Weekend picks in and around Washington, DC

Check off items from our winter bucket list which is full of festive fun in the DMV. If you missed it, we have an extensive listing of holiday ballets and concerts that have already hit stages.

All weekend

Tenley WinterFest’s Winter Pop-Up Market
Shop for unique gifts from 22 local artisans, including jewelry and accessories, holiday and home décor, greeting cards, international crafts, bath and beauty products, specialty foods, and more! Named one of DCist’s top holiday markets in the city, you’ll find something for everyone on your holiday shopping list at the Winter Pop-Up Market. The market will be held indoors at 4748 Wisconsin Avenue, NW. Enjoy live music from two of American University’s premier a cappella groups while you shop. On a Sensual Note performs at 6:30 pm on Friday, December 3, while Pitches Be Trippin’ performs at 12:30 pm on Saturday, December 4.

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

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at The National
LAST WEEKEND!! 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
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. Playing through Dec. 27, 2021.

A Christmas Carol at Olney Theatre
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. Playing through Dec. 26, 2021.

The Nutcracker on Strings at The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo
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. Playing through Jan. 2, 2022.

Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker at Warner Theatre
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. Playing through Dec. 26, 2021.

Messiah- G. F. Handel at The Washington National Cathedral
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.

Have yourself a MERRI little holiday season with a visit to MERRI & Bright Holiday Market at Merriweather District first annual holiday market Friday-Sunday. Support unique small businesses as you venture through a variety of holiday pop-ups from regional vendors. Warm up with hot cocoa from The Charmery, sip some wine in our outdoor wine chalet and enjoy live music while checking off your holiday shopping list. ‘Tis the season to celebrate with Merriweather District! Be sure to stick around on Sunday, December 5, for Hanukkah on Ice from 4-6PM. There will be ice skating, music, donuts and a live performer as well as a Menorah lighting at 5PM!

Encore Stage & Studio present- Enchanted Bookshop Christmas
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?

Enchant Christmas: The Mischievous Elf is at Nationals Park through January 2, 2022. The magical World of Enchant is filled with dazzling displays that feel like they come right out of a childhood Christmas dream. Marvel at the 100 ft. animated tree, glide across the glistening Ice Skating Trail, pose for photos with Santa himself, and sip and savor delicious festive holiday treats every step of the way. Become part of the magical Christmas story of “The Mischievous Elf”. Eddie the elf has misplaced some very important gifts and needs your help finding them within the North Pole’s dazzling lights. Will you come and help save Christmas?

Christmas at the Gaylord now through December 31, 2021. There is no better way to celebrate Christmas than gathering your family at Gaylord National. Explore acres of twinkling lights and decorations and hours of exciting holiday activities, shows, and events, including our Gaylord Hotels Original Experience, I Love Christmas Movies™ featuring five beloved films. See this list of all of the fun activities.

All aboard! The B&O Railroad Museum is celebrating the return of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride in Baltimore continues through December 12^th.  Gold class tickets are already sold out. The remaining silver and bronze tickets are flying faster than Santa’s reindeer! Climb aboard The Polar Express to create a Christmas memory that you and your family will cherish forever. Come in your pajamas as a family to watch the live performance of the The Polar Express. The performance will begin in our North Car Shop where you will be invited onto the Polar Express to travel by train to the North Pole. Once on the Polar Express, the classic Christmas tale will be performed, and little ones will have the opportunity to meet Santa and receive their first gift of Christmas!

Friday & Saturday

Shop the captivating Holiday Boutiques on St. Albans’ beautiful campus. More than 40 vendors will offer a wide range of luxe, distinctive gifts. From exquisite, ultra-fine cashmere to unique home décor, and beautifully hand-crafted jewelry, you’ll find the perfect gift for everyone on your list – and some gorgeous items for you! The Holiday Boutiques are open to the public from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Friday, December 3, and 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturday, December 4.  No tickets are necessary to shop, so get together with friends for a fun day of shopping and a celebration of the holiday spirit! Please visit the website for a sneak preview of the Holiday Boutiques. This year, the Christmas House Tour returns to Georgetown and features four stunning homes decorated in “Mistletoe and Holly” for the holidays. The residences are beautifully restored, historically significant examples of period architecture. 

Friday

7:30pm Christmas with Cantus Lessons and Carols for Our Time at Wolf Trap
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.

Saturday

9:00am-12:00pm: Winter Festival at National Children’s Museum
Join for a special holiday event at the Museum featuring festive refreshments, a photo opportunity with Santa, plus other holiday friends and cheer! The Winter Festival is a ticketed event. Space is limited, so reserve your tickets today. Children 1 and older will require a ticket, while children under 1 will be admitted for free. Tickets are $30 for General Admission and $15 for Member Admission. Every ticket includes admission to the Museum from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, small bites, warm drinks, and the opportunity to take a photo with Santa! All ticket purchases will be required to select a time slot for the photo opportunity with Santa.

