Signature Theatre Company
The seasonal vibes flow through these can’t-miss holiday-themed theatrical performances in the nation's capital.
As the winter holidays near, Christmas music plays, holiday displays and lights illuminate the District and, most importantly, you need ways to let your seasonal spirit flourish. The nation’s capital has plenty of options, so get that ugly sweater ready for a month’s worth of revelry at DC's theater and performing arts venues.
Fiddler on the Roof – Nov. 4 – Jan. 25, 2026
The welcoming environs of Signature Theatre are the perfect setting for a beautiful staging of this iconic musical. Fiddler on the Roof concerns Jewish milkman Tevye and his community in Czarist Russia as they deal with rising anti-Semitism and a world quickly changing around them. Legendary songs include “Sunrise, Sunset” “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Matchmaker”.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
ho ho ho ha ha ha – Nov. 12 – Dec. 21
Julia Masli’s award-winning show that changes literally every night returns to Woolly Mammoth Theatre with a special festive edition. The audience’s problems are invited to the stage and wow, does Masli have some surprising and hilarious solutions. Prepare to see a production unlike any you’ve ever seen.
Tickets
Woolly Mammoth Theatre, 641 D Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
A Christmas Carol – Nov. 20 – Dec. 31
Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace assumes the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in a lavish Victorian-style musical production of Charles Dickens’ timeless classic, the staging of which is a time-honored holiday tradition in the nation’s capital. Scrooge’s riveting journey alongside the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future is a joy even if you’ve experienced it a hundred times before – especially in one of the world’s most historic theaters.
Tickets
Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
The Washington Ballet presents The Nutcracker – Nov. 29 – Dec. 28
DC's favorite ballet company pulls out all the stops for this classic Christmas tale that features a special DC twist. The Russian ballet goes local thanks to a Nutcracker Prince in the likeness of George Washington and cherry blossom set designs. Set in historical 1882 Georgetown, you will be dazzled by an impressive roster of dancers and the beautiful Tchaikovsky score.
Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show – Dec. 5-21
DC’s Step Afrika!, the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping, puts on a holiday extravaganza at the illustrious Arena Stage this December. The family-friendly show will combine clapping, stomping and stepping for a dazzling array of percussive dance. Furry friends from the animal kingdom and a dance party hosted by DJ Nutcracker are also on the docket.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
An Irish Carol – Dec. 11-28
The Irish have something to say about that “Carol” of yours, Mr. Dickens. The Keegan Theatre stages this acclaimed play that subs pub-owning David for Scrooge. He’s distanced himself from his family through his profitable bar, but a visitor from the past, along with present figures and the prospect of a sad future could turn David around. With searing wit, fast-paced dialogue and a classic Irish sensibility, Matthew Keenan’s play is perfect for holiday laughs – and intended for audiences 16 and older.
Tickets
Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
NSO Pops: A Holiday Pops! with Melinda Doolittle – Dec. 12-13
The Kennedy Center and the National Symphony Orchestra collaborate yet again for one of the city's grandest holiday traditions. Singer Melinda Doolittle, known for her impeccable voice and work in the gospel and R&B genres, serves as special guest for stirring renditions of holiday classics, chart-topping pop hits and much more. Expect the Concert Hall to be lavishly decorated for the season.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Gay Men's Chorus of Washington, DC Holiday Show – Dec. 13-14, 20
Tap-dancing elves, a moving Christmas tree, snow and unforgettable choral renditions of holiday classics are all part of the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington, DC's annual holiday show. The festive program includes songs like “Sleigh Ride,” “Underneath the Tree” and “The 12 Rockin' Days of Christmas.”
Tickets
Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
The Washington Chorus presents A Candlelight Christmas – Dec. 14-22
With more than 130 voices working in tandem with brass, organ and percussion to create wonderful renditions of Christmas classics, the Washington Chorus is a wonder to behold. The 75-minute holiday music experience will offer thrilling special guests and a traditional candlelight processional that is an annual highlight.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
O Night Divine! – Dec. 15 & 24
The Choral Arts Society of Washington comes to the Kennedy Center's Concert Hall for an evening filled with Christmas classics and a celebration of Filipino culture in partnership and collaboration with the Philippine Embassy. The event's theme is "Light," as the performance aims to enliven the entire family's holiday spirit with carols, sing-along numbers and new compositions.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
National Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah – Dec. 18-21
This holiday epic, which explores the story of Jesus Christ as the Messiah, is performed at the Kennedy Center each year. The National Symphony Orchestra will be joined by standout singers and will be conducted by Ton Koopman at the beautifully decorated Concert Hall to tell Handel’s riveting tale through song.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
A Family Christmas – Dec. 20 & 24
Come one, come all to the Kennedy Center for the Choral Arts Society of Washington's family-friendly performance of numerous holiday classics. The event is perfect for kids, as they'll be taken on a "merry tour" of Christmas songs and can eagerly anticipate a special visit from Santa Claus.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
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