Seasonal & Holiday Activations: Lights, Markets, Pop Ups & More
It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is upon us - but it is! All the area light shows, skating rinks, holiday markets, teas, and pop-ups are back along with the cinnamon, sugar, and spice of the season specifically here to to tantalize all your senses:
I SEE THE LIGHTS:
Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens: Brookside Gardens has transformed into a magical winter wonderland for Garden of Lights from November 22nd - January 5th. Walk through the outdoor twinkling lights and glimmering displays. For more information, click here.
Bull Run Festival of Lights: Enjoy two and a half miles of holiday lights at the Bull Run Festival of Lights, open nightly from November 15th to January 5th, with time slots from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 online or $40 at the door. Bus tickets are $75 (for fifteen or more passengers) on select dates. Save up to $10 by attending promotional nights and buying tickets online. To purchase a ticket, click here.
Maryland Holiday Light Spectacular: The 1st Annual Maryland Holiday Light Spectacular will kick off with its Opening Lighting Ceremony at 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 12th, at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, Infield, featuring the ceremonial “lighting of the first bulb.” This festive event will also serve as a fundraiser for the House of Ruth Maryland, with all proceeds from ticket sales benefiting their mission to support battered women and children. The event will feature a magical outdoor walking trail with over a million dazzling lights, larger-than-life holiday installations, festive scenes, and a Winter Carnival Ride (separate tickets required). There will also be appearances by Santa Claus, a Christmas Village with food trucks, and a variety of shops. The event runs from 7:00 - 10:90 p.m., with tickets available in advance for $30 per adult. All ticket sales from the Opening Ceremony will be donated directly to House of Ruth Maryland, supporting their work in providing a safe haven for victims of domestic violence. 2200 York Rd, Timonium, MD; click here to buy tickets and here for more information.
13th Annual Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: Experience the magic of the season at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens with the 13th annual Winter Walk of Lights. This elegant half-mile garden trail is illuminated by countless sparkling lights, showcasing displays inspired by nature, winter, and holiday themes. Enhance your evening with a cozy hot beverage and cap it off by roasting marshmallows for s’mores; For more information, click here.
Tree Lighting at MGM National Harbor: The holiday celebration continues throughout the destination with the lighting of the Waterfront District’s extraordinary 60-foot animated RGB tree, guarded by two 12-foot nutcrackers. The nightly light show starts at sunset and continues every half hour until 9:00 p.m. Guests will enjoy thousands of lights dancing alongside a holiday medley recorded by the United States Air Force Band, the season kicks off November 9th. For more information, click here.
Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park: You don't even have to leave your car to see great winter lights this year. The 3.5 mile drive through enchanting Seneca Creek State Park takes you past more than 450 illuminated displays and gorgeously lit trees.Open nightly November 29th - December 31st, you can do the drive every day of the week. For more information, click here.
The Yards’ Light Yards: Starting November 25th, enjoy holiday-themed cocktails in limited-edition glassware at participating restaurants, including Bammy’s, La Famosa, District Winery, Emmy Squared, and Agua 301. Celebrate the season at The Yards with Swinging Bells, a free art installation featuring five thirteen-foot-tall illuminated bells, perfect for family fun and festive photos. Visit the Sun Deck daily from 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., November 25th - January 3rd. On December 4th, join the Light Yards Express from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. for train rides, glitter tattoos, live music, giveaways, and a visit from Santa. For more information, click here.
ZooLights at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo: Celebrate the holidays with ZooLights at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, featuring dazzling lantern displays, festive pathways, live music, seasonal treats, and carousel rides. ZooLights runs every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. and every Sunday from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. from November 22nd - January 4th. Proceeds support animal care and conservation. For more information, click here.
Walkable Light Experience at Tyson's Corner: A stunning Walkable Light Experience on the Plaza, sponsored by George Mason University is coming to Tyson's Corner. Collaborating with Enchant DC, the center aims to create the largest free light experience in the DMV. This year, the Plaza will feature 11 new interactive light installations, providing even more opportunities for the community to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season. For more information, click here.
