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2018 Guide to holiday shows, ballets and concerts in and around Washington, DC

November 3, 2018

Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker at Warner Theatre: Nov. 29-Dec. 28, 2018
DC’s perennial favorite, Septime Webre’s The Nutcracker, celebrates 15 years in 2018 with 40 performances! 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. The Nutcracker running time is approximately two hours including one intermission.

Offerings from The Washington National Cathedral

Messiah- G. F. Handel: Dec. 7-9, 2018
A beloved Christmas favorite featuring the Cathedral Choir.

Cathedral Choral Society: Joy of Christmas: Dec. 15 & 16, 2018
Celebrate the warm spirit of the season in a majestic setting. A well-loved Washington, D.C. holiday tradition, this concert includes Christmas favorites and a festive carol sing-along. The program will feature a newly commissioned carol by popular British composer Paul Mealor.

Offerings from The Kennedy Center

Ballet West: The Nutcracker: Dec. 5-9, 2018
Ballet West returns to perform the D.C. premiere of its whimsical new production of The Nutcracker, which was unveiled in Salt Lake City last year. Pairing reimagined designs with beloved choreography, the opulent production delivers treasured moments and surprising new delights.

The Washington Chorus presents A Candlelight Christmas: Dec. 7-22, 2018
It’s not Christmas without The Washington Chorus! Featuring brass, organ, sing-alongs, and the magnificent candlelight processional.

Merry TubaChristmas!: Dec. 10, 2018 at 6:00pm
This year marks the 45th anniversary of MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS!, founded by Harvey Phillips, in which hundreds of tuba, sousaphone, and euphonium players from around Washington, D.C., play traditional Christmas music. Free general admission tickets will be distributed in the Nations Gallery starting at approximately 4:30 p.m., up to two tickets per person.

Washington National Opera: Holiday Family Opera: The Lion, the Unicorn, and Me:Dec. 14-16, 2018
As the first Christmas nears, a special character will share the Nativity story from his perspective: the donkey! Director Francesca Zambello brings the award-winning children’s book to vibrant life in this heartwarming family opera, revived after its acclaimed 2013 world premiere.

National Symphony Orchestra: A Holiday Pops! Under the Mistletoe with Ashley Brown: Dec. 14-15, 2018
Warm your spirit with fresh takes on comforting classics in this singalong tradition with the NSO and The Washington Chorus, a perfect holiday treat for the entire family! Join us in the festively decorated Concert Hall for this year’s program that welcomes musical theater darling Ashley Brown—originator of the title role in Mary Poppins on Broadway—in her NSO debut.

Getty Music Presents Keith & Kristyn Getty and Friends: SING! An Irish Christmas: Dec. 15, 2018 at 8:00pm
Join Ireland’s own Keith and Kristyn Getty, writers of modern hymns and carols, for their seventh annual tour of An Irish Christmas.

The Choral Arts Society of Washington presents Songs of the Season: Dec. 16-24, 2018
Choral Arts brings Songs of the Season to the Kennedy Center Concert Hall.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze at MGM National Harbor
This critically acclaimed extravaganza is the nation’s iconic holiday stage spectacular and part Broadway musical, new cirque adventure and a family show – all wrapped into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family. Weekday performances are scheduled to begin nightly at 7:30 p.m. and weekend shows are scheduled to begin at 2 p.m.

National Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah: Dec. 20-23, 2018
Join the NSO, exceptional singers, and a heavenly chorus in the festively decorated Concert Hall for our holiday tradition! Experience all of the hope, redemption, and grace of Handel’s much-loved Messiah, conducted by Nicholas McGegan.

Messiah Sing-Along: Dec. 23, 2018 at 6:00pm
Be part of Washington’s most popular free holiday event, the Kennedy Center’s Messiah Sing-Along. Back by popular demand, the evening concert features conductor Nancia D’Alimonte as she leads members of the Opera House Orchestra, guest soloists, a chorus of 200, and a veryenthusiastic audience in Handel’s masterpiece. A family and community tradition since 1971! Free general admission tickets will be distributed in the Hall of Nations starting at approximately 4:30 p.m., up to two tickets per person.

All-Star Christmas Day Jazz Jam: Dec. 25, 2018 at 6:00pm
Join in the 20th annual All-Star Christmas Day Jazz Jam, a Millennium Stage tradition, with host/vibraphonist Chuck Redd, drummer Lenny Robinson, trumpeters Robert Redd and Tom Williams, bassist James King, and vocalist Delores King Williams.

