DC Tours and Transportation

The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a Christmas tradition that every American looks forward to. All eyes are on the President and First Lady as they light the tree, followed by the President's holiday wishes to the crowd and the millions more watching the event on television. There's a band playing holiday favorites, and in addition to the large tree that is the focal point of the festival, there are also several smaller trees that represent our states and territories. The trees stay lit and this celebration begins a month-long schedule of various entertainment that helps to keep the Christmas spirit high.

The Washington Wizards are a professional basketball team based in Washington, DC and were previously known as the Washington Bullets. They play in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The team first hit the court in the late 1960s and has seen its share of victories, especially in what is known as the Miracle Season of 1977-78. However, the sports team weathered some tougher times, especially in the late 90s as the team saw its worst performance streak in its history. Still, the games are attended by a faithful legion of fans and the addition of some new players has only bolstered the team's momentum.

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts can be considered the headquarters of stage performances in Washington, or even the whole country for that matter! The entertainment facility is immense as it sprawls out over 17 acres, overlooks the Potomac River and features six theaters that are always staging various productions like plays, operas, ballets and lots more. There are tours of the facility itself, as well as several exhibits and even an excellent concession area.

Everyone has heard of George Washington, our first President, but how many people can actually say that they knew what he was like? You can be one of those who have gotten a look at some of George's personal life when you tour the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. The man is memorialized quite fittingly with the impressive statue that greets you when you arrive at this story-filled building. This lodge replicates what the lodge looked like back in Washington's time here in the appropriately named Replica Room. There are several exhibits that reveal little-known facts about the man's career, life and legacy. Also, don't miss the ninth-floor observatory that gives you a chance to take in a truly amazing panoramic view of the city.