DC area - BHLEN https://blog.bhlen.com Sat, 28 Dec 2024 23:51:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://blog.bhlen.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Bhlen_Blog_Logo-1-150x150.webp DC area - BHLEN https://blog.bhlen.com 32 32 Light up the Night with Drive-Through and Walk-Through Light Shows (DC Area) https://blog.bhlen.com/light-up-the-night-with-drive-through-and-walk-through-light-shows-dc-area/ https://blog.bhlen.com/light-up-the-night-with-drive-through-and-walk-through-light-shows-dc-area/#respond Tue, 17 Dec 2024 22:37:00 +0000 https://blog.bhlen.com/?p=1385 Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville, VA)This ticketed, drive-through event is a Northern Virginia classic and the best part of all? You can experience it all from the comfort of your heated car. The multi-colored holiday light displays feature an array of exciting characters and almost give the vibes of Mario Kart’s Rainbow Road. Add […]

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Bull Run Festival of Lights (Centreville, VA)
This ticketed, drive-through event is a Northern Virginia classic and the best part of all? You can experience it all from the comfort of your heated car. The multi-colored holiday light displays feature an array of exciting characters and almost give the vibes of Mario Kart’s Rainbow Road. Add the song “Jingle Bell Rock” and a to-go mug of hot cocoa, and you’ve created a core memory. If you’d like to stretch your legs or buy a tasty treat (funnel cake, anyone?) be sure to check out the carnival at the end of the light show. Buy tickets online for $10 off.

Meadowlark Walk of Lights (Vienna, VA)
If you’d prefer seeing lights up close, bundle up and check out Meadowlark Botanical Gardens Walk of Lights. This timed, ticketed event features a dressed-up version of the lovely gardens with a fun, colorful holiday twist that kids will surely enjoy. This is a dog-friendly event, so don’t feel like Fido has to miss out on the fun–just be sure to account for him with a dog ticket!

Lights on the Bay (Annapolis, MD)
This two-mile drive along the bay in Sandy Point State Park features over 70 animated and stationary light displays. Enjoy the Chesapeake Bay breeze and a view of the Bay Bridge in the background. The proceeds benefit the SPCA of Maryland, and there are even a few exciting Lights & Leashes events, where you can enjoy the lights while walking with your pet. There are kiosks where you can buy snacks for the ride like popcorn, and when it’s going to a good cause–why not treat yourself, too?

ZooLights (Washington, DC)
The 16th annual Zoo Lights is sure to be a hit for all members of the family. Check out illuminated lantern animals, walk down rainbow light displays, and jam out to musical performances. The kids will love a ride on the Conservation Carousel or train, and don’t forget to check out a mouth-watering array of seasonal treats! Please note: no actual animals will be featured during ZooLights, as they are required to get a full night’s rest. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $6 for all guests over 2.


Holiday Walk of Lights at Neabsco Regional Park (Woodbridge, VA)
The third annual iteration of this magnificent event is astonishingly free for all patrons! Revel in quiet nature as you see this .625-mile boardwalk lit up with holiday figures. To make parking a cinch, take the shuttle from Rippon Middle School. Some nights have an adjacent holiday market, carolers, or even holiday characters that children will enjoy meeting in person. The walk is stroller, wheelchair, and pet-friendly, so bring the whole family.


While you’re enjoying the Yuletide traditions and rocking around the light-up Christmas tree, be sure to check out the holiday markets in the area as well!

