During this holiday season, here are some of the big and little things we saw this year that make us thankful to live in D.C.
The murmurations of starlings
While starlings are considered a dirty nuisance, it is absolutely amazing to watch large murmurations of the birds.
The courage and sacrifices of those who have fought for our freedom
Seeing politicians up close
It’s frequently possible to see politicians up close, and it makes the news seem much more real.
A glorious backdrop
It’s easy for Washingtonians to get a bit jaded with the National Mall and the monuments, but we really do live in a beautiful city that looks like no other.
The drum circle
The Malcolm X Drum Circle has been preserving and enhancing cultural traditions for more than 50 years, in Meridian Hill Park every Sunday.
Tumbling gorillas
World Pride
World Pride came to D.C. this year, only the second time it has been hosted by a U.S. city.
The H Street Festival
Every September for the past two decades thousands of people take to H Street NE for one of DC’s most joyful events. Spread over 12 blocks, the festival is a feast of food, music, dancing and… bubbles.
Rock Creek
The beauty of Rock Creek Park, cutting through a large swath of D.C.
Adirondack Chairs in Dupont Circle
Police at demonstrations
The large and careful police presence at marches and demonstrations makes it feel generally safe to go to these events.
Tumbling pandas
The skater culture
Some of the best skaters can be found at Freedom Plaza, with a view of the Capitol.
The geometric layout of D.C.
The planned layout of much of D.C. means that some of the views are great – like being able to see the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Capitol all in one view.
Ducklings
Every spring, DC photographers wait with bated breath for these adorable fuzz balls to appear.
Fireworks on Pennsylvania Avenue
Seeing fireworks set off right in the middle of Pennsylvania Avenue, as part of the annual Emancipation Day celebrations.
Pet adoption
My sweet cat, Captain Georg von Trapp, adopted from Homeward Trails.
The Inflatable Resistance
While inflatable characters (especially frogs) were originally a Portland, Oregon protest innovation, the District’s resistance has fully embraced these animated objectors. Who said fighting for democracy couldn’t be playful?
People watching on the Mall
Thank YOU for these wonderful reminders of the many things for which we can be grateful. They are sorely needed and much appreciated!
Thanks so much!