a steal for just $18 offered Monday through Friday (4:30-6:30 p.m). A strolling violinist sets the mood on Friday and Saturday evenings. Sleep in on Saturday and Sunday and enjoy a late brunch with two courses and up to three glasses of champagne, Bloody Marys or mimosas for just $19 (11:30 am – 3:00 pm). Don’t miss their house-made Grapa.

The list of fireside dining in Georgetown continues. Stepping into La Chaumière (2813 M St. NW) instantly transports you to the charming thatched roof French country inn with a cozy central stone fireplace, wood beams and stucco walls. Escape city life and allow the award winning Chef Patrick Orange romance your senses with traditional French dishes and seasonal specials created according to the availability of fresh local meats and produce. Enjoy unpretentious and attentive service by knowledgeable seasoned staff for reasonable prices.

Moving from Georgetown and into the bustling artsy neighborhood of Dupont Circle, the iconic Tabard Inn (1739 N St. NW), an old-English style hotel that opened in 1922 offers turn-of-the-century charm with a fireplace-lit lounge and cozy atmosphere, the perfect remedy for an evening chill. Relax near the flames with a glass of wine in the cocktail lounge or dine in the homely black-and-white tiled dining room. Appreciate knowledgeable and friendly staff while enjoying Chef Pelt’s consistent imaginative cooking and all for a reasonable price.  Save room for dessert. The warm doughnuts with vanilla-scented whipped cream or banana cream pie tinted with milk chocolate are to die for. Brunch is considered one of the best in the city.

DC’s Foggy Bottom neighborhood, named after the misty marshes that once lined the Potomac riverfront in the 1800s, is home to Hotel Lombardy, a small boutique hotel with classic 1920s décor and rich interior design. Inside the hotel bistro, Café Lombardy’s (2019 Pennsylvania Ave.) warm and inviting Venetian Room offers a cozy lounge with a fireplace that welcomes guests for a subdued happy hour.

The dining room at Plume. Photo courtesy of the Jefferson Hotel.

Plume, located in the Jefferson Hotel (1200 16th St., NW) known as one of the finest restaurants in the capital, offers an elegant backdrop with cozy nooks and warm and inviting fireplace. Executive Chef, Chris Jakubiec draws on both traditional and modern techniques to create seasonal restaurant menus that are inspired by the harvest of Thomas Jefferson’s kitchen gardens at Monticello. Steal a chance to try their 3-Course dinner menu (with two choices) for just $55 offered limited hours between 5:30-5:45 p.m. only, Tuesday through Friday.  Presided over by Sommelier Michael Scaffidi, formerly of French Laundry, Plume’s wine list spans more than a dozen nationalities and dates back to 1780. Among the more than 50 vintages are those Jefferson himself enjoyed in his time as well as newer wines he might select were he alive today.

Just three blocks from Dupont Circle, 15 Ria offers a warm and inviting environment with the expansive dark-wood bar, cozy fireplace,  and floor-to-ceiling silk draperies. This award-winning restaurant offers a chic, sultry ambience with unpretentious prices. Bringing years of culinary expertise to this inviting DC restaurant, Executive Chef Janis Mclean presents luscious market-fresh cuisine.

Circle Bistro located in the One Washington Circle Hotel (1 Washington Cir., NW) offers classic bistro fare with innovative seasonal flavors and quality ingredients. With a fire in the hearth, the soothing orange-papered walls, honey-colored tables, and orange couches give the lounge a warm glow. Perfect for visitors headed to the Kennedy Center, the $35 3-course pre-theatre (5-7 p.m.) dinner menu is a fantastic bargain. On weeknights between 5-7 pm with half-price cocktails and $5 martinis, Circle Bistro has a vibrant happy hour scene.

Downtown at Equinox Restaurant (818 Connecticut Ave., NW) dine like the Obamas (see October-November issue) just steps away from the White House where Executive Chef Todd Gray has prepared the best seasonal dishes using locally sourced ingredients. He has been supporting local farms and purveyors for over a decade. Gray offers the best contemporary American fare in the city. Newly renovated, Equinox’s atrium has a naturalistic eco-friendly fireplace with textured glass perfect for nourishing cold souls beside the smoldering fire. Make sure to call in advance for a seat near the fireplace.

