At the first whisper of polar vortex, it’s natural to want to hunker down and lean into cuffing season. Instead, we recommend making the most of the winter, with a full lineup of events that will make you forget about the bitter cold. From December through February, you can enjoy world-class theater, concerts by the hottest artists, epic expo events, immersive art exhibits, international sports tournaments, critically acclaimed musicals, and more. Here’s everything you need to do in DC this winter.
Peep the Aurora Borealis without the freezing temps
Through Sunday, January 5
ARTECHOUSE
The latest exhibit at DC’s digital art space is inspired by the Northern Lights. Instead of chasing the elusive natural phenomenon, Aurora guarantees that you’ll be immersed in frosted forests under dancing skies.
Cost: Tickets are $16
Score deals on drinks with your passport
Through Wednesday, April 15
Various locations
No, not that passport. The Passport Program offers little black books that get you two-for-one drinks at 66 establishments around DC. Now through April 15, you can enjoy BOGO cocktails, craft brews, wine, and coffee at hot spots like All-Purpose, Atlas, Bird’s Eye, Casta’s, City Winery, Colada Shop, Cotton & Reed, Jug & Table, Morris, Republic Restoratives, Thamee, and more.
Cost: $25
Be a spectator at the World Squash Championship
Through Saturday, December 21
Squash On Fire
The World Squash Federation’s Men’s World Team Championship is coming to the states for the first time ever. You can watch the action right here in DC, where 23 nations will compete for the title on Squash On Fire’s all-glass showcase court.
Cost: Tickets start at $25
See Jersey Boys live on stage
Tuesday, December 17 - Sunday, January 5
The National Theatre
The story of Franki Valli and The Four Seasons is a Tony, Grammy, and Olivier Award-winning hit. Jersey Boys is back at the National Theatre by popular demand, with hits like “Oh What A Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.”
Cost: Tickets start at $54
Catch My Fair Lady at the Kennedy Center
Tuesday, December 17 - Sunday, January 19
The Kennedy Center Opera House
The Kennedy Center’s winter musical is a new production of the classic, My Fair Lady. The story follows Eliza Doolittle and the linguistics professor who tries to turn her into a “proper lady,” with favorites like “I Could Have Danced All Night” and “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly.”
Cost: Tickets start at $39
Hang with the World Series Champs during the off-season
Saturday, January 11 - Sunday, January 12
Nationals Park
Missing baseball during the long cold winter? Winterfest is exactly what you’ve been waiting for. The two-day fan fest lets you interact with players and coaches, get the latest updates on the team, and enjoy behind-the-scenes access to the stadium.
Cost: Tickets are $35 per day; multi-day and season discounts available
Take your home from fixer upper to fabulous
Friday, January 17 - Sunday, January 19
Dulles Expo Center
If your old house is in need of some DIY magic, head to the Home & Remodeling Show. Kevin O’Connor of This Old House will appear at the expo, and there are tons of exhibitors, experts, DIY workshops, and more.
Cost: Tickets are $9 online
Watch monster trucks face off
Saturday, January 25 - Sunday, January 26
Capital One Arena
Monster Jam is rolling into Capital One Arena, bringing with it giant trucks that do tricks and race at high speeds. Don’t miss your chance to watch the adrenaline-pumping action.
Cost: Tickets start at $20
Celebrate Lunar New Year with a parade
Sunday, January 26
6th Street, from I to H Streets
Ring in the Year of the Rat with traditional lion and dragon dances, Kung Fu demonstrations, firecrackers, live music, marching bands, and more. The Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association is hosting the parade for the whole community.
Cost: Free
Watch the Super Bowl on an epic TV with primo snacks
Sunday, February 2
Various locations
When it comes to the Super Bowl, you can bet that DC’s best sports bars bring their A game. Take your pick of spots lined with TVs and flush with tailgate fare. Get there early to save a spot.
Cost: Prices vary
Do a run in your underwear for charity
Saturday, February 8
Penn Social
Cupid’s Undie Run is a “brief” fun run... in your tighty-whities. It starts and ends with a big party, and it’s all to find a cure for a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis.
Cost: Registration is $30
Watch the play that inspired the movie The King’s Speech
Tuesday, February 11 - Sunday, February 16
The National Theatre
Based on a true story, The King’s Speech chronicles King George VI’s struggle with a speech impediment. The original play is making it’s US debut, and will be in DC for just six days.
Cost: Tickets start at $54
Put uteruses before duderuses on Galentine’s Day
Thursday, February 13
Various locations
The day before Valentine’s Day is the best day of the year, according to Leslie Knope. Various restaurants around the DMV offer specials for ladies celebrating ladies.
Cost: Prices vary
Eat your heart out on Valentine’s Day
Friday, February 14
Various locations
It’s true what they say -- the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach. Make your reservations early to snag a table at one of the city’s best restaurants on Valentine’s Day.
Cost: Prices vary
See two major hip-hop artists while they’re in DC
Tuesday, February 18 and Thursday, February 27
Capital One Arena
February is a big month for Capital One Arena -- Chance the Rapper and Post Malone will both be in town on their North American tours. Chance the Rapper will be joined by Lil Yachty and Taylor Bennett. Post Malone’s lineup includes Swae Lee and Tyla Yaweh.
Cost: Prices vary
Observe George Washington’s birthday
Saturday, February 22
Mount Vernon
Visit George Washington’s estate to wish our first president a happy birthday, with special events and plenty of history. Specific activities will be announced prior to the date.
Cost: Admission is $20
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