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]]> https://blog.bhlen.com/light-up-the-night-with-drive-through-and-walk-through-light-shows-dc-area/feed/ 0 Democracy in Action: Where to Wait Out the Election Results in the Nation’s Capital https://blog.bhlen.com/democracy-in-action-where-to-wait-out-the-election-results-in-the-nations-capital/ https://blog.bhlen.com/democracy-in-action-where-to-wait-out-the-election-results-in-the-nations-capital/#respond Fri, 01 Nov 2024 12:18:07 +0000 https://blog.bhlen.com/?p=1294 Election night is coming to the DC area next Tuesday, November 5. In an area brimming with political staffers and government employees, it’s safe to say that locals are invested in politics, and there’s a lot riding on this election. Whether this means you’ll be anxiously refreshing your feed or looking for an excuse to […]

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Election night is coming to the DC area next Tuesday, November 5. In an area brimming with political staffers and government employees, it’s safe to say that locals are invested in politics, and there’s a lot riding on this election. Whether this means you’ll be anxiously refreshing your feed or looking for an excuse to party, the DMV knows how to celebrate election season like nowhere else in the US.

Lincoln Restaurant (Downtown DC)

If you’re looking to get the party started early, head to Lincoln Restaurant from 4 to 5 for a complimentary buffet. After that, TVs will be on all night and there will be food specials and specialty cocktails with politically-charged names, like “The Red Elephant in the Room.” There will even be an Abe Lincoln impersonator to help welcome in the 47th President.

ARTECHOUSE (Southwest DC)

Election night can bring a lot of stress to those who are invested in politics. For those looking for an aura of calm, check out experimental art studio ARTECHOUSE, who will be hosting something a little unconventional. With “I Voted” stickers, patrons will get $10 of general admission to the immersive art experience set in a digital seascape, including an XR cocktail happy hour from 4 – 10.

DC Young Republicans Host at Dirty Water

For those wishing they could see the DMV turn red, Dirty Water is the place to be. Mingle with other young Republicans with an open bar for $25, including Bud and Shock Top Drafts and hard iced teas. The event invitation reads, “all patriots are welcome.” The evening will go from 6:30 until a winner is declared.

Union Pub (Capitol Hill, DC)

If insanely long lines to drink at Union Pub during the debates were any indicator, then everyone in the 202 is bound to be at Union Pub on November 5. This Capitol Hill favorite will have presidential-themed drinks and other specials, along with election coverage all night.

Shaw Tavern (Shaw, DC)

Shaw’s Tavern is hosting a one-of-a-kind election viewing experience for those who want to go all out. For $99, patrons get access to a 4-hour open bar, a buffet, and circulating apps. All night, TVs (with sound!) will be playing election coverage. Tickets are available on EventBrite.

Election Night Watch Party at Merry Pin (Takoma, DC)

For the crafty DC resident, Merry Pin in Takoma is the place to be. In a time that brings about anxiety, de-stress by making crafts with fellow DIY gods and goddesses. They will project the election coverage on a screen, and anyone working on a Kamala Harris craft will get 10% off food or beverages. The event is free, but RSVPS are required for upstairs seating.

Boundary Stone (Bloomingdale, DC)

The neighborhood pub in Bloomingdale will be running an all-night happy hour while airing election coverage starting at 8. Bartenders will be bringing back a fan favorite called “Kamala’s Coconut Daiquiri” along with other themed drinks, including the “Palate Cleanser Shot.” Reservations are recommended. 

Busboys and Poets (All locations — DC, Maryland, and Virginia)

Busboys and poets emphasize their commitment to social justice and hope for a brighter future in their event details for their Election Viewing Party. All night on November 5, they will be running drink specials, showing election coverage, and making room for some cozy, optimistic vibes. Reserve free tickets on Eventbrite.

Penn Social (Penn Quarter, DC)

Penn Social is known for bringing out the inner child in us all, and Election Night is no different. This family-friendly event will be serving specials like $2 off Port City Optimal Wit and $4 off Cheesy Bread. Seating is first come, first-served, and those who are not quite voting age must be accompanied by a parent.

