A Capital Holiday

Saturday on the Town

Christmas shopping tops the list of today's activities, and your first stop is Union Station. In the East Hall, you'll find favorite retailers, such as Ann Taylor, Nine West, Joseph A. Banks, and Jones New York, among the souvenir shops and boutiques.

Looking for more shopping? Hail a cab, and speed over to M and Wisconsin Streets in Georgetown. Otherwise, walk to The Mall, and spend the afternoon exploring your favorite museum. You can still shop for treasures at the gift stores. Our favorite stocking stuffers are the lovely cards and stationery at the National Gallery of Art.

Start your evening with dinner at the venerable Willard Room. The dining room's rich oak paneling, gold velvet drapes, and plush chairs set the scene for a fine meal. The menu features American cuisine with an international flavor.

No holiday celebration would be complete without a performance of The Nutcracker. The Bolshoi Ballet, Moscow's premier dance company, takes the stage at the Kennedy Center for this holiday favorite (December 11-15; tickets range $45-$110). After the performance, head for the terrace overlooking the Potomac River, and drink in this spectacular view of the city.

If you miss the Bolshoi Ballet, you can still see The Washington Ballet's performance of The Nutcracker, which runs from December 6 to 22 at the Warner Theatre. Tickets are $33-$53.