1) DJs are almost always cheesy but so are 12- and 13- year-olds so it works out fine

2) This is an especially meaningful time to observe a simcha in Israel

3) My kid went to a bat mitzvah party at Maggianos (really was a dinner) in Bethesda and I think it would probably fit the bill really well, as others have suggested.

Anonymous wrote:Thanks for these suggestions! Any suggestions re: DJs who are not cheesy?

I tried. They are all cheesy.

Lodge at Little Seneca Creek

Anonymous wrote:How about Israel (yes, the country) if you want to make it a meaningful family time, or 6th & I for a local but spiritual place?

If you are just talking about the party, I'd check out renting a rec center -- my sister did that for her wedding and it was both gorgeous and affordable.

No to Israel.

Yes meaningful not at this time.

Plus the Bar/Bat Mitzvah tours are all a joke over priced and crappy.

This thread is from 2016! The OP's child is now old enough to drink legally!

Anonymous wrote:Maggianos

+1. DC wanted something simple and this delivered while still making grandparents feel like it was special

The Bethesda North Marriott has really nice event space, perfect for small or big parties. I'd look into White Oak for a medium sized party. Plus they have the hotel side which is convenient for family coming over out of state.

We attended a nice one at the Ballroom at McLean Gardens
http://www.mcleangardens.com/sub_category_list.asp?category=17&title=The+Ballroom+at+McLean+Gardens

We also went to another one at Positano's in Bethesda. That was a big one.

That is interesting about the food trucks. But it seems like it would be a logistical challenge to get everyone fed.

My son attended one at Rock Creek Mansion that was terrific. They had food trucks for the meal and dessert.

Anonymous wrote:How about suggestions venues in Arlington and falls church?

How about Clarendon ballroom or top of the town