This holiday season, the DC area is packed with kid-friendly fun for the whole family. From Disney classics brought to life with live music, to interactive movie parties, there’s no shortage of magical experiences. Whatever your age, these events promise a festive time for everyone.
Disney in Concert: A Dream Is a Wish
November 17, 6 p.m.
More than 160 members of the Young Artists of America bring your favorite Disney tales to life — including The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, and Aladdin — with live music and film footage. Dress as your favorite character for a chance at a special door prize. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $22
Finn
November 23–December 22
Dive into the depths with Finn, a brand-new Kennedy Center musical commission by Emmy-winner Chris Nee (Doc McStuffins, Vampirina). This underwater adventure follows Finn, a young shark aspiring to join the illustrious Shark Guard. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $25.30
My Father’s Dragon
November 24, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Celebrate the 75th anniversary of My Father’s Dragon with a magical adaptation of Ruth Stiles Gannett’s tale. Elmer Elevator, a plucky 9-year-old, embarks on a rescue mission to free a baby dragon on Wild Island using clever tricks and everyday items like lollipop sticks and rubber bands. Recommended for kids between 4 and 10. George Mason University Center for the Arts: 4373 Mason Pond Dr., Fairfax, starting at $19
Moana 2 Family Party
November 30, 10 a.m.
The Moana 2 Family Party features a screening of the new sequel with themed props, interactive activities, and a chance to dress up as your favorite character. Your ticket includes a conch shell necklace, a Heihei keychain, glow bracelets, a Kakamora craft, and a limited-edition enamel pin. Alamo Drafthouse: 20575 Easthampton Plz., Ashburn; 15200 Potomac Town Pl., Ste. 100, Woodbridge, starting at $15.36
Sesame Street Live! Say Hello
November 30, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Get ready to sing, dance, and play along with Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and the whole Sesame Street crew as Elmo’s puppy, Tango, leads a lively game of hide-and-seek. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $35
The Polar Express Movie Party
December 7, 11:30 a.m. and noon
All aboard for The Polar Express. This interactive holiday screening includes kid-friendly fun props like a Santa hat and sleigh bells, plus activity sheets. Alamo Drafthouse: 20575 Easthampton Plz., Ashburn; 15200 Potomac Town Pl., Ste. 100, Woodbridge, starting at $14.42
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
December 7–January 12
Step into 15th-century Paris as the bells of Notre Dame echo through the cathedral. This reimagined musical adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel and Disney’s animated film features Alan Menken’s score, new songs by Stephen Schwartz, and a story-theatre-inspired script by Peter Parnell. Workhouse Arts Center: 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, $25–$40
Jungle Book
December 13–15
Enter the jungle for a take on Rudyard Kipling’s classic. Orphaned Mowgli finds refuge with a wolf pack, but tensions rise when the fierce tiger Shere Khan threatens their safety. With contemporary twists, Kamala Sankaram’s score blends South Asian and Western traditions, complemented by Bollywood-inspired dance from Taal. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $25
Feature image courtesy George Mason University Center for the Arts
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