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Take a look at the calendar below, where we've compiled more than 100 of the best holiday happenings in Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. for your convenience. If you notice we're missing one of your favorite holiday activities, please email us at calendar@washingtonparent.com to let us know. |
DEC 21 Friday
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 5+. Times and dates vary. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they lead Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. $$ Ford's Theatre, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 10+. Times and dates vary. Paul Morella's solo performance brings this unique version of a Christmas Carol to life. Performances sold out last season, so reserve early! Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
A Commedia Christmas Carol. All ages (family-friendly event). 8 p.m. Thu.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Masks, acrobatics, humbug, and holiday cheer abound in this fresh take on a classic. A Commedia Christmas Carol is a treat for the whole family. Buy tickets online. $$ Elstad Auditorium, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: A Christmas Carol. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: A Muppet Christmas Carol. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: It's a Wonderful Life. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
Berrend Dance Centre Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Shows on Dec. 13-16 & 20-24. Berrend Dance Centre students will participate in Olney Ballet Theatre's production of Mary Day's The Nutcracker. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Capture the Holiday Magic at White Flint. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Visit with Santa, ride the North Pole Express or listen to holiday music. White Flint has you covered for the holidays! FREE White Flint Mall, North Bethesda, MD.
Christmas Cookies & Fireside Tales. All ages (family-friendly event). 5:30 p.m. Enjoy Christmas cookies and fireside tales in the carriage house. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Christmas at Oatlands. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. It's holiday season on the plantation. Stop by to see vintage toys and decorations, keep warm by a bonfire and take candlelight tours. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Holiday Advent Calendar Art Project. All ages (family-friendly event). Sundown. Each day at sundown, the store will reveal "advent art" featuring a variety of local organizations and artist holiday creations. FREE The Christmas Attic, Alexandria, VA.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
Holiday Trains & Planes. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the holiday season miniature trains, villages, tunnels, and depots spark the imagination and bring history to life. Fascinating, constantly moving display of model railroads. $$ College Park Aviation Museum, College Park, MD.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Maryland Youth Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. on Dec. 14 and 21; 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 15, 16, 22 and 23. There is something for everyone in this version of The Nutcracker: a huge cannon that fires at the mice, a beautiful Christmas tree and whirling snowflakes. $$ Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center, Rockville, MD.
Olney Ballet Theatre Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. Dancers from Washington-area ballet schools will perform this traditional holiday musical. Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
Photos with Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). Santa will be available daily for photos and to listen to your wish list. $$ The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Arlington, VA.
Photos with Santa Claus. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat., noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Santa and Mrs. Claus are back in Old Town to take pictures with children. $$ Bike & Roll Alexandria, Alexandria, VA.
Robin Hood. Kids ages 8+. Times vary. Travel to Sherwood forest for some "swashbuckling fun" in this new take on the classic adventure story. Special 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 27 includes family-friendly activities following the performance. $$ Round House Theatre, Bethesda, MD.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Seasons of Light. Kids ages 5 to 10. 10:15 and 11:30 a.m. Mon.-Fri. Back for its 13th season, this signature Discovery Theater show celebrates the history of different cultures' winter holidays. Preregister. 1 p.m. shows also available on Dec. 11, 19 & 20. $$ S. Dillon Ripley Center, Washington, DC.
Step Afrika! Holiday Step Show. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Can Step Afrika! teach a polar bear to step? Make music with this step crew and special guest DJ Frosty the Snowman. $$ Atlas Performing Arts Center, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
The Washington Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. Septime Webre's take on The Nutcracker transports us back in time to historic Washington, D.C., and stars George Washington as the heroic Nutcracker. Select performances will take place at THEARC in D.C. $$ Warner Theatre, Washington, DC.
Visit with Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Visit Santa in his winter wonderland. Jordan Kitts Music will host special musical performances Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. FREE Dulles Town Center, Dulles, VA.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
Winter Solstice Bonfire. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. Welcome winter with a bonfire. More details to come. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Winter Solstice Celebration. Kids ages 3+. 7 p.m. Celebrate the first day of winter (and the year's longest night) with a campfire, cider, lantern-making and stories. Preregister. #232498. $$ Locust Grove Nature Center, Rockville, MD.