Festival of Lights at Washington DC Temple: The Washington DC Temple Festival of Lights features over 500,000 twinkling Christmas lights, Nativity crèches, and beautiful Christmas tree decorations from around the world, along with daily holiday performances. This festive event runs from December 5th to January 1st, with lights on display nightly from 4:45 to 9:00 p.m. Tickets are not required this year, and both entrance and parking are free; For more information, click here.
Holiday Magic at Westfield Montgomery: Holiday magic has begun at Westfield Montgomery. Experience the joy of bright holiday traditions with live entertainment by The Bachelor Boys Band, dancing, surprise appearances from beloved holiday characters, a cozy Hot Cocoa Station, a Spin Wheel packed with festive surprises, and an exclusive sneak peek at Santa’s Workshop.
SANTA SIGHTINGS:
Alexandria Restaurant Partners: Every weekend in December until Christmas, Alexandria Restaurant Partners restaurants (Ada’s on the River, Joe Theismann’s, and Mia’s Italian Kitchen) will be hosting breakfast with Santa. The event starts with a festive breakfast feast, complete with take-home treats for children and Prosecco bellinis for adults. Then, you’ll meet Santa Claus and take a keepsake photo with him. For more information, click here.
Figleaf Bar & Lounge at Hotel Zena: Gather your loved ones, friends, and colleagues to experience the Holiday Brunch with Santa at Figleaf Bar & Lounge on either Saturday, December 21st or Sunday, December 22nd. Featuring Figleaf's festive Brunch Offering and Bottomless Brunch Cocktails. Step into a world of culinary delight as Executive Chef James Gee crafts an enchanting Holiday menu that marries tradition with innovation. For more information, click here.
Four Seasons DC: Join Four Seasons DC for their beloved Teddy Bear Tea on December 7th, 14th, and 21st at Seasons restaurant. Enjoy live entertainment, including a visit from Santa, along with festive treats like hot chocolate and their signature candy bar; 202.342.0444; 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; click here for more info.
Hank’s Old Town: Celebrate the holidays with a festive brunch, live entertainment, and a visit from Santa Claus at Hank’s Old Town! This family-friendly event takes place on Saturdays, December 14th and 21st, and Sundays, December 15th and 22nd, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Hank’s second floor. Enjoy a delicious brunch buffet featuring a build-your-own waffle bar, huevos rancheros, eggs benedict, shrimp & grits, and assorted desserts. Coffee, tea, milk, and hot chocolate are included, with additional beverages like mimosas and Bloody Marys available à la carte. At 11:45 a.m., children can enjoy live entertainment from talented performers. Santa arrives at 12:20 p.m. for photos and holiday cheer. Tickets are $55 for adults and $35 for children twelve and under. Reserve your spot here.
Hard Rock Café: Families are invited to kick off the season with Breakfast with Santa, complete with a breakfast buffet, complimentary mimosa for adults, and photos with Santa himself. To purchase a ticket, click here.
The Morrow Hotel: Join The Morrow Hotel for their second annual Santa Paws at The Morrow Hotel! Freeze time this Holiday season for a PAWsome event where you and your furry friends can meet Santa Claus himself. This gathering promises a wagging good time. Pose with the PAWparazzi to capture the adorable moments of your pets with Santa. Freeze the most special moments by purchasing the photos, available both printed and digitally, that make a FURever impact with donations towards The D.C. Humane Rescue Alliance and Homeward Trails. For more information, click here.
MUSEUM VISITS:
Visible Vault at National Building Museum: The National Building Museum has opened a truly special exhibition for all ages - VISIBLE VAULT: Open Collections Storage that will give visitors a whole new perspective on what it means to unlock history. VISIBLE VAULT will feature more than 2,500 artifacts that have previously been inaccessible due to their size, scope, and material complexity. This display represents highlights from the Museum’s massive collection of 500,000 artifacts and includes objects such as architectural blueprints and models, bricks, plaster molds, photographs, building fragments, toy collections, souvenir buildings, drafting tools and historical building equipment. In addition to custom display cabinetry, the exhibition contains numerous file drawers that visitors are encouraged to open to discover light-sensitive pieces like drawings, construction toys in their original boxes, and small items like product samples and dollhouse furniture. The Museum will regularly rotate artifacts to share new acquisitions and work contributed by its partners. More info here.
