This weekend is all about the holidays. Santa appears on water skis and aboard vintage streetcars. Hanukkah is celebrated with singles parties and events for kids. Concerts feature seasonal rockabilly, jazz, carols and Handel’s “Messiah.” There are seasonal movies on big screens all over the area. And if you still haven’t found a gift for a loved one, try one of the many marketplaces sprouting across the DMV. Build a gingerbread house, sample seasonal beers or cocktails, watch a drag show or go on a pub crawl. Just don’t sit home like a grinch.
Thursday, Dec. 18
Holiday movies
Whether you’re into heartwarming Christmas films or edgier fare, you’ll find it on big screens this week. The “Holiday Classics” series at AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring mixes a lineup of chestnuts like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “The Muppet Christmas Carol” with “Edward Scissorhands” and “Eyes Wide Shut.” Jeremy Arnold, the author of “Christmas in the Movies,” introduces select films Sunday through Wednesday, and there’s a free screening of “Elf” on Christmas Eve. (Through Wednesday. Free-$14.) On Capitol Hill, the Miracle Theatre’s Miracle on 8th Street is strong on family films, including matinees of “Elf,” “The Polar Express” and “Miracle on 34th Street.” (Through Dec. 28. $6-$8.)
Fried & Festive: A Chanukah Party at Sixth & I
Your kitschiest sweater is a requirement at the historic synagogue’s Hanukkah celebration, which takes place on the fifth night of the eight-night holiday. Grab doughnuts and drinks before spinning the dreidel and casting your vote for the best latke topping (team sour cream or team applesauce?). The party is also a toy drive — bring games, reusable water bottles, art supplies or other items from a wish list to benefit the DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence. 7 p.m. $18.
Fun with gingerbread houses
Haven’t gotten around to making your gingerbread house yet? Thursday brings two chances to do so. Cork is known for its annual gingerbread decorating class for families, but this year, the wine shop on 14th Street NW has also created an adults-only gingerbread happy hour that allows participants to sip wine and snack on cheese while they get creative. (6 to 8 p.m. $60 for two adults.) A few blocks to the north, Santa is dropping into the annual gingerbread house competition at Franklin Hall, sponsored by Downeast Cider. Entry includes materials to build a house as well as cider, and there are prizes to be won. (7 p.m. $15 per kit, not per person.)
‘The Snowy Day’ at the Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater
Read the charmingly illustrated winter tale by Ezra Jack Keats at home before heading to the Smithsonian Institution’s S. Dillon Ripley Center to see the classic storybook come to life on the big screen. The film version of “The Snowy Day” includes voice talent from the likes of Laurence Fishburne, with a new plot that’s geared toward kids ages 3 to 7. Some Smithsonian Associates showings are sold out, so act fast to snag tickets. 11:30 a.m. $3-$8.
Carol Sing-Along at Shaw’s Tavern
For some people, Christmas carols and holiday songs are the best part of this time of year — the stresses of holiday shopping and out-of-town visitors melt away when singing “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” or rum-pum-pumming through “The Little Drummer Boy.” Every December, the vocalists of Shaw’s Tavern’s weekly piano bar and karaoke come together for a night of good old-fashioned caroling in the bar, singing everything from “All I Want for Christmas is You” to “Jingle Bells” as a group, with song lyrics provided if needed. (They probably won’t be needed.) Arrive early for complimentary drinks as part of Shaw’s customer appreciation night. 8 p.m. Free.
Opera on Tap’s Winter Wonderland at Wonderland Ballroom
Talented opera singers perform selections from “Amahl and the Night Visitors,” “The Gift of the Magi,” “La Bohème” and Handel’s “Messiah” during this wintry version of the monthly Opera on Tap night, but there’s more modern seasonal music from “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Frozen,” too. 7 to 9 p.m. Free; Donations accepted.
Portrait Gallery Reading Rhythms at the National Portrait Gallery
Bring your current book to the National Portrait Gallery’s scenic and historic Great Hall for this organized gathering for bookworms. Periods of silent reading are mixed with group discussions and one-on-one opportunities to talk about what you’re enjoying. 5:15 to 7 p.m. Free; registration required.
DC Brau Holiday Toy Drive at the Blaguard
It’s the season of giving and receiving: The Blaguard in Adams Morgan is collecting new, unwrapped toys for students at the nearby Marie Reed Elementary School. Donate a toy and you’ll be gifted a DC Brau beer. 5 p.m. Free.
