Zoo Lights and the Willard Hotel during the Holidays

On a beautiful December night, Zach and I visited the Zoo Lights at the Smithsonian National Zoo. There were artistic displays of glowing animal replicas all throughout the zoo and as we went on our festive walk, we saw a spirited performance of Irish tap dancing. We drank hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle while meandering through thick crowds of people.

We also toured the historic Willard Hotel and got to see the festive decorations throughout. The Willard hotel is considered historically significant for several different reasons. Abraham Lincoln stayed the hotel in the days leading up to his inauguration. It was where the Battle Hymn of the Republic was written and where the term “lobbyist” was first made popular.

During this holiday season, the Willard has a spectacular gingerbread house replicating the Willard Hotel and Willard Office. They have a grand Christmas Tree in the lobby and the tea-time room features a harpist playing lovely music.