Music for Young Audiences: Timbalooloo Live: Dec. 26-31, 2018
Explore the thrilling language of instruments! Grammy Award®–winning clarinetist and composer Oran Etkin and his band use games, stories, songs, and movement to teach children rich musical and cultural heritage. Age 3+

Offerings from Strathmore

Manheim Steamroller: Dec. 2, 2018
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for over 30 years! Grammy Award-winner Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics along with a selection of compositions from his groundbreaking Fresh Aire series which introduced the distinctive Mannheim sound to all of America. Experience the magic as the spirit of the season comes alive with dazzling multimedia effects and the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller.

National Philharmonic Holiday Pops: Dec. 7, 2018 at 7:30pm
Experience the joy and magic of the holidays! Hear Ms. Blake sing O Holy Night and other favorite holiday solos and sing along to seasonal classics including White Christmas with your family and friends at Strathmore. Ms. Blake was recently seen in Signature Theater’s Titanic. Come early to this special concert, supportiing military families of the USO-Metro, to view the Polar Express Train, decorate an ornament and hear young carolers. Members can enjoy a delicious hot chocolate bar.

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra: Cirque Nutcracker: Dec. 13, 2018 at 8:00pm
The awe-inspiring talents of Troupe Vertigo come to the concert hall as acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, strongmen and high-flying aerialists join the BSO for this spectacular holiday-themed show.

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker: Dec. 16-17, 2018
Christmas is coming and so is the one and only Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Presenting world class Russian artists, hand-painted sets, Russian Snow Maidens, and jubilant Nesting Dolls—Great Russian Nutcracker brings the Christmas spirit to life for all ages. “Kids wide-eyed with delight!” says The New York Times. Experience the Dove of Peace Tour, spreading goodwill in over 100 cities across North America. Get seats now for the whole family and make memories for a lifetime at Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker!

The Hip Hop Nutcracker: Dec. 18-19, 2018
This holiday mash-up for the whole family is back by popular demand! The Hip Hop Nutcracker reimagines Tchaikovsky’s classic score through explosive hip-hop choreography. A dozen all-star dancers, an on-stage DJ, and an electric violinist bring the traditional Nutcracker story to life in contemporary New York City.

A Candlelight Christmas: Dec. 20-21, 2018
It’s not Christmas without The Washington Chorus! Featuring brass, organ, sing-alongs, and the magnificent candlelight processional, A Candlelight Christmas includes audience favorites such as “The Dream Isaiah Saw,” “Hallelujah Chorus,” and more.

National Philharmonic: Handel’s Messiah: Dec. 22-23, 2018
No Christmas celebration is complete without a performance of Handel’s uplifting oratorio Messiah, a work that has delighted and inspired audiences worldwide since its premiere in 1741. The perennial favorite features such timeless highlights as “And the Glory of the Lord” and the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Messiah will once again infuse audiences with its beauty in a performance by the acclaimed National Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorale and world-class soloists, led by conductor Stan Engebretson.

More shows in and around Washington, DC at various locations:

Fancy Nancy’s Splendiferous Christmas at Adventure Theatre: Nov. 16-Jan. 6
What could be fancier than Christmas? Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles-and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Oohlala! This year, Nancy is especially excited. After selling some of her old gowns and accessories, Nancy has enough money to buy a brand-new sparkly tree topper. She can’t wait to decorate the Christmas tree. But when things don’t turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous?

Encore Stage & Studio presents Jingle ARRGH the Way! : Nov. 16-18 and Nov. 30-Dec. 9, 2018
A mysterious message left in the crow’s nest of their ship brings Captain Braid Beard and his pirate mates back to North Beach to seek out young Jeremy Jacob to help solve a riddle and find the Christmas treasure. Favorite characters, a rollicking story, great songs, and a trip to the North Pole to find “you know who,” this production is based on a story by Melinda Long, author of How I Became a Pirate. We recommend this musical for ages 4 and older.

A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre: Nov. 15-Dec. 30, 2018
Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Originally conceived by Michael Baron, this music-infused production captures the magic and joy of Dickens’s Yuletide classic. Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returns to play Ebenezer Scrooge. This annual production has been a Washington tradition for more than 35 years.Length: 2 hours with one intermission. Recommended for ages 5 and older.