Folger Frost Fair: The Folger Shakespeare Library today announced its first annual Folger Frost Fair, a winter celebration runs through January 5, 2025. During this time, winter greenery, lights, ornaments, and other festive elements will decorate the building. Docents and staff will be on hand to offer free pop-up talks about the Folger’s history and architecture, and complimentary activities for kids and adults will be offered throughout the month alongside longstanding Folger holiday traditions like Folger Consort’s holiday concert and Emily Dickinson Birthday Tribute Reading. The idea for the Folger Frost Fair was inspired by the frost fairs held in London when the River Thames completely froze in winters between the 1600s and 1800s. Londoners used the frozen river as an opportunity to take daily life to the ice—setting up stalls and booths selling food and drink and conducting commerce. People played games and held contests, and there were even printing presses on the ice from which souvenir postcards and prints were sold. More info here.
Tingle Bells: An ASMR Holiday Special at Artechouse: In a sea of seasonal over-stimulation, ARTECHOUSE invites you to step into a world of serenity and sensory wonder with their new immersive holiday exhibition, Tingle Bells: An ASMR Inspired Holiday Special. Opening to the public on November 22, 2024, at ARTECHOUSE DC, Tingle Bells: An ASMR Holiday Special, will be an immersive digital exhibition designed to soothe your senses and warm your spirit. Inspired by the transformative power of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR), this one-of-a-kind, limited-run experience invites you to unwind in a sanctuary of sound and visuals designed to promote relaxation in the mind and body. Reserve tickets here.
Holiday Bricktacular at LEGO Discovery Center DC: Starting November 30th, LEGO Discovery Center DC will have a new event experience called Build To Give where families can create joy in the biggest donation of LEGO sets to children in need by building a LEGO heart. Other holiday happenings include the “Mini World DC Winter Wonderland”, featuring iconic holiday scenes and more.
SHOP TILL YOU DROP:
Downtown DC Holiday Market: Wrap up something special this holiday season with a gift from the Downtown DC Holiday Market. From Nov 22- Dec 23, you can shop from dozens of vendors across food to homewear. For more information, click here.
National Harbor: The National Harbor Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show Series starts on Saturday and Sunday, November 30th and December 1st and continues every Saturday and Sunday through December 22nd from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Each week, new crafters and artisans will have their works for sale. For more information, click here.
River Club: Celebrate the season of giving at River Club’s holiday pop-up market, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in December. This festive market is your one stop shop for unique gifts, delicious treats, and holiday cheer. River Club is patterning with the Lebanese Red Cross, with vendors generously donating 10% of all sales to those in need.
Union Market: The Union Market Holiday Pop-Up Market, hosted by La Cosecha’s Arttepuy, is happening every weekend through December. This vibrant market showcases talented local artists and makers. It’s the perfect place to find unique, handcrafted gifts while supporting small businesses and embracing the festive spirit of the season. For more information, click here.
HOLIDAY POP-UPS & SEASONAL SETTINGS:
Santa’s Slayin’ Sweets: This holiday season, Big Buns is bringing the festive spirit to life with an irresistible new dessert menu, Santa's Slayin' Sweets. Available for a limited time now through December 31st at Shirlington and One Loudoun locations, this holiday-inspired pop-up is set to delight dessert lovers of all ages.Try the gingerbread shake, the peppermint shake, and many more. eatbigbuns.com
Holiday Clock Tower Tea at Waldorf Astoria: For tea fans, The Waldorf Astoria has you covered this holiday season. elish a leisurely afternoon tea experience in Peacock Alley’s atrium beneath the iconic Clock Tower. The holiday tea will feature Tea Sandwiches like Cucumber Caviar, Chicken Salad, Dill Smoked Salmon, Deviled Egg Carbonara, Whipped Miso Tahini, Gingerbread Scones, Chocolate Peppermint Macrons, Spices Cheesecake Tartlets and more. Tea selections have also been chosen for the season and the pièce de résistance? Premium Champagne Enhancements, where guests can choose from Billecart Salmon Champagne, Piper-Heidsieck Rosé Savage Brut Champagne or Krug Grande Cuvée Brut Champagne. More info here.
