Washington, DC is an absolutely romantic destination during the holiday season, and travelers planning to come through will have a lot to look forward to. The city comes to life every December with an array of events including lavish singing and dancing productions, outdoor festivals, shopping markets, and more. To start planning your December trip to DC, check out this guide to how we do the holidays.
The Gay Men’s Chorus Holiday Show
December 14th Every year, one of the earliest and most beloved holiday productions in Washington, DC takes the stage at the esteemed Lincoln Theatre. Come out for the 2019 edition of Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington presents: The Holiday Show. The extravaganza will feature an extraordinary progression of performers including tap dancers, nutcrackers, dancing drag queens, and a whole lot more. The Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC is one of the longest-running LGBT choral organizations in the country, and it is home to over 300 singing members. You can enjoy a wide variety of musical performances throughout the year from The Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC, but none will have the same spirit as this festive production. Come join this beloved institution carry out one of the most vibrant and festive traditions in town at this year’s Holiday Show. The Lincoln Theatre. Washington, DC
Zoo Lights
November 29th-January 1st Christmas lights are one of the best parts of the holiday season, bringing bright, colorful spirit to the wintry night skies of cities like Washington, DC around the world. Be sure to catch one of the best displays of such vibrant bulbs at this year’s Zoo Lights display at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute. Join thousands of other visitors who will come out to see more than a half-million environmentally-friendly LED lights illuminate the zoo night after night. There will be interactive displays, glowing animal lanterns, and plenty of instagrammable moments. ZooLights nights will also feature live musical performances, tasty holiday treats, and holiday shopping opportunities. Smithsonian’s National Zoo. Washington, DC
Holiday Festival at Marvin Gaye Park
December 21st For one of Washington, DC’s favorite annual holiday traditions, be sure to check out The Holiday Festival at Marvin Gay Park. The family-friendly gathering will have an array of attractions including crafts activities, holiday shopping, games, and an appearance from Santa Claus. Featuring gifts and food from local businesses, The Holiday Festival is a great opportunity for travelers to get in touch with local culture while supporting it. If you’re into sampling the city’s best live holiday music performances, and Christmas light displays, then you have a couple more reasons to swing by Marvin Gaye Park on the 21st. Marvin Gaye Park. Washington, DC
Ben Williams: A Holiday Musical Extravaganza
December 26th Those looking to bring in the holiday season with some beautiful sounds should check out the upcoming show from Ben Williams. The Grammy Award-winning bassist and local of Washington, DC will bring his talents to The Hamilton Live for one night following Christmas. Ben Williams has been producing successful jazz music for the past several years, and his albums Coming of Age, and Unity Band have earned rave reviews from critics all over. He’s also done popular renditions of songs such as, “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” and “Toy Soldiers.” For those who are unfamiliar with Williams’ work, just check out his performance on the hit NPR show Tiny Desk, and you’ll find the inspiration you need to check out this concert. The Hamilton Live is an intimate and upscale performing arts venue with its own trendy American restaurant upstairs. The Hamilton Live. Washington, DC
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