October flew by in the blink of an eye, and somehow the holiday season is right at our doorstep. Between the shopping and meal prep, make sure to add a little fun to your hectic holiday schedule. Here are 21 fantastic concerts, plays, and festive events to add to your November calendar.
November 2
Marcus Mumford
Marcus Mumford, the lead singer of Grammy Award–winning band Mumford and Sons, is striking out on his own with a tour for his first solo album, Self-Titled. In the new LP, Mumford combines the earnest, raw vocals that defined the original band with vulnerable lyricism and a sound that leans more indie than folk to create a portfolio that is all his own. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC, starting at $39.50
November 3
Say Sue Me
This indie-pop group from Busan, South Korea, is an up-and-coming act whose sweet, personable sound and surf-rock influences are sure to make this show a must-see. Expect to hear tracks from The Last Thing Left, their newly released third album. Jammin’ Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $18–$35
November 5–6
DMV Chocolate and Coffee Festival
Chocolate and coffee go together like peanut butter and jelly, and with this weekendlong shopping experience, you can revel in the delectable combination alongside fellow mocha-lovers. Sample and buy gourmet coffees and chocolates, peruse the aisles for other unique gifts, and contribute to a food drive for local charity Food for Others. Dulles Expo Center: 4320 Chantilly Shopping Ctr., Chantilly, $10–$15, free for kids under 12
November 6
NatPhil Presents Broadway’s Brightest Lights
Love show tunes but don’t want to limit yourself to a single production? This musical experience features Broadway stars Megan Hilty, Michael Maliakel, and Luke Hawkins performing an array of Broadway’s biggest hits so lovers of the stage can see and hear all their favorites in one place. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, $22–$102
November 8–January 29
Into the Woods
Signature Theatre will take on one of Stephen Sondheim’s iconic works with Into the Woods, a vibrant, heartfelt examination of classic storybook characters and what happens after the happily-ever-after. The show combines a whimsical score with a script full of grim comedy for an overall thrilling musical experience. Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, $40–$87
November 10
Walk the Moon
Alternative pop-rock group Walk the Moon is celebrating the 10-year anniversary of its self-titled album with a tour. The band cemented themselves as a staple in the early 2010s with songs like “Anna Sun” and “Shut Up and Dance,” so the tour is sure to be chock-full of bubbly, energetic pop anthems. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, Washington, DC, resale prices vary
November 11–13
Alexandria Film Festival
For movie-lovers, this festival serves as a weekendlong celebration of independent filmmakers breaking boundaries across genres. Catch viewings, sit in on filmmaker Q&As, and expand your knowledge of the world of filmmaking today. 500 E. Alexandria Ave., Alexandria, $15–$75
November 11
Veterans Day Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery
In observance of Veterans Day, remembrance ceremonies will be held at the Arlington National Cemetery’s Memorial Amphitheater. Ceremonies include a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and a parade of colors from veteran organizations. 214 McNair Rd., Arlington, free
November 11–13
Northern Virginia Christmas Market
Get your holiday shopping done early with this one-stop shop, full of unique vendors offering a wide array of art, jewelry, and collectibles, plus a selection of gourmet food. The market boasts a total of 225 artisans, so you’re likely to find something for everyone on your list. Dulles Expo Center, South Hall: 4368 Chantilly Shopping Ctr., Chantilly, $8, free for kids under 12
November 12
My Brother, My Brother and Me
In need of some advice? Co-hosts and brothers Griffin, Justin, and Travis McElroy have been giddily answering the world’s burning questions on this weekly comedy advice podcast for over a decade, and now, fans have the chance to experience the trio’s antics live on tour. DAR Constitution Hall: 1776 D St. NW, Washington, DC, $39.50
November 13
Sugar Skull! A Día de Muertos Musical Adventure
Let the talented cast of Mexico Beyond Mariachi lead you through a magical world of bright colors and sugar skulls come to life with this family-friendly musical celebration of the Day of the Dead. It’s a fun, creative show that can teach audiences from all walks of life about the traditions of the holiday. Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas, $15
November 15–27
Chicago
With tunes like “Cell Block Tango” and “All That Jazz,” it’s no wonder that this classic Broadway musical has kept audiences captivated for so many years. Don’t miss the razzle-dazzle while it’s in town. The National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC, prices vary
November 17–20, 25–27
Lucketts Holiday House
Immerse yourself in charming holiday décor in this 3,000-square-foot farmhouse, which is transformed into a Christmas paradise for the season. Shop for decorations, and don’t miss the refreshments in the kitchen. Old Lucketts Store, 42350 Lucketts Rd., Leesburg, $25
November 19
Bourbon & Bubbles
Whether you want to expand your palate with tastings, learn about mixology from the professionals, or just taste for fun, this event is the perfect opportunity for lovers of whiskey and Champagne. Proceeds benefit the Wolf Trap Foundation’s arts and education programs. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $250
November 18–19
Jeffrey Osborne
This singer-songwriter began his career as the drummer and lead singer of R&B and funk group L.T.D., and in the decades since, he has made a name for himself across genres, including R&B, soul, and pop. He’s got a smooth, old-school sound that will be right at home in a venue like The Birchmere. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $89.50
November 18
Barro Colorado Island 100 Years of Discoveries and Wonder
Listen for howler monkey calls and keep an eye out for jaguar tracks in this temporary exhibit, modeled after the jungles of Panama. The exhibit celebrates the 100-year anniversary of the Barro Colorado Island Research Station, a crucial location for biology research. National Museum of Natural History: 1000 Madison Dr. NW, Washington, DC, free
November 18
Alton Brown Live: Beyond the Eats
Have a passion for cooking — or for watching other people cook? This interactive culinary variety show combines Food Network star Alton Brown’s quick wit, knowledge of food science, and talent in the kitchen to make for an exhilarating (and tasty) evening of entertainment. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $45
November 22–27
Bluey’s Big Play
The stars of this Emmy-winning kids’ show are brought to life with an original stage adaptation. It’s everything kids love about Bluey — the games, the adventure, the friendships — on a scale that transcends the television. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $29–$99
November 25–January 1
Enchant
Nationals Park transforms into a winter wonderland for the holiday season with help from 4 million glimmering lights. The maze of glowing decorations makes for an exciting outing for all ages, and vendors at the Christmas Village create an ideal opportunity to get some holiday shopping done. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC, starting at $18 for kids, $34 for adults
November 25–26
Mount Vernon by Candlelight
Take a tour through George Washington’s estate at night for a chance to learn about pre–Revolutionary War Virginia. Actors portraying the president’s family and friends will walk you through the lantern-lit grounds and tell tales of Washington’s life. George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, $18–$36
Closes November 27
One with Eternity: Yayoi Kusama in the Hirshhorn Collection
If you haven’t yet seen Yayoi Kusama’s famous mirror rooms at the Hirshhorn, don’t miss your chance. The artist’s brightly colored, transcendent sculptures have garnered huge praise, playing with the viewer’s sense of perspective and creating an almost psychedelic effect. The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden: Independence Avenue and 7th Street SW, Washington, DC, free with timed-entry pass
Feature image courtesy Enchant Christmas
This story originally ran in our November issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