Winter Wonderland at Ambar Clarendon: Ambar Clarendon transformed the restaurant’s lower level into a Winter Wonderland. Reminiscent of a walk in the forest after a dusting of fresh snow, this cozy bar and dining room area is transformed for the holiday winter season with a chalet-inspired décor. Ambar’s team worked with designers at Bee Inspired Events, to create this fantasy wonderland setting which will remain in place through January 31st. Ambar is introducing new winter cocktails that are perfect for this cozy environment.
Holiday Market at Bayou Bakery: The Holiday Market at Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery is back until Christmas Eve, offering custom-designed boxes and bags filled with hand-crafted confections by Chef David Guas and his team, including Peppermint Bark, Heavenly Hash (marshmallows, pecans, and chocolate), and a trio of authentic Louisiana Pralines. The popular Creole Kringle Cake, a Danish-style pastry with praline crunch, Creole cream cheese filling, praline glaze, and roasted pecans, is available for $46 and serves 12-14. 703.243.2410; 1515 N Courthouse Rd, Arlington, VA; click here for more information.
Caroled at The Commodore: The Commodore is giving a special winter treat this holiday season with Caroled at the Commodore. Enjoy being haunted by three-spirited pop-up rooms... Christmas Past, Present, and Yet To Come... paired with spirited libations.
“Feliz Navidad” Pop-Up Experience: A Festive Culinary Celebration of a Mexican Christmas: This holiday season, MXDC is thrilled to announce its “Feliz Navidad” PopUp Installation, a vibrant celebration inspired by the traditions of Christmas in Mexico and Latin America. Running from December 6th through January 5th, this special popup is a collaboration with Carla Sanchez of SCDC the Agency—the creative force behind the popular Bolivian popup bar Casa Kantuta—and organized by the MXDC team, including Seena Safi and Yamileth Pedersen. Guests will be transported into a beautiful, colorful space on the top level of MXDC, designed to evoke the festive streets of Mexico during the holiday season. The experience celebrates the joy of gathering during the holiday season.
Firepits & S’more at Rooftop Kitchen: Rooftop dining is a rare treat in the Capitol, and Rooftop Kitchen has you covered this winter. Featuring an expansive patio complete with large outdoor fire pits, patio heaters, and cozy blankets, it’s the ultimate spot to snuggle up, enjoy incredible city views, and indulge in delicious drinks and bites. Sip on signature cocktails like the smoky Wahakan Hat Trick, a Rooftop Old Fashioned made with Russell’s Reserve 10-Year, an Espresso Martini crafted with Hanson of Sonoma Espresso Vodka, or a classic Negroni with Ford’s Gin. For something sweet, enjoy dessert wines like Taylor Fladgate 10-Year Port, offering spicy, woody complexity with rich cherry fruit notes. More info here.
Blitzen Bar at the Omni: This holiday season, Omni Hotels & Resorts is partnering with renowned mixologist Julie Reiner to launch Blitzen’s Bar pop up Holiday bar, which will be located at 13 Omni properties across the country including DownTime at The Omni Homestead Resort. Available through December 30, the exclusive menu at Blitzen’s will feature innovative libations from Reiner, who is known for co-founding iconic New York City cocktail bars Clover Club, Milady’s, and Leyanda, as well as a judge on Netflix’s hit series Drink Masters. More info here.