ZooLights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9 p.m. This free holiday event attracts more than 100,000 people each year. See lots of beautiful outdoor lights and enjoy snowless tubing, a conservation carousel and trackless train. FREE National Zoo, Washington, DC.
DEC 22 Saturday
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 5+. Times and dates vary. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they lead Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. $$ Ford's Theatre, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 10+. Times and dates vary. Paul Morella's solo performance brings this unique version of a Christmas Carol to life. Performances sold out last season, so reserve early! Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
A Commedia Christmas Carol. All ages (family-friendly event). 8 p.m. Thu.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Masks, acrobatics, humbug, and holiday cheer abound in this fresh take on a classic. A Commedia Christmas Carol is a treat for the whole family. Buy tickets online. $$ Elstad Auditorium, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: A Christmas Carol. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: A Muppet Christmas Carol. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: It's a Wonderful Life. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
Berrend Dance Centre Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Shows on Dec. 13-16 & 20-24. Berrend Dance Centre students will participate in Olney Ballet Theatre's production of Mary Day's The Nutcracker. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Capture the Holiday Magic at White Flint. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Visit with Santa, ride the North Pole Express or listen to holiday music. White Flint has you covered for the holidays! FREE White Flint Mall, North Bethesda, MD.
Christmas Cookies & Fireside Tales. All ages (family-friendly event). 5:30 p.m. Enjoy Christmas cookies and fireside tales in the carriage house. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Christmas at Oatlands. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. It's holiday season on the plantation. Stop by to see vintage toys and decorations, keep warm by a bonfire and take candlelight tours. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Holiday Advent Calendar Art Project. All ages (family-friendly event). Sundown. Each day at sundown, the store will reveal "advent art" featuring a variety of local organizations and artist holiday creations. FREE The Christmas Attic, Alexandria, VA.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
Holiday Hayrides. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. on Saturdays & Sundays. Take a hayride through the festival of lights. Then, warm up by the fire and enjoy refreshments. $$ Old Maryland Farm, Upper Marlboro, MD.
Holiday Model Train Display. All ages (family-friendly event). 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch G-gauge trains wind through a mini Western town in Colvin Run Barn. FREE Colvin Run Mill, Great Falls, VA.
Holiday Trains & Planes. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the holiday season miniature trains, villages, tunnels, and depots spark the imagination and bring history to life. Fascinating, constantly moving display of model railroads. $$ College Park Aviation Museum, College Park, MD.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Maryland Youth Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. on Dec. 14 and 21; 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 15, 16, 22 and 23. There is something for everyone in this version of The Nutcracker: a huge cannon that fires at the mice, a beautiful Christmas tree and whirling snowflakes. $$ Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center, Rockville, MD.
Olney Ballet Theatre Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. Dancers from Washington-area ballet schools will perform this traditional holiday musical. Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
Photos with Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). Santa will be available daily for photos and to listen to your wish list. $$ The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Arlington, VA.
Photos with Santa Claus. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat., noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Santa and Mrs. Claus are back in Old Town to take pictures with children. $$ Bike & Roll Alexandria, Alexandria, VA.
Robin Hood. Kids ages 8+. Times vary. Travel to Sherwood forest for some "swashbuckling fun" in this new take on the classic adventure story. Special 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 27 includes family-friendly activities following the performance. $$ Round House Theatre, Bethesda, MD.
Rocknoceros Singalong. All ages. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Rocknoceros is back for a sixth year of fun holiday songs and Rockno classics. Buy tickets online. $$ Jammin Java, Vienna, VA.
Santa's Secret Shop. Kids only. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shop for parents, siblings, grandparents and friends. You'll find a selection of unique gifts for less than $10. $$ Heritage Farm Museum, Sterling, VA.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Step Afrika! Holiday Step Show. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Can Step Afrika! teach a polar bear to step? Make music with this step crew and special guest DJ Frosty the Snowman. $$ Atlas Performing Arts Center, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
The Washington Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. Septime Webre's take on The Nutcracker transports us back in time to historic Washington, D.C., and stars George Washington as the heroic Nutcracker. Select performances will take place at THEARC in D.C. $$ Warner Theatre, Washington, DC.
