Ready to jump into a new year of art, music, and laughter? We have you covered. From lively flamenco dancing to knee-slapping comedy to thought-provoking artwork, these 15 January events in Northern Virginia will beckon in a year full of creativity and fun.
January 5–27
Visions of Resilience: Art for Climate Justice
This exhibit tells the story of how environmental problems affect marginalized communities. The art reveals the severity of climate change and encourages visitors to take action toward building a sustainable future for all. Del Ray Artisans Gallery: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, free
January 6
Navidad Flamenca
Enjoy flamenco dancing by the Furia Flamenca Dance Company and celebrate Día de Reyes (the Epiphany) the Spanish and Puerto Rican way. The whole family will enjoy the evening of lively holiday music and larger-than-life dances. The Alden Theatre: 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, $20–$30
January 13
Jeff Dunham: Still Not Canceled
Comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham brings his set to Fairfax. Named “America’s favorite comedian” by Slate, Dunham is sure to deliver hilarious jokes with the help of his cast of puppet characters. EagleBank Arena: 4500 Patriot Cir., Fairfax, starting at $56
January 16–February 4
That’s What Friends Are For: Nova Y. Payton Sings Burt Bacharach
Known for her performance in the internationally staged musical 3 Mo’ Divas, Nova Y. Payton’s soprano voice has resonated with audiences across the country. Now, the singer belts out the hits from Burt Bacharach’s six-decade career. Payton will sing classics like “I Say a Little Prayer” and “Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head.” Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, $45
January 17
An Evening with Jill Barber
For 20 years, Canadian folk-jazz singer Jill Barber has performed for audiences from Japan to Mexico to Australia. Now, Barber brings her latest album, Homemaker, to Vienna. Through emotional lyrics, Barber uses her music to tell deeply personal tales of motherhood, marriage, and identity. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $25–$30
January 17–March 24
Jersey Boys
The Tony Award–winning best musical brings to life the coming-of-age story of four blue-collar kids who climb from street life to stardom with chart-topping pop songs like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “My Eyes Adored You.” Make the performance extra memorable by adding dinner to your show ticket. Riverside Center for the Performing Arts: 95 Riverside Pkwy., Fredericksburg, $55–$82
January 19
Batman Live in Concert
Watch the 35th anniversary of the smash-hit movie come to life as conductor James Olmstead leads a 50-piece orchestra that plays alongside the film. Come see your favorite superhero. Warner Theatre: 513 13th St. NW, Washington, DC, starting at $45
January 20
Fortune Feimster
Prepare for an evening of belly-aching laughs. Stand-up comedian Fortune Feimster enthralls audiences of all ages. Her Netflix comedy special, Good Fortune, earned her a Critics Choice Awards nomination. Her TV and movie appearances include Glee, The Mindy Project, and 2 Broke Girls. Capital One Hall: 7750 Capital One Tower Rd., Tysons, starting at $29.50
January 20
Lyfe Jennings
This R&B veteran layers his soulful melodies with a collection of instruments. Jennings uses the guitar, bass, and piano to augment his sound and charm audiences. The singer-songwriter has several hit albums and songs, including platinum-certified single “Must Be Nice” and gold-certified album The Phoenix. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $75
January 20
Mosaic Polar Plunge
Take an icy dip for a good cause. The polar plunge raises money for the Special Olympics. This event is family-friendly, and everyone gets a turn to jump into the chilly water. Come dressed for the costume contest. Mosaic District: 2910 District Ave., Fairfax
January 23
Brendan Abernathy
Singer-songwriter Brendan Abernathy has carved his own path in the music industry with his contemplative lyrics and melodies as he’s performed across the U.S. Abernathy is joined by Dylan Owen, who has received accolades for his poetic lyrics and idiosyncratic hip-hop style. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, $15–$18
January 26–February 4
tick, tick… BOOM!
This musical is making waves at The Kennedy Center. A semi-autobiographical tale, tick, tick… BOOM! draws inspiration from playwright Jonathan Larson’s artistic journey as he wrote RENT. This performance is directed by Emmy and Tony Award–winner Neil Patrick Harris. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC, $59–$349
January 27
Monster Jam
Rev your engines and head to Capital One Arena for a day of dirt, demolition, and danger. Kids will love seeing their favorite trucks and drivers up close. This action-packed event is sure to be fun for your whole family. Capital One Arena: 601 F St., Washington, DC, starting at $20
January 27
Nashville Emerging Artists Night
You don’t have to go all the way to Tennessee to hear the future of country music. Six aspiring artists take the stage, including The Voice contestant Connor Christian, singer-songwriter Allison Park, and James Madison University alumna Maddie Lenhart. The Barns: 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, starting at $27
January 27
Wine Chiller Murder Mystery 3-Course Culinary Experience
Spend an afternoon sipping and sleuthing. A winemakers’ awards banquet goes horribly wrong when a murder takes place, and it’s your job to find out who did it. Not only will you play detective, but you will also indulge in a three-course meal and a complimentary welcome drink. Stone Manor Boutique Inn: 13193 Mountain Rd., Lovettsville, $150–$180
Feature image of Jill Barber courtesy Jammin Java
This story originally ran in our January issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
