While the holiday season will be a bit different this year, there’s still plenty of fun events happening for Route 1 Kids! Check out our running list of kid-friendly holiday fun happening along Route 1 this year. Be it Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or all/none of the above, check out these ideas to add some sparkle to this 2020 holiday season!
As with all outdoor events, social distancing and face coverings are required. And, as always, if you know of other local events happening, please do share in the comments. We’ll update the list ASAP! Thanks!
Santa Near the Route 1 Corridor
Winter Fly In: Pictures & Craft Kits at the Museum
After the livestreamed fly in, pick up a craft kit at the Museum and take a picture outside with Santa! Advance registration required.
When: Saturday, December 5th, 12-4pm
Where: College Park Aviation Museum, College Park
Cost: $5/participant
Meet & Greet with Good Niklaas at Riversdale
(New Sunday date added) While breakfast isn’t on the menu this year, we invite families to enjoy a picture-perfect photo opportunity on the portico, chat with Good Niklaas, and receive a gift to continue the fun at home. Registration limited to one family max of 6 persons, per 10 minute slot.
When: Sunday, December 6th, 10am-12pm
Where: Riversdale House Museum, 4811 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park
Cost: $7/family
Santa, Hot Cocoa, Bonfire at Monpelier Farms
$7 per person, includes one FREE hot apple cider, hot chocolate or coffee, FREE pictures with Santa, and unlimited lighted and decorated wagon rides!
When: Fridays – Sundays until Xmas
Where: Montpelier Farms, Upper Marlboro
Chanukah Celebrations
National Menorah Lighting Ceremony
Chanukah kicks off with this lighting ceremony of the world’s largest menorah on the White House Ellipse, which greets all with latkes, doughnuts, menorah kits and dreidels. Music from the United States Navy Band will add a soundtrack to the scene. Free admission; tickets required.
When: Thursday, December 10th, gates at 3pm
Where: Elippse on the National Mall, DC
Hanukkah Story Series
Come together each night and listen to stories read by local families, enjoy interactive holiday crafts, and light the menorah candles. A special Hanukkah-related theme will inspire each night’s activities.
When: December 10th-17th
Where: Online. Register for Zoom link.
Kwanzaa Celebrations
Let’s Celebrate Kwanzaa Everybody!
Join us as Mr. New-School, Brian Barber, walk us through the 7 principles of Kwanzaa and create a hands-on craft using easy to find materials.
When: Thursday, December 10th, 2:30-3:15pm
Where: Online. Register above.
Kwanzaa Live w/Culture Queen
Learn about Kwanzaa through songs and stories performed by Culture Queen. Award-winning author, educator and entertainer .
When: December 30th, 10:30am-11am
Where: Online. Register above.
Holiday Fun Near Route 1
Gingerbread House Holiday Hullaballoo (Virtual)
Art Works Now has partnered with Pizzeria Paradiso to bring your family all the elements of our annual Gingerbread House Holiday Hullabaloo for a fun-filled virtual experience for ALL but at home! Includes gingerbread house kid, pizza, access to virtual event and Zoom room prizes! See website for registration details.
When: Saturday, December 12th, 2-4pm
Where: Via Zoom with Art Works Now
Watkins Festival of Lights
With over 2.5 million twinkling lights illuminating the night with festive themes, this drive-through festival is a delightful way to enjoy this holiday season – all within the warmth as your own car! Check out our time at the Watkins Festival of Lights here.
When: 5pm-9pm now through 1/1
Where: Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro
Winter Glow at Mount Vernon
Join us for an enchanting evening of winter lights at Mount Vernon. See the estate illuminated with soft lights and holiday patterns as you listen to Christmas carolers and visit an 18th-century winter encampment.
When: December 11-13 & 26-28
Where: Mount Vernon, VA
Santa Photos Near Route 1
Santa’s Back at the Mall at Prince George’s
Reservations are required to take a photo with Santa. Social distancing and other safety practices will be enforced. Photo packages are available, and prices start at $19.99. Virtual visits with Santa are also available.
When: Through Dec. 24 (see website for hours)
Where: Mall at Prince George’s, Hyattsville
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Great list of fun activities! Will need to check some of these out. Krista
Thanks for the feedback, Krista! Hope you and yours are doing well!