Lulu’s Wine(ter) Garden (Patio Pleasures): Lulu’s Winegarden has unveiled its annual holiday pop-up “Lulu’s Wine(ter)garden.” The Southwest-inspired U Street wine garden has once again transformed its entire space into a desert winter wonderland -- but new this year, you will find an expanded holiday cocktail menu and a more-decked-out-than-ever space, plus its beloved winter food specials and holiday wine boxes, returning through early January. More info here.
Tabletop Firepit Experience at Calico (Patio Pleasures): Calico is partnering with WhistlePig Whiskey and Solo Stove to offer a tabletop firepit experience this Fall and Winter. The firepit experience includes campfire inspired cocktails and smores kits on their heated patio. The experience is available every Thursday - Sunday for $25 per person. To make a reservation, click here.
Colada Shop’s Holiday Bar: Step into a festive Cuban wonderland at Colada Shop’s Holiday Bar pop-ups at their 14th St and Clarendon locations! Escape the winter chill and immerse yourself in a Havana-style holiday celebration featuring tropical decor and a lineup of creatively crafted cocktails.Sip on the Coquito Shooter, Rum Cider, Churro Manhattan, Cuba Libre Navidad, and more. Cocktails are $12+.
Dreamland at Duke’s Grocery: Duke's Grocery invites guests to celebrate the season in awe-inspiring fashion with "Dreamland: The Narnia-inspired Bar" – a holiday pop-up returning to its Navy Yard location on Thursday, December 5th and running through the holidays. This will be the second iteration of Duke’s Grocery’s Dreamland, and like the first will provide guests with an unforgettable experience filled with wonder and holiday magic, this time with a lineup of Narnia-themed libations. For more information, click here.
Nutcracker Tea at Fairmont: Fairmont Washington D.C. Georgetown is offering Nutcracker Afternoon Tea on Saturday and Sundays in December beginning on the 7th through the 29th including Friday, December 20 and 27. The whimsically decorated Loggia overlooking the courtyard’s holiday lights is the perfect venue for the festive holiday tea presented from 1 to 3pm. Executive Chef Jaime Montes de Oca, Senior Sous Chef Delonte Avery and Executive Pastry Chef Claus Olsen’s savory and sweet nutcracker-themed holiday delights will please palates of all ages.
Mercy Me’s Winter El Chalet (Patio Pleasures): For the second year, Mercy Me has been transformed into a charming winter chalet in partnership with IHG. Filled with snow-covered pine, ambient lighting, wood textures, and fireplaces throughout, Mercy Me’s El Chalet brings together a warm ambiance, hearty cuisine, festive cocktails, and the spirit of Patagonian winter celebrations to create an ideal seasonal escape. The chalet patio will open on December 3rd, welcoming guests from Tuesdays through Saturdays and offering Seasonal Sips and Festive Fare. For more information, click here.
Snow Globe Pop Up at Hi-Lawn: Hi-Lawn has unveiled “The Dome” – a spherical, immersive “gastro-gallery under the stars” experience. Snowglow at The Dome is embracing European-inspired comfort foods, with an a la carte menu of shareable small plates from esteemed chef Nathan Beauchamp. Find comfort in dishes such as fondue raclette, luxe lobster bisque, and seasonal smørrebrød, plus a filet-for-two. For more information, click here.
Blitzen’s Bar at Omni Hotels & Resorts: This holiday season, Omni Hotels & Resorts is partnering with renowned mixologist Julie Reiner to launch Blitzen’s Bar pop up Holiday bar. From November 15th - December 30th, the exclusive menu at Blitzen’s will feature innovative libations from Reiner. Upon entering Blitzen’s Bar at The Omni Homestead Resort, guests will be transported to a joyful wonderland that evokes an over-the-top festive ambiance with an elevated look and feel. Drawing inspiration from classic holiday flavors the 12-cocktail menu from Reiner will feature fun twists on the classics, as well as festive garnishes. For more information, click here.