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]]> https://blog.bhlen.com/democracy-in-action-where-to-wait-out-the-election-results-in-the-nations-capital/feed/ 0 Harrowing, Haunted Halloween Events in the DMV https://blog.bhlen.com/harrowing-haunted-halloween-events-in-the-dmv/ https://blog.bhlen.com/harrowing-haunted-halloween-events-in-the-dmv/#respond Sat, 05 Oct 2024 20:43:13 +0000 https://blog.bhlen.com/?p=1238 October in the DMV has officially kicked off, and the leaves are turning a crimson-orange hue in Rock Creek Park. Fall festivals are underway, offering excited patrons hayrides, apple cider donuts, and unparalleled DC-area autumnal vibes. Pumpkins, witches, and ghosts have been adorning the front steps of the historic row houses of Capitol Hill. Our […]

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Haunted House, Ghouls, Ghost, Jack-o-lanterns, moon, scary, cemetery, witches



October in the DMV has officially kicked off, and the leaves are turning a crimson-orange hue in Rock Creek Park. Fall festivals are underway, offering excited patrons hayrides, apple cider donuts, and unparalleled DC-area autumnal vibes. Pumpkins, witches, and ghosts have been adorning the front steps of the historic row houses of Capitol Hill. Our favorite time of year is upon us for kids and adults alike: Spooky Season. If you’re in the mood to scream, check out the hand-picked list of local haunted experiences below.

Field of Screams (Olney, MD)
Field of Screams has been voted Best Haunted Attraction by USA today, and it’s no wonder. With over 55 themed attractions including Trail of Terror, Slaughter Factory, and Carnival Town Games, this is your one-stop-shop fear factory. Professional actors and creative designers come up with new paths of terror every year, so even returning guests can prepare to be creeped out in a whole new way. Ticket sales are online only, and they even offer a “Scream Pass” so you can check out all of the attractions they have to offer (if you can take it).

Occoquan Spirits (Occoquan, VA)
Occoquan is no stranger to spookiness year-round. A high volume of crystal and witchcraft shops, along with a rich history of hauntings, have earned it the online nickname “Occultoquan.” In true Occoquan fashion, Occoquan Spirits offers something a little more authentic than your typical October event: a tour led by a medium who communicates with ghosts throughout the tour. The tour begins in a haunted art gallery, and patrons will even have a chance to meet the resident ghost, Tad. Picture-taking isn’t just allowed–it’s encouraged, and previous tour-takers have even captured paranormal evidence on film.

Markoff’s Haunted Forest (Dickerson, MD)
If frightening forests scare the living daylights out of you, then Markoff’s Haunted Forest might be a little too freaky for you. With over a mile of haunted trails, including a haunted Town (new this year!) Markoff’s Haunted Forest is an immersive experience. Take a break from the chills and hang at the Cursed Village, where a DJ keeps the spooky soirée going into the night with dancing, food, and drinks—but only if you dare!

Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion (Doswell, VA)
Through November 3, Kings Dominion will be running their local favorite “spooktacular” event on select nights. Park-goers can spend the day riding roller coasters and eating ice cream, but when night falls, the zombies will emerge. Haunted mazes, designated “scare zones,” and haunted houses will set the tone for a truly frightening, bone-chilling experience. If you haven’t had your fill of screaming, you can head over to a rollercoaster–KD keeps their most popular rides open during this event, for extra thrills and chills.

US Ghost Adventures (Annapolis, MD)
This veteran-owned ghost tour combines rich local history with the paranormal. Learn about the fascinating but frightening pirate-infested shores of the Severn River and Puritans with a dark, violent history. Local legends may make an appearance, like a Naval Lieutenant whose murderer was never found, or a drunk gambler who keeps haunting the town. Choose your own adventure: pick from either a regular Ghost Tour or a “Boos and Booze” Pub Tour, where you can drink in some of the same historic bars as the ghosts did when they were living.

