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Chris Militzer/Miliman 12 Photography
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Chris Militzer/Miliman 12 Photography
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Chris Militzer/Miliman 12 Photography
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Chris Militzer/Miliman 12 Photography
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Chris Militzer/Miliman 12 Photography
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Chris Militzer/Miliman 12 Photography
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Chris Militzer/Miliman 12 Photography
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Chris Militzer/Miliman 12 Photography
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Chris Militzer/Miliman 12 Photography
The kids want this years hot toy and it’s nowhere to be found, there are parties to plan for, secret Santa gifts to buy, Cousin Eddie just told you he’s coming for Christmas… feeling a bit overwhelmed and having a hard time getting into the holiday spirit?
Christmas time at The Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C. is just the place to make your Grinch-like heart grow three sizes and have you delivering presents to Cindy Lou Who in no time at all.
Hotel
From humble row house beginnings in 1818 to the current enormous, stately, and iconic building it has become, The Willard has existed in many iterations over the years.
No matter it’s size or shape, The Willard has been home to many a historic event and several presidents, including Abraham Lincoln prior to his inauguration. The Presidential flag even flew outside the hotel when President Coolidge lived at The Willard while awaiting his move into the White House after Warren Harding’s death. It has seen the birth of the Battle Hymn of the Republic, the creation of Memorial Day, and even the term “Lobbyist” was popularized here by Ulysses S. Grant as he was pestered by gentlemen pushing their own agendas while he attempted to enjoy his brandy and cigar in the lobby of The Willard.
Today, and especially at the holidays, The Willard is a warmly, well-decorated escape from the day-to-day chores brought on by the season. It brings back classic (if not Hollywood-esque) ideas of a glamorous yuletide visit to the city.
The lobby is decorated with colorful bows, wreaths, and the centerpiece, a 20+ foot tree complete with presents beneath. There is a seemingly endless stream of families posing with this spectacular scene, as they quickly fall into the Christmas spirit with all that surrounds them.
Events
Afternoon Holiday Tea: I am not afraid to admit that I am a card carrying member of the IPA-drinking, Saturday afternoon football-watching club. So maybe the idea of an elegant afternoon social, with finger sandwiches and pastries, isn’t my normal… cup of tea.
But wait, there’s bacon-infused tea? Berkshire Black hog on those sandwiches, you say?Champagne? Suddenly, I’m engrossed in the moment, pinkie finger out, sipping my tea (maybe a slurp or two) and enjoying my people-watching and listening to holiday tunes being played on the harp. And with service from the amazing staff such as my new best friend Deepak H., who never let said Champagne flute get empty, maybe I could get used to being in such sophisticated company!
Gingerbread display: A yearly tribute to an iconic landmark each year, with this year showcasing Ronald Reagan National Airport, complete with lighted runway, airport sounds, and all airlines represented.
Carolers: Complimentary nightly choral performances from local groups fill the lobby with the sounds of the season from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Grab a spot early if you’d like to be close enough to see!
Holiday Markets: Just a few blocks away from the hotel is the Downtown Holiday Market inPenn Quarter. Now in it’s 14th year, this “village” hosts 150 rotating vendors, 60 at a time for a unique experience complete with a diverse assortment of items such as jewelry, pottery, clothing, and my favorite... photography. Live musical performances add to the ambiance.
Round Robin Bar
This iconic drinking establishment, founded in 1847, with its circular mahogany bar and impeccable cocktail selection, has served Mark Twain, Walt Whitman, and Buffalo Bill Cody. Even Abraham Lincoln stopped by for a beverage during his stay, and his first presidential paycheck went to paying off his Willard bill. I’m guessing a lot of that was the bar bill; it’s not inexpensive to drink here! Get there early to grab a spot at the bar, as this legendary place fills up quickly. The crowd rotates often — so stay strong, a spot will open.
Cafe du Parc
Recently renovated, this contemporary French bistro offers modern spins on classic french dishes in a surprisingly casual environment. Delicious, high-end cuisine, in a non-pretentious atmosphere was a great place to fill up after a few of those Round Robin Old Fashioneds. The Salade de Crabe Royale (King Crab salad, Avacodo Puree, Mozzarella on Melba Toast) was an incredible start to the meal, though I was looking for even more of the toast to use as a vehicle to funnel the crab in as fast as I could! The menu has other standards such as a peppercorn tenderloin fillet, seared duck breast, and the highly recommended braised rockfish and lobster tail! Don’t miss the brunch as well, the sticky buns are worth it!
Staying at The Willard
The Willard has a wide mix of renovated traditional guest rooms, which are all impressively warm and inviting, many with a view of Pennsylvania Avenue, the Washington monument and downtown. Some also offer a pull out couch for accommodating the whole family on your holiday staycation. Of course if you need more room, there are also several specialty suites available such as the Commodore Matthew Perry suite, complete with two entrances, 1400 sq. ft. to spread out, a dining room, one and a half baths, a kitchenette, and living room. Like I said, I could get used to being in such sophisticated company in a place like this!
