November highlights: DC's must-attend events

According to the Washington website, get ready for an exciting November in DC, where the city comes alive with festive events and celebrations! From the dazzling ZooLights and the enchanting Season's Greenings exhibit to Thanksgiving feasts at local restaurants and the vibrant DC Cocktail Week, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Join in the holiday spirit and explore a variety of activities, from live performances of classic films to unique shopping experiences at the DC Holiday Market. This month, embrace the magic of the season in our nation's capital!


Faure Quartett – Rarities and Favorites for Piano Quartet - Nov. 9

ARTECHOUSE and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution invite you to experience a captivating exhibition that reveals the nightly migration of ocean twilight zone creatures and their vital role in our planet's health and climate regulation. Dive into a stunning 24-minute cinematic adventure featuring immersive 270-degree projections, interactive installations, and XR activations.

Dumbarton Concerts, 3133 Dumbarton St NW, Washington, DC, 20007

Umbrella Art Fair – Nov. 15-17

A vibrant weekend celebration of art is coming to DC, offering artists and creative entrepreneurs a chance to showcase their talents. Explore the online schedule to choose from happy hours, art and music showcases, film screenings, and a record fair at venues like Dock5 at Union Market and The Kennedy Center.

A Christmas Carol – Nov. 21 – Dec. 31

Acclaimed actor Craig Wallace assumes the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in a lavish Victorian-style musical production of Charles Dickens’ timeless classic, the staging of which is a time-honored holiday tradition in the nation’s capital. Scrooge’s riveting journey alongside the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future is a joy even if you’ve experienced it a hundred times before – especially in one of the world’s most historic theaters.

Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004


Dinosaur Live – Nov. 22

Generational improv stars, including the comedic talents of Paul Scheer, Rob Huebel, and Jason Mantzoukas, take the stage at Lincoln Theatre. Dinosaur Live’s nationwide tour hits DC for one night only, promising a show filled with spontaneous hilarity from legendary comedians.

Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20009


DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle – Nov. 22 – Dec. 15

Head to the 1500 block of 19th Street NW for the DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle, featuring over 30 small businesses with artisans, boutique brands, global crafts, and unique gifts from Nov. 22 to Dec. 15 (closed Nov. 28). This market, previously located Downtown, showcases its signature style with local performers, festive décor, and popular treats like Migue’s Mini Donuts and hot roasted nuts from Capital Candy Jar. The neighborhood will also host a holiday pop-up on Dec. 7 and 8.

Monday-Friday, 12-8 p.m. |  Saturdays & Sundays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. |  Free Admission
1500 Block of 19th Street NW, Washington, DC


DowntownDC Holiday Market – Nov. 22 – Dec. 23

The free downtown bazaar, located in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, spans two blocks of F Street between 7th and 9th streets. Browse eclectic goods and tasty food from dozens of vendors. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the market will feature a new vibe with a wider variety of vendors, exciting community and family activities, an expanded food and beverage program, and additional must-see attractions.

F Street between 7th and 9th Streets NW, Washington, DC


ZooLights – Nov. 22 – Jan. 4, 2025

Join thousands of visitors at ZooLights, powered by Pepco, for a festive holiday tradition. Enjoy live music, delicious winter treats, and plenty of holiday shopping as environmentally friendly LED lights and glowing animal lanterns transform the Smithsonian's National Zoo into a winter wonderland. Timed passes are required, and admission is just $6.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008


Washington Capitals vs. New Jersey Devils – Nov. 23

DC's beloved hockey team faces off against a regional rival in what promises to be an exciting Saturday night for sports fans. The arena, known as one of the loudest in the NHL, regularly fills with around 19,000 red-clad fans for each Capitals game, creating an electric atmosphere.

Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004


Dine at RPM Italian this Thanksgiving - Nov. 28

Join RPM Italian for Thanksgiving and indulge in a specialty three-course menu featuring holiday classics! Enjoy dishes like Butternut Squash Agnolotti, Fall Harvest Salad, Local Turkey, and Barolo Braised Short Rib. Desserts and additional RPM Italian starters, mains, and sides will also be available à la carte.

650 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

Season's Greenings – Nov. 28 – Jan. 5, 2025

Swap your dreams of a white Christmas for a green one at this year's Season's Greenings exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Gardens. Enjoy stunning displays featuring holiday lights, thousands of poinsettias, incredible plant-based sculptures of DC landmarks, a circuit of model trains, and plenty of pollinators. Admission is free, and tickets are not required.

U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20001


Elf™ in Concert: Film with Live Orchestra – Nov. 29 – Dec. 1

Experience the beloved Christmas classic Elf in a new way this holiday season at the Kennedy Center. Enjoy the film's timeless score brought to life with a live performance by the National Symphony Orchestra, making it a fresh treat even if you've seen it a hundred times!

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566


DC Cocktail Week – Nov. 29 – Dec. 5

Dozens of DC restaurants are participating in this mixology celebration curated by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. DC Cocktail Week highlights innovative drinks crafted by local bartenders, paired with dishes designed to create unforgettable flavor combinations. Local distilleries will also join in on the fun, making this an event you won't want to miss!


Mount Vernon Winter Glow – Nov. 29-30, Dec. 15-19 & 23

Experience the estate aglow with stunning lights and patterns synchronized to holiday music. Explore an 18th-century winter encampment, shop for gifts at the Mount Vernon stores, and enjoy festive drinks and treats from the Mount Vernon Food Truck, Executive Orders.

George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121


The Washington Ballet presents The Nutcracker – Nov. 30 – Dec. 29

DC's beloved ballet company presents a stunning rendition of this classic Christmas tale with a unique local twist. The Russian ballet features a Nutcracker Prince resembling George Washington and cherry blossom set designs, all set in historical 1882 Georgetown. Enjoy an impressive lineup of dancers and Tchaikovsky's beautiful score. This year marks the 20th anniversary of this quintessential holiday program, a true highlight of the season in the District.

Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004


Source: Washington