November 23 vs. New Jersey Devils at Capital One Arena

Time: 7:00 p.m.

TV: MNMT

Radio: 106.7 The Fan, Caps Radio 24/7

New Jersey Devils (13-7-2)

Washington Capitals (13-5-1)

When the Caps and Devils first met this season on Oct. 12 here in Washington’s home opener, New Jersey was playing its fourth game of the season. Six weeks later, the Devils are back in town for another Saturday night Metro Division tilt, and the Caps still hold three games in hand on New Jersey.

And in a fun scheduling quirk, the Caps and Devils are starting their second set of “back-to-back” Saturday home-and-home contests in as many months. After the Devils spoiled the Caps’ season opener here last month, Washington won 6-5 in New Jersey a week later, on Oct. 19. The Caps and Devils will conclude their season’s series next Saturday night in Newark.

The Caps come into Saturday’s game on the heels of regulation loss, 2-1 to the Avalanche in the opener of this quick two-game homestand. Thursday’s loss to Colorado was Washington’s first setback at the hands of a Western Conference opponent this season (7-1-0) and also its first regulation defeat in a one-goal game (3-1-1) in 2024-25.

Last weekend, the Caps started a successful three-game road trip out west with a 5-2 win over the Avalanche in Denver, a victory fueled by staunch defense and an opportunistic offense that feasted on transition. Six nights later in Washington, the Caps were still able to generate some transition opportunities, but they had much less success in solving goaltender Alexandar Georgiev, who came off injured reserve to make 26 saves, winning his fourth consecutive start.

And while Washington got another strong goaltending performance from Logan Thompson, the Caps spent more time defending in their end of the ice than they did in the earlier meeting in Denver, leaving less time and energy for attacking.

“I think we played pretty well,” says Caps’ defenseman John Carlson. “We got some chances we didn’t capitalize on, that have seemingly been going in for us. And with kind of a tough bounce against us, too, the game could be a lot different.”

The bounce to which Carlson refers occurred late in the second period with the Caps clinging to a 1-0 lead. With Colorado on the power play against the excellent Washington penalty killing outfit, Mikko Rantanen attempted to thread a seam pass from the right circle to Nathan MacKinnon at the opposite dot. The pass never got through; it clicked off Caps’ defenseman Matt Roy and bounded into the net, knotting the game at 1-1. Miles Wood tipped home a Cale Makar shot early in the third, and that was all the offense Georgiev needed.

“We were very average, and I thought their top guys were very noticeable tonight,” was Caps’ coach Spencer Carbery’s assessment of Thursday’s loss. “They controlled play, and they could have had three or four [goals]. They were on us pretty good.”

Playing without injured captain Alex Ovechkin for the first time this season, and with a couple of new line combinations as a result, the Caps weren’t as polished with the puck as they’ve been recently, so once again, they’ll be seeking to bounce back successfully from a setback, something they’ve done five times in five opportunities to this point of the season.

In the midst of the Caps’ recent offensive upswing and Ovechkin’s remarkable early-season heater – right up to the point of his injury in Utah on Monday – the team’s defensive consistency has gone a bit under the radar.

As they forged a 7-2-0 record in October, the Caps averaged 4.11 goals for (tied for third in NHL) and they surrendered an average of three goals against even, per game (tied for 10th). Ten games into November now, they are 6-3-1 while averaging a League-leading 4.2 goals per game. The Caps have trimmed their goals against per game to 2.5 in November, tied for eighth in the League. Washington has permitted two or fewer goals against in seven of its 10 games this month.

Last season, when the Caps managed to hold their opponent to two or fewer goals, they rolled up a 29-2-3 record. After Thursday’s loss, they are 9-1-0 in such games this season.

While the Caps tangled with the Avalanche on Thursday, the Devils earned a 4-2 home ice victory over the Carolina Hurricanes. When Washington skated away with the aforementioned 6-5 overtime win over New Jersey in Newark on Oct. 19, the loss started the Devils on a small 0-2-2 spiral. Since then, New Jersey has played to an 8-3-0 record, getting blanked in all three of its losses over that stretch.

New Jersey has been a well-balanced bunch in the first quarter of the campaign. The Devils are averaging 3.45 goals per game (eighth in NHL) and they are giving up just 2.64 goals against (seventh). They’ve yielded two or fewer goals against in seven of their last 11 games.

