The DC Traveler

Model railroad layouts and displays, along with model railroad workshops and demonstrations make up the annual Greenberg Train & Toy Expo this weekend in Chantilly, Virginia, about 40 minutes west of Washington, DC.
A few of the model railroad layouts include themed displays including a huge 40 foot by 50 foot display, along with close to a dozen other major displays  from Washington, DC area model railroad clubs, representing all kinds of different themes. 
Plus, there’ll be an interactive slot car track and a train layout made exclusively out of Legos. 
For the smaller children, take them on the Train …read more

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The Washington, DC Japan-America Society is selling over 1,000 unique kimonos, yukata and haori garments from its apparel collection that was donated to the Society.
For those that need some help on kimono fashion lingo (as I did):

Kimonos are the T-shaped, ankle length straight-lined traditional robes.
Yukata are more casual kimonos, generally worn during the summer months or for after bathing, but acceptable for public wearing.
Haori are the longer (hip or thigh-length) jacket that is paired with a kimono.

The pre-worn kimonos for sale are ideal for wearing around the house, for home decorating or for making into craft …read more

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If you are looking for something unusual for your holiday gift giving, then try visiting the annual Downtown Holiday Market, in front of the American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC.
With more than 150 local artists and crafters selling a variety of hand-crafted art works, from soaps and candles to jewelry and photos, you should be able to find something unique for just about anyone on your holiday list.
This year, vendors will rotate in and out of the market, so each time you visit, you may find something new. 
Free live music will entertain crowds …read more

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Visit the annual holiday extravaganza at the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, Virginia.  Browse artist’s studios and galleries and watch as they create one-of-a-kind works of art and gifts.
Live music, drinks and hors d’oeuvres will add to the festive occasion.

Torpedo Factory Art Center – Holiday Open House 105 N. Union Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 (map it) 703-838-4565
Dates and Times – Thursday, December 4, 2008  6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Admission – FREE, but please bring a non-perishable food item for their holiday food drive.
Nearest …read more

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Save 5.75% in retail sales tax by shopping in Washington, DC during the annual pre-holiday sales tax exemption week.
The sales tax exemption starts the morning of Friday, November 28 and expires Sunday, December 7, 2008 at midnight.  
The Sales Tax holiday grants shoppers a tax exemption on shoes, clothing and clothing accessories priced less than $100.00 per item.
So check out two of Washington, DC’s favorite shopping malls, Mazza Gallerie Mall and the Shops At Georgetown Park in Georgetown.
For more details on the exemption, check out the DC Office of Tax page.
Image – Flickr – burning money ________________________________________________

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Holiday shoppers dreaming of snow can find snow falling inside, yes…inside, Tysons Galleria shopping mall in Tysons Corner, Virginia, every day through Christmas Eve. 
In one of the areas “coolest” promotions to attract shoppers, from November 22 until Christmas Eve, “snow” will actually fall from the ceiling, inside the upscale shopping and dining mall.
The first “snow show” will begin daily at 11:00 a.m., falling from the top level and descend through all three levels of the mall. 
Santa is also on hand for kids to tell him what they want to see under the Christmas tree on Christmas morning.
And …read more

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National Geographic is selling truckloads and truckloads of books, maps, globes, toys, puzzles, travel accessories, clothing, luggage, gifts and more to its Holiday Warehouse Sale at the Washington DC Armory.
Expect discounts of at least 25% on just about everything that National Geographic sells, with some books and other products discounted up to 90%.
National Geographic’s Holiday Warehouse Sale DC Armory 2001 East Capitol Street, SE Washington, DC 2003  (map it) 888-647-6733
Dates and Times – Friday – Sunday, November 14-16, 2008. Hours:

Friday …read more

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Start your holiday gift shopping or find something special for your home at the 21st annual Washington Craft Show in Washington, DC.

With one-of-a-kind crafts from just a few dollars, to exquisite pieces in the thousands of dollars, there’s something for every taste and every budget. 
The show highlights over 175 of the nation’s most unique, well-regarded and sophisticated artisans in the specialized niches.
The types of crafts on display and offered for sale include:

Basketry
Ceramics
Decorative and Wearable Fiber
Furniture
Glass
Jewelry
Leather Metal
Mixed Media
Paper
Wood

Washington Craft Show    Washington Convention Center …read more

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Over 250 jewelry retailers and makers will display their samples of rare gems, jewelry, beads, accessories and minerals from around the globe.
Check out all the eye-popping baubles, just in time to start thinking about…should I say it…holiday gift giving.
International Gem and Jewelry Show
Timonium Fair Grounds
2200 York Road
Timonium, MD (map it) (about 20 minutes north of Baltimore )
Dates and Times – Friday, October 31 – Sunday, November 2, 2008.

Hours – Friday – Noon to 6:00, Saturday - 10 to 6, and Sunday - 11 to 5.

Tickets – $7:00, and are available at the door.
Parking – Limited paid parking is available.
Public Transportation – …read more

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Meet over 400 artists and craftsmen and women at one of the highest rated crafts fairs in the country.  Many of whom will be working their trade at the show.

See custom jewelry, dried flower arrangements, pottery and sculpture, photography, paintings, leatherwork and more.
Craftsmen’s Classic Arts & Crafts Festival  Dulles Expo Center 4368 Chantilly Center Chantilly, VA  (map it)
Dates and Times – Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 17-19 , 2008.  Fri. – 10-6, Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5
Tickets – Adults – $7.00,  children 6-12 – $1.00, under 6 …read more

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