Tis the season for gathering with family and friends! If you're looking for ways to entertain your guests or explore Arlington’s vibrant arts scene this holiday season, we’ve got you covered. With events running through December, Arlington’s Winter Arts Highlight offers a comprehensive guide to arts and cultural happenings across the county, ensuring you’ll find something for everyone.
This winter, Arlington’s vibrant cultural calendar includes unique events for all ages.
This edition covers events from November 2024 to January 2025.
Mason Exhibitions Arlington
thru December 6 | Mason Exhibitions Arlington | Virginia Square
Free
The exhibition explores artists’ expressions of identity in South Africa through the lens of printmaking. The exhibition features works of alumni and current artists of the Artist Proof Studio (APS), based in Johannesburg, South Africa. Featuring over 100 prints by 26 artists, the prints range in technique, style, and subject matter, drawing inspiration from South African popular culture and history as well as personal narratives.
Bridging the diasporic community of Black printmakers, the exhibition expands to include DC-based printmakers Evangeline (EJ) Montgomery, Gail Shaw-Clemons, Aziza Claudia Gibson Hunter, Michael B. Platt, and Percy Martin.
Cody Gallery, Maymount University
thru December 14 | Cody Gallery | Virginia Square
Free
Threads of Time: An Archival Textile Journey explores the evolution of textile design and production, highlighting key historical periods, cultural influences, and the artistry of textile creation, with a focus on how textiles have been used to express identity, status, and tradition across different cultures and eras. Curated by Susan Hergenrather / Sal Pirrone.
Friends Artspace
thru December 14 | Friends Artspace | Woodmont
Free, by appointment only
A group exhibition that explores the Buddhist practice of Shoshin: coming to the world open and without preconception.
The artists presented, all ex-babies themselves, imbue their work with the wonder and fantasy of the original mind. They conjure colorful, compassionate utopian worlds. The artwork in Beginner’s Mind touches on sublime play, safekeeping, daydream, chance, interspecies friendship, and humor.
Fred Schnider Gallery of Art
thru December 27 | Fred Schnider Gallery of Art | Virginia Square
Free
A showcase of Bradley's newest creations in ceramic wood and steel. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of contemporary sculpture.
Arlington Artists Alliance
December 5 - January 12 | Alliance Gallery | Clarendon
Free
Alliance Gallery is pleased to present Natural Connections, a small group show featuring select Arlington Artists Alliance members’ artworks which all reflect an underlying tone of the natural world, while also celebrating the camaraderie experienced as members of this arts organization. Artworks either depict nature, are made from natural materials, or balance natural elements with man-made components. Curated by Anna Nazaretz Radjou and Jessica Mickey.
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington: Exhibitions
thru January 26, 2025 | MoCA Arlington | Virginia Square
Free
Assembly 2024: Horizon Scanning
A national biennial exhibition exploring strategies to envision new futures.
Marisa Stratton: You Will Never Be Forgotten
The portraits of artist Marisa Stratton are a glimpse into the artist’s own digital life. In You Will Never Be Forgotten, Stratton’s subjects are taken from screen captures of FaceTime conversations, her Tik Tok “For You” page, and her Instagram feed, revealing who and what she looks at.
Best in Class: MoCA Arlington Artist Instructors
All of MoCA Arlington’s educational programs are led by experienced artist instructors. Through their talent and dedication, MoCA Arlington is able to offer instruction in a wide range of media, from drawing and painting to photography and ceramics. In Best of Class, MoCA Arlington is proud to highlight a selection of work created by some of these artist instructors as part of their own artistic practices.
Encore Stage & Studio
November 8-24 | Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre | Arlington Heights
In this adaptation of the beloved Disney animated film, young actors bring the story of Simba and his friends to life!. The young and carefree lion cub faces serious consequences that force him to flee his kingdom, leaving his cruel uncle Scar to rule in his place. With the help of his new friends Timon and Pumbaa, Simba learns the joys of “Hakuna Matata,” or “no worries,” until his past catches up with him. Will responsibility and honor win out? Discover the answer for yourself as you sing along to the classic songs of Elton John and Tim Rice, including “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” Recommended for ages 4 and older.