Visit with Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Visit Santa in his winter wonderland. Jordan Kitts Music will host special musical performances Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. FREE Dulles Town Center, Dulles, VA.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
Xtreme Teens: Holiday Movie Night. Kids age 10 to 17. 7 to 10 p.m. Munch on some popcorn and watch "This Christmas" with your friends. FREE Bladensburg Community Center, Bladensburg, MD.
Xtreme Teens: Holiday Social. Kids ages 10 to 17. 7 to 10 p.m. Get in the holiday spirit with music, snacks and games. Wear holiday attire. FREE Beltsville Community Center, Beltsville, MD.
ZooLights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9 p.m. This free holiday event attracts more than 100,000 people each year. See lots of beautiful outdoor lights and enjoy snowless tubing, a conservation carousel and trackless train. FREE National Zoo, Washington, DC.
DEC 23 Sunday
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 5+. Times and dates vary. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they lead Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. $$ Ford's Theatre, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 10+. Times and dates vary. Paul Morella's solo performance brings this unique version of a Christmas Carol to life. Performances sold out last season, so reserve early! Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
A Commedia Christmas Carol. All ages (family-friendly event). 8 p.m. Thu.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Masks, acrobatics, humbug, and holiday cheer abound in this fresh take on a classic. A Commedia Christmas Carol is a treat for the whole family. Buy tickets online. $$ Elstad Auditorium, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: A Christmas Carol. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: A Muppet Christmas Carol. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: It's a Wonderful Life. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
Berrend Dance Centre Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Shows on Dec. 13-16 & 20-24. Berrend Dance Centre students will participate in Olney Ballet Theatre's production of Mary Day's The Nutcracker. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Capture the Holiday Magic at White Flint. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Visit with Santa, ride the North Pole Express or listen to holiday music. White Flint has you covered for the holidays! FREE White Flint Mall, North Bethesda, MD.
Christmas Cookies & Fireside Tales. All ages (family-friendly event). 5:30 p.m. Enjoy Christmas cookies and fireside tales in the carriage house. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Christmas at Oatlands. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. It's holiday season on the plantation. Stop by to see vintage toys and decorations, keep warm by a bonfire and take candlelight tours. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Holiday Advent Calendar Art Project. All ages (family-friendly event). Sundown. Each day at sundown, the store will reveal "advent art" featuring a variety of local organizations and artist holiday creations. FREE The Christmas Attic, Alexandria, VA.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
Holiday Hayrides. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. on Saturdays & Sundays. Take a hayride through the festival of lights. Then, warm up by the fire and enjoy refreshments. $$ Old Maryland Farm, Upper Marlboro, MD.
Holiday Model Train Display. All ages (family-friendly event). 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch G-gauge trains wind through a mini Western town in Colvin Run Barn. FREE Colvin Run Mill, Great Falls, VA.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Maryland Youth Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. on Dec. 14 and 21; 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 15, 16, 22 and 23. There is something for everyone in this version of The Nutcracker: a huge cannon that fires at the mice, a beautiful Christmas tree and whirling snowflakes. $$ Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center, Rockville, MD.
Messiah Sing-Along. All ages (family-friendly event). 8 p.m. Be part of Washington's most popular free holiday event. Sing along to Handel's masterpiece. Free, but tickets required. FREE Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
Olney Ballet Theatre Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. Dancers from Washington-area ballet schools will perform this traditional holiday musical. Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
Photos with Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). Santa will be available daily for photos and to listen to your wish list. $$ The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Arlington, VA.
Photos with Santa Claus. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat., noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Santa and Mrs. Claus are back in Old Town to take pictures with children. $$ Bike & Roll Alexandria, Alexandria, VA.
Robin Hood. Kids ages 8+. Times vary. Travel to Sherwood forest for some "swashbuckling fun" in this new take on the classic adventure story. Special 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 27 includes family-friendly activities following the performance. $$ Round House Theatre, Bethesda, MD.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Step Afrika! Holiday Step Show. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Can Step Afrika! teach a polar bear to step? Make music with this step crew and special guest DJ Frosty the Snowman. $$ Atlas Performing Arts Center, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
The Washington Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. Septime Webre's take on The Nutcracker transports us back in time to historic Washington, D.C., and stars George Washington as the heroic Nutcracker. Select performances will take place at THEARC in D.C. $$ Warner Theatre, Washington, DC.
