2021 guide to holiday shows, ballets and concerts in and around Washington, DC

NSO at the Anthem: Ugly Sweater Holiday Concert

Winterfest at Adventure Theatre: Nov. 19, 2021- Jan. 2, 2022
Get three winter-themed shows for the price of one! Adventure brings favorites from the digital Jingle in July festival to the live stage.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at The National: Nov. 23, 2021–Dec. 5, 2021
DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL broke box office records for two consecutive years on Broadway during its holiday engagements at the St. James and Hilton theatres in New York. Since then, more than 2.1 million theatregoers across America have been delighted by this heart-warming holiday musical, which The New York Times praised as “100 times better than any bedtime story” and the Gannett papers hailed as “A genius of a show! A total delight for both kids and adults.”

A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre: Nov. 24-Dec. 27, 2021
Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Experience Charles Dickens’ beloved Yuletide story of transformation and redemption at Ford’s Theatre. Director of Artistic Programming José Carrasquillo directs a reimagined production based on Michael Wilson’s beloved Radio Play adaptation, featuring traditional caroling and new staging throughout. Craig Wallace returns as the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge who encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future on a memorable journey. Length: 75 minutes. No intermission.. Recommended for ages 5 and older.

A Christmas Carol at Olney Theatre: Nov. 26-Dec. 26, 2021
It wouldn’t be the holidays without Olney’s favorite Christmas tradition. Paul Morella’s captivating solo performance of the Dickens classic keeps audiences coming back season after season. They come for the masterful storytelling and come back for the way Paul keeps this tale fresh, year-after-year. Experience the unforgettable characters and vivid imagery as Charles Dickens originally intended – in his own words – and rediscover this timeless classic presented in a masterful solo performance. Adapted from Dickens’ original novella and reading tour, Morella’s solo version will transport you back to Victorian England and into the heart of this classic morality tale. This critically acclaimed production has become a holiday must-see.

The Nutcracker on Strings at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo: Nov. 26, 2021-Jan. 2, 2022
Join the Puppet Co. for our 33rd annual The Nutcracker! This time honored seasonal celebration includes Tchaikovsky’s familiar story of Clara and her prince, with some Puppet Co. nursery rhyme spin.

Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker at Warner Theatre: Nov. 27-Dec. 26, 2021
Set to Tchaikovsky’s magical score, this celebrated classic comes to life with intricate, stunning set designs, Experience the magic of The Washington Ballet’s charmingly-DC The Nutcracker! This celebrated production is set in historic 1882 Georgetown with George Washington, King George III, and other historical figures. Join us again with family and friends or start a new holiday tradition with your loved ones. Set to Tchaikovsky’s magical score, this celebrated classic comes to life with intricate, stunning set designs, original period costumes, and over 100 dancers including students and trainees from The Washington School of Ballet. It has become the signature Nutcracker of the nation’s capital. With 30 scheduled performances, The Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker will transport audiences of all ages into a winter wonderland that has become a lasting holiday tradition not to be missed.

Christmas with Cantus Lessons and Carols for Our Time at Wolf Trap: Dec. 3, 2021
The ethereal vocal ensemble Cantus returns to The Barns for an evening of holiday favorites. From Latin hymnody to Spanish folksong, from Sacred Harp to Irving Berlin, this is the perfect way to kick off your holiday season.

Encore Stage & Studio present- Enchanted Bookshop Christmas: Dec. 3-5, 2021
It’s four days before Christmas and Miss Margie, the scatterbrained owner of the shop, is thrilled to have two very special guests — her serious-minded sister Ellen and book-loving niece Annabelle. Ellen was recently laid off from her position as an astronomy professor, and she’s certain she’ll never find a job again. Her luck changes, however, when high-tech billionaire Philip Brantley stops in at the shop and Margie convinces him to hire Ellen for his new space project. With Ellen out shopping, Margie has a brainstorm to wrap the bookmark that Philip wrote his phone number on and give it to Ellen as a Christmas present. After all, what could possibly go wrong?