Signature Theatre
November 12-24 | Signature Theatre | Shirlington
A counterpart of Motown, Stax Records Co. brought America “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay,” “Soul Man,” “Mr. Big Stuff,” “What A Man,” “In the Midnight Hour” and the “Theme from Shaft.” As part of Signature Theatre’s Cabaret Series, join vocalists Isaac “Deacon Izzy” Bell and Kanysha Wiliams and groove to the sound of Southern soul with the smooth style of the Memphis recording company that discovered Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Booker T & the M.G.’s, Carla Thomas and the Staple Singers.
Arlington Chorale & The Alexandria Symphony
November 16 | 7:30 p.m. | Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall | Alexandria
Ludwig van Beethoven: Egmont Overture
Jocelyn Hagen: World Premiere (commissioned by Arlington Chorale)
Carl Orff: Carmina Burana
Carl Orff’s chorale classic Carmina Burana takes center stage in November for this one night only performance featuring the Arlington Chorale and other local artists. Beethoven’s Egmont Overture and a new work by composer Jocelyn Hagen round out this electrifying program.
Arlington Philharmonic
November 24 | 4 p.m. | Washington-Liberty High School Auditorium | Shirlington
This full symphony orchestra concert features the gorgeous, sweeping, full and innovative music of Dvorak, Sibelius and Strauss. Dvorak: Symphony No. 8. Sibelius: Symphony No. 7. R Strauss: Feierlicher Einzug
Arlington Concert Orchestra
December 5 | Yorktown High School | Yorktown
Join the Arlington Concert Orchestra for Vienna to London: The Merry-Go-Round of Life, featuring Haydn's London Symphony, The Emperor Waltz, Howl's Moving Castle, and Morning Noon and Night.
Friday Morning Music Club
December 6 | 12 p.m. | St. George's Episcopal Church | Virginia Square
Free
Program:
- Sigfrid Karg-Elert: Suite Pointillistique, op. 135. Susan Hayes, flute; Barbara Peterson Cackler, piano
- Shostakovich: Piano Trio No. 2 in E Minor, op. 67. John Sutherland Earle, piano; Erin Ryan (guest), violin; Helen Lee (guest), cello
Arlington Chorale
December 7 | 5 p.m. | Westover Baptist Church | Westover
$25-30, Children 17 and under free with ticketed adult
Join us for an enchanting concert that will warm your heart and spark your holiday spirit! Immerse yourself in the joy and wonder of the season as the Arlington Chorale brings beloved holiday classics to life. From festive carols to spirited sing-alongs, this concert is a celebration of love, togetherness, and the enchantment of the holiday season. Let the music transport you to a world of winter wonder with snow-covered landscapes and the joyous laughter of children. Bring the whole family to enjoy the music, and stay afterwards to meet the performers and enjoy some Christmas cookies.
Arlington Philharmonic
December 7 & 14 | 4 p.m. | Water Park | National Landing
Free
Brighten Your Holidays with the Arlington Philharmonic Brass! Featuring beloved Christmas and holiday standards:
Sleigh Ride, Carol of the Bells, Silent Night, O Holy Night, and contemporary favorites
With commentary by members of the Arlington Philharmonic Brass Ensemble
Encore Stage & Studio
December 6-15 | Gunston Theatre Two | Long Branch Creek
$15 for Adults, $12 for Children, Students, Military and Seniors. Group rate of $10 for a group of 10 or more.
Join Encore Stage & Studio for our first-ever winter revue! From heartwarming holiday scenes and songs, Encore's Jingle Bell Jam is the perfect way to deck the halls and bring in the holiday spirit!
The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington
December 12 | Reinch Library Auditorium, Marymount University
The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington, Virginia, along with The Arlington Historical Society, proudly presents an evening of drama and history.
Sojourner Truth was an American Abolitionist and activist for African-American civil rights, women’s rights and alcohol temperance. In 1851, in Akron, Ohio, Sojourner Truth delivered what is now recognized as one of the most famous abolitionist and women’s rights speeches in American history. She continued to speak out during the civil war. She was also a resident here in Arlington at the Freedman’s Village community for two years.