A Toast to Staying Toasty at Park Hyatt: Park Hyatt has debuted its Fire Garden. he newly created outdoor oasis is reflective of a sunken garden with this Zen-like space which is ideal for unwinding with family and friends to enjoy the crisp temperatures offset by the working firepits and cozy blankets provided on the terrace. The Fire Garden is open seven days a week, from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. (weather permitting). Seating is available on a first come, first serve basis. o keep one’s spirits warm, guests can savor handcrafted winter cocktails that will be available exclusively at the Fire Garden. Choices include the Gingerbread Martini with vanilla vodka, Irish cream and ginger; Chai White Russian with chair spiced cream, spiced rum and cinnamon, and Hot Toddy with cognac, rooftop honey, lemon and cloves. For more information, click here.
Jingle Bar at Union Market: Step into the festive world of Jingle Bar at Union Market, where holiday cheer meets creative mixology. Enjoy cocktails brimming with seasonal flavors and merry vibes, making it the perfect spot to celebrate the season. Open now through Christmas, with hours as follows: Thursday and Sunday from 5:00 - 10:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5:00 - 11:00 p.m. 1346 4th St NE; click this link to see more information.
Swingers, the Crazy Golf Club’s, Winter Courtyard: In partnership with Campari, Swingers is transforming into an enchanting holiday setting this season. The space has been transformed into a magical winter wonderland with snow-dusted trees, twinkling fairy lights, festive decor, seasonal cocktails, light bites, a winter-themed prize wheel, and festive photo opportunities. For more information, click here.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS:
Visit MoCo’s Holiday Hub: Montgomery County, Maryland, offers a diverse range of holiday activities for residents and visitors alike. This season, Visit Montgomery has launched the "Holidays the MoCo Way" campaign, which includes a dedicated Holiday Hub at VisitMontgomery.com/Holiday. The Hub is designed to help visitors explore the county’s seasonal events, activities, and dining options. The Holiday Hub provides information on everything from seasonal activities to special offers and curated holiday itineraries. Visitors can enjoy holiday-themed events such as watching A Christmas Carol at Olney Theatre or strolling through Brookside Gardens’ "Garden of Lights," featuring over a million lights spread across 50 acres. For those looking for a drive-through experience, the Winter Lights Festival at Seneca Creek State Park offers a scenic view of illuminated holiday displays.
A Dickens Holiday in Middleburg: During the month of December the Town of Middleburg will transform into the ultimate holiday destination. The historic town, located in the heart of Virginia’s horse country, will sparkle with festive decorations during the holiday season. The town will also host family-friendly activities including a dog parade, a Dickens-themed festival, and much more. Find out more info here.
Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker: The Washington Ballet's holiday show features the Nutcracker. This D.C.-themed production features dancing cherry blossoms, cardinals, and famous figures like Betsy Ross, Harriet Tubman, and George Washington as the Nutcracker. Amidst the charming streets of Georgetown and cherry blossom trees, stunning dance performances and nods to DC’s rich history make this an unforgettable experience for all ages. The Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker will transport audiences into a winter wonderland that has become a lasting holiday tradition not to be missed. Get tickets here.
Bethesda Winter Wonderland: From now through December 24, step into Santa’s Workshop, specially designed to be a hands-on holiday experience. Children are invited to actively engage in festive activities, from writing and sending letters at the North Pole Post Office enjoying Mrs. Claus’ weekly story time, and creating holiday masterpieces in Comet’s Craft Room including exclusive mini build classes with LEGO. The spirit of giving is woven throughout with gift wrapping provided by local nonprofit organizations, including the Girl Scouts, Hope Connections—dedicated to supporting those affected by cancer—and Sleep in Heavenly Peace—committed to building and delivering beds to children in need. Santa’s Workshop is more than just a visit; it’s a fully immersive experience where holiday magic comes to life through creativity, compassion, and community.
Gingerbread Houses at Cork Wine Bar & Market: Join in the holiday fun and decorate your perfect gingerbread house while enjoying hot chocolate, sweet treats, and festive cheer with friends and family. $60 per house. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information or questions about this event, click here.
