Travel and Dish

Best Live Theater Events

Get the family together for a night (or afternoon matinee) at one of DC’s amazing theater venues. There’s a variety of shows, from ballet, to acrobatics, to sing-alongs. You can even stop by that day to see if tickets are available. Here are some highlights.

• There’s no better tradition than experiencing Charles Dickens’ beloved Yuletide story of transformation and redemption. Buy tickets for “A Christmas Carol,” at Ford’s Theatre.
• See a spectacular version of the classic ballet “The Nutcracker” performed by the Washington Ballet at the Warner Theatre from Nov. 30 – Dec. 29, 2024.
• The annual “The Nutcracker” begins on November 27 through December 1, at the Kennedy Center. After the show, take a walk through The Reach for stunning views of the city skyline at night. 
• Enjoy Magical Cirque Christmas at the National Theater from Dec. 12-15.
• The newly renovated Folger Shakespeare Library hosts Folger Frost throughout the month of December with talks, holiday gifts for that book lover and a Sing-a-Long on December 13.
• Come see An Irish Carol  at The Keegan Theatre. This acclaimed play that subs pub-owning David for Scrooge with visitors from his past, present and future. December 4-31.
• For more than 25 years, The Studio Theater’s Washington Improv comedians fully embrace the idiosyncrasies of the holidays and turn it into a never-before-seen comedy show. From Dec 6 – 29 at 7:30 PM.

Shop For Unique Gifts

Washington DC has a wide variety of local vendors selling one-of-kind items, like handmade leather bags, kids toys, themed artwork, jewelry and hats. Let’s shop small this season!

• Head to Union Market  to catch a grab a bite to eat, and do some shopping at the Holiday Pop-Up Market, every Sunday and Friday from 10:30 am until 5 pm. Stop by La Cosecha while you’re in the neighborhood.
• The magical Downtown Holiday Market returns to Penn Quarter with local vendors, light bites and festive décor. The market runs from November 22 – December 23, 12 – 8 pm daily.
• Eastern Market Main Street hosts its annual holiday market The Holly Days with live music, food and window displays from Nov. 26 – Dec. 22. 
• Check out the new Holiday Market at Dupont Circle from November 22 – December 15 with 34 vendors, holiday treats and music. 
• Enjoy an authentic European-style market at the Heurich House Museum. Christkindlmarkt is held in the Castle Garden on Dec. 6, 7 and 8 and features dozens of local artisans.
• City Center DC is the place to shop for high end, luxury items, dine at elegant restaurants like Centrolina and Seven Reasons, plus pose under the glittering lights of this pedestrian friendly village style mall.