Tuscana West fireplace Tuscany room

Located downtown in McPherson Square, Tuscana West (1350 I St., NW), offers an incredible “Sunset Special” offering, a 3-Course Dinner Menu with your choice of four appetizers and seven entrees (4:30-6:30 p.m.) Monday-Friday for only $19.95!  You can’t be that deal anywhere! Come in from the cold and warm up next to the fireplace. Relax and enjoy a delicious hearty meal by the warm glow of the fire while sipping a glass of wine or cocktail. If you work nearby, enjoy a 2-Course Express Lunch for just $12.95 (available at the bar) and a 3-Course Regional Lunch Menu for only $19.95.

Oya's Fireplace.

In Penn Quarter, OYA (777 9th Street, NW) offers an Asian-fusion innovative menu in a contemporary backdrop showcasing a 12 foot-long fireplace in the main dining room. The hipster red crocodile bar and white marble fireplace in the lounge with ultra-comfortable high-backed white banquettes provides an ideal setting for romance. Sparks are sure to fly in this trendy hot spot. Enjoy their sumptuous 3-course prix fixe menu available nightly for $35 per person (does not include beverages). Warm up with hearty appetizers such as the Beef Short Rib Wellington and the Grilled Beef Sirloin Daily for your main course. Or for sushi lovers, you may choose any Sushi Roll & Chef’s Selection Nigiri from the menu! If you’re around for lunch, don’t miss their 3-course lunch prix-fixe menu for just $20. The Ribeye Sandwich is to die for!

Nearby, Cure Bar & Bistro (1000 H St. NW; 202-637-4906), the three-tiered lounge inside the Grand Hyatt Washington is a great place to nourish cold souls against the backdrop of the upper level’s smoldering fire. Choose from a great selection of specialty beers, wines, cheeses, meats, and main courses. Service starts at 4pm. Enjoy Chef Kevin Villalovos’ seasonal “farm to table” dinner menu featured each month for just $35, which includes a starter, entrée, and dessert. Relax near the flames with a glass of wine in this swanky lounge.

On Capitol Hill, Sonoma Restaurant and Wine Bar (223 Pennsylvania Ave., SE) is sleek yet inviting with their low, white-gray couches and comfortable black chairs — the perfect place to settle in on a cold evening. With a warm fire in the hearth and tea lights on the bar and tables, the flicker will help create an intimate atmosphere to set the mood for romance. Sonoma offers Italian-influenced seasonal Mid-Atlantic cuisine with an emphasis on local, sustainable, and artisanal ingredients. Try their 3-course Pre-theater menu, offered daily from 5-7:30 p.m. for just $35.00 and includes a complimentary taste of a select craft beer or wine. Pick a California or Italian wine and venture upstairs to the semi-private Avenue Lounge with fireplace — surely to warm you from the inside and out.

In Northern, VA

With two modern yet cozy fireplaces in their dining room, you can take a trip around the world, without having to brave the cold weather or needing your passport. Now through Friday, December 9th, Executive Chef Bertrand Chemel at 2941 (2941 Fairview Park Dr.) will offer a special dinner series, “Global Flavors at 2941″ serving menus featuring his take on popular cuisines from around the world.  Priced at $42 per person, not including tax and gratuity, the three-course menu will highlight a new country every two weeks (Russia – Nov 4, Nov 7-11; India – Nov 14-18, 21-25; Egypt – Nov 28-Dec 2, Dec 5-9.) Only Available Weeknight Dinner, Monday through Friday.

Restaurant 3 Fireplace. Photo courtesy of Restaurant 3.

Venture out to Restaurant 3 (2950 Clarendon Blvd) just steps away from the Clarendon metro, to enjoy a soul-warming menu chock full o’down home southern cookin’ with an imaginative twist. Enjoy mouth-watering Fried Chicken & Waffles beside the warm glow of a roaring fire —  the best place to hibernate ’til spring. Nearby, Harry’s Tap Room (2800 Clarendon Blvd.) is elegant yet casual with a focus on food and wine. Their bar, warmed by a stunning fireplace is a top after-work meeting place to unwind by the light of a fire.

Inside the elegant Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City, Fyve Restaurant and Lounge which offers modern American cuisine, prepared by Chef Frederic Chartier, is offered in an atmosphere with dazzling hues of red and orange that introduce an upbeat and contemporary décor. Settees in front of the lounge’s glowing fireplace create an enticing and relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy delectable light fare consisting of various items for only $5 each.  Then compliment your taste buds with a musical treat for your ears! Especially featuring live music from Christopher Linman’s band in the lounge every Friday and Saturday nights!