Visit with Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Visit Santa in his winter wonderland. Jordan Kitts Music will host special musical performances Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. FREE Dulles Town Center, Dulles, VA.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
ZooLights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9 p.m. This free holiday event attracts more than 100,000 people each year. See lots of beautiful outdoor lights and enjoy snowless tubing, a conservation carousel and trackless train. FREE National Zoo, Washington, DC.
DEC 24 Monday
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 5+. Times and dates vary. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they lead Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. $$ Ford's Theatre, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 10+. Times and dates vary. Paul Morella's solo performance brings this unique version of a Christmas Carol to life. Performances sold out last season, so reserve early! Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: A Christmas Carol. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: A Muppet Christmas Carol. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
AFI Holiday Film Fest. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Head to the AFI Silver to take in a holiday classic with your family. Today's show: It's a Wonderful Life. $$ AFI Silver, Silver Spring, MD.
An Enchanted Christmas. All ages. 7 p.m. Dec. 17; 1 p.m. Dec. 24. . A treasured holiday tradition, enjoy the Choral Arts Chorus as they serenade you with Yuletide classics. Participate in a carol sing-along and leave with the joy of the season in your heart. $$ Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
Berrend Dance Centre Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Shows on Dec. 13-16 & 20-24. Berrend Dance Centre students will participate in Olney Ballet Theatre's production of Mary Day's The Nutcracker. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
Breakfast with Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Kids can share their last-minute Christmas wishes with Santa before he heads back to the North Pole. $$ Union Street Public House, Alexandria, VA.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Capture the Holiday Magic at White Flint. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Visit with Santa, ride the North Pole Express or listen to holiday music. White Flint has you covered for the holidays! FREE White Flint Mall, North Bethesda, MD.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Christmas at Oatlands. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. It's holiday season on the plantation. Stop by to see vintage toys and decorations, keep warm by a bonfire and take candlelight tours. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Holiday Advent Calendar Art Project. All ages (family-friendly event). Sundown. Each day at sundown, the store will reveal "advent art" featuring a variety of local organizations and artist holiday creations. FREE The Christmas Attic, Alexandria, VA.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Olney Ballet Theatre Presents: The Nutcracker. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. Dancers from Washington-area ballet schools will perform this traditional holiday musical. Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
Photos with Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). Santa will be available daily for photos and to listen to your wish list. $$ The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Arlington, VA.
Robin Hood. Kids ages 8+. Times vary. Travel to Sherwood forest for some "swashbuckling fun" in this new take on the classic adventure story. Special 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 27 includes family-friendly activities following the performance. $$ Round House Theatre, Bethesda, MD.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Visit with Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Visit Santa in his winter wonderland. Jordan Kitts Music will host special musical performances Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. FREE Dulles Town Center, Dulles, VA.
Water Skiing Santa. All ages (family-friendly event). 1 p.m. Santa is back on the water with his knee boarding reindeer, flying elves, jet skiing Grinch and Frosty the Snowman in a dinghy. Join the fun and sing along with local carolers. FREE National Harbor, MD.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
DEC 25 Tuesday
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Holiday Advent Calendar Art Project. All ages (family-friendly event). Sundown. Each day at sundown, the store will reveal "advent art" featuring a variety of local organizations and artist holiday creations. FREE The Christmas Attic, Alexandria, VA.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
J Fest & Fiddler on the Roof Sing-Along. All ages (family-friendly event). 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Highlights of this fest include Kosher food for purchase, arts and crafts, msuic, games and activities. At 3 p.m., there will be a free Fiddler on the Roof sing-along (ages 8+). $$ Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia, Fairfax, VA.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
DEC 26 Wednesday
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 5+. Times and dates vary. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they lead Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. $$ Ford's Theatre, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 10+. Times and dates vary. Paul Morella's solo performance brings this unique version of a Christmas Carol to life. Performances sold out last season, so reserve early! Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Christmas at Oatlands. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. It's holiday season on the plantation. Stop by to see vintage toys and decorations, keep warm by a bonfire and take candlelight tours. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Robin Hood. Kids ages 8+. Times vary. Travel to Sherwood forest for some "swashbuckling fun" in this new take on the classic adventure story. Special 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 27 includes family-friendly activities following the performance. $$ Round House Theatre, Bethesda, MD.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
ZooLights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9 p.m. This free holiday event attracts more than 100,000 people each year. See lots of beautiful outdoor lights and enjoy snowless tubing, a conservation carousel and trackless train. FREE National Zoo, Washington, DC.