The Nutcracker on Strings at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo Nov. 23-Dec. 30, 2018
Tiny Tots: Nutcracker Fantasy at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo Nov. 23-Dec. 30, 2018

Holiday Sing-A-Long at Wolf Trap: Dec. 1, 2018 at 4:00pm
Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap’s 2017 Holiday Sing-A-Long! This musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with local choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area. Wolf Trap will be participating in Toys for Tots by collecting new, unwrapped toys at the entrance to the Filene Center before the Sing-A-Long. Donations are voluntary and not required. Admission is free and no tickets are necessary. Parking is free but limited so please plan on arriving early. Bring a candle and join the tradition of exiting the Filene Center with a candlelight processional during the last verse of “Silent Night.” There will also be a ‘Jing-A-Long’ during the singing of Jingle Bells so remember to bring a bell and your holiday cheer!

Frosty the Snowman at The Performing Arts Factory: Dec 1, 8, 15, 22, 27, 29 at 11:30 am. Sundays Dec 2, 16 at 2:00pm

Other Voices Theatre presents an hour long heartwarming original musical that tells the story of the magic hat that brings Frosty to life and also has the magical ability to transform others who wear it.

Seasons of Light at Discovery Theater: Weekdays Dec. 3- Dec. 21 at 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., (with additional 1 p.m. performances on Dec. 13, 18, & 19)
Join in the annual celebration of seasonal holidays from around the world. The history and customs of Diwali (Devali), Chanukah, Las Posadas, Ramadan, Sankta Lucia Day, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the First Nations’ tradition of the Winter Solstice make for an amazing interactive event that bridges communities and cultures. Back for its 20th season, this signature Discovery Theater show sells out early, so get your tickets now!

Madeline’s Christmas presented by Creative Cauldron: Dec. 6-23, 2018
She’s Back!! After sold out runs at the Cauldron in 2014 & 2017, we couldn’t resist one more visit from everyone’s favorite precocious little Parisian. “In an old house in Paris, covered in vines, lived 12 little girls in two straight lines.” And with that familiar phrase, author, illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans sets in motion the adventures of the brave and resourceful Madeline! In this musical adaptation, Madeline’s schoolmates and tutor are all sick in bed on Christmas Eve, unable to go home to be with their families. So, it’s Madeline to the rescue! And with the help of a magical rug merchant she takes her friends on a Christmas journey they will never forget.

(Picture: The Mini-Nut) Maryland Youth Ballet presents Mini-Nutcracker: Dec. 8 & 9, 2018
MYB’s Mini-Nut is a delightful abbreviated version of our classic, award-winning, The Nutcracker, designed to introduce children to the magic of this family favorite. This beloved holiday tradition with soaring music by Tchaikovsky promises to hold the attention of even the youngest theatergoer. Come see the Nutcracker turn into a handsome Prince, see the battle between the Nutcracker and the Seven Headed Mouse King. Watch the sparkling Snow Queen float through her kingdom. See the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy and the magical residents of The Kingdom of Sweets! Suitable for all ages, this version is less than an hour and performed by cast members from MYB’s full-length production. A perfect holiday mini-treat!

The Christmas Revels: A French-Canadian Celebration of the Winter Solstice: Dec. 8-16, 2018
Spend a festive holiday evening with the Queen — Elizabeth the First, that is! The year is 1599, England is swept up in a flowering of music and drama, and master Shakespearian actor and fool Will Kemp has become an overnight sensation by Morris dancing from London to the town of Norwich in just nine days! Queen Elizabeth herself is also on the way to Norwich, and the locals enlist Kemp’s help as they prepare a Winter play worthy of Her Majesty. But Elizabeth has left the trappings of court far behind — and she has much more rustic entertainment in mind.

The Nutcracker presented by Maryland Youth Ballet: Dec. 14-23, 2018
Voted both Outstanding Production in Classical Dance and Outstanding Youth Performance by Metro DC Dance Awards, Lees’ version of the holiday classic is a metropolitan area family favorite. There is something for everyone in this fun and engaging version of The Nutcracker—a huge cannon that fires at the mice, a beautiful growing Christmas tree, whirling flakes in a snowstorm, cute little Ginger Snaps peeking out of a huge Mother Ginger skirt, a lovely Sugar Plum dancing with her handsome Cavalier, and extraordinary costumed characters from the Kingdom of Sweets.

Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show at Atlas Performing Arts Center: Dec. 14, 2018 at 7:30pm
This fun, family-friendly performance will have you stomping your feet and clapping your hands to energetic beats from Step Afrika! and special guest, DJ Frosty the Snowman. Over the last six years, this internationally-renowned percussive dance company has created a contemporary holiday tradition at the Atlas, featuring friendly, furry characters, pre-show instrument-making workshops, photo ops, and even a dance party. Why celebrate the holidays sitting still when you can step with Step Afrika! Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is suited to adults and kids age four and up. Join us in the lobby 30 minutes before show time to decorate your own musical instrument so you can make music with Step Afrika! during the performance. (Pictured below)

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Holiday Tea

Weekend Picks in and around Washington, DC

January 5, 2018

Many programs rev back up next week, like Songs at Imagination Stage, Saturday Mornings at National Theatre, Art Investigators at NGA and Saturdays at Hirshhorn (to name a few!). This weekend you may need to visit the Indoor fun Guide for ideas. There are also fun suggestions on our Surviving Daylight Savings post, even though the days are getting longer now!

Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (SEEC) has classes this weekend for Infant Investigators (Saturday, January 6 at 10am and Sunday, January 7 at 10am). The class is called “CAN Touch This”: Infants love touching and exploring different textures! We will utilize this universal truth while going on a tactile tour in the National Museum of Natural History’s Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems, & Minerals. Twos Travelers also has a class this weekend (Saturday, January 6 at 10am and Sunday, January 7 at 10am). “Yellow Submarine”: Dive deep into the Ocean Hall at the National Museum of Natural History and learn about the type of transportation we would need to travel below the surface of the water. Along the way we will explore the different ocean zones and the creatures that inhabit them. See our review of the program here.

NSO In Your Neighborhood is an initiative that provides free performances and educational activities by the National Symphony Orchestra in neighborhoods throughout the Washington DC area. Over the course of one week, events include full orchestra concerts, in-school visits, chamber performances, artistic exchange, instrument petting zoos, and a range of classes, presented in schools, churches, community centers, night clubs and performing arts venues that reflect the makeup of a participating neighborhood. Through this community engagement program, the NSO strives to build deeper connections with audiences of all ages, to inspire learning, and to create excitement and foster appreciation for live classical music. See schedule and don’t miss this opportunity– lasts through Monday.

Saturday, January 6, 2018

9:00am-12:00pm: Home Depot Kids Workshop
The first Saturday of each month. Kids workshops provide a lively environment mixing skill-building, creativity, and safety for future DIYers. Get organized for 2018 in our hands-on Workshop where you and your child can assemble a wooden block calendar to kick off the new year. Useful year-round, the block calendar is perfect for a tabletop display.

9:45am-12:45pm: Summer camp sampler at Imagination Stage
Try a sample camp on us! Get an up-close-and-personal taste of what camp is like at Imagination Stage for children ages 4-Grade 12. We promise you’ll have a blast! Parents are encouraged to join the sample classes for children in grade 2 or younger. Parents of campers in grade 3 or older are welcome to observe the sampler, but not required. Parents are required to stay in the building while their child is attending a sampler. Register for a spot online.

10:00am-1:00pm: Carnival of Animals hosted by Montgomery Blair High School
The festival’s main event will be a performance of Carnival of the Animals, by Camille Saint-Saëns. We will also feature an “Instrument Petting Zoo,” a marching band, instrument making, face painting, raffle prizes, and more. Member of Blair Bands and Orchestras will be on hand with their instruments so kids can see them, learn a bit about them and can try them out. We expect to have a full compliment of band and orchestra instruments, as well as pianos on hand. This is something the National Symphony Orchestra does, but it costs way more and is all the way downtown!

2:00pm: NSO in your Neighborhood Family Concert at National Portrait Gallery
This NSO Family Concert, titled “Bernstein, Inside the Music,” is part of a year-long celebration of Leonard Bernstein. The program honors the creator of Young People’s Concerts by featuring his music and the idea that orchestral music can be accessible to everyone. The performance will take place in the Kogod Courtyard. A musical instrument “petting zoo” will take place before and after the performance in the McEvoy Auditorium. Free and open to the public.

