Looking to get out of the house this weekend? Whether you’re hosting out-of-town family or just going stir crazy, this weekend is full of fun events throughout the region.
AirSpace Live! The Future of Cooking in Space
December 18, 7–8 p.m.
Bring the whole family to learn something new about the latest innovations in cooking in space at this first-ever live podcast episode. Co-hosts of the AirSpace podcast Matt Shindell and Emily Martin will host special guests like the inventor of a next-generation space oven and an expert chef to discuss what technology is to come. National Air and Space Museum: 650 Jefferson Dr. SW, Washington, DC, free, registration required
The Improvised Shakespeare Company
December 18–23
Witness five performers create a Shakespeare-inspired show right in front of your eyes. The fully improvised show began in 2005 in Chicago, and its performers have been creating new and fresh masterpieces since. Grab tickets to multiple local dates, since each show is guaranteed to be an original experience. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $45
Step Afrika! Magical Musical Holiday Step Show
December 18–23
For the fourth year in a row, Step Afrika! is back in DC with an electric holiday step performance. Joined by DJ Nutcracker, award-winning performers will step to festive music in intricate costumes, using their bodies as instruments to create complex rhythms. Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater: 1101 6th St. SW, Washington, DC, starting at $59
Cocoa, Cookies, and Cows
December 19 and 21
Meet, pet, brush, and feed Highland cows and calves during this private, one-hour experience on this 74-acre Waterford farm. After spending time with the cows, warm up in a heated venue with hot cocoa and cookies. Bring your whole family along for a memorable holiday experience. Scarlet Springs Farm: 39755 Old Wheatland Rd., Waterford, $35 for children, $65 for adults
International Gem and Jewelry Show
December 19–21
Take advantage of one of the last events at the Dulles Expo Center before its closure later this month at this gem and jewelry show with over 150 exhibitors. Whether you’re looking to build your own collection of jewelry or shopping for a holiday gift for a loved one, this show features costume and fine jewelry with diamonds, freshwater pearls, rubies, 18-karat gold, and sterling silver. Dulles Expo Center: 4320 Chantilly Shopping Ctr., Chantilly, $6 online, $8 cash only at the door
Alexandria’s Official Christmas Bar Crawl
December 20, 4 p.m.–midnight
Dress up in your most festive holiday outfit and celebrate the season at Alexandria’s top bars with festive drinks, professional photographers, food specials, and free swag. Donate a toy with a value of $20 or more to a local Toys for Tots drop box for a free ticket to the crawl. Check in at Augie’s Mussel House and Beer Garden: 1106 King St., Alexandria, starting at $29.69
John Mulaney
December 20–21
Get ready to belly laugh at one of this award-winning comedian’s DC shows. Mulaney is known for his time spent as a writer on Saturday Night Live and his comedy specials Comeback Kid and Baby J. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, starting at $145
The Nutcracker
December 20–21
There is no better way to celebrate the holiday season than with a timeless performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. Performers from the Fairfax Ballet will be joined by guest soloists from New York City Ballet Emily Kikta and Aarón Sanz, as well as a live score performed by the Fairfax Symphony. Center for the Arts at George Mason University: 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, starting at $44
Loudoun Cider House Holiday Market
December 21, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Looking to get some last-minute holiday shopping in? Stop by Loudoun Cider House’s first holiday market with local artisan vendors like Loudoun Wicks, Designs by Rossana, Mango Creek, and more. Sip on ciders and beers from Loudoun Cider House and Bunnyman Brewing, grab a bite from a local food truck, enjoy music from DJ Rio with DC Rhythm, and browse unique gifts. 48 Fields Farm: 43372 Spinks Ferry Rd., Leesburg, $5 for children, $10 for adults
Caps and Cocoa Watch Party
December 21, noon–4 p.m.
Enjoy hot cocoa and ice skating at this outdoor skating rink before watching the Capitals take on the Detroit Red Wings at this watch party. The first 200 fans to stop by the Capitals table at the rink will receive a voucher for a free hot cocoa, and there will be special prizes, holiday activities, and giveaways throughout the day. The Wharf Ice Rink: 960 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, free
Feature image of the Improvised Shakespeare Company by Jill Petracek