DEC 27 Thursday
A Brown Bear, a Moon and a Caterpillar. All ages (family-friendly event).11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. See treasured stories by Eric Carle come to life with some help from the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. Buy tickets online. $$ Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 5+. Times and dates vary. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they lead Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. $$ Ford's Theatre, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 10+. Times and dates vary. Paul Morella's solo performance brings this unique version of a Christmas Carol to life. Performances sold out last season, so reserve early! Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Christmas at Oatlands. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. It's holiday season on the plantation. Stop by to see vintage toys and decorations, keep warm by a bonfire and take candlelight tours. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Grandma's Kwanzaa. All ages (family-friendly event). 11 a.m. Celebrate the African American family, community and culture by listening to the stories of Grandma Sally Kathryn Mims. For reservations, call 202-633-4844. FREE Anacostia Community Museum, Washington, DC.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
Holiday Story Time & Crafts. All ages (family-friendly event). 11 a.m. (preschoolers) and 1 p.m. (elementary schoolers). Hear stories about holidays and make a craft to take home. $$ Montpelier Mansion, Laurel, MD.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Kwanzaa Festival. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 9 p.m. Join us on the third day of Kwanzaa to celebrate "ujima," or working together. Light candles, learn African dance and more. FREE Tucker Road Community Center, Fort Washington, MD.
Little House on the Prairie: Winter Days. Kids ages 8 to 13. 10:30 a.m. Spend a day on the farm learning how Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family enjoyed the holiday season. Preregister. $$ Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville, MD.
New Year Noisemakers. Kids ages 2 to 12. 2 p.m. Get ready to celebrate the New Year by making noisemakers and other party items from things you can recycle from your house. Preregister. $$ Black Hill Visitor Center, Boyds, MD.
Robin Hood. Kids ages 8+. Times vary. Travel to Sherwood forest for some "swashbuckling fun" in this new take on the classic adventure story. Special 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 27 includes family-friendly activities following the performance. $$ Round House Theatre, Bethesda, MD.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
Wintertime at the Cabin. Kids ages 6+. 1 p.m. Learn how a pioneer homesteader would stay warm during the winter. Cook over an open fire, learn about homespun textiles, make a candle and more. Dress for the weather. Preregister. $$ Brookside Nature Center, Wheaton, MD.
ZooLights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9 p.m. This free holiday event attracts more than 100,000 people each year. See lots of beautiful outdoor lights and enjoy snowless tubing, a conservation carousel and trackless train. FREE National Zoo, Washington, DC.
DEC 28 Friday
1812 Winter Evening at Riversdale. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 9 p.m. Visit the house as it's decorated with seasonal greens and filled with the scents of gingerbread. Kids' activities and refreshments round out the event. Kids 12 and younger are free. $$ Riversdale House Museum, Riverdale Park, MD.
A Brown Bear, a Moon and a Caterpillar. All ages (family-friendly event).11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. See treasured stories by Eric Carle come to life with some help from the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. Buy tickets online. $$ Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 5+. Times and dates vary. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they lead Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. $$ Ford's Theatre, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 10+. Times and dates vary. Paul Morella's solo performance brings this unique version of a Christmas Carol to life. Performances sold out last season, so reserve early! Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Christmas at Oatlands. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. It's holiday season on the plantation. Stop by to see vintage toys and decorations, keep warm by a bonfire and take candlelight tours. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Kwanzaa: A Musical Celebration. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. Join Melvin Deal and the African Heritage Drummers & Dancers as they celebrate the spirit of Kwanzaa with music, dance, and ceremony. For reservations, call 202-633-4844. FREE Anacostia Community Museum, Washington, DC.
Magic Toy Shop Puppet Show. Kids ages 2+. 10 and 11:30 a.m. Join Puppeteer Bob Brown in a holiday production of the Magic Toy Shop. Afterward, stroll through the park and visit the animals. Preregister. $$ Frying Pan Farm Park, Herndon, VA.