A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre: Ford’s Theatre Director Paul R. Tetreault announced that Craig Wallace (Fences, Necessary Sacrifices, Death of a Salesman, The Guard, Driving Miss Daisy) will return to Ford’s to reprise the role of Ebenezer Scrooge for the company’s holiday production of A Christmas Carol. Also returning to A Christmas Carol are Kimberly Gilbert (The Trip to Bountiful, Born Yesterday, Jefferson’s Garden) as the Ghost of Christmas Present, Justine “Icy” Moral (Ragtime, Into The Woods) as the Ghost of Christmas Past and the Ghost of Christmas Future and Joe Mallon (Little Shop of Horrors, Shout Sister Shout, One Destiny) as the Clock Vendor. More information here.
A Christmas Carol at The Olney Theatre: Renowned Washington actor, Michael Russotto will substitute for Paul Morella in the 15th edition of the latter’s solo adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas at Olney Theatre Center. The show runs through December 29, 2024. Originally conceived, adapted, and staged by Paul Morella, his version of the story is distinguished by its faithfulness to Dickens’ prose, as well as by the fact that a single actor plays every one of the play’s nearly fifty characters. More information here.
Decorated House Tours: Explore the lives of turn-of-the-century Washingtonians on a tour of the historic home of brewer and immigrant Christian Heurich at the Heurich House Museum. Step back in time to the year 1894, and see things from the eyes of household staff, Heurich brewery workers, the craftspeople who built his home, the brewer himself, and his wife Amelia. Get tickets here.
A Mass for Christmas Eve: Baroque Music for the Season at Folger Shakespeare Theatre: Folger Consort, the early music ensemble-in-residence at the Folger Shakespeare Library, continues its beloved DC holiday tradition, hosting eleven concerts of A Mass for Christmas Eve: Baroque Music for the Season from Friday, December 6 through Sunday, December 15. Performances will take place at the historic Elizabethan-styled theater, adorned for the season to create an immersive holiday ambiance. This year’s centerpiece is Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit pour Noël, a Christmas Mass composed in 1694. Known for his beguiling blend of baroque dance rhythms and sophisticated harmonies, Charpentier drew inspiration from traditional French noels, creating a work rich in folk-inspired melodies that resonate with the joy and reverence of the season. folger.edu
The Darcy: From December 2nd - January 28th, the lobby of the hotel will transform into an Unapologetically DC LEGO Art Installation. You are invited to view the mind-boggling display of LEGO creations from Santa's festive preparations to a jaw-dropping replica of DC's iconic Pennsylvania Avenue, all crafted with the beloved little bricks. Visitors can embrace their inner child and cast their vote for their favorite masterpiece in person or on social media.
PUT ON YOUR SKATES:
DowntownDC Holiday Skate Spectacular: Join the DowntownDC BID for the Holiday Skate Spectacular at the National Building Museum’s Great Hall from December 16th to January 4th. Enjoy free skating on an indoor synthetic ice rink daily from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Bring skates or rent a pair for $5. Don’t miss special guest appearances, food, and family-friendly activities, including theme days. Skating is free and open to all. Click here to learn more.
Gaylord National: Experience the beloved ICE! attraction at Gaylord National. This year’s theme is A Charlie Brown Christmas from November 15th - December 28th. Don their signature blue parkas and step into a wonderland carved by artisans out of 2 million pounds of ice. For more information, click here.
Sculpture Garden: The DC Sculpture Garden ice rink reopens November 23, 2024–March 2, 2025 (weather permitting). Enjoy Pavilion Café and pop-up performances from Team USA and local figure skaters at 7:00 p.m. with a meet-and-greet to follow. To purchase a ticket, click here.
Washington Harbor: The Washington Harbor Ice Rink is officially open for the holiday season! Enjoy scenic view of the Potomac River, Kennedy Center, Key Bridge, and more while skating. For more information, click here.
