Christmas is here, and Northern Virginia and DC are full of festive things to do. Check out this week’s most exciting events from December 22 to 28.
DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
Through December 23
Grab a last-minute gift from a local artisan before this holiday market closes for the year. Browse over 30 local vendors offering art, clothing, jewelry, bath and body care, and more. Snack on mini donuts, hot cider, and chocolate-covered strawberries while you stroll through the outdoor market. 1500 block of New Hampshire Ave. NW, Washington, DC, free
The Nutcracker
Through December 28
Nothing says Christmas like a performance of Tchaikovsky’s world-famous ballet. Grab tickets to see over 380 dancers from The Washington Ballet dance through a set inspired by historic Georgetown, with George Washington as the Nutcracker. Warner Theatre: 513 13th St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $93
Benjamin’s Winter Circus Adventure
Through January 3
Enjoy gravity-defying acrobatics and comedy performances at this holiday-themed circus act inside a temperature controlled big-top tent. With unicycling, juggling, tightrope walking, and a motorcycle cage, this family-friendly, 90-minute show is an exciting way to celebrate the season. Dulles Town Center: 21100 Dulles Town Cir., Sterling, $25–$72
Bull Run Festival of Lights
Through January 4
Don’t miss your chance to witness 2.5 miles of dazzling lights from the comfort of your warm car at this annual festival. Stop by the carnival at the end of the light show for festive fun like a petting zoo, bonfires, and holiday vendors. Bull Run Regional Park: 7700 Bull Run Dr., Centreville, $30–$40
Into The Woods
Through January 25
Enjoy a local rendition of this 1986 Broadway musical based on several enchanting fairytales. Follow characters like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood as they work to break a witch’s curse. Workhouse Arts Center: 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, $47.35
Todd Wright’s Santa Clauster-f@%! Christmas Spectacular
December 23
Get into the holiday spirit with performances from several local bands and singers. Sing along to your favorite Christmas jams at this annual event in its 23rd year. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna, $27
Waterskiing Santa Show
December 24, 1 p.m.
Witness Santa, his elves, and more waterski through the Potomac River near historic Alexandria. Keep your eye out for the Grinch, who may try to ruin the holiday fun before Santa makes an appearance. Barca Pier: 2 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, free
Ivy and Coney’s Chinese Food and Movie Night
December 25
Looking to avoid Christmas crowds and have a relaxed day? Stop by this neighborhood bar decked out in Hanukkah decor for a cozy movie night on Christmas. 1537 7th St. NW, Washington, DC, free
Miracle on 34th Street
December 26–28
Don’t miss this heartwarming Christmas musical written by Meredith Wilson, the playwright known for The Music Man! The show is full of humor and merriment with songs like “Pinecones and Hollyberries” and “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.” Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $65
The Second City’s Jack Frost Roasting on an Open Fire
December 26–30
If holiday reruns are getting old, grab tickets to this seasonal comedy revue with songs, sketches, and improv acts. The Chicago-based improv troupe is sure to get a laugh, with notable alumni including Bill Murray, Jim Belushi, and Catherine O’Hara. Arlington Drafthouse: 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington, $54
Holiday for the Hounds
December 27, 1–6 p.m.
Treat your dog to a holiday celebration with photos with Santa and treats from local vendors. Enter your pup in doggy games, relay races, and best-dressed competitions for $25 gift card prizes, and get their energy out inside the dog park. Shipgarten: 7581 Colshire Dr., Tysons, free
Winter Skate Spectacular
December 27–February 8
Lace up your skates and get ready to take to the ice at this unique indoor experience inside the National Building Museum. After you skate, explore the museum’s exhibitions to learn about architecture, engineering, and landscaping, and stop by onsite café Konbini by Daikaya for Japanese comfort food. National Building Museum: 401 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $17–$20
Bela Dona Band
December 28
Relax after a busy holiday season at a performance from this local, all-women band. The DC-based group blends jazz, pop, and R&B in their upbeat go-go performances. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $53.30
Feature image of the DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle courtesy Diverse Markets Management