Robin Hood. Kids ages 8+. Times vary. Travel to Sherwood forest for some "swashbuckling fun" in this new take on the classic adventure story. Special 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 27 includes family-friendly activities following the performance. $$ Round House Theatre, Bethesda, MD.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
ZooLights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9 p.m. This free holiday event attracts more than 100,000 people each year. See lots of beautiful outdoor lights and enjoy snowless tubing, a conservation carousel and trackless train. FREE National Zoo, Washington, DC.
DEC 29 Saturday
A Brown Bear, a Moon and a Caterpillar. All ages (family-friendly event).11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. See treasured stories by Eric Carle come to life with some help from the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. Buy tickets online. $$ Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 5+. Times and dates vary. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they lead Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. $$ Ford's Theatre, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 10+. Times and dates vary. Paul Morella's solo performance brings this unique version of a Christmas Carol to life. Performances sold out last season, so reserve early! Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Christmas at Oatlands. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. It's holiday season on the plantation. Stop by to see vintage toys and decorations, keep warm by a bonfire and take candlelight tours. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
Holiday Hayrides. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. on Saturdays & Sundays. Take a hayride through the festival of lights. Then, warm up by the fire and enjoy refreshments. $$ Old Maryland Farm, Upper Marlboro, MD.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Kwanzaa Arts & Family Fun. All ages (family-friendly event). 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn to make Zawadi (gifts) and greeting cards with paper, glitter, rubber stamps and more. For reservations, call 202-633-4844. FREE Anacostia Community Museum, Washington, DC.
Robin Hood. Kids ages 8+. Times vary. Travel to Sherwood forest for some "swashbuckling fun" in this new take on the classic adventure story. Special 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 27 includes family-friendly activities following the performance. $$ Round House Theatre, Bethesda, MD.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Uncle Devin's Winter Wonderland Holiday Show. Kids ages 5+. 10:30 a.m. This live, interactive musical performance features drummer Devin Walker. Buy tickets online. $$ Jammin Java, Vienna, VA.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
Xtreme Teens: New Year's Eve Jam. Kids ages 10 to 17. 7 to 10 p.m. Bring in the new year with skating and a great party. FREE Deerfield Run Elementary School Community Center, Laurel, MD.
ZooLights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9 p.m. This free holiday event attracts more than 100,000 people each year. See lots of beautiful outdoor lights and enjoy snowless tubing, a conservation carousel and trackless train. FREE National Zoo, Washington, DC.
DEC 30 Sunday
A Brown Bear, a Moon and a Caterpillar. All ages (family-friendly event).11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. See treasured stories by Eric Carle come to life with some help from the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. Buy tickets online. $$ Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 5+. Times and dates vary. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they lead Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. $$ Ford's Theatre, Washington, DC.
A Christmas Carol. Kids ages 10+. Times and dates vary. Paul Morella's solo performance brings this unique version of a Christmas Carol to life. Performances sold out last season, so reserve early! Buy tickets online. $$ Olney Theatre Center, Olney, MD.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
Bone Soup: A Kwanzaa Story. All ages (family-friendly event). 4 p.m. This musical theatre production uses educational songs, dances and characters to teach families about Kwanzaa. $$ Everlasting Life, Capital Heights, MD.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
Christmas at Oatlands. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1 to 5 p.m. Sun. It's holiday season on the plantation. Stop by to see vintage toys and decorations, keep warm by a bonfire and take candlelight tours. $$ Oatlands Plantation, Leesburg, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
Holiday Hayrides. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. on Saturdays & Sundays. Take a hayride through the festival of lights. Then, warm up by the fire and enjoy refreshments. $$ Old Maryland Farm, Upper Marlboro, MD.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Robin Hood. Kids ages 8+. Times vary. Travel to Sherwood forest for some "swashbuckling fun" in this new take on the classic adventure story. Special 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 27 includes family-friendly activities following the performance. $$ Round House Theatre, Bethesda, MD.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
ZooLights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9 p.m. This free holiday event attracts more than 100,000 people each year. See lots of beautiful outdoor lights and enjoy snowless tubing, a conservation carousel and trackless train. FREE National Zoo, Washington, DC.
