National Harbor

The Tree is the Thing

Well….I hate writers that start out with “well”….but this is exactly how I feel. I am really missing the holiday action in the Harbor bad. I know that it doesn’t do any good to dwell on the past and that we can’t go back but I sure do miss making my annual slide down the two story ice slide that was part of ICE every year. We do, however, have the gorgeous National Harbor tree that does its thing every half hour from dusk to 9:00 pm. All 56 feet and two million twinkling lights dance to holiday music daily through January 3rd. If you stop by the harbor on a Friday or Saturday, you will be treated to snowfall around the tree at every performance. This will most likely be the closest we are going to get to snow during the holiday season so why not take advantage of it. This year, because of pandemic protocols, guests are being asked to form a line and follow the directions posted at the site. Unfortunately, there won’t be any fireworks this year either.

Don’t forget the Capital Wheel “Holidate to Remember” promo that runs through January 1st. Your date includes two tickets to the Wheel; two insulated souvenir cups filled with your choice of hot cocoa, spiked apple cider, beer or wine; custom green screen photo and up to 4 hours of free parking. All of this for only $45+tax. The parking vouchers will be provided upon check in at the attraction (ticket window or greeter). Tickets are on sale online (thecapitalwheel.com) and at the ticket window and must be purchased and honored by January 1st. All of the COVID protocols are in place so be sure that you have your mask with you and keep your distance as required.

American Way and Fleet Street are all lit up and holiday music is being piped into the PA system and the majority of the shops and restaurants remain open at the time of this writing (all with the proper pandemic protocols in place). These businesses can no longer depend on the tourism and convention business that the Gaylord brought to the Harbor so it is up to those of us who live in the region to help them keep their doors open. Lots of specials and sales taking place and the hotels are offering special rates for those of you who want to get away for a little stay-cation during the holidays.

The MGM Grand is open for holiday business and the Conservatory is worth taking a look at again this year. These displays don’t disappoint. The theme this year is “Babes in Toyland” and the toy soldier is way impressive. He stands almost two stories high. The photo doesn’t really do it justice. There are also some fun moving parts and the colors are amazing. I am in awe of the talent that it takes to bring these creations to fruition. I have definitely spent more time wandering around the Conservatory than I have in the casino over the years. Not all of the eateries are open but there is something for everyone still available. I didn’t have time to venture into the gaming room on my last visit but from all accounts from my gambling friends, the slots and the tables have been situated so that the space is in compliance with the pandemic restrictions. Be sure you have your mask with you!

No matter how you celebrate the holidays this year, please try to concentrate on the good things and pray that next year we will all be able to gather together without our faces masked and with hugs for everyone. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!