In 21 of the last 39 meetings between these two Metropolitan Division rivals, one or both teams have scored five or more goals.

Christmas in DC Day 1: National Mall and Downtown Area

Season’s Greenings at the US Botanic Garden

You don’t have to be a train lover to be dazzled by this popular—and FREE—annual display at the United States Botanic Garden. G-gauge model trains wind throughout the gated outdoor gardens, which are filled with festive lights, poinsettias, and other holiday decor. Inside the Conservatory, you’ll find DC landmarks made from plants.

Shopping at Holiday Markets

For 20 years, holiday shoppers have flocked to the DowntownDC Holiday Market, a festive shopping village where you can buy unique gifts from regional artisans, crafters, and boutique businesses while enjoying live performances. A second holiday market is also taking place in 2024—the DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle. There, you’ll find over 30 small businesses with unique gifts, popular holiday treats, local performers, and festive decor.

The Nutcracker Ballet at the Warner Theatre

Even if you’ve seen The Nutcracker before, the Washington Ballet’s adaptation is truly unique. It’s set in 1882 Georgetown, with characters that include George Washington, Harriet Tubman, King George III, and others. December 15, 2024 is Family Day, when kids can do crafts, take photos with dancers, and more before the matinee performance.

32 Free Holiday and Christmas Events in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia for Kids

The President and First Lady typically light the National Christmas Tree each year. Photo by Kelsey Graczyk, for the National Park System

National Christmas Tree and Pathway of Peace

The National Christmas Tree is located south of the White House on the Ellipse. Surrounding it are 56 smaller trees adorned with student-designed ornaments representing all of the US states and territories. The trees are typically lit from sunset until 10pm.

US Capitol Christmas Tree

Each year, a different national forest provides a tree that stands on the west lawn of the US Capitol building for the holiday season. The 2024 tree comes from Tongass National Forest in Alaska. The towering tree stands 80 feet tall and is a sight to behold.

If you have time:

Walk, bike, or take a quick taxi ride over the Arlington Memorial Bridge to Arlington National Cemetery, which is quite the sight to behold at Christmastime with wreaths lying against most of the white headstones.

Christmas in DC Day 2: National Harbor, MD

The waterfront Maryland community of National Harbor, located on the banks of the Potomac River, is packed with holiday cheer at Christmastime.

Ice! at Gaylord National is kept at 9 degrees Fahrenheit, so bundle up! Photo courtesy of the resort

Christmas at Gaylord National Resort

You can have a full day of Christmas fun without leaving Gaylord National Resort. Bundle up to experience Ice! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas. Enjoy cookies and storytime with Mrs. Claus. Take photos with Santa. Get creative at the Gingerbread Decorating Corner. Go ice tubing down Snow Flow Mountain. Participate in a Snoopy-themed scavenger hunt. Challenge yourself at the Snowball Build and Blast. And enjoy two shows in the dazzling atrium, Cirque: Spirit of Christmas and the Here We Glow A-Caroling light show.

30 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in DC for Kids

 
See a tree light show each night at National Harbor. Photo courtesy of National Harbor

National Harbor Holiday Tree Light Show

The 60-foot National Harbor holiday tree dazzles nightly with a light show every half hour from sunset until 9pm, set to a holiday medley recorded by the United States Air Force Band. But if you happen to be there on a Saturday evening, you can enjoy 5:30pm fireworks, too!

Holiday Movies on the Potomac

If the National Harbor portion of your three-day itinerary falls on a Sunday, you can enjoy an afternoon holiday movie outdoors on the big screen. The Santa Clause, Jack Frost, and The Polar Express are just a few of the offerings.

Capital Wheel

Soar 180 feet above the Potomac River in a climate-controlled gondola on this giant Ferris wheel and enjoy breathtaking views of National Harbor, the Washington Monument, and more. On December 7, 14, and 21, you—and your pup!—can take photos with Santa before your ride (humans can also meet the jolly guy on November 29, 2024).

National Harbor Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show 

This holiday market and craft show takes place every Saturday and Sunday from November 30 – December 22, 2024. This market offers something unique every day with a rotating selection of artisans and crafters, along with delicious holiday sweets and desserts.

MGM National Harbor Conservatory

The conservatory of this hotel and casino gets all decked out for the holidays with poinsettias, larger-than life installations, and dazzling lights. If you find some extra time in your packed day, it’s worth checking out!