See more local haunted attractions:

Baltimore Ghost Tours (Baltimore, MD)

Ghosts of Georgetown Walking Tour (Georgetown, Washington, DC)

Alexandria Ghost Tour (Alexandria, VA)

Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream (Williamsburg, VA)







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]]> https://blog.bhlen.com/harrowing-haunted-halloween-events-in-the-dmv/feed/ 0 Six ways to Fall for the DMV Area https://blog.bhlen.com/six-ways-to-fall-for-the-dmv-area/ https://blog.bhlen.com/six-ways-to-fall-for-the-dmv-area/#respond Mon, 30 Sep 2024 12:18:02 +0000 https://blog.bhlen.com/?p=1190 The DC area’s oppressive summer heat is finally making way for milder weather, and everyone from seasoned locals to new transplants can look forward to autumn vibes in the outdoors. As you rotate out the shorts in your wardrobe to welcome sweater weather, there is no shortage of ways to embrace the season of harvest. […]

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Fall, Trees, Colors Changing, Family and Pets

The DC area’s oppressive summer heat is finally making way for milder weather, and everyone from seasoned locals to new transplants can look forward to autumn vibes in the outdoors. As you rotate out the shorts in your wardrobe to welcome sweater weather, there is no shortage of ways to embrace the season of harvest.

Click here for our Bhlen Link with a complete list of things to do this Fall!

Cox Farms – (Centreville, VA)

Apple cider donuts, giant themed slides, hayrides, and a goat village make this a local fall classic. If you’re looking to get into the autumn mood, look no further. This has been the biggest and most well-attended fall festival in the DMV since it launched as a family business in 1974. From September 14 through November 5, you can forge a family tradition of an action-packed day that culminates in selecting a pumpkin.

Clifton Day (Clifton, VA)

For residents of this tiny town seemingly plucked from the past and tucked amid the rolling hills of Fairfax Station, Clifton Day puts them on the map. On October 13, streets are closed to traffic, and artisans and food vendors line the streets. At the town green, a bounce house and a variety of performers create the perfect atmosphere to entertain children. The best way to maximize your autumn mood? Take the train! The VRE runs a special train that stops in downtown Clifton for one day only, and the view of the leaves changing colors is unparalleled. 

Butler’s Orchard (Germantown, MD) Something about a hand-picked apple just tastes better. At Butler’s Orchard, you can pick your own apples on weekends. You can pick out the perfect jack-o-lantern starting September 21.  Be sure to also check out Front Porch Kitchen from 10:30 – 3, which serves apple cider and beer. If you are celebrating something special, consider booking one of their magical after-hours hayrides or bonfires.

Mount Vernon (Alexandria, VA)

In addition to being the home of the father of our country, Mount Vernon also boasts an exciting line-up of autumnal events. Check out the Fall Harvest Festival on October 19 and 20 and step back in time by seeing 18th-century demonstrations and activities. Slow down at the Mount Vernon estate, and take in a calmer pace of life in the crisp autumn weather. Down the road at the Grist Mill, you can even sample whiskey of the era.

Maryland Renaissance Festival (Crownsville, MD)

If you enjoy chowing down on a turkey leg while dressing as a lord or lady, then the Renaissance Festival is for you. Multiple theaters are nestled throughout the village, and you can watch just about anything, from bards to jousters. Bring cash to the event to ensure you can purchase something from one of your favorite artisans. (Online ticket sales only.)

Wharf Oktoberfest (Washington, DC)

Brat summer might be over, but brat autumn is just beginning! If you love German food, put on your lederhosen on October 5 and head down to the Wharf, where you can chow down on all of the sauerkraut and brats you can muster. If you’re a weiner enthusiast of the canine variety, check out the annual Wiener 500 Dachshund Dash to benefit Rural Dog Rescue. There will also be a stein-hoisting championship, where qualifiers from local restaurants come to show off their hoisting skills (and drink some German beer while they’re at it). Finally, dance the night away with Polka on the Pier from 5 to 7 PM.

Click here for our Bhlen Link with a complete list of things to do this Fall!

VIRGINIA

Fall Market at the Lucketts Store

DC

Georgetown Fall Market

H Street festival 

MARYLAND

PIKEtoberfest 

Gaver Farm

Maryland Corn Maze (Gambrills)

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