Messiah- G. F. Handel at The Washington National Cathedral: Dec. 4-5, 2021
Join Washington National Cathedral for Handel’s beloved “Messiah,” and experience this Christmas classic in a space as Handel would have intended. The Cathedral’s soaring architecture and Gothic splendor offers a space unlike any other in Washington to experience Handel’s masterpiece. There is a family show at 12:00pm on December 4 is an abbreviated performance of “Messiah” highlights, perfect for busy families with young children. Experience the best of “Messiah” with the whole family.

Holiday Sing-A-Long (from home) at Wolf Trap: Dec. 4 &18, 2021
Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts is pleased to continue the longstanding community tradition of the Holiday Sing-A-Long, this year with a virtual twist! Traditionally, this event combined a festive instrumental performance by the United States Marine Band and a sing-a-long of traditional holiday carols led by more than 500 local singers. This year’s event will be presented in a digital format and we hope that you will participate from the comfort of your home. The program will feature performances by some of The Barns at Wolf Trap’s favorite artists and will commence with a program of festive songs pre-recorded by the USMB at the Barns at Wolf Trap and conclude with a festive at-home sing-a-long. Join for the virtual performances on December 4 and 18, 2021, gathered safely with family, cocoa, and cookies.

Manheim Steamroller Christmas at Strathmore: Dec. 4, 2021
Do you remember the first time you heard Mannheim Steamroller Christmas? This classic album has become synonymous with the season and become a treasured holiday tradition for millions over the past 35 years. For this special 35th anniversary performance, Mannheim Steamroller will perform the album that started it all, Christmas, live, in its entirety. Experience the magic as the spirit of the holiday season comes alive with dazzling multimedia effects and the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller. 

NPR’s A Jazz Piano Christmas featuring Gerald Clayton, Patrice Rushen, and Eric Reed. at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 4, 2021
Your favorite holiday classics as you’ve never heard them! The Kennedy Center and NPR present A Jazz Piano Christmas, the annual sell-out event featuring today’s best jazz pianists performing the most loved seasonal music.

NSO at the Anthem: Ugly Sweater Holiday Concert: Dec. 8, 2021
Join the NSO in an exciting new atmosphere as the musicians ditch traditional tuxedos and evening gowns—deconstructing the concert experience without deconstructing the music. Don your favorite holiday sweater (ugly or not) and join us for an evening filled with holiday spirit (and holiday spirits). This performance takes place at The Anthem.

Notes of Honor: NSO Salutes the Military A Holiday Pops with Ingrid Michaelson at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 9-11, 2021
Notes of Honor: NSO Salutes the Military invites all current, retired, veteran, and prior service members to a special FREE performance of A Holiday Pops with Ingrid Michaelson!

Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show at Atlas Performing Arts Center: Dec. 9-19, 2021
As the world’s first holiday show highlighting the African American tradition of stepping, the Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is a feast for the eyes and ears. Fabulous and furry friends from the Arctic Kingdom – Popper the Penguin along with polar bear twins, Pinky and Polo-ensure a fun and exciting experience for the entire family! Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is the most vibrant holiday celebration in town! This fun, family-friendly performance will have you stomping your feet and clapping your hands to energetic beats from Step Afrika! Why celebrate the holidays sitting still when you can step with Step Afrika!

The Christmas Revels: A French-Canadian Celebration of the Winter Solstice: Dec. 10-12 & 17-19, 2021
Magic is just around the corner in a rustic village in Europe! As the Winter days grow short, three wandering performers from far-off lands weave music, dance and stories from their cultures into an enchanting and dramatic tale of the Winter Solstice. But when the sun finally sets on the longest night — and darkness seems to stretch on without end — these “Celestial Fools” lead us on a journey into the heavens to reclaim the light and restore its warmth to the world. The cast of over 100, ages 9-90, invites you to join tradition bearers Karim Nagi, Shizumi Shigeto Manale and Mark Novak for this timeless fable. Sing along and dance through the aisles to eclectic instrumentals by Seth Kibel, Vladimir Fridman and Bob Abbott, with the glorious tones of the Washington Revels Brass. And as we prepare to call back the Sun, let’s light a candle, deck the hall, and revel in this exuberant blend of seasonal celebrations from around the world and across the centuries. Welcome Yule!