DEC 31 Monday
A Brown Bear, a Moon and a Caterpillar. All ages (family-friendly event).11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. See treasured stories by Eric Carle come to life with some help from the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. Buy tickets online. $$ Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
A Little House Christmas. Kids ages 4+. Times vary. Celebrate the holidays with this heartwarming adventure that shows it's the simple things that make life worthwhile as Mary and Laura Ingalls learn the true meaning of Christmas. $$ Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. All ages (family-friendly event). Times and dates vary. See millions of twinkling lights, numerous holiday shows and beautiful decorations throughout the park. Many rides will be open, too! $$ Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
First Night Alexandria. All ages (family-friendly event). 2 p.m. to midnight. You'll find alcohol-free, family-friendly fun at this New Year's Eve celebration. This year, there will be fireworks at the finale! $$ Throughout Old Town, Alexandria, VA.
Gaithersburg Winter Lights Festival. All ages. 6 to 9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. See more than 360 illuminated vignettes and 65 animated displays in a 3.5 mile drive through beautiful Seneca Creek State Park. Visit Winter Woods, Teddy Bear Land, Toyland and more. Proceeds benefit local charities. $$ Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD.
Holiday Festival of Trains & Toys. All ages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. Closed holidays. Celebrate Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model trains. Weekend train rides with Santa and Frosty, daily indoor carousel rides, holiday exhibits and more. $$ B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Midnight Noon. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Celebrate the new year at noon with a concert by Baltimore band Milkshake + party hats, snow globes, noise makers and lots more. $$ Maryland Science Center, Baltimore, MD.
Noontime New Year's. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Celebrate the new year at noon with a parade, performances and crafts. $$ National Children's Museum, National Harbor, MD.
Rocknoceros New Year's Eve Party. All ages (family-friendly event). 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. This well-known trio will help you ring in the new year--at a kid-friendly hour. Buy tickets online. $$ Jammin Java, Vienna, VA.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Symphony of Lights - Midnight at 7. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. This New Year's celebration kicks off early enough for kids to take part. Enjoy the lights, food and other activities before the symphony closes. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Watch Night: Falls Church NYE Celebration. All ages (family-friendly event). 7 p.m. to midnight. Ring in the new year with free family entertainment. Highlights include a children's scavenger hunt, inflatables, balloons, face painting and performances. FREE Intersection of Broad St. and Washington St., Falls Church, VA.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
January
JAN 1 Tuesday
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Season's Greenings at the Botanic Garden. All ages (family-friendly event). 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conservatory is adorned with wreaths, garlands, living ornaments and more. Find model trains, buildings made of plants and plenty of poinsettias to celebrate the wonder of the winter holiday season. FREE U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Winter Festival of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 5 to 9:30 p.m. Don't miss this spectacular drive-through display of more than a million twinkling lights. Event is free Dec. 25. $$ Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, MD.
JAN 2 Wednesday
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
JAN 3 Thursday
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
JAN 4 Friday
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
JAN 5 Saturday
A Brown Bear, a Moon and a Caterpillar. All ages (family-friendly event).11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. See treasured stories by Eric Carle come to life with some help from the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. Buy tickets online. $$ Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
JAN 6 Sunday
A Brown Bear, a Moon and a Caterpillar. All ages (family-friendly event).11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. See treasured stories by Eric Carle come to life with some help from the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. Buy tickets online. $$ Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
Brookside Garden of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, which are decked out in more than a million twinkling lights. Closed Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1-3. $$ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD.
Christmas at Mount Vernon. All ages (family-friendly event). 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mount Vernon's halls are decked! Enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing and more. $$ Mount Vernon Estate, Mount Vernon, VA.
ICE! at Gaylord National Resort. All ages (family-friendly event). Times vary. Gaylord National's annual holiday attraction returns with the theme "Shrek the Halls." See two-million pounds of ice artfully carved into amazing Dreamworks-themed sculptures. $$ Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD.
Symphony of Lights. All ages (family-friendly event). 6 to 10 p.m. Walk and drive through a series of animated and stationary light displays as you listen to festive holiday music. $$ Symphony Woods, Columbia, MD.
Three Kings Day Celebration. All ages (family-friendly event). 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. This celebration kicks off with a live animal procession. See musical and dance performances, and receive gifts. Admission is free, but a small gift for a child is suggested. FREE GALA Hispanic Theater, Washington, DC.