The Capitol Christmas tree at 11:15 p.m. Friday. The flag poles on the Senate and House sides of the dome are bare because the 110th Congress has adjourned until January 3.

In Georgetown, most people live in houses rather than apartments. It is probably the ultimate urban townhouse community, albeit with an 18th-century pedigree. At holiday time the residents take pleasure in adorning their homes with all manner of festive statements, and there seems to be a wreath for every door. Here is a small walking tour, shot Sunday morning in foggy and balmy eve-of-Christmas eve weather. — Carol Joynt (photos & text)

Carol Joynt is the host of The Q&A Cafe, a talk show at Nathans Restaurant in Washington, D.C.