Happy Monday, DC!

The government shutdown has come to a close, and some of our favorite galleries and museums have reopened—and it means ZooLights will brighten up the National Zoo starting this weekend. This week is also the kick-off of other seasonal favorites, including the Downtown DC Holiday Market and A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre.

Best Things to Do This Week and Weekend • ZooLights. The National Zoo has reopened just in time for its annual holiday light show, ZooLights. Lantern displays of sea and land animals include giant pandas, birds, ocean creatures, and more. Also, guests can watch nightly live musical performances and sip hot cocoa to keep warm (select nights Fri through January 3, 2026, $9, National Zoo). Downtown DC Holiday Market. The Makers Show returns downtown

See Full Page