In Old Town Alexandria, known as one of the top restaurants in the country, Restaurant Eve (110 S. Pitt St.) with a cobblestone path leading to the restaurant’s entrance is lined with candles that set the tone of what is to come. Situated in a historic 1800′s warehouse, this quaint yet sophisticated restaurant actually has one of the coziest bar and lounges in the DC area.  Tucked away from the main dining rooms, it’s plush with cushioned bar-stools and big leather chairs, and of course, a rustic fireplace. Dublin native, chef Cathal Armstrong’s  menus feature seasonal, house-made products—which include 7-9 various breads baked daily and artisanal cheeses. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy one of the best lunch deals around ($13.50 for any two items on the bar menu) and make sure that you get the birthday cake for your dessert (even if it’s not your birthday). The dessert is cause enough for celebration.

Also in Old Town, known for its picturesque views of the Potomac River, Indigo Landing is an all-season sanctuary unlike any in the area. Enjoy the tranquility of a natural setting while viewing the monuments of Washington, DC. With incredible water views and fireplace lounge, you’ll be immersed in beautiful surroundings while enjoying a roaring fire.

The American Tap Room with locations in Reston and Clarendon also offers fireside dining. Enjoy their classic grill menu that offers something for everyone. Also in Reston, the Lakeside Inn restaurant and pub, enjoy casual dining next to their fireplace for comfort, overlooking Reston’s beautiful Lake Thoreau.  Lakeside Inn offers American Fare, featuring Ribs, Steaks, Seafood, Sandwiches, and Salads.

Trummer’s on Main located in Clinton, VA

Located in Clifton, VA, a historic town born out of the Civil War, Trummer’s on Main (7134 Main St.) is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Formerly the Hermitage Inn, guests relax beside the fire, while enjoying an awe-inspiring meal from a star-studded culinary team. Join the Trummer’s every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings for their three course prix-fixe “Rush Hour Menu” at just $38. Now available all night! Call and request the Rush Hour menu.

Traditionally held on the Tuesday before Halloween, this annual neighborhood event features elaborately costumed drag queens racing up 17th Street (from Church to Q streets) and attracts a large crowd of DC area residents and visitors alike, eager to cheer them on. This is like nothing that you have ever seen before! The high heel race begins at 9 p.m., but the real fun takes place before the main event, as the contestants parade up and down the race course showing off their outfits and receiving the love from spectators. Tips:  To get a street-side seat at an on-course cafe like JR’s or the Fox & Hounds, stake out your spot by 6, and certainly no later than 7. (There’s plenty of space along the sidewalk, though crowds often block the view.) The informal block party continues long after the last Mary Jane (size 13 EE) crosses the finish line. 17th Street NW between Church and R streets, Washington, DC

Starts: Tuesday, 25 October 2011 9:00pm
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  Location: 17th Street NW between Church and R streets, Washington, DC

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Lego Architecture: Towering Ambition: Architectural artist Adam Reed Tucker recreates large-scale artistic models of some of the world’s most famous structures using Legos, including the Empire State Building, St. Louis’ Gateway Arch, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece, Fallingwater. The simplicity and nostalgic quality of LEGO® affords viewers a new, detailed look at familiar buildings. Now through September 3rd, 2012, visitors can lean in close to see the complexity of a building’s intricate design and engineering or take a step back to appreciate its stunning sculptural form in full. Adults: $8; Youth (3-17yrs)/Students w/ID/Seniors (65+): $5. Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm; and Sunday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm. National Building Museum: 401 F Street NW, Washington DC (202)272.2448 www.nbm.org

Starts: Monday, 24 October 2011 10:00am
Repeats: Daily until 09/02/2012 17:00 .
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  Location: 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001

Next dates and times:

• Wednesday, 22 February 2012
• Thursday, 23 February 2012
• Friday, 24 February 2012
• Saturday, 25 February 2012
• Sunday, 26 February 2012
• Monday, 27 February 2012
• Tuesday, 28 February 2012
• Wednesday, 29 February 2012
• Thursday, 1 March 2012
• Friday, 2 March 2012

Join sisters Sophie and Katherine from Georgetown Cupcake and TLC’s DC Cupcakes for a Halloween Cupcake Decorating Class and decorating workshop on Sunday, October 30th from 2-4 p.m at the Ritz-Carlton Georgetown (Fahrenheit Ballroom).  Guests of the class will each participant will frost, decorate, and gift-wrap their own assortment of Georgetown Cupcake’s most popular flavors with fun hand-made Halloween decorations and candy pieces.  Hot holiday beverages like hot cocoa and apple cider and an assortment of mini-cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcake will also be served to guests as they decorate cupcakes alongside Sophie and Katherine.   $65 per person, ages 4 and older.  To make a reservation, contact (202) 912-4110.