If you have time:

Score some holiday deals at the Tanger Outlets National Harbor.

Experience an old-fashioned Christmas at Mount Vernon. Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon

Christmas in DC Day 3: Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria, VA

Mount Vernon

While George Washington’s home in Alexandria is worth a visit any time of year, it’s even more fun at Christmas. See a gingerbread model of Mount Vernon, meet Aladdin the Christmas camel, learn about holiday practices observed by the Washingtons, and more. There are also some fantastic holiday events throughout the season, including Winter Glow and Christmas Illuminations.

Old Town Alexandria

Walking through the cobblestone streets of Old Town Alexandria feels like stepping back into colonial times, and its especially charming at Christmastime. You’ll feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie as you stroll along historic King Street with its twinkling lights, flickering lamps, wreathed doors, decorated storefronts, and more. The unique shops are great places to do your holiday shopping. Be sure to check out the giant Christmas tree at Market Square.

 The Nutcracker Ballet and Other Holiday Shows for Kids in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia

 
Head to the Old Town Alexandria waterfront for the holiday boat parade. Photo by Adam Fagan, via Flickr 

Depending on when you visit, there are some fun—and free—holiday events in Old Town, too. Head to the waterfront on the evening of December 7, 2024 for the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, or on Christmas Eve to catch a glimpse of Waterskiing Santa. Also on December 7 is the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend and Parade, when dozens of Scottish clans parade through the streets of Old Town along with pipe and drum bands, terriers and hounds, and more.

If you have time:

About a 15-minute drive from Old Town is Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run. There you can see unique holiday lights and displays and go for a spin on the ice skating rink.

Where to Eat During Christmas and the Holidays in DC

If you want to eat near the National Mall during your festive day in DC, check out our list of the best kid-friendly restaurants near the National Mall. Some of them, including The Hamilton and Carmine’s, go crazy with the holiday decor. You can also begin one of your mornings with breakfast with Santa at one of several great eateries.

Best Things To Do in DC’s Georgetown Neighborhood with Kids

Nearly every inch of Filomena is decorated for Christmas. Photo courtesy of Filomena Ristorante

If you’re willing to venture to Georgetown for dinner, Filomena Ristorante is famous for its over-the-top holiday decorations and its heaping portions of homemade pasta and other Italian food. After dinner, you can stroll the cobblestone streets to enjoy the lights and decorations.

On your National Harbor day, Old Hickory Steakhouse is a delicious and festive option right inside Gaylord National.

If you’re at Mount Vernon from December 6-8 or December 13-15, you can enjoy afternoon tea as you listen to live harp music and take in the holiday decorations at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant.

Old Town Alexandria has a plethora of great dinner options, most of which go all out with the holiday decor. Mia’s Italian Kitchen serves up brick-oven pizza and family-style Italian food in a warm and cozy setting. Virtue Feed & Grain has a large menu and a great ambience that will please the whole family. And Ada’s on the River offers delicious food and stunning panoramic views of the Potomac River.

 All Aboard A Polar Express Train Ride, Plus More Christmas Trains Near DC

The Willard InterContinental is a must-see at Christmas. Photo courtesy of the hotel

DC Hotels for a Holiday Stay

Willard InterContinental Washington, DC

If you want to splurge on a luxury hotel, you can’t get much better than the Willard. It transforms into a holiday wonderland come Christmastime, with elegant lights and decorations that belong on a postcard. The hotel’s Afternoon Tea and Christmas Day Brunch are legendary. Each night, choral and vocal ensembles from the DC area do holiday caroling in the lobby. Bonus: The Willard is located just steps from the White House and the National Christmas Tree.

Fairmont Washington, DC

If you stay at this Georgetown hotel, you’ll have some VIP company—Santa! And on Saturdays and Sundays from December 7-22, 2024, you can visit and take photos with him in his elaborately decorated suite for a fee (100% of which will go to the non-profit Horton’s Kids). Email WDC.santasuite.DL@fairmont.com to reserve your visit. The Fairmont also has a beautiful lobby tree and an elaborate gingerbread display.