An Irish Carol at Keegan Theatre: Dec. 10-31, 2021
An original work by Keegan company member Matthew J. Keenan, AN IRISH CAROL is an homage to Dickens’ classic – told as only the Irish can. This comic and touching play, set in a modern Dublin pub, follows one evening in the life of David, a wealthy pub owner who has lost touch with his own humanity in the interest of self-protection and material success. But on this Christmas Eve – challenged by a voice from the past, provoked by those in the present, and faced with the reality of a lonely future – David’s life may change forever.

A Celtic Christmas with Seán Heely Celtic Band at Strathmore: Dec. 11, 2021
Join award-winning Irish fiddler Seán Heely and a cast of nationally-acclaimed Celtic performers on a magical journey through Scotland and Ireland during the holidays. The fiddle and bagpipes will sweep you away to Christmas time and Winter Solstice celebrations along with featured dancers from Scottish and Irish traditions that are sure to lift your holiday spirits and warm your heart. Kilts and tartan abound as the show travels through ancient Gaelic carols and songs, tucked in perfectly with lively Irish tunes and familiar Christmas melodies with a Celtic twist.

Joy of Christmas at The Washington National Cathedral: Dec. 11-12, 2021
From all corners of Washington National Cathedral, voices rise, filling the arches with echoes of holidays past and the wonder of things to come. It’s time to surround yourself with feelings of comfort and warmth that come when the weather is cold and the music is bright. It’s time to restart the tradition of singing together in a space of beauty and community. Washington, D.C.’s holiday tradition since 1976 is back. Seraph Brass and Cathedral organist George Fergus join Maestro Steven Fox and the Cathedral Choral Society for an unforgettable return to choral music.

Holiday Cheer at The Performing Arts Factory: Dec. 11 & 12, 2021
A Cabaret of Holiday Songs from some of your favorite Other Voices Theatre performers!

The Mini-Nut at Montgomery College

The Mini-Nut at Montgomery College: Dec. 11 & 12, 2021
The Mini-Nut is MYB’s abbreviated version of The Nutcracker geared towards younger audiences. This one hour version is a great introduction to ballet for our youngest theatre goers. The performance is approximately one hour long with no intermission. A perfect holiday mini-treat!

Corduroy at Imagination Stage: Dec. 11, 2021-Jan. 24, 2022
We all need a friend, and Lisa is instantly drawn to the perfectly imperfect teddy bear on display at the department store. If only she can convince her stressed-out mother to buy Corduroy for her! Meanwhile, Corduroy is determined to find his missing button and become worthy of going to a real home. After the store has closed, he goes on a hilariously destructive search–with the Night Watchman in comical pursuit. Full of mischief and clowning, this story of unconditional love captures both the humanity and the merriment of the holiday season. ASL-Interpreted performance: January 2 at 1:30 p.m. Sensory-Friendly performance: January 16 at 11:00 a.m.

Noseda conducts Handel’s Messiah (Part I) & Bach’s Magnificat at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 16-19, 2021
Don’t miss the glorious return of Washington, D.C.’s favorite holiday tradition! For the very first time, Gianandrea Noseda conducts the NSO in selections from the quintessential musical crown of the season: Handel’s Messiah. Experience the beauty of “Rejoice,” “For unto us a Child is born,” “Comfort Ye,” and more iconic music of Messiah’s Part I—coupled with Bach’s celebratory showpiece Magnificat.

