Discover the “Imaginary World of The Nutcracker” at Artechouse as the beloved winter story comes to life with new digital experiences. Inspired by the original story and powered by the latest projection and augmented reality technologies, “Imaginary World of The Nutcracker” installation is an exploratory experience through multiple immersive sets where the Nutcracker and other characters come to life via projections and the ARTECHOUSE Augmented Reality app. Filled with details and constant movement the installation shifts and performs as visitors walk around, leaving no moment unfilled. Populated by visually stunning and enticing elements and wrapped in digital graphics, the dreamlike world of toys, magic trees, snowflakes and candy offers a memorable experience for both adults and kids alike. The mystical Nutcracker himself is just one member of a truly magnificent ensemble. Open through January 7, closed Dec. 24, 25, 31 and Jan. 1. Buy tickets for all ages or 21+ evenings.
Catch a local show at Adventure Theatre performing Frosty the Snowman, Imagination Stage performing Charlotte’s Web, The Nutcracker at Glen Echo Puppet Co. or Synetic Theatre performing Hansel & Gretel this weekend.
Saturday-
10:00am: Hirshorn Storytime
STORYTIME explores contemporary art through stories and movement. Museum staff will read aloud a book, introduce children to an artist in the collection, and lead a hands-on activity. As part of MAKER MORNINGS: TRACE, read I Have the Right to be a Child by Alain Serres, and create our own LEGO® artworks.
10:00am-12:00pm: Snowflake Festival and Diaper Drive
There will be crafts, snacks, raffle prizes and the chance to have your photo taken with Olaf! See list online of acceptable donations.
2:00pm: Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show at Atlas Performing Arts Center
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.
6:00pm: Messiah Sing-Along
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.
7:00pm-8:00pm: Christmas Caroling at the Wharf
Enjoy the sounds of the season—featuring the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC—and join in as they sing holiday songs to spread the Christmas spirit all along the waterfront. While you’re here, treat yourself to s’mores at the fire pit and visit our lighted Christmas Tree. Plus, Santa Claus himself will take time out of his busy schedule to join in the fun. Bring your camera to snap photos with Santa as we count down to Christmas. There is also an ice rink you can enjoy before the caroling.
Sunday-
Smithsonian Calendar of Events for Today
11:00am AND 3:30pm: Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker at Warner Theatre
DC’s perennial favorite! This celebrated production is set in historic Georgetown with George Washington and King George III among other historical figures. Join again with family and friends or start a new holiday tradition with your loved ones.
Christmas Day-
10:00am-5:00pm: United States Botanic Garden: Season’s Greenings: National Parks and Historic Sites
Immerse yourself in the sights, scents, and sounds of the season with wreaths, garland, trees, and thousands of blooms from exotic orchids to a showcase of heirloom and newly developed poinsettia varieties.Throughout the Conservatory, we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service and the 50th anniversary of the National Historic Preservation Act. In this year’s model train show, the trains will chug around, below, through, and above re-creations of iconic national parks and sites in the National Register of Historic Places. See the Grand Canyon, the Gateway Arch, Old Faithful Inn and Geyser, Mount Vernon, Mount Rushmore, a 7-foot-tall Statue of Liberty, and many more representing more than 50 different national parks and historic sites, all made from plants and other natural materials.
11:00am-3:00pm:Christmas Brunch at The Ritz, Pentagon City
Gather ‘round for a bountiful holiday brunch at The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City featuring traditional and Christmas inspired cuisine and holiday parade featuring Mr. and Mrs. Clause, Santa’s team of reindeer and festive carolers
1:30pm: Christmas Day Organ Recital at The National Cathedral
Benjamin Straley, Washington National Cathedral organist, and George Fergus, AAM Gerre Hancock Fellow in Church Music, play a Christmas afternoon recital of traditional and familiar holiday favorites on the Cathedral’s great organ. $10 recommended donation. Passes are not required.
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Thank you for your post on The Nutcracker at the Warner Theater. There was so much for the family to enjoy about this production. The sets, costumes, and unique Americana version were very professionally presented. The performances by the dancers were impressive and of course the music has begun to be recognizable by our young ones. This needs to be an annual tradition.