Free Holiday Activities And Events In The Dc Area This Weekend

The end of the year is a festive time in the Washington, D.C. area, offering a variety of events and activities for residents and visitors alike. From holiday markets to musical performances and family-friendly events, there are numerous free or low-cost options to enjoy this weekend. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the available events, focusing on those that are free to attend or offer affordable entertainment.

Introduction

The holiday season in the D.C. area is filled with opportunities for festive fun and cultural experiences. Whether you are looking for a romantic evening, a family activity, or a chance to enjoy some live music, there is something for everyone. Many of the events highlighted this weekend are free or reasonably priced, making them accessible to a wide range of attendees. From holiday markets and skating rinks to theatrical performances and art exhibits, the following sections will explore the various options available this weekend.

Free and Low-Cost Holiday Events

Union Station’s Main Hall Holiday Market

One of the most popular free events this weekend is the Union Station’s Main Hall Holiday Market, which runs from Wednesday to Saturday. This market offers a wide array of holiday gifts, crafts, and food items. Attendees can enjoy shopping for unique, locally made products while experiencing the festive atmosphere of one of D.C.’s most iconic landmarks. The market is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is free to enter, making it an excellent option for those looking for a festive and affordable shopping experience.

Holiday Evening Hours at the U.S. Botanic Garden

The U.S. Botanic Garden has extended its hours for the holiday season, offering evening visits until 8 p.m. on Tuesdays. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful botanical displays in a more relaxed and less crowded setting. Admission to the garden is free, making it an accessible option for families and individuals who want to experience the beauty of the season without spending a significant amount of money.

12 Days of Joy with Art to Go-Go

Historic Anacostia is hosting the 12 Days of Joy with Art to Go-Go event, which is free to attend and runs through December 22. This event features a variety of performances, including music, dance, and spoken word. The event is designed to celebrate the holiday season while supporting local artists and performers. It is an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy the arts and want to experience the cultural vibrancy of the D.C. area.

The Stage at Union Station

Union Station’s Main Hall also features a holiday market, which is open from Wednesday to Saturday. The market offers a wide range of holiday-themed items, from handmade crafts to seasonal foods. The event is free to attend, making it an accessible option for those looking for a festive shopping experience. The market also serves as a venue for live music and other performances, adding to the overall festive atmosphere.

Winter Skate Spectacular at the National Building Museum

The National Building Museum is hosting a Winter Skate Spectacular, where visitors can enjoy indoor ice skating in the museum’s Great Hall. The event is open from Saturday through February 8 and offers themed music nights, including go-go and Y2K music. Admission is $20 for adults and $17 for youth and seniors. While not free, the event is reasonably priced and offers a unique and festive experience for families and individuals.

Zoolights at the National Zoo

The National Zoo is hosting Zoolights, an event that features lantern displays of various animals, including giant pandas, birds, and ocean creatures. The event runs through January 3 and is priced at $9 per person. While not free, the event is reasonably priced and offers a unique and educational experience for families. The event is designed to be both entertaining and informative, making it a great option for those who enjoy wildlife and nature.

The Nutcracker by The Washington Ballet

The Washington Ballet is performing The Nutcracker, a beloved holiday tradition, at the Warner Theatre. The event runs through Sunday and is priced at $63.50 and up. While not free, the event is reasonably priced and offers a classic and elegant holiday experience. The performance is a great option for those who enjoy ballet and want to experience the magic of the holiday season in a more traditional setting.

“Home, History, Holidays: Celebrating White House Traditions” Exhibit

The People’s House is hosting an exhibit titled “Home, History, Holidays: Celebrating White House Traditions,” which is free to attend and runs through January 10. The exhibit offers a glimpse into the history of the White House and its holiday traditions. It is a great option for those who are interested in history and want to learn more about the cultural significance of the holiday season in the United States.

Sculpture Garden Ice Rink

The National Gallery of Art is hosting an ice rink in its Sculpture Garden, which is open daily through the winter. Admission to the rink is $12 to $15 for admission and $7 for skate rental. While not free, the event is reasonably priced and offers a unique and scenic setting for ice skating. The rink is a great option for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to experience the beauty of the Sculpture Garden during the winter months.

