See scenes from a tiny Christmas town

The U.S. Botanic Garden is spreading holiday joy with its Christmas display Season’s Greening. In addition to plenty of classic and modern poinsettia varieties and the usual flora around the building, the display includes a variety of trains and train stations from around the country, along with visions of D.C. landmarks recreated with plant materials.
U.S. Botanic Garden, through Jan. 1, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Get a head start on that architecture degree

Winter is peak cozy fort season, and though the blanket variety is king, the National Building Museum this weekend makes a case for a new building method. At a family workshop this weekend, learn the basics of building a study structure out of newspapers, believe it or not, that’s big enough for everyone to huddle inside for storytime.
National Building Museum, Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Not sick of holiday music yet? Check out this concert.

The Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center and the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington will host a Holiday Sing concert. Singers from the youth group will perform holiday classics and original compositions alongside a 15-piece chamber orchestra and a choir. The theme of the concert is celebrating international holiday traditions.
The Kennedy Center, Saturday, 6 pm

Let out your inner kid at this winter playground

The art installation Impulse is an interactive piece with 15 seesaws that emit light and sound when in motion, creating a unique soundscape. When playing on the seesaw, each visitor can create different light effects and sound waves. Think of it as a kids’ playground meets that piano-playing scene in Big.
The Grounds, 1102 South Eads St., Arlington, through Jan. 7, Sundays-Thursdays 11 a.m.-8 p.m, Fridays-Saturdays 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 

Don your ugliest apparel for this holiday party

Get your ugly sweater ready for the first H St. Ugly Sweater Christmas Party. D.C. and New York-based Kerim the DJ will provide music. Not only will you be among other ugly sweaters, you can also win a $300 gift card if you have the ugliest one of them all.
Rock & Roll Hotel, Friday, 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Register here.

Want more ideas for your weekend—even if they cost a little money?

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16 Concerts You Don’t Want To Miss Around D.C. This Week