Customer Appreciation Party at Pitchers
How does Pitchers thank customers for their loyalty? A performance and meet-and-greet with “Drag Race” contestant Willam; two hours of open bar on rail drinks and beer; and free hors d’oeuvres. (Not bad for a Thursday night.) Locals Cake Pop!, Crimsyn and Venus are also performing. Open bar from 7 to 9 p.m.; meet-and-greet for first 100 guests at 9 p.m.; show at 10 p.m. Free.
Caribbean Christmas at Tiki on 18th
Tiki on 18th is hosting the Naughty List, “A tropical Christmas pop-up,” through Jan. 5, and the vibes will be even more tropical in Adams Morgan, with DJs spinning soca and dancehall as the rum-based tiki drinks flow. 9 p.m. to midnight. Free-$11.99.
Friday, Dec. 19
Northeast Groovers at the Fillmore
The Northeast Groovers’ seminal debut album “Straight From the Basement” marked them as go-go’s next great hope for a national breakthrough, thanks to cranking rhythms from “The Posse” and a hip-hop edge. Packed with songs that are staples decades later, including “Van Damme,” “The Water” and “The Twenty Minute Workout,” it’s still one of the genre’s top studio recordings. The group is giving “Straight From the Basement” the “performed in its entirety” treatment at the Fillmore, alongside other staples from the era that didn’t appear on the album. $45-$87.05.
A Very Rockabilly Christmas at Jammin Java
Rockabilly Rumble and guest Roxanne Cook spread the twangy spirit of the season through tunes by the Stray Cats, Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash and Brenda Lee, among others. The all-ages show includes a costume contest with prizes. 7 p.m. $21.
‘A Very Alaska Christmas Show’ at Howard Theatre
“RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” winner and “Drag: The Musical” star Alaska returns with an all-new Christmas cabaret, a mix of seasonal songs, spoken word and no doubt over-the-top comedy. VIP meet-and-greet options are available for this Howard Theatre show. 8 p.m. $44.47-$54.47; VIP $116.57-$271.07.
Procrastinator’s Market at Jackie Lee’s
The Procrastinator’s Market — the clue is in the name, folks — returns to Jackie Lee’s in Brightwood, where a dozen makers and vendors — think ceramics, fiber accessories, homeware and books — set up shop while DJ Clamazon spins at the much-loved neighborhood hangout. Buy a gift for someone and receive a free drink from D.C. distillery Chacho. 6 to 10 p.m. Free
Falls Church Santa Pub Crawl
Ireland’s Four Provinces, Clare & Don’s, Audacious Aleworks and Harvey’s are among the eight Falls Church establishments welcoming revelers with drink and appetizer specials on this neighborhood tour. Ugly sweaters and Santa costumes are the suggested attire. 5 p.m. Free.
Saturday, Dec. 20
Holly TrolleyFest at the National Capital Trolley Museum
Board a historic streetcar for a ride with Santa at the National Capital Trolley Museum’s annual Holly TrolleyFest. Besides the one-mile ride with Santa outside the Colesville museum, there’s a festive modern train layout, crafting for kids, and hot chocolate and treats. Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Monday from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. $12.
Belgian Holiday Bash at the Sovereign
Belgian brewers create strong, warming ales for the darkest, coldest time of the year, incorporating flavors like cherry, licorice, raisin and baking spices. Sample a selection of the best, including offerings from Straffe Hendrik, De Ranke, Scaldis and De La Senne, during the Sovereign’s annual Belgian Holiday Bash. Beers are available in both full pours and tasters, for those who want to create their own seasonal flights. Noon until close. Free; beer prices vary.
Merry Market at Westbard Square
More than 40 vendors are bringing toys, jewelry, candles and dog treats (among other items) to the Merry Market at Bethesda’s Westbard Square, where you’ll also find live music and holiday activities. It’s organized by URBNmarket, which also organized holiday pop-ups in the Mosaic District and downtown Bethesda. Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free.
African Art Marketplace at the National Museum of African Art
Handcrafted art and gifts representing different regions of Africa are the focus of the African Art Marketplace at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art, which also features live music, drinks and tours of the galleries. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free.