The Washington Chorus presents A Candlelight Christmas at Strathmore: Dec. 16-17, 2021
Jingle all the way! Join two-time Grammy winners—the DC region’s dynamic Washington Chorus—for a festival family holiday concert like nothing else. “A Candlelight Christmas” features The Washington Chorus (Eugene Rogers, Artistic Director) with brass, organ, and special guests in this spirited holiday music experience. Delight in our signature candlelight processional; raise your voice in our audience carol sing-along; and leave humming with a candy cane and a heart filled with holiday cheer. “A Candlelight Christmas” is among the DC region’s most treasured holiday traditions—join The Washington Chorus in community and song for this unforgettable holiday experience. This event is not presented by Strathmore.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze at MGM National Harbor: Dec. 16-19, 2021
Cirque Dreams Holidaze lights up the stage in this popular and dazzling family holiday spectacular. This annual tradition wraps a whimsical, Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus artistry into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family.

The Nutcracker at Montgomery College: Dec.17–27, 2021
Magical dolls, life-sized mice, dancing snowflakes, and an enchanting kingdom of sweets return to stage this holiday season for Maryland Youth Ballet’s LIVE production of The Nutcracker. Set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, the incredible dancing and dazzling costumes bring to life the story of Marie and her Nutcracker Prince. Join us back at the theater for the full-length classic choreographed by Artistic Director, Olivier Muñoz.

Christmas with the King’s Singers at The Washington National Cathedral: Dec. 17, 2021
Celebrate the magic of the Christmas season with one of Britain’s most beloved vocal ensembles, The King’s Singers, in their only Washington-area appearance. With Christmas favorites to lesser-known gems to some brand-new surprises, there’s no better way to embrace the warmth of the season than with these six talented singers. Featuring songs from their albums “Finding Harmony,” “Christmas” and “The King’s Singers Christmas Songbook.” You are invited to come home to the Cathedral this Christmas to embrace everything that Christmas and the Cathedral have to offer.

A Family Christmas at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 18 & 25, 2021
Bring the kids for an unforgettable holiday experience as the Choral Arts Chorus fills the concert hall with holiday classics just for them!

A Candlelight Christmas at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 19-22, 2021
Jingle all the way! Join two-time Grammy winners – the DC region’s dynamic Washington Chorus for a festive family holiday concert like nothing else!

The Hip Hop Nutcracker at Strathmore: Dec. 20-22, 2021
A holiday mash-up for the whole family, The Hip Hop Nutcracker returns to Strathmore. This contemporary dance spectacle is a remixed and reimagined version of the classic, smashing hip hop dance and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music together into a heart-stirring and inspirational holiday event. The Hip Hop Nutcracker is brought to life by a powerhouse cast of a dozen all-star dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and MC Kurtis Blow, one of hip hop’s founding fathers, who opens the show with a short set. Grab your family and friends and let the dynamic performers of The Hip Hop Nutcracker take you on a journey that celebrates love, community and the magic of the holiday season.

Christmas Music at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 20 & 24, 2021
Awaken your holiday spirit with a concert of festive musical treats performed by the Choral Arts Symphonic Chorus and Youth Choir accompanied by a full orchestra in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall.

Film: Elf (Part of December Traditions) at The Kennedy Center: Dec. 22, 2021
Join for FREE film screenings in the Justice Forum every Wednesday at 6 p.m. and FREE performances in the Grand Foyer Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 6 p.m. A limited number of advance reservations are available, but most seats will be be available for walk-ups on the day of the performance.

Christmas Day Organ Recital at The Washington National Cathedral: Dec. 25, 2021
Cathedral organists Thomas Sheehan and George Fergus present a program of festive Christmas music on the Cathedral’s Great Organ. Make a cup of cocoa, wear your holiday-appropriate ugly sweaters and socks, and celebrate Christmas with us! If you’re planning to attend the recital in person, the concert is free and is not ticketed.