Gaylord National Resort

Even if you live locally, the Gaylord National is a great place to have an overnight staycation. You’ll get a front-row seat to all of the resort’s fun Christmas offerings, leaving you more time to explore the rest of National Harbor. And the resort offers several holiday deals, like the Celebrate Christmas package that includes tickets to Ice! as well as savings for AAA and Marriott Bonvoy members.

The Alexandrian

This beautiful Old Town Alexandria hotel, located in a prime spot on King Street, has a cozy lobby fireplace, pretty Christmas decor, and a Holiday Cheer package that includes drink vouchers for the grown-ups, a tote bag for holiday shopping, and more.

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WASHINGTON (7News) — Security company SafeWise has just released its annual theft report, just in time for the busy holiday shopping season.

While porch piracy may be leveling out, numbers are still very high and in the District, there’s reason to be concerned. D.C. ranks fourth worst city in the country for package theft, with over $231 million in losses this year. The released report reveals insights into crime rates, local security trends, and how communities combat porch pirates.

Around 120 million packages were stolen throughout the U.S. in 2023; 92 million incidents were of package theft and 261,000 package theft incidents per day.

Porch pirates snatched $16 Billion in goods.

Security.org also released its report this week, which shows similar numbers.

Based on a survey of 11,000 adults in 50 states, the report also noted that one-quarter of American adults have had a package stolen, and 4%, 14 million people, suffered a theft within the last three months.

Now, as you start making online holiday orders, here are the 10 worst cities for package theft in 2024.

1. New York City, N.Y.

2. Philadelphia, Pa.

3. Chicago, Ill.

4. Washington, D.C.

5. Houston, Texas

6. Atlanta, Ga.

7. Charlotte, N.C.

8. Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas

9. Boston, Mass.

10. Cleveland, Ohio

The average value of each stolen parcel was $204, meaning nearly $3 billion in e-commerce merchandise was swiped over this past summer. The survey found that nine out of ten consumers shop online at least once per month, and half do so weekly. 42% of the population sometimes leaves their doors unlocked, while around 15% do so even when they are not home. Such negligence makes their homes easy targets for burglars and increases the chances of package theft.

“We estimate that there are about 213 package theft incidents per 100 households in the D.C. area. That could represent nearly 500 out of a thousand people actually being impacted by this. So we know that it’s happening, we are definitely shopping online. I don’t want to tell people to stop shopping online, I myself am an avid online shopper, just take some proactive measures,” said Rebecca Edwards, safety expert at SafeWise.

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One of the biggest changes these reports have found is that more people are taking action to prevent package theft. Consumers are getting smarter. Nationwide, just one in four people don’t do anything to deter porch pirates. Those numbers change drastically after someone loses a package — more than eight in 10 added a deterrent after falling victim. Security.org’s survey shows that 52% of all households — renters and homeowners — have a security camera, compared to 42% in 2023.

Proactive Steps To Avoid Porch Piracy:

• Don’t leave packages unattended.
• Ship to store, storefront, or post office box.
• Require a signature.
• Opt-in to shipping-related emails. Set up your own notifications with your smartphone or app
• Make alternative arrangements. If you can’t be home to bring in those packages, have them delivered somewhere else. You can use a package locker service, ask a friend or neighbor, use a personal delivery locker on your porch.

SafeWise took a closer look at how people are fighting package theft. One in four Americans don’t do anything to protect their packages. Over eight in ten added some type of protection after being hit by porch pirates.

Of those who use a deterrent, 21% had a security camera or video doorbell in place when their packages were stolen. 32% said they installed a security camera after a package theft.

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“I have a package locker that sits on my porch that I have personally but I’ve also lived in apartments or in cities where Amazon lockers and things like that are available. So, take the extra time. This one little step is going to save you so much headache, money, and stress especially if a special Christmas present gets taken, it messes up your whole holiday plan,” added Edwards.

Ring was the most-purchased brand of security camera (46%). Package tracking and working with neighbors are the most used deterrents after cameras. People prefer to pick up prescription drugs, food and groceries, and computers and other electronics in person, rather than risk a package theft.

Package theft by the numbers:

Around 120.5 million packages were stolen in 2023.

Nearly 92 million incidents of package theft occurred in 2023. The US sees 261,000 incidents of package theft every day. 43 of the 327 metro areas had more than 1,000 incidents per 1,000 households. 8 in 10 victims had more than one package stolen in the past 12 months.

Amazon delivered the majority of packages stolen.