10:00am-1:00pm: Bear Square Express to Benefit A Wider Circle
Get in the holiday spirit with a train ride circling around the Village Green at The Station. In addition to the ride, kids can enjoy holiday crafts and glitter tattoos. Help spread the holiday cheer by bringing at least one unwrapped gift to donate to A Wider Circle. These toys will be provided for families visiting A Wider Circle’s center in Silver Spring, MD and over 5,000 toys will be given to children living in Public Housing in D.C.

10:00am-5:00pm: Christmas Tree Pop-Up
Looking for the perfect Christmas tree to spark the holiday spirit? We’ve got you covered. Come pick out the perfect mini tree or wreath to light up your home at National Landing’s Christmas Tree Farm Pop-Up.

11:00am: City-State Brewing Story Hour: The Ninth Night of Hanukkah
Erica is the author of numerous early-reader books, chapter books, middle grade novels and picture books, including the festive and inspiring The Ninth Night of Hanukkah, which follows siblings Rachel and Max as they navigate their first Hanukkah in a new apartment.

12:00pm-5:00pm: The Dupont Circle Holiday Pop-Up
More than 65 vendors will sell unique items such as jewelry, pottery, paintings, wood works, wellness products, and tasty treats outside in front of retail shops and restaurants.  The day will also include shopping at the Heurich House Christmas Market ($13 admission), Dupont Underground (20 vendors), and St. Thomas Parish (15 vendors). The Dupont Circle Holiday Pop-Up is free and open to the public and will happen snow or shine. Volunteers will be at the Dupont Circle Metro North-Q Street – passing out maps and giving directions. Takes place on Connecticut Ave, and P Street, and 17th Street. 

2:00pm-2:45pm: Mr. Lilo!: An Outdoor Holiday Fiesta at West End Library
Sing, jump, and dance with Mr. Lilo and his guitar. Families, join for some holiday merriment, neighborhood cheer, and seasonal festivities through music, dancing, and story sharing. Mr. Lilo will perform his original music and traditional songs in English and Spanish on the sidewalk in front of the West End Library. This program is made possible thanks to the West End Library Friends. In the event of inclement weather, the program will take place on Sunday, Dec. 5 at 2 pm.

2:00pm & 7:00pm: Manheim Steamroller Christmas at Strathmore
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.  

3;00pm: The Georgetown Chorale live concert
Music lovers, join for a free live concert this Saturday at the Church of the Epiphany, 1317 G Street NW, for Songs of Gratitude and Hope. A beautiful program for you, including Frostiana, by Randall Thompson — 7 of Robert Frost’s poems set to music; The Promise of Living, by Aaron Copland; two gorgeous late Renaissance pieces; a spiritual arrangement by African American composer Undine Smith Moore; and other wonderful 19th and 20th century music. If you can’t make it, there will be a recording later. The link for tickets in advance is here.  All singers are vaxxed and will be masked. Please note that audience members will be asked to show a photo ID and proof of full vaccination, and must wear masks throughout the performance.

4:00pm: Holiday Sing-A-Long (from home) at Wolf Trap
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.

4:00pm-6:00pm: Snow Day at the North Pole
The Boro will host an Après Ski-themed party to officiate the start of the holiday season and light up the giant snow globe. Guests will be thrilled as “snow” fills the air while they’re snapping pics, decorating snow globes and ornaments, and sipping custom holiday cocktails. Plus, get in the spirit of giving with a toy drive benefiting Toys for Tots!

4:30pm-6:30pm: Hanukkah Party at The Lane
The Lane loves a party and there’s no better reason to celebrate than the festival of lights: Hanukkah! Join the party in partnership with The Micah Storefront Project for a Hanukkah party with latkes, donuts, dreidels, and singing with Rabbis Josh Beraha and Stephanie Crawley! Sign up here.

7:00pm: Elf at the Drive-In
Join for your favorite Holiday Movie at the DC Party Box Drive In Theatre.

7:00pm & 9:00pm: NPR’s A Jazz Piano Christmas featuring Gerald Clayton, Patrice Rushen, and Eric Reed. at The Kennedy Center
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.

Sunday

10:00am-11:00am: Family Chanukah Party
Happy Chanukah! Join at the EDCJCC for a fun morning celebrating Hanukkah. There will be arts and crafts, music, science and a community service opportunity. This program will take place in the JCC parking lot and inside the building.

5:00pm-6:00pm: Community Menorah Lighting
It’s Chanukah time – and they’re bringing the celebration to you! Join as they light the candles, sing songs, enjoy entertainment, spin the dreidel and more!

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