Going Out Guide – November Edition

November is a time not just for Thanksgiving. Local events can help you discover new hobbies in film and media and get you a headstart in your holiday shopping. Wrapping up fall is a time for being getting warm with your community with these three fun things to do.

Community Stories Festival

This festival is a chance for aspiring filmmaker-Blazers, especially those in TV Production and Film classes, to see mini-workshops on documentary making and have a chance to make their own products. Docs in Progress, a non-profit dedicated to storytelling through documentary films, sponsors the three day event. The first two nights' events are called salons, which will showcase local films such as "Love Letters to Home Towns." The Showcase nights will be followed by three mini-workshops on topic such as putting together an affordable editing package and documentary production tips. The events are free but there is a waitlist. Sign up soon for an opportunity to develop your creativity. Day-to-day events and times can be found here.

Silver Spring Thanksgiving Parade

In time for the holiday of filling your stomach and being thankful, Downtown Silver Spring will soon be filled with floats, dances and the first sights of holiday cheer. WTOP Brian de Van de Graff will be the Master of Ceremonies and marching band performances will feature local high schools' and the Washington Redskins'. Get ready for floats, South American dance teams, engines, clowns and, of course, the momentous Penguin Float. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. on Nov. 23 and will start at Ellsworth Drive and Veterans Place and proceed south towards Georgia Avenue. There's no need to watch the parade on your TV when you can see it live in your community's backyard.

9th Downtown Annual Holiday Market

Here's another reason to love the holiday season: you can shop till you drop. Starting Friday, Nov. 23, avid Blazer shoppers can purchase a variety of handmade gifts for the Holidays at the 9th Annual Downtown Holiday Market. Local Vendors include Ibhana Creations in Bethesda and Pedal Pushers Club from Takoma Park. You can buy gifts ranging from fiber art and textiles to gift foods and candles. In addition to purchasing your favorite collectibles, you can enjoy local grub from Alexa's Empanadas and Nicecream Factory. The holiday market will be held from noon to 8 p.m., centered in 8th and F Streets in Northwest D.C.

These events are fun for either doing activities or simply relaxing and taking in the sights and sounds. Stay tuned for December's edition of the Going out Guide.