Get festive with the family

Bring the whole family to the Smithsonian Castle for holiday activities on Saturday. The Smithsonian teamed up with Brightest Young Things to offer a range of seasonal fun, including two story times (at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.) and plenty of hands-on activities, like making air plant ornaments and holiday cards. Memorialize the visit with a photo at the photo station, or sit back and enjoy songs from local choir groups. Alternatively, head to Ballston for some Frozen-themed activities or Glen Echo to make an (early) evening of it.
Smithsonian Castle, Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Ballston Quarter, Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Glen Echo, Saturday, 4 p.m.-7 p.m.

Sing your way into the holiday spirit

The Alexandria Citizens Band will make this real easy for you. Just show up to the Del Ray United Methodist Church in your most festive attire, and they’ll provide the tunes and the song books for a group singalong. Tickets are sold out, but they expect to have room for walk-ins.
Del Ray United Methodist Church, Friday, 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

Catch a bike documentary

This one is for our bike-loving commuters: The Northeast Library is hosting a free screening of Why We Cycle, a film about the effects of bicycling in The Netherlands, where “cycling is as normal as breathing.”  Space is limited, so make sure to RSVP.
Northeast Library, Saturday, 1 p.m.

Play reading

Avant Bard will present new scripts that have big potential at this annual showcase in Arlington. This year’s theme focuses on “new stories stories that engage with the past.” On Saturday, you can catch “The Sweet Science of Bruising,” a screenplay that follows the challenges of four women pursuing boxing … in 1869. The Times of London called it “a well-aimed swing at the politics of sex and class: …a knockout.” On Sunday, hear bobrauschenbergamerica, a play described as “absurd,” “delighting,” and “flyingchickenamericana,” whatever that mans. See the full schedule online, and take note that there are several more performances next week.
Theatre on the Run, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, times vary.

Art exchange

The State Department sponsors a program called “Art in Embassies,” integrating artists into diplomatic missions around the world. Head to the Hirshhorn to hear from Tim Doud, an artist and art professor at American University, about the works he created that are inspired by textiles and patterns originating from Niger. The event is in the Lerner Room, and seating is first-come, first-served.
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Sunday, 2 p.m.-3 p.m.

Looking for more to do this weekend?

10 Things To Do Around D.C. This Weekend
10 Food And Drink Events To Feast On This Week
13 Concerts You Won’t Want To Miss Around D.C. This Week
8 Plays And Musicals To Catch On D.C. Stages In December
8 Immersive Holiday Experiences To Lose Yourself In This Season