Sunday, January 7, 2018

11:00am: Sunday Singalong with Bear Song at Upshur Street Books
Join us for a singalong with Bearsong – D.C.’s leading children’s entertainer. John Ray is a traveling songmaster, bringing music and joy to young children all over Washington, D.C. Join us for this session of classic children’s songs. And look for other dates with John at Upshur Street Books. He sings with us four times each month – every Sunday at 11am. The session is FREE and perfect for young children. All children’s books are discounted 10% during the singalong.

1:30pm: Gustafer Yellowgold at Jammin Java
Taylor’s funny and touching multimedia presentation about a little guy from the Sun who landed in the Minnesota woods has loads of adult crossover appeal, making Gustafer Yellowgold’s show a truly all-ages experience. Fresh from his appearance at WILCO’s revered Solid Sound festival, Taylor will be featuring material from his new album “Brighter Side” alongside classic fan favorites.

3:00pm: NSO in your Neighborhood at The International Spy Museum
This family-friendly event features an NSO string quartet — Marissa Regni and Glenn Donnellan violins; Eric deWaardt, viola; and Eugena Chang, cello — performing espionage-themed music. Free for museum attendees. Audiences for this performance will receive $5 discounts to visit the Museum.

Theatre:

Encore Stage and Studio presents Sherlock Holmes, running shows Friday-Sunday and then again next weekend. Join the mystery, action and laughter in this thrilling adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective story. Moriarty is after a set of mysterious letters and so is Sherlock Holmes. The game’s afoot! Before long, Moriarty’s minions have London in a dangerous grip. Sherlock is willing to put his life on the line to stop it. Recommended for ages 6 and older.

Charlotte’s Web is sticking around for two more weekends at Imagination Stage. In this beloved classic (now infused with live music!), Fern, a soft-hearted farm girl, forms an unlikely bond with Wilbur, a charismatic pig. At the Zuckerman Farm, Wilbur meets a silly goose, a moody sheep, a selfish rat, and Charlotte, a clever spider. In an effort to save her friend, Charlotte weaves flattering messages about him into her web that cause a sensation in the small town. Fall in love with your favorite characters all over again as they bring this “radiant” tale from page to stage this holiday season! Recommended ages 5 and older.

Plan ahead for some events for this winter here.

Holiday shows, ballets and concerts in and around Washington, DC

November 28, 2017

(Updated post can be found here)

Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker at Warner Theatre: Nov. 30-Dec. 24, 2017
DC’s perennial favorite! This celebrated production is set in historic Georgetown with George Washington and King George III among other historical figures. Join us again with family and friends or start a new holiday tradition with your loved ones. NEW! Super Value Performances: Wednesday December 6th at 7PM, Tuesday December 12th at 7PM, and Wednesday December 13th at 7PM. No seat higher than $53 (excluding suite seats)! (plus applicable service fee).

Offerings from The Washington National Cathedral

Messiah- G. F. Handel: Dec. 2 & 3, 2017
A beloved Christmas favorite featuring the Cathedral Choir.

Cathedral Choral Society: Joy of Christmas: Dec. 16 & 17, 2017
Celebrate the warm spirit of the season in a majestic setting. A well-loved Washington, D.C. holiday tradition, this concert includes Christmas favorites and a festive carol sing-along. The program will feature a newly commissioned carol by popular British composer Paul Mealor.

(Photo: Washingtonian at Kennedy Center)

Offerings from The Kennedy Center

National Symphony Orchestra: A Holiday Pops! featuring Megan Hilty Dec. 7, 2017 at 7:00pm and Dec. 8, 2017 at 8:00pm
The National Symphony Orchestra, in collaboration with the USO of Metropolitan Washington-Baltimore, is proud to present a free concert in honor of all service members and their families to celebrate the holiday season.

Merry TubaChristmas!: Dec. 11, 2017 at 6:00pm
This year marks the 44th anniversary of MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS!, founded by Harvey Phillips, in which hundreds of tuba, sousaphone, and euphonium players from around Washington, D.C., play traditional Christmas music. FREE performance through Millennium Stage

Washington National Opera: The Little Prince, a Holiday Family Opera:Dec. 14-17, 2017
All the joy and wonder of the classic illustrated storybook comes back to WNO! On his tiny home planet, a young boy begins a quest across the cosmos to find new companionship. Featuring a tuneful score by Oscar winner Rachel Portman, the opera also showcases the Domingo-Cafritz Young Artists and WNO Children’s Chorus.

National Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah: Dec. 14-17, 2017
Join the NSO, gifted singers, and a heavenly chorus for this holiday tradition! Experience all of the hope, redemption, and grace of Handel’s cherished Messiah in the festively decorated Concert Hall.

The Choral Arts Society of Washington presents: A Family Christmas: Dec. 16, 2017 at 1:00pm
The young and the young at heart will revel in the joy of the season as holiday favorites ring throughout the Concert Hall.

Christmas with Choral Arts: Dec. 17-24, 2017
Choral Arts celebrates the joys of the season in a delightful program of popular holiday standards and seasonal Christmas classics.

Messiah Sing-Along: Dec. 23, 2017 at 6:00pm
The Kennedy Center’s free Messiah Sing-Along, a family and community tradition since 1971, returns to the Concert Hall on Saturday evening, December 23, at 6 p.m. Ticket distribution begins at 4:30 p.m. in the Hall of Nations.

Offerings from Strathmore

Strathmore Children’s Chorus: Peace, Paz, Shalom: Dec. 10, 2017 at 4:00pm
Strathmore Children’s Chorus explores the idea that hearing and honoring diverse voices will help make peace in our world. This concert features music and texts from a wide range of perspectives, and shines a light on how song and story are powerful tools for creating peace and compassion.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker: Dec. 12-13, 2017
This holiday mash-up for the whole family is back by popular demand! The Hip Hop Nutcracker reimagines Tchaikovsky’s classic score through explosive hip-hop choreography. A dozen all-star dancers, an on-stage DJ, and an electric violinist bring the traditional Nutcracker story to life in contemporary New York City.

A Candlelight Christmas: Dec. 15, 2017 at 8:00pm
It’s not Christmas without The Washington Chorus! Featuring brass, organ, sing-alongs, and the magnificent candlelight processional, A Candlelight Christmas includes audience favorites such as The Dream Isaiah Saw, Hallelujah Chorus, and more.

Handel’s Messiah: Dec. 16 & 17, 2017
No holiday celebration is complete without a performance of Handel’s uplifting oratorio Messiah, a work that has delighted and inspired audiences worldwide since its premiere in 1741. The perennial favorite features such timeless highlights as “And the Glory of the Lord” and the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Messiah will once again infuse audiences with its beauty in a performance by the acclaimed National Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorale and world-class soloists, led by conductor Stan Engebretson.

More shows in and around Washington, DC at various locations:

Frosty the Snowman at Adventure Theatre: Nov. 17-Dec. 31, 2017
Do you want to build a snow man? How about watching him spring to life in front of you for one day of adventures before he melts away? In this merry wintertime romp, chock-full of chuckles and comic antics, Frosty dances into the hearts of kids and adults alike- even the heart of one near-sighted cop- through his uproarious antics.

The Nutcracker on Strings Nov. 24-Dec. 31, 2017 & Tiny Tots: Nutcracker Fantasy Dec. 12-31, 2017 at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo

A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre: Nov. 28-Dec. 31, 2017
Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Originally conceived by Michael Baron, this music-infused production captures the magic and joy of Dickens’s Yuletide classic. Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returns to play Ebenezer Scrooge. This annual production has been a Washington tradition for more than 35 years. Recommended for ages 5 and older.

Seasons of Light at Discovery Theatre: Dec. 1-21, 2017
Join in the annual celebration of seasonal holidays from around the world. The history and customs of Diwali (Devali), Chanukah, Las Posadas, Ramadan, Sankta Lucia Day, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the First Nations’ tradition of the Winter Solstice make for an amazing interactive event that bridges communities and cultures. Back for its 19th season, this signature Discovery Theater show sells out early, so get your tickets now!

Snow Day presented by Arts on the Horizon:Dec. 1-16, 2017
One cold December morning, a young girl named Skip wakes up to find the entire neighborhood covered in a thick, dazzling blanket of white snow. A playful (if not a little mischievous) winter elf takes her on an adventure – showing her just how magical snow can be! Join Skip as she experiences all the excitement, joy, and wonder of her very first snow day. This nonverbal production features live music and lots of wintertime fun, just in time for the holiday season. Best for ages 2-6.

