Taking a date on the typical “restaurant date” is never my first choice – mostly because it is so usual and usually, forgettable. Although, there is something about being around other people and eating good food that helps if you can’t spend the holiday weekend with friends and family. Take a date to brunch with bottomless mimosas or dinner at one of the many restaurants open during the holiday weekend. (If you do brunch you can stroll over after to the outdoor ice rink at the Sculpture Gardens and laugh with each other as you navigate the ice.)

From Reston to Gaithersburg to Downtown, there are, surprisingly, many options to choose from for a Christmas Eve dinner. Check out Open Table’s list of restaurant openings. If you make it an early dinner, you can head to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to see their Festival of Lights (independent of religious preference), shown nightly from 6 – 10pm with musical performances from local groups at 7 & 8pm.

If you are more of a brunch person (and come on, who isn’t?) find some places that have great food and that oh-so-merry bottomless mimosa special.  After you are good and buzzed from a mimosa – or four – cab over to the National Harbor for a show that you will be sure to laugh about and sing along with, the Waterskiing Santa.

For December 25th, there are still many places that cater to the not-quite-home for the holidays crowd. Whether you’re in MD, VA or DC, TBD has put together an appetizing list of restaurants that are happy to serve and serenade on Christmas Day. Of course, sleep in that morning, but maybe try to start the date a little early with a tour around the Botanical Gardens, Season’s Greenings exhibit featuring colorful poinsettias and creative cottages.

Oh, and if you do see someone Christmas-ing alone while you’re out, why not ask them to join you and help another feel good on Christmas? Plus, mixing it up always adds interesting layers to the date…you never know what fun will happen! Let me know if I missed any activities happening this weekend.

Make new friends and have a Merry Christmas!