December 2, 2025 · 9:59 am
A cute holiday scene from a Grandma Moses painting on view at SAAM
1. It’s Giving Tuesday… If you want some ideas for where to donate, the GIVE page on the blog has a long list of charities and causes, all of them shared by KFDC readers. If you have one you’d like to highlight, leave a comment on that page or on these Five Things, and I’ll add it. And something not listed that I recommend: A DC institution that gives all of us so much.
2. I always suggest combining a visit to the Downtown DC Holiday Market with a pop-in at the American Art Museum/National Portrait Gallery, since they are literally a backdrop to the festive, vendor-lined streets. If you do go to the museums, I also recommend checking out Grandma Moses: A Good Day’s Work. The exhibit showcases paintings by artist Anna Mary Robertson “Grandma” Moses, who didn’t even start painting until her 70’s — and something about her work is very calming and so charming. Over 80 pieces in the galleries depict life on her family farm, rural landscapes, and even some Christmas scenes — perfect viewing for the holiday season. (Of course, it’ll be great to see beyond that, and on view until July 12, 2026). The museums are open 11:30am – 7pm, and admission is free. The market runs daily 12-8pm Monday – Thursday, 11am – 9pm Friday & Saturday, and 11am – 8pm on Sundays through December 21.
3. The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting takes place TONIGHT, December 2, 5-5:30pm! You can watch the short ceremony from the Reflecting Pool area right across the street from the West Lawn, where the tree is located. It’s always exciting to see the moment it’s illuminated. After that, the tree will be lit from dusk until 11pm everyday through early January.
4. If you celebrate Hanukkah, how about a new, unique menorah? Like one that is classic but colorful, a modern take on the classic, or this one that looks so cool with blue candles; an artsy design; a simple but cool marble; or a fun one by Jonathan Adler. And if, like us, you’re an interfaith house, this is a perfect tree topper!
5. A little entertainment by a legend to brighten this rainy Tuesday.
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Filed under 2025, DC, Fall, Five Things