Hansel & Gretel at Synetic Theatre: Dec. 1-23, 2017
During the bustle of holiday crowds, Gretel tries to keep her brother, Hansel, out of trouble while their unengaged babysitter leaves Gretel to fend for them both. As Hansel embarks on his own wonder-filled exploration of his everyday surroundings, he and his sister fall into a magical realm that takes them far away from home. In this wordless production, the well-beloved Grimm fairy tale embraces the fantastical through the eyes of those who see the world through a different lens.

Madeline’s Christmas presented by Creative Cauldron: Dec. 1-23, 2017
She’s Back!! After a sold out run at the Cauldron in 2014, we welcome back everyone’s favorite precocious little Parisian. “In an old house in Paris, covered in vines, lived 12 little girls in two straight lines.” And with that familiar phrase, author, illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans sets in motion the adventures of the brave and resourceful Madeline! In this musical adaptation, Madeline’s schoolmates and tutor are all sick in bed on Christmas Eve, unable to go home to be with their families. So, it’s Madeline to the rescue! And with the help of a magical rug merchant she takes her friends on a Christmas journey they will never forget.

Holiday Sing-A-Long at Wolf Trap: Dec. 2, 2017 at 4:00pm
Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap’s 2017 Holiday Sing-A-Long! This musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with local choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area. Wolf Trap will be participating in Toys for Tots by collecting new, unwrapped toys at the entrance to the Filene Center before the Sing-A-Long. Donations are voluntary and not required. Admission is free and no tickets are necessary. Parking is free but limited so please plan on arriving early. Bring a candle and join the tradition of exiting the Filene Center with a candlelight processional during the last verse of “Silent Night.” There will also be a ‘Jing-A-Long’ during the singing of Jingle Bells so remember to bring a bell and your holiday cheer!

Maryland Youth Ballet presents Mini-Nutcracker: Dec. 9 & 10, 2017
SOLD OUT

The Christmas Revels: A French-Canadian Celebration of the Winter Solstice: Dec. 6-17, 2017

12th Annual Holiday Sing-A-Long at Atlas Performing Arts Center: Dec. 10, 2017 at 4:30pm & 7:00pm
Capital City Symphony, Congressional Chorus, and American Youth Chorus perform a variety of holiday favorites in this perennially loved performance that is fun for the entire family. Audience members are encouraged to join in the singing of classics like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and The Twelve Days of Christmas. Continue the celebration after the concert with complimentary cookies and good cheer in our Kogod Lobby.

Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show at Atlas Performing Arts Center: Dec. 15-30, 2017
This fun, family-friendly performance will have you stomping your feet and clapping your hands to energetic beats from Step Afrika! and special guest, DJ Frosty the Snowman. Over the last six years, this internationally-renowned percussive dance company has created a contemporary holiday tradition at the Atlas, featuring friendly, furry characters, pre-show instrument-making workshops, photo ops, and even a dance party. Why celebrate the holidays sitting still when you can step with Step Afrika! Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is suited to adults and kids age four and up. Join us in the lobby 30 minutes before show time to decorate your own musical instrument so you can make music with Step Afrika! during the performance.

Weekend Picks: Bait a hook, Choo-Choo biketrain and carousels

May 29, 2014

After the rain we will welcome a sunny weekend. Lots to do outdoors, enjoy a festival or two, a bike ride or a fishing excursion and top the weekend off at the Nats game or watching Finding Nemo.

Saturday-

8:30am-10:30am: Black Hill Boats hosts Kids Fishing Day at Little Seneca Lake
(20920 Lake Ridge Drive Boyds, MD 20841)
Participants will learn to bait a hook with worms, put their line in the water and pull in fish. Prizes for kids who catch the biggest, smallest and greatest number of fish. Ages 3-15, $8. Register online for Montgomery ParkPASS #268199.

9:30am: Choo choo! Take the Kidical Mass Biketrain to Tour de Fat
(2801 8th St NE, Washington, DC 20017)
Tour de Fat is a wacky, whimsical and family friendly festival and celebration of bicycling. Tour de Fat is FREE and open to the public. The day is jam-packed with live music and entertainment, local vendors, interactive bicycle activities, and of course beer! And what more fun for the kids; costumes are strongly encouraged–they’ll be bringing bike decorating supplies to help you make a statement with your bike!

10:00am-11:00pm: Herndon Festival
(777 Lynn Street, Herndon, VA 20170)
Carnival, vendors, fireworks and a 5/10K race. There is also a Children’s area with hands-on activities including a model train display and live entertainment.

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