Starts: Sunday, 30 October 2011 2:00pm
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  Location: 3100 South Street NW, Washington, DC 20007

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The Annual Doggie Happy Howl-o-ween Costume Contest benefiting the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria Prizes will be held on Thursday, October 27th at the Hotel Monaco in Old Town, Alexandria. Local pets and their human companions can model their Halloween finest while competing for prizes in a contest in the outdoor courtyard. Prizes will  be awarded to the best owner/dog couple, the most glamorous canine, the overall “top dog”. The event is open to the public with a $10 registration fee for all participants, and a $10 suggested door donation for non-participants.**This year, the costume contest will be limited to 50 entrants. Once this limit is reached, registration will be closed. Registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Spectators are welcome. Contest registration is from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm.  Contest begins promptly at 6:00 pm and winners are announced at approximately 7:00 to 8:00 pm. In addition, during the evening’s festivities, guests can purchase Halloween-themed cocktails and light bites from Jackson 20 restaurant, while complimentary doggie treats and fresh water bowls will be available for all canine friends. (Hotel Monaco: 480 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 /Jackson 20, 5-8 p.m., Oct 27).

Starts: Thursday, 27 October 2011 4:00pm
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  Location: 480 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314

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Nothing is spookier on Halloween than ghost stories. Check out the frightful Carlyle House (121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA) hosts a funeral reenactment and ghost tour of the home from 6- 9 p.m. on Saturday, October 29th. Pay respects to the surviving members of the Carlyle family and visit the Carlyle grave with others; $15 for tickets; call 703/683-3451.

Starts: Saturday, 29 October 2011 6:00pm
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  Location: 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA

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Kimpton’s Helix Lounge will host its Seventh annual Pumpkin Carving Contest on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2011. With the lounge providing pre-scooped pumpkins, carving tools and great prizes, all patrons will need to bring are creative ideas and a steady hand. * Beginning at 6 p.m., pumpkins will be distributed to patrons on a first-come, first-serve basis. Participants will have until 8 p.m. to carve the pumpkins, at which point the winners will be announced. The winner of the “Spookiest Pumpkin” (scariest design) will receive a $50 certificate to Helix Lounge, and the winner of “Most Ghoulish Gourd” (best overall design) will receive a one night weekend stay at Kimpton’s Hotel Helix. The winning pumpkins will be displayed at the lounge through Halloween night.  During the pumpkin carving, patrons will enjoy seasonal cocktails including the Pumpkin Martini, featuring vanilla vodka, pumpkin liquor and cream, garnished with a cinnamon stick ($7). Happy Hour prices will be offered for the duration of the event, including $7 burgers, $6 cosmos, $3 Yuengling drafts and $2 PBRs.

Starts: Wednesday, 26 October 2011 6:00pm
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  Location: 1430 Rhode Island Avenue, NW Washington, DC

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It can’t be Halloween without a little magic — and everyone knows the best way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. So what’s better than a little magic in the kitchen? Brandon Millett, creator of the brand new magical recipe book Wizards in the Kitchen will host a kick-off party/ Halloween party on October 28th, 7pm at L2 Lounge (3315 Cady’s Alley, NW) in DC.  The book releasing on October 31st will illustrate how to inspire romance, obtain wealth, achieve longevity and much more with dozens of magical recipes in this spectacularly designed, engagingly written cookbook.  Special guests, former Miss DCs Jen Corey and Sonya Gavankar will judge the costume contest. (L2 is located in Cady’s Alley. The entrance is on M street, between 33rd and 34th streets. Walk down the steps to Leopolds Cafe; the entrance to L2 is on the right).

Starts: Friday, 28 October 2011 7:00pm
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  Location: 3315 Cady's Alley NW, Washington, DC 20007

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