45+ Must-See Amazing DC Christmas Concerts (2024)

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… concerts, that is.

If you’re looking for DC Christmas concerts, get ready to see the Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol, the National Symphony Orchestra, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, the Choral Arts Society of Washington, and many more theater and dance companies, orchestras, ballet companies, and even a few drag queens.

Ballet dancers of the Washington Ballet performing The Nutcracker surrounded by snow-covered trees under twinkling lights, representing the festive holiday season and DC Christmas concerts.

Why We Love DC Christmas Concerts

Christmas is, hands down, one of the most wondrous times of the year. As the weather turns brisk, twinkling DC Christmas lights shine bright against the blanket of snow that covers the city, filling it with holiday cheer and Christmas spirit.

There are decorations on every corner, and you can hear the constant jingle of Christmas carols no matter where you are – almost like magic! The cherry on top is to enjoy the season with your friends and family as you attend one of many holiday classics, dazzling family holiday spectaculars, or festive musicals in Washington, D.C.

I’ve always been a theater and music nerd, so Christmas in Washington DC is one of my happiest times of the year. Attending a performance feels like the ultimate holiday gift, bringing joy and unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Two ballet dancers performing an elegant duet for The Nutcracker show, one of the holiday classics, against a soft pastel backdrop, symbolizing the artistry and joy of DC Christmas concerts during the holiday season.

Performances of The Nutcracker in Washington DC

The Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker

Address: Warner Theatre
Date: November 30-December 29
Tickets: starting at $95.40
Website

No matter your age, something about The Nutcracker reminds you of childhood traditions, winter wonderlands, and that warm fuzzy feeling that often comes along with the holiday season. This unforgettable holiday experience is perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Add to it the original period costumes, stunning set designs, and Tchaikovsky’s magical score, and you’ve got a dazzling family holiday spectacular. The charming Washington Ballet is sure to transport you back to 1882 Georgetown for the few hours that you’ll be there – don’t miss it at Warner Theatre!

Philadelphia Ballet: George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®

Address: Kennedy Center Opera House, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Date: November 27 – December 1
Tickets: starting at $50
Website

NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet

Address: The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852
Date: November 30
Tickets: starting at $31
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MANASSAS BALLET THEATRE: THE NUTCRACKER

Address: Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Cir, Manassas, VA 20110
Date: December 18-23
Tickets: starting at $45
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VIRGINIA NATIONAL BALLET – THE NUTCRACKER

Address: Capital One Hall, Capital One Hall, 7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons, VA 22102
Date: December 21
Tickets: starting at $39
Website

Additional performance at the Hylton Performing Arts Center on November 29 at 2:00 PM and 6:30 PM.

NUTCRACKER! MAGICAL CHRISTMAS BALLET (The Moscow Ballet)

Address: The Capitol Theatre, 19 S 3rd St, Yakima, WA 98901
Date: November 19
Tickets: starting at $21
Website

The majestic interior of the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., featuring vibrant stained-glass windows and Gothic architecture, perfect for DC Christmas concerts and holiday celebrations for the entire family to enjoy. — *photo via Steve Heap*

Washington National Cathedral

Cathedral Choral Society: Joy of Christmas

Address: Washington National Cathedral
Date: December 14
Website

One of the most popular musical traditions in Washington, D.C., the Joy of Christmas Concert hosted by the Washington National Cathedral is a beloved family tradition anticipated by people all year long. This holiday extravaganza brings the entire family together with the Cathedral Choral Society performing exciting new versions of old classics that fill the space with holiday cheer and invite everyone to sing along.

If you only have time to attend one Christmas event in D.C. this year, make it this unforgettable holiday experience!

Handel’s Messiah

Address: Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
Date: December 6-8
Website

Christmas with The King’s Singers

Address: Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
Website

Christmas Day Organ Recital

Address: Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
Date: Dec. 25 at 1:30 p.m
Tickets: Free Admission
Website

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., a hub for arts and culture, including festive DC Christmas concerts.

Holiday Shows at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

A Family Christmas

Address: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 15 and 24
Website

Perfect for children ages 5 and up, A Family Christmas is a one-hour concert filled with festive music and holiday classics, hosted by the Choral Arts Chorus at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This magical event is perfect for the entire family and embodies the joy of the holiday season.

If you haven’t gone before, this will surely become your favorite holiday sing-along of the year. They’ll be performing all the familiar classics, including beloved Christmas carols, along with visits from Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and the big man Kris Kringle himself.

A Candlelight Christmas

Address: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 15-22
Tickets: $15– $109
Website

Two-time Grammy winners, The Washington Chorus, invite you to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for their annual A Candlelight Christmas. This festive program is perfect for the holiday season, welcoming the entire family, young and old, to experience 75 minutes of holiday magic through music.

Artistic Director Eugene Rogers leads The Washington Chorus in their signature candlelight processional, a highlight of this festive chorus performance. Be ready for an audience carol sing-along featuring beloved holiday classics to join in on the fun!

A Jazz Piano Christmas

Address: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 7
Website

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and NPR come together for their annual sell-out event, A Jazz Piano Christmas, a modern-day celebration of holiday music. You’ll hear renditions of your favorite holiday classics, performed by some of the best jazz pianists in the industry, creating an experience you’ll cherish forever.

This holiday season, scheduled performances include jazz greats Eric Reed, Patrice Rushen, and Gerald Clayton, making it a must-see event for music lovers of all ages.

Merry TUBACHRISTMAS!

