Ready to jump into 2026? This year will be full of music, art, and festivals throughout Northern Virginia. Get a taste of the fun with these 14 January events happening in NoVA and DC.
January 1
First Day Hikes Winter Fest
Bundle up in your warmest hiking gear and celebrate the new year by exploring nature, sipping a hot beverage by a campfire, and creating nature-inspired crafts. The event includes several guided excursions, including a 7:30 a.m. sunrise hike. Mason Neck State Park: 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton, free
January 2–31
Toy Stories Art Exhibit
Browse toy-inspired art pieces curated by Gordon Thomas Frank and created by NoVA-area artists. The exhibit highlights the joy of play and evokes childhood nostalgia through the creative expression of toys. Del Ray Artisans Gallery: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, free
Through January 4
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Watch as the cynic Grinch schemes to steal Christmas from the festive Whos in Whoville. The production features vibrant sets and costumes inspired by the original animated movie. The National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $67.70
January 7–18
Shen Yun
Take a journey through 5,000 years of pre-communism Chinese history and culture at this immersive production. Along with traditional Chinese dance, the performance features original orchestral work, patented scenographic effects, detailed costumes, and vibrant backdrops. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St., Washington, DC, $85–$290
January 9–10
International Saxophone Symposium
Hosted by the United States Navy Band, this two-day event features a mix of performances and lectures for musicians that highlight the prominence of the saxophone in jazz and classical music. The U.S. Navy Band Commodores will perform a concert with jazz saxophonist and composer Walter Smith III. Center for the Arts at George Mason University: 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, free
January 15
Jesca Hoop
This folk singer-songwriter and guitarist blends several music styles and genres in her latest album, Selective Memory. Hoop has been creating music since her teenage years, and some of her best-known hits are “Memories Are Now” and “Sailor to Siren.” Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $27
January 16–21
The Del McCoury Band
Grab tickets to see this Grammy Award–winning bluegrass band. Led by McCoury and his sons, Ronnie and Rob, the band is touring its 2024 album Songs of Love and Life, featuring hits like “Just Because” and “Evangeline.” The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, $65.50–$87
January 16–25
Grease
Pied Piper Theatre is putting on a performance of the 1971 rock-and-roll musical that follows “greaser” Danny Zuko and new girl Sandy Dumbrowski as they navigate high school in the 1950s. Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas, hyltoncenter.org, $30
January 19
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Peace Walk and Parade
For the 21st year in a row, DC will celebrate and honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a parade and 2-mile peace walk along Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Washington, DC, free
January 19–20
Del Water Gap
Del Water Gap — a solo project from Brooklyn-based indie-pop musician S. Holden Jaffe — is on tour following the release of the new album Chasing the Chimera. Jaffe will be joined by indie-pop singer-songwriter Hannah Jadagu. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, Washington, DC, $49.80
January 24–25
Monster Jam
Watch as eight skilled monster truck drivers compete to be the best in racing, skills, and freestyle motorsport competitions. Drivers will flip, spin, jump, and perform tricks and stunts around the track in decorated trucks for a panel of judges. There will also be a pit party and post-event driver meet-and-greet. Capital One Arena: 601 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $38–$212
Through January 25
Into The Woods
Witness a local adaptation of the Tony Award–winning Broadway musical that follows enchanting characters on their journey to break a witch’s curse. The original story featured fairytale favorites like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel. Workhouse Arts Center: 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, $47.35
January 30–31
Cabin Fever Film Festival
The Franklin Park Arts Center and the Town of Purcellville Arts Council are hosting their ninth annual film festival, featuring works by Loudoun County residents. This year’s theme is “Independence,” and prizes will be awarded after screenings on Saturday. Franklin Park Arts Center: 36441 Blueridge View Ln., Purcellville, $5
January 31
Snowflake Ball
Children ages 2 to 11 can dress up in their fanciest outfits for this Lovettsville event. The family-friendly ball includes light refreshments and wand- and crown-making stations. The Lovettsville Community Center: 57 E. Broad Way, Lovettsville, $15
Feature image of Monster Jam courtesy Feld Entertainment
This story originally ran in our January issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