Rock’N’Shop at the Black Cat
Shop for vintage clothes, records, handmade crafts and other indie gems at the Black Cat’s long-running Rock’N’Shop, while DJ Steven Faith and Les the DJ provide the soundtrack. 2 to 6 p.m. Free.
Cocoa and Cornbread Holiday Market at Pyramid Atlantic
Nubian Hueman curated this market full of Black woman-owned brands at Hyattsville’s Pyramid Atlantic Art Center, which features hands-on activities like tea blending and scent making in addition to shopping. RSVPs are not required, but those who register in advance receive “a special treat.” Noon to 5 p.m. Free; some activities may have an extra fee.
Dig Dug Dig Holiday Extravaganza
The paved Metropolitan Branch Trail is a fun way to go on a brewery crawl in warm weather, and this weekend, it’s used to link multiple holiday markets and activities. The Dig Dug Dig Holiday Crawl takes in four venues: Lost Generation Brewing, Bryant Street Market, Metrobar and City-State Public House, each with their own things to do: Lost Gen has a “holiday themed dog fashion show”; City-State is hosting a cookie contest and swap; Bryant Street has a “Procrastinator’s Market”; and Metrobar is the destination for DJs and hot outdoor drinks. The event takes place over two days if you don’t have time to hit everything in one afternoon. Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free.
The Peach Pit Holiday Party at DC9
The long-running Peach Pit all-’90s party at DC9 will keep you moving year-round, but it feels special in December, when DJ Matt Bailer gets to break out the decade’s biggest holiday hits: TLC’s “Sleigh Ride,” “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” by ’N Sync, oh, and a song or two by Mariah Carey. Or the Backstreet Boys. That’s in addition to all the jock jams, slow dances and not-so-guilty pop pleasures that you can take. 10 p.m. $10 before midnight, $15 after.
Winter Royalty Ball at As You Are
Come dressed in icy blues, earmuffs and snowflake sparkles to the Capitol Hill LGBTQ bar’s annual winter ball. The best dressed is crowned Snow Queen; DJ MIM provides the soundtrack. 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free.
Fairytale of D.C.: A Shane MacGowan Tribute at Pie Shop
Since Shane MacGowan’s passing in late 2023, the Pie Shop has hosted an annual tribute to the Pogues’s front man, with bands performing their favorite tunes from the Pogues’s songbook as well as traditional Irish music. 8 p.m. Free.
Cleveland Park Santa Bar Crawl
Dig out your Santa hat, elf ears and/or holiday sweater for the return of Cleveland Park’s mini take on Santa Con. Four neighborhood spots — Laredo, Buffalo & Bergen, Fat Pete’s and Nanny O’Briens — offer exclusive drink specials and holiday-themed surprises. The trail begins at Lardeo and moves to a new bar each hour. 6 to 10 p.m. $28.52.
Sunday, Dec. 21
Arlington Drafthouse Holiday Movie Festival
Spend a lazy Sunday soaking in the holiday spirit at the Arlington Drafthouse’s Holiday Movie Festival. The all-day marathon starts with “The Polar Express” and ends with the horror film “Krampus,” by way of “Home Alone,” “Miracle on 34th Street” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Stay for as much as you’d like, and the best holiday outfits win prizes. 12:30 to 10 p.m. $13; $7 for ages 13 and younger.
Chanukah Story Trail and Gelt Drop at Lincoln Park
Listen to a reading of the educational Hanukkah storybook “If the Candles Could Speak,” accompanied by a soundtrack, before gathering for a Hanukkah dream come to life: a Giant Gelt Drop, where the chocolate coins will rain down from the top of a fire truck, at the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and 11th Street NE. The outdoor program wraps with a menorah lighting and Hanukkah sing-along. 4 to 5 p.m. Free.
Profs and Pints: How the Nutcracker Came to Life at Crooked Run Fermentation
“The Nutcracker” is among the most famous — and challenging to produce — ballets in popular culture, but its 200-year-old origins are little known. Brittany Warman, a former professor and co-founder of the Carterhaugh School of Folklore and the Fantastic, brings a scholarly talk to Crooked Run on the earlier versions of the story, German Romanticism and the existing folklore E.T.A. Hoffmann used to write his originating novel. 5:30 to 8 p.m. $15.