Friday Morning Music Club
December 13 | 12 p.m. | St. George's Episcopal Church | Virginia Square
Free
Program:
- Boccherini: Cello Concerto in G Major, G. 480. Amelia Baisden, cello; Irina Kats (guest), piano
- Schubert: Impromptu in B-flat Major, D. 935, op. 142, no. 3. Immanuela Gruenberg, piano
- François Borne: Fantaisie brillante sur ‘Carmen.’ Daquise Montgomery, flute; TBD, piano
Arlington Public Library
December 14 | 3-4 p.m. | Central Library | Virginia Square
Free. First-come, first-served seating.
Marcolivia Duo will perform an eclectic mix of traditional holiday carols, modern Tangos, vibrant Klezmer and lively Eastern European folk music to celebrate the holidays.
National Chamber Ensemble
December 14 | 7:30 p.m. | Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington | Barcroft
$40 adults, $20 students
NCE's Holiday Concert will bring the finest classical masterpieces and holiday favorites together for the whole family. Star soprano Sharon Christman and Outstanding Young Artist Award string competition winners perform. The concert concludes with a Carols Sing-Along to get everyone in the holiday spirit!
Jane Franklin Dance
December 14 -15 | Theatre On the Run | Green Valley
$23-25. $65-70 Family ticket (2 adults/2 children under 10)
Join one of our region’s most innovative contemporary dance ensembles for a year-end celebration featuring choreography by Jamal Abrams, Michala Conroy, Emily Crews, Robert J. Priore, Robert Rubama and Kelsey Rohr.
Acoustic Cafe
December 17 | Walter Reed Recreation Center | Columbia Heights
Free, but donations accepted
Veronneau is French Canadian vocalist Lynn Veronneau with her husband Ken Avis on guitar and vocals. The two light up the stage with their engaging presence and moving interpretations framed by the band's acoustic guitars and rhythmic energy. Their repertoire, performed in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish, includes samba, bossa nova, swing, jazz and French chanson blended with their original compositions.
The Two Peas are a duo of Larry Rice and Ann Granger, who play traditional and modern folk, original music, and some swing, rock and pop for fun. Ann plays ukulele, tenor guitar, and mountain dulcimer; Larry plays guitar, clawhammer banjo, fiddle, and ukulele bass.
Synetic Theater
December 19 - January 4 | Theatre on the Run | Green Valley
$30. All ages, parental guidance advised for young children.
Expressed through body and facial masks, pantomime, and dazzling choreography, this reinvention of a Synetic classic, “The Music Box,” treats audiences of all ages to a series of enchanting, wordless vignettes set to mesmerizing music. Watch as a janitor and businessman discover a magical mask that transforms their lives and two cowboys in the Wild West who hilariously attempt to tame a loose bull. This captivating production combines physical theater, dance, and mime to create an unforgettable journey through fantasy and comedy.
Signature Theatre
thru January 12, 2025 | Signature Theatre | Shirlington
$40-$126. Multiple discount options. Recommended for ages 10+
It’s a comedy tonight in Sondheim’s zany, hysterical, Tony Award-winning musical romp.
In one of the greatest musical comedies of all time, three households reside next to each other in ancient Rome. Just outside their doors, the exploits of a quick-thinking Roman slave, a braggart soldier, a beautiful courtesan, a lovesick young man and others devolve into uproarious chaos in a fast-paced, witty and monumental escapade.
With mistaken identities, wily ruses, madcap chases, a love story, and a happy ending of course, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum’s audacious and irreverent spectacle has something for everyone.
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington
November 22 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. | MoCA Arlington | Virginia Square
Join MoCA Arlington’s curators for a discussion about and tour of the museum’s current exhibitions! This free tour will include highlights from the museum’s current exhibitions, including Assembly 2024: Horizon Scanning, Marisa Stratton: You Will Never Be Forgotten, and Best in Class: MoCA Arlington Artist Instructors.
