1/9-11
Diana Ross
Kick off the new year right as Diana Ross takes the stage at The Kennedy Center for three nights. The certified icon has been performing for more than 50 years and seems to have no plans to stop. This tour spans Ross’ 14 top-10 albums and 18 No. 1 hits featuring the singer’s soulful sound. Tickets from $39, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, kennedy-center.org
1/17-3/1
A Thousand Splendid Suns
Adapted from the bestselling novel Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, the play follows the unlikely friendshp of two young people in war-ravaged Kabul. The stirring performanance reveals the unlimited boundaries of the human spirit and love. Tickets from $56-$72, Arena Stage, arenastage.org
1/18
National Symphony Orchestra’s Beauty and The Beat
A new sound emerges when National Symphony Orchestra principal second violinist Marissa Regni and principal percussionist Eric Shin find harmony with their distinct styles. Together, the musicians take families on a rhythmic ride that is a thrill for all ages. Tickets $20, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, kennedy-center.org
1/24
Washington Auto Show
Ranking among the nation’s top auto showcases, this show rockets into town for 10 days of luxury vehicles, cutting-edge innovation and historic automobile models. Ferrari, Rolls-Royce and Maserati, among other luxe rides, will be on display. The event incorporates driving experiences and VIP tours with experts in the industry to take you for a spin. Tickets $12, VIP tour $42, Walter E. Washington Convention Center, washingtonautoshow.com
2/8
Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival
A dream team of treats: Find chocolate, wine and whiskey of all varieties at this delicious event. Indulge in unlimited premium wine and whiskey pours, and satisfy your sweet tooth with a sampling of chocolates, cakes and cookies. DC’s first chocolate fondue bar with all the dippings is sure to be a highlight. Tickets from $45, Dock 5 at Union Market, chocolatewinewhiskey.com
2/8
Love Songs: The Beatles Vol. 7
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, The Beatles’ best love songs come to concert featuring Todd Wright, Cal Everett, The Lofgren Brothers, Chuck Sullivan and Ronnie Newmyer. The performers pay tribute to the band and blend together to emulate the unmistakable Beatles sound. Tickets from $25-$75, VIP couple’s package $150, The Hamilton Live, live.thehamiltondc.com
2/11-16
The King’s Speech
The King’s Speech returns to its original form as David Seidler’s play makes its U.S. theatrical debut. The 2010 Oscar-winning film introduced audiences to the true story of King George VI’s struggle with speech and inspiring triumph. Now, this intimate history unfolds onstage, bringing audiences even closer. Tickets from $54, premium seats $154, National Theatre, thenationaldc.com
2/13-15
NSO Pops: Megan Hilty and Cheyenne Jackson
Tony nominee Megan Hilty and Grammy nominee Cheyenne Jackson team up alongside conductor and actor Damon Gupton for a Valentine’s Day weekend celebration. The show will incorporate fan-favorite songs from Broadway, film and the Great American Songbook that will have audiences on their feet. Tickets from $29, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, kennedy-center.org
2/25
Through the Lens: Return to the Russian Arctic
This exhibit showcases the work of photographer Evgenia Arbugaeva, a 2018 National Geographic Media Innovation Fellow who documented how people living along the Northern Sea Route in the Russian Arctic cope with current political, economic and climatic changes. Tickets $25, National Geographic Society Headquarters, nationalgeographic.org
2/28
The Lumineers
On tour for their latest album, III, The Lumineers bring their signature sound with new elements to DC. Unlike their past music, this album incorporates chapters and tells a story through each song. Onstage, they bring this narrative to life with myriad instruments and vocals in perfect harmony. Tickets from $68, Capital One Arena, capitalonearena.com
2/29
The Official DC Cocktail Festival
Prepare your senses for a crafted cocktail experience at The Official DC Cocktail Festival. Sample 15 drinks from the city’s best mixologists who stir, shake and pour live at each session. Go VIP to gain early access and spend even more time sipping. Tickets $30, VIP $60, National Union Building, dccocktailfestival.com
Photography by: Gregg Deguire/Getty Images
