By Michael Mccarthy By Michael Mccarthy | December 9, 2024 | Feature, Events, Holiday, Entertainment,
This holiday season brings plenty of yuletide cheer and much more to DC.DC’s Winter Restaurant Week kicks off Jan. 22
1/22-28
WINTER RESTAURANT WEEK
The James Beard Foundation and the Michelin Guide pepper DC with recognition each year. Savor three-course menus at top restaurants across the city at discounted prices—perfect for food lovers to explore DC’s culinary scene. ramw.org
Through 2/29
ALL IS WON
Georgetown’s newest private gallery, 1223 Potomac Collective, hosts its inaugural exhibition. DC artist Corey Ramon Gibson’s work melds culture, history and the creator’s life experiences in a powerful show. 1223 Potomac St. NW, appointment only,202.813.2256,@1223potomacgallery
Don’t miss a massive tree, holiday fare and luxe shopping at CityCenterDC
Through 1/2
CITYCENTERDC HOLIDAYS
Wander through this luxe open-air marketplace for shopping, taking in festive lights (including a 75-foot tree and holiday creations by local artists) and enjoying seasonal meals and treats from some of DC’s best restaurateurs and pastry chefs. 825 10th St NW, Washington, DC.citycenterdc.com
Through 12/29
DEATH ON THE NILE
In Ken Ludwig’s dynamic adaptation of Agatha Christie’s classic at Arena Stage, detective Hercule Poirot finds himself embroiled in a tangle of deceit and passion aboard a Nile River cruise. When a murder shakes the vessel, Poirot leaps into action, determined to unmask a cunning killer who may not have finished their deadly work. 1101 6th St. SW,202.488.3300,arenastage.org
Through 12/23
DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY MARKET
The vibrant downtown bazaar unfolds in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, stretching over two blocks of F Street between 7th and 9th streets. Explore an array of eclectic treasures from pop-up vendors while live, seasonally inspired music fills the air. Locally roasted coffee and freshly made mini-doughnuts add to the festive mood, offering a cozy, uniquely DC holiday experience. Noon-8 p.m. daily, F St. between 7th and 9th streets NW,downtowndc.org
12/31
FIRST NIGHT ALEXANDRIA
Ring in the New Year with family-friendly festivities, live music and fireworks over the Potomac in heart of Old Town. Alexandria, Va.,firstnightalexandria.org
Through 1/2
HOLIDAYS AT NATIONAL HARBOR
Don’t miss the daily interactive holiday light display—the 60- foot tree offers a breathtaking show each evening—and experiences with views over the Potomac River. Visitors can also view fireworks above the river each Saturday evening through New Year’s. 165 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, Md.877.628-5427,nationalharbor.com
12/7-29
THE GREAT SILENCE
Local contemporary figurative artist Xenia Gray’s latest exhibit invites visitors into a world of curiosity and yearning that permeates human nature. The exhibit (15 figurative acrylic and graphic pieces) also examines humankind’s search for connection. Don’t miss Gray’s artist discussion on Dec. 14. IA&A at Hillyer Gallery,202.338.0325,athillyer.org
Through 12/28
UNION MARKET HOLIDAYS
The Pop-Up Market, hosted by La Cosecha’s Arttepuy, runs every weekend through the holidays. This lively market features a diverse array of talented local artists and makers, offering a unique selection of handcrafted gifts. It’s an ideal destination for holiday shoppers eager to support small businesses and immerse themselves in the festive season. 1309 Fifth St. NE,unionmarketdc.com
Through 1/4
ZOOLIGHTS
The pandas are back—and so is another radiant season of ZooLights at the National Zoo. Wander through a zoo illuminated by holiday lights, featuring live music and holiday markets. 3001 Connecticut Ave NW,202.633.4888,nationalzoo.si.edu
Photography by: NINA PALAZZOLO; MICHAEL MCCARTHY