(MD) (VA) (DC) Each year from December 14 through January 5, tens of thousands of volunteers brave snow, wind, or rain, and take part Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count (CBC) Each count takes place in an established 15-mile diameter circle, and is organized by a count compiler. Count volunteers follow specified routes through a designated 15-mile (24-km) diameter circle, counting every bird ...
It's the season of lights in the Washington DC metro area. Many parks and botanical gardens are hosting beautiful light displays through the new year: Brookside Garden of Lights - Montgomery County MD hosts its annual display at Brookside Gardens through January 5th. Walk among the outdoor twinkling lights and glimmering displays that dot the paths and flowerbeds in 50 acres ...
(DC) (National Gallery of Art) Enjoy a winter skate at the NGA's iconic ice rink surrounded by sculptures and the National Mall. Purchase skating passes in person. Fees cover two back-to-back, 45-minute skating sessions that each begin on the hour. Enjoy a hot cocoa and food at the adjoining Pavilion Cafe. The skating rink will be open through March 2nd ...
(DC) (United States Botanic Garden) The annual holiday display “Season’s Greenings” features model trains in the gated outdoor gardens, festive lights throughout the Garden, and the poinsettias, holiday decor, and D.C. landmarks made from plants inside the Conservatory. On the lawn in the gated outdoor gardens, G-gauge model trains circulate from 10:00-5:00 daily through displays of pollinators made from plant ...
(VA) (Virginia State Parks) While Americans traditionally ring in the New Year at midnight on New Year's Eve, other cultures welcome it with the first sunrise of New Year's Day. Join rangers for this unique experience, witnessing the sky transition from dark to light as a new day and a new year dawns. While on top of the Piedmont Overlook, we will ...
(VA) (Fairfax County Parks) Take a hike with a naturalist in the early morning to view the stunning first sunrise of the year as it crests over the lake. Rejuvenate as you walk along the park trails and signal in the new year. Ages 4 to Adult.
(VA) (Virginia State Parks) State Parks throughout Virginia will be hosting guided and self-guided First Day Hikes. Sky Meadows Park will host four First Hike and related events on January 1st, and Mason Neck State Park will host three hike events. See guided and self-guided hikes throughout the Virginia park system here.
(VA) (Virginia State Parks) Immerse yourself in the serene wooded landscape just after sunrise on New Year's Day, where the soft light filters through the trees and the sounds of nature come alive. This invigorating hike spans approximately 3.8 miles along a well-maintained packed dirt trail, which features a variety of terrain, including stairs and exposed tree roots that add ...
(MD) (Maryland Park Service) State Parks throughout Maryland will be hosting guided and self-guided First Day Hikes. At Senecea Creek State Park enjoy a a self-guided, 3.7-mile loop hike along the Lakeshore Trail, featuring scenic winter views and chances to spot local wildlife, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visit our Welcome Table to pick up a map, explore with field ...
(DC) (DC Department of Parks and Recreation) Join Mayor Muriel Bowser, DPR, and FITDC for the annual Fresh Start 5K Walk for that gets participants started on better health and fitness for the New Year! Registration and 5K Walk start at 1800 Anacostia Drive in Anacostia Park.
(VA) (Virginia State Parks) Tundra Swans are known for their striking white plumage and long, graceful necks, making them a favorite among birdwatchers. Each year, these incredible birds undertake a remarkable migration from their breeding grounds in the Arctic tundra to warmer winter habitats. Meet rangers stationed at the observation decks at either the Woodmarsh Trail or Great Marsh Trail ...
(MD) (Montgomery Parks) Join hundreds who step out into the new year with a first day hike of 2025. We will walk about 2-3 miles the early afternoon on natural surface trails. Pending trail conditions, hiking locations will either be to hike around Lake Frank or a local trail near Meadowside and an email will be set with details to ...
(MD) (Little Falls Watershed Alliance) Join us for a fun and refreshing hike on the first day of the year! Find the mouth of the Little Falls creek on the Potomac!
(DC) (DC Metropolitan Hikers) Start the new year with you best hiking foot forward! Rock Creek Park is a lovely hiking destination in the heart of DC. Wooded and serene, it belies its location in the heart of DC. We will be doing a ten mile or so loop that hits all of the high points. We hike fairly quickly, ...
(VA) (Friends of Wolf Trap Park) Start 2025 off right. Join us for a brisk health/nature walk at beautiful Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts! Embrace the winter weather with a guided one-hour trail walk while enjoying the scenery at Wolf Trap National Park. "First Day Hikes" is a tradition started by state park systems inviting everyone to ...
(VA) (Virginia State Parks) Kick off the New Year with a refreshing, family-friendly hike that everyone can enjoy! Join park rangers on an adventure through scenic trails, where we’ll look for signs of local wildlife as we explore the Woodpecker Viewing Area, meander along streams, and cross through open meadows. Along the way, test your skills with fun nature, history, ...
(MD) (Montgomery Parks) First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day, hundreds of free, guided hikes are organized in all 50 states. Join us at Black Hill Regional Park for a hike starting at the Black Hill Discovery Center. This session is for families ...
(MD) (Montgomery Parks) First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day, hundreds of free, guided hikes are organized in all 50 states. Join us at Black Hill Regional Park for a hike starting at the Black Hill Discovery Center. This session is for adults. ...