Address: Kennedy Center Concert Hall, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 5 at 7pm
Tickets: FREE ADMISSION
Website

Notes of Honor: A Holiday Pops! With Special Guest Jessica Vosk

Address: Kennedy Center Concert Hall, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 2, December 6-7
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A Winter Gathering with Kathy Mattea: Good News and Other Favorites

Address: Kennedy Center Concert Hall, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 6
Tickets: Starting $45
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Finn

Address: Kennedy Center Family Theatre, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: November 23-December 22
Tickets: Starting $22
Website

The Improvised Shakespeare Company^®

Address: Kennedy Center Theater Lab, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: November 29-December 23
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A Night of Klezmer—A Hannukah Celebration – with Michael Winograd & the Honorable Metschn

Address: Kennedy Center Millenium Stage, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 13
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Jungle Book

Address: Kennedy Center Terrace Theater, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 13-15
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Celtic Woman – Christmas Symphony

Address: Kennedy Center Concert Hall, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Tickets: $29-$99
Date: December 13-14
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Gerdan: Believe in Christmas Miracle

Address: Kennedy Center Millenium Stage, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Tickets: Free
Date: December 14
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THE CHORAL ARTS SOCIETY OF WASHINGTON PRESENTS: O Night Divine!

Address: Kennedy Center Concert Hall, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 16-24
Tickets: $20-$99
Website

Holiday Drag Brunch

Address: Kennedy Center Roof Terrace Restaurant, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 15
Tickets: $98.91
Website

Country Christmas Sing-Along Spectacular

Address: Kennedy Center Millenium Stage, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 19
Tickets: $60-$70
Website

KEM: Home for the Holidays – Live with the National Symphony Orchestra

Address: Kennedy Center Concert Hall, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 11-12
Tickets: Starting $59
Website

Masaaki Suzuki conducts Handel’s Messiah

Address: Kennedy Center Concert Hall, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 19-22
Website

The Zanes Holiday Show with Special Guests

Address: Kennedy Center Millenium Stage, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 20
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All-Star Christmas Eve Jazz Jam

Address: Kennedy Center Terrace Theater, 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566
Date: December 24
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The Music Center at the Strathmore

The Christmas Story: Bach’s Christmas Oratorio

Address: The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln, North Bethesda, MD 20852
Date: December 15 at 3pm
Tickets: $35 – $99
Website

The Washington Bach Consort presents Bach’s Epic Christmas Oratorio at The Music Center at Strathmore this holiday season. This music infused production captures the beauty and grandeur of the winter holidays, making it an unforgettable experience.

An annual tradition for many, this polished performance brings to life a European Christmas tradition through the magnificent sounds of Bach. Featuring a festive chorus alongside talented musicians and soloists, the Washington Bach Consort will perform four of the six cantatas that comprise the composer’s extraordinary Weihnachts-Oratorium. Don’t miss one of the most cherished Christmas shows of the season!

Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour

Address: The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln, North Bethesda, MD 20852
Date: December 5 at 8pm
Tickets: $28 – $98
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A Swingin’ Little Christmas! Starring Jane Lynch

Address: The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln, North Bethesda, MD 20852
Date: December 8 at 8pm
Tickets: $28-$88
Website

The Washington Chorus presents: A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS

Address: The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln, North Bethesda, MD 20852
Date: December 14 at 8pm
Tickets: $15-$79
Website

Dumbarton Arts & Education

A Celtic Christmas

Address: 3133 Dumbarton Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
Date: December 7 and December 8 at 4pm
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Cyrus Chestnut Trio

Address: 3133 Dumbarton Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
Date: December 13 at 7:30pm
Website

Helicon: Winter Solstice

Address: 3133 Dumbarton Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
Date: December 14 at 7:30pm
Website

Lincoln Theatre

The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show

Address: Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Date: November 30 at 8pm
Tickets: $49-$299
Website

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, The Holiday Show

Address: Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Date: December 7 & 14
Tickets: $25- $75
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Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C., a historic landmark known for its dramatic past and current role in presenting performances, including festive DC Christmas concerts. Make it an unforgettable holiday experience.

A Christmas Carol at the Ford’s Theatre

Address: Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Date: November 21 – December 31
Tickets: $66-$111
Website

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Address: Capital One Arena, 601 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Date: December 23
Tickets: starting at $59.99
Website

Renowned rock band, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, comes to Washington, D.C. this holiday season with a performance that embodies the holiday spirit. The rock opera, a true holiday classic, is based on their debut studio album, which later became one of the best-selling Christmas albums of all time in the U.S.

Attendees will experience the magic of holiday music as the band performs some of their greatest hits live, making it the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for crowd favorites like ‘O Come All Ye Faithful,’ ‘A Mad Russian’s Christmas,’ and ‘The First Noel.’

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

Address: MGM National Harbor Resort & Casino, 101 MGM National Ave, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Date: December 7
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An Irish Carol

Address: Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
Date: December 4-31
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Nightly Caroling at the Willard Hotel

Address: The Willard Center, 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Date: December 1 to 23, from 6pm to 8pm
Tickets: FREE
Website

A JOHN WATERS CHRISTMAS

Address: Birchmere Music Hall, 3701 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22305
Date: December 18
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Don McLean – “A Starry Night”

Address: Birchmere Music Hall, 3701 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22305
Dates: December 13
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Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show

Address: Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Date: December 13-22
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HOT 99.5’s Jingle Ball presented by Capital One

Address: Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Date: December 17 at 7:30 p.m.
Website

A Drag Queen Christmas

Address: Warner Theatre, 513 13th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Date: November 17 at 8pm
Tickets: $39-$54

Mus Read: Christmas Concerts Baltimore

Additional reporting by Shahnaz Hossain