Going Out Guide: Christmas Day options including movies, Kennedy Center and more
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Christmas isn't the best day of the year to venture out of the house, what with most cultural attractions being closed. But that doesn't mean there are no options, and no, we're not only talking about Chinese restaurants and movie theaters, though both are good choices. Whether you want to put yourself to work for the betterment of others or get down to the sweet sounds of James Brown, here are some reasons to kick off that bathrobe and get out there on Christmas Day.
CHRISTMAS MOVIE OPENINGS
Along with presents under the tree and eggnog, Christmas Day conjures up visions of long lines at the movie theater and tubs of hot, buttery popcorn. Our favorite rodents are back in "Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel"; Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin team up in the comedy "It's Complicated"; the film adaptation of the Broadway musical "Nine" boasts a star-studded cast; Colin Firth plays a gay college professor in the '60s in "A Single Man"; Robert Downey Jr. is the famous British detective and Jude Law is his sidekick, Dr. Watson, in "Sherlock Holmes."
For complete movie listings, check Friday's Weekend section or visit http:/
DAY OF SERVICE
If you want to spread Christmas cheer on Dec. 25 but don't feel like dressing up as Santa Claus, we suggest volunteering with the D.C. Jewish Community Center for its D25 Day of Service. You'll have the opportunity to bring genuine joy into someone's life by helping to paint a school, preparing and delivering meals, and visiting with seniors, hospital patients and the homeless, among other opportunities.
D.C. JCC, 1529 16th St. NW. 202-518-9400. Register online at http:/
AN EVENING AT THE KENNEDY CENTER
While most stages in the area go dark on Dec. 25, those at the Kennedy Center stay lighted like, well, Christmas trees. The evening's highlight is a free jazz performance at 6 p.m. by James King, Chuck and Robert Redd, and Lenny Robinson. Tickets are also available for the 7:30 p.m. performance of "Young Frankenstein," the musical comedy based on the 1974 Mel Brooks movie, featuring much of the original Broadway cast. And if you haven't seen "Shear Madness," now would be a good time; the venerable, ongoing comedy starts at 7 p.m.
Kennedy Center, 2700 F St. NW. 202-467-4600. http:/
THE JAMES BROWN DEATH-MAS HOLIDAY BASH
On Friday, it will be exactly three years since the Godfather of Soul passed away. And what better way to remember the man's legacy (and to escape family obligations) than by getting down to an evening of his hits? The Black Cat's Brown-themed dance party will allow you to do just that.
9 p.m. Black Cat, 1811 14th St. NW. 202-667-7960. http:/
U.S. BOTANIC GARDEN
Haven't seen enough trees this holiday season? Head to the U.S. Botanic Garden, one of the few Washington attractions open on Dec. 25. Once inside, wander through the pleasantly steamy conservatory and check out the exhibit "Holiday Magic," featuring model trains (the Polar Express, maybe?) that chug and wind through locales of favorite childhood stories. You'll also find one of Washington's largest indoor holiday trees, blooming poinsettias and a collection of D.C. landmarks crafted from natural materials.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-225-8333. http:/
-- Alex Baldinger
