With less than two weeks until Christmas, the holiday season is in full swing. From kid-friendly shows to seasonal food celebrations, here are some things to do the weekend of December 15–17.
Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon
December 15, 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Bring your family to watch dazzling fireworks along the Potomac River. The surrounding grounds will be adorned with wintry lights, and there will be Christmas carolers. Stop by the winter market for 18th-century crafts and purchase sweet treats from Half Crown Bakehouse. George Washington’s Mount Vernon: 3500 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Alexandria, $60 for guests 12 and older, $38 for 11 and younger, under 6 free
Michael Kosta
December 15–16, 7 p.m., 9:30 p.m.
This seasoned stand-up star and former pro tennis player is ready to deliver a weekend full of laughs. A senior correspondent on The Daily Show, Kosta is no stranger to the comedy scene. He has a one-hour stand-up special on Paramount+ and has appeared on late-night talk shows. For the 7 p.m. shows, admission is 21 and over unless accompanied by a parent. For the 9:30 p.m. shows, admission is 21 and over. Arlington Drafthouse: 2903 Columbia Pk., Arlington, $25
Dash: The Musical
December 15, 7:30 p.m.; December 16–17, 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m.
Move over, Rudolph. There’s a new reindeer in town. This holiday musical is about Dash, the new leader of Santa’s sleigh. The show is a Christmastime fantasy, complete with a Mrs. Claus cooking show and singing elves. Don’t miss the chance to bring your family to see this magical production. The James Lee Community Center Theater: 2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church, starting at $10
Old Town Manassas Arts & Crafts Christmas Market
December 16, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Stop by this market for some last-minute shopping. Over 60 artisans and small businesses are selling their handmade goods, such as paintings, jewelry, home décor, and clothing. Food vendors will offer an array of delights, from Asian crepes to Mexican street corn to ice cream. Manassas Museum Lawn: 9101 Prince William St., Manassas, free
HoliSLAY Drag Brunch
December 16, noon
There’s no better holiday drink than a mimosa. Bring your friends to City Tap House for a fabulous drag brunch, hosted by Crimsyn and with performances by three other drag queens. The meal will include a holiday-themed à la carte menu and seasonal cocktails. Make sure to come dressed in your finest ugly sweater. Reservations are highly encouraged. City Tap House: 20376 Exchange St., Ashburn, show is free, food and drinks extra
A Candlelight Christmas
December 16, 3 p.m.
Head downtown for a yuletide show by the Washington Chorus. Hear your favorite holiday tunes, with performances from a brass band and special musical guests. This 80-minute concert is a beloved tradition in the DC area and a must-see during the winter season. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $15
Historic Fredericksburg Holiday Walk
December 16, 3–8 p.m.
Spend your afternoon with a seasonal stroll through downtown Fredericksburg. You’ll see holiday lights and festive decorations. Choose between a 5K and 10K walk. At the halfway point, there will be homemade treats. You can bring your family, and even your dog (just make sure it’s on a leash). Start at The Italian Station Coffee Bar & Pastry Shop: 620 Caroline St., Fredericksburg, free
Downtown Fredericksburg Cookie Crawl
December 16, 4–8 p.m.
Santa isn’t the only person who gets to enjoy Christmas cookies. Purchase one tin with a baker’s dozen cookies or other desserts from participating businesses. Downtown Fredericksburg stores will offer exclusive discounts for cookie crawlers. There will be chances to win prizes and gift cards. 706 Caroline St., Fredericksburg, $50, plus processing fee
Celebrate the Season – Holiday with a Twist!
December 16, 7:30 p.m.; December 17, 3 p.m.
A jazz baritone and world whistling champion are joining forces for an unforgettable holiday performance. Joshua Banbury is a classically trained jazz singer who has performed with the New York Philharmonic and National Black Theater. Alexandria’s Chris Ullman has whistled his way to performances for President George W. Bush and the National Symphony Orchestra. You won’t want to miss a spectacular show by these world-class performers. December 16 show at Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall & Arts Center: 4915 E. Campus Dr., Alexandria; December 17 show at George Washington Masonic National Memorial: 101 Callahan Dr., Alexandria, starting at $5
Snow Maiden
December 16, 7 p.m.
This performance will transport you to a winter wonderland. The story is based on Snegurochka, a traditional Russian folktale. The play centers around a boy and a girl made from snow. Watch this production come to life, full of dance, acrobatics, and enchantment. Synetic Theater: 1800 S. Bell St., Arlington, starting at $25
Dickens of a Christmas
December 17, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Have a case of humbug? Middleburg has just the cure. Visit downtown Middleburg for a day of theater performances, markets, food, and drinks. At 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. there will be performances of A Christmas Carol. The show will feature interactions with the audience and stars New York actors. At 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m., there will be Dance Like the Dickens, where Shenandoah Valley Civil War Era Dancers will teach steps that will put anyone into a cheerful mood, even Scrooge. South Madison Street, Middleburg, free
Peppa Pig’s Sing-Along Party
December 17, 1 p.m.
Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, and Daddy Pig are hitting the Capital One Hall stage. You and your kids will be on your feet, singing and dancing for the entire show. Peppa is bringing special guests, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep, and Gerald Giraffe. Peppa fans of all ages are sure to love this 60-minute interactive show. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $30.75
Feature image courtesy George Washington’s Mount Vernon
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