Nothing lights up a child’s face like a cookie, so these three holiday events should be popular with kids of all ages. Best of all, since they each benefit charity, the sugar rush is guilt-free.
The Fairmont: Cookie decorating is just one of the activities at this hotel's annual tree-lighting ceremony happening December 3rd. The hotel's courtyard will dazzle with thousands of tiny white lights, shimmering Christmas trees and over 30 animated reindeer. Santa and Rudolph will make guest appearances, the Georgetown Visitation Madrigal singers will perform holiday classics, and families and guests will enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies. There’s no charge to attend, although guests are asked to bring an unwrapped toy to be donated to the U.S. Marine Corps' Toys for Tots program (5–6:30 PM; 202-429-2400).
Hook: At this December 7th event, the Georgetown seafooder will provide five cookies to be fancied-up with frostings and sprinkles, and your $5 donation will benefit Share our Strength’s efforts to combat childhood hunger. A gingerbread creation from pastry chef Heather Chittum will be unveiled during the festivities (3:30–4:30 PM; for information, call 202-625-4488).
Wildfire: A hands-on cookie-making session on December 14th will yield treats to take home along with a goody bag (1–2:30 PM; $10 fee covers up to two children and one adult and benefits Food for Others, an organization that feeds hungry people in Northern Virginia; 703-442-9110).