Light Yards at The Yards Park

The Yards Park is hosting Light Yards, an event that features illuminated sculptures and installations. The event is free to attend and runs through January 2. It is a great option for those who enjoy public art and want to experience the beauty of the season in a more interactive and engaging way. The event is designed to be both entertaining and educational, making it a great option for families and individuals.

Family-Friendly Events

The Polar Express at the ICE

The ICE is hosting a performance of The Polar Express, a popular holiday story that is sure to delight children and families. The event is priced at $9 per person and runs through January 3. While not free, the event is reasonably priced and offers a fun and engaging experience for young children. The performance is a great option for those who are looking for a family-friendly holiday activity.

“A Christmas Carol” at Ford’s Theatre

Ford’s Theatre is hosting a performance of “A Christmas Carol,” a classic holiday tale that is sure to entertain audiences of all ages. The event is priced at $42 and up and runs through December 31. While not free, the event is reasonably priced and offers a traditional and elegant holiday experience. The performance is a great option for those who enjoy theater and want to experience the magic of the holiday season in a more traditional setting.

“Elf on the Shelf”-Themed Holiday Pop-Up Bar

The Morris American Bar is hosting an “Elf on the Shelf”-themed holiday pop-up bar, which is priced at $15 for a non-refundable reservation fee. The event is designed to be both festive and interactive, offering a unique and engaging experience for those who enjoy themed bars and events. The event is a great option for those who are looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season.

“Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins” at The Puppet Co. Playhouse

The Puppet Co. Playhouse in Glen Echo is hosting a children’s theater production titled “Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins,” which is priced at $16 per person and runs through December 22. The event is designed to be both educational and entertaining, making it a great option for those who are interested in cultural and educational experiences for children. The production is a great way to celebrate Hanukkah and learn about its traditions and significance.

Music and Concerts

Chappell Roan at the 9:30 Club

The 9:30 Club is hosting a concert featuring Chappell Roan, a popular and talented musician. The event is priced at $32.50 and is scheduled for Friday. While not free, the event is reasonably priced and offers a great opportunity to see a live performance in a popular and well-known venue. The concert is a great option for those who enjoy music and want to experience the energy and excitement of a live performance.

Gaia Music Collective’s One-Day Choir

Gaia Music Collective is hosting a One-Day Choir, which is a great opportunity for those who enjoy singing and want to participate in a group activity. The event is scheduled for Sunday and is open to all participants. While the event is free to attend, donations are welcome. The choir is a great way to meet other music enthusiasts and enjoy the joy of singing together in a festive and supportive environment.

Breezy Supreme at the DC9 Nightclub

The DC9 Nightclub is hosting a live performance by Breezy Supreme, a DC-area Black alt-rock group. The event is priced at $20 and up and is scheduled for Sunday. While not free, the event is reasonably priced and offers a great opportunity to see a local band perform in an intimate and supportive setting. The performance is a great way to support local musicians and enjoy the energy and excitement of a live performance.

John Mulaney at The Anthem

The Anthem is hosting a comedy show featuring John Mulaney, a popular and talented comedian. The event is priced at $68.40 and is scheduled to run from Thursday to Sunday. While not free, the event is reasonably priced and offers a great opportunity to see a live comedy performance in a popular and well-known venue. The show is a great option for those who enjoy comedy and want to experience the humor and wit of one of the industry’s top performers.

Conclusion

The D.C. area offers a wide range of free and low-cost holiday events this weekend, providing residents and visitors with numerous opportunities to enjoy the festive season. From holiday markets and skating rinks to theatrical performances and art exhibits, there is something for everyone. The events highlighted in this article are designed to be both entertaining and educational, making them a great way to experience the holiday season in a more meaningful and engaging way. Whether you are looking for a romantic evening, a family activity, or a chance to enjoy some live music, there is an event that is sure to meet your needs and preferences.

Sources

1. Things to Do in the DC Area
2. What to Do in the DC Area This Week and Weekend