Girls Rock DC! Holiday Sing-Along at Jackie Lee’s
D.C. music nonprofit Girls Rock DC! throws its annual holiday party — a sing-along of seasonal favorites — at Jackie Lee’s in Brightwood Park. Note that, though the event benefits a youth organization, the fundraiser is 21-plus. 7 to 10 p.m. Suggested donation $20.
Holiday Cabaret at Red Bear Brewing
Capital Cabaret performs seasonal favorites accompanied by a live piano at the NoMa beer hall, where you can grab seasonal brews and hot ciders. 3 to 5 p.m. Free.
Holiday Drag Brunch at Hank’s Oyster Bar
Hank’s Dupont location — the site of holiday pop-up Sippin’ Santa — invites you watch some holiday-themed drag performances featuring Dixie Crystal and other drag kings and queens. Food and drinks are available a la carte. 1 to 3 p.m. $22.20.
Monday, Dec. 22
A Christmas Brass Spectacular at the Birchmere
The Capitol Bones are an unusual big band. Anchored by a pair of bass trombones and a trio of tenor trombones, the sound is bold and brassy, in the vein of Stan Kenton’s trailblazing jazz ensembles. Expect to hear swinging arrangements of holiday favorites by Kenton, Duke Ellington, Vince Guaraldi and others at this annual concert, featuring the rich vocal stylings of Lena Seikaly. 7:30 p.m. $39.50.
School’s Out: Winter House Design Workshop at the National Building Museum
Instead of stacking graham crackers into a decorative building, the National Building Museum’s Winter House Design Workshop offers kids the chance to build a not-so-sweet gingerbread house made out of wood. The morning begins with a tour of the museum designed for kids — the program is meant for ages 6 to 10, but all are welcome — before participants build, decorate and put their own unique touches on these wooden houses. 10:30 a.m. to noon. $10-$20.
TOB 21st Anniversary Show at Songbyrd
Over the last two decades, TOB — Take Ova Band — has filled many roles in D.C. TOB has was named “Band of the Year” at the D.C. Go-Go Awards in 2007; been a leader in the bounce beat genre, which grew in popularity in the early 2010s; and performances during the “Don’t Mute D.C.” protests and the Million Moe March on either side of the pandemic. The group celebrates 21 years on the scene at Songbyrd, where it’s kicking off “Anniversary Week” with an all-ages show featuring a number of special guests. 7 p.m. $27.04-$38.63.
Monster Movie Monday: ‘Anaconda’ at Comet Ping Pong
There are a lot of holiday films this week (see Thursday and Sunday above), but if you want to watch something that isn’t cheery and seasonal, may we suggest “Anaconda”? No, not the Paul Rudd/Jack Black vehicle that drops on Christmas Day, but the 1997 original with an over-the-top performance by Jon Voight, with J-Lo and Ice Cube in supporting roles. Thankfully, there’s plenty of beer and pizza to enjoy at Comet while you watch and groan at the special effects. Seating is first-come, first-served; get there early to watch old trailers and clips before showtime. 6:30 p.m. Free.
Tuesday, Dec. 23
Sing-Along ‘Messiah’ at the Kennedy Center
Since 1971, the Kennedy Center has hosted one of the city’s favorite free traditions: a sing-along to Handel’s oratorio with members of the Kennedy Center Opera House, guest soloists and a 150-person chorus. The noisy affair is led by Nancia D’Alimonte, the founder and music director of NIH Philharmonia. Tickets are free, but the performance in the Concert Hall is currently standing room only. 6 p.m. Free.
Wednesday, Dec. 24
Waterskiing Santa in Old Town Alexandria
One of the Washington area’s most unusual and wonderful holiday celebrations turns 40 on Christmas Eve, when Waterskiing Santa — and a flotilla of reindeer, elves and characters including Frosty and the Grinch on wakeboards and personal watercraft — returns to the Alexandria waterfront for an amusing holiday show. Waterfront Park offers the best views, and the performers mingle with kids when they return to dry land. 1 p.m. Free.
The Bagel Ball at Public Bar Live
When many of the city’s bars shut their doors early on Christmas Eve, the party at Dupont Circle’s Public Bar will just be getting started. Jewish 22- to 45-year-olds are invited to an evening of drink specials, “heavy snacks” (including bagels) and dancing. If it gets too hectic on the main floor, the second level provides a quiet escape with playing cards and board games. 9 p.m. $31.80-$37.10.
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