Fred Schnider Gallery of Art
December 7 | 5-7 p.m. | Fred Schnider Gallery of Art |Virginia Square
Free
A discussion with Adam Bradley about "New Work", a showcase of Bradley's newest contemporary sculpture creations in ceramic wood and steel.
Arlington County Parks and Recreation
December 7 | 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Arlington Mill
$8
The holidays are just around the corner, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by decorating your own wood ornaments? Join us for a family-friendly ornament decorating party on Sat., Dec. 7 at Arlington Mill Community Center! We’ll provide all the supplies (paint, decorative paper and more!) to create your own unique designs. There will be plenty of examples to spark your creativity, but feel free to let your imagination run wild!
Study Japanese in Arlington
December 8 | online via Zoom
Free. Registration required.
Get into the holiday spirit with our fun online origami workshop! Learn how to fold holiday-themed creations from the comfort of your home. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, our step-by-step guidance will help you create memorable, handmade artwork for the season. Join us for this creative, hands-on experience and make your holidays even more special!
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington
December 8 | MoCA Arlington | Virginia Square
$75. Ages 18+
Take a break from the holiday hustle and treat yourself to some creative downtime! Join instructor Jennifer Wilkin Penick as she leads you through a fun, relaxing session of ink-and-brush pattern-making. This is a perfect way to unwind while creating something beautiful. You’ll be doodling right onto blank cards, turning your mindful masterpieces into stunning, one-of-a-kind work that are perfect for framing or gifting. Come breathe, create, and leave with art that’s both meaningful and gift-ready!
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington
December 14 | MoCA Arlington |Virginia Square
$75. Ages 18+
Get into the holiday spirit by making unique holiday cards using gelli printmaking! Join instructor Lindsay Mueller in learning about the process of printmaking, creating your own stencils, and layering colors to create compositions that relate to the winter holiday season. Students can experiment with various different methods of creating images, and ultimately make a handful of finished cards to bring home from the workshop.
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington
thru December 18 | Wednesdays | 11:30a.m. - 1:30p.m. | MoCAA Innovation Studio + Store | National Landing
Free
Drop in any time and take home your creations: super size snowflakes, mini-tote bags, greeting cards, and more! FREE! Indoors. Crafting fun.
Nov. 13: Make Your Own Mini-Tote – use festive stencils to design a mini-tote of your own!
Nov. 20: Holiday Card Crafting – collage, draw, and design your own stationary
Dec. 4: Bottle Cap Ornaments – repurposed holiday craft! Led by artist Margaret Jacobson.
Dec. 11: Festive Candle Decoration – add some cheer to your table settings and decorations with these festive candles.
Dec. 18: Super Size Snowflakes – transform a few simple pieces of paper into a gorgeous, super size snowflake!
Arlington County Parks & Recreation
December 16-20 | Pick up at Fairlington Community Center
$20
Cozy up at home and paint along to our Winter Paint Along! Register for your Winter Paint Along box and get all the supplies your need for 4 people! Boxes will be available for pick up at the front desk at Fairlington Community Center from 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Dec. 16-20. $20 per box. Staff will contact you with more information before pick up.
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington
December 18 | Innovation Studio + Store | National Landing
Free
Join us for a conversation with current Innovation Studio Artist in Residence, Hoesy Corona, and MoCA Arlington Curator & Resident Artist/Collector Liaison, Amanda Jirón-Murphy. Hear about Corona’s multidisciplinary process and practice, and the work he is developing during this residency. Tour the artist’s studio and the Innovation store. Talk will begin ~6:15pm.
November 16 | 3701 Lorcom Lane | Cherrydale
Please join us for a free, family-friendly, indoor & outdoor holiday market in Arlington, VA featuring local artisans from DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Now in its 4th year, the Cherrydale Holiday Market (formerly the Cherrydale Holiday Art Market) has been featured in Arlington Magazine and ARL Now and has well over 300 attendees. It was established in 2021 by local artist and Arlington resident, Alanna Rivera.
December 5 | 6 - 8:30 p.m. | The Village at Shirlington | Shirlington
Free
Get ready to shine at our annual Tree Lighting celebration, where the Village's charm comes to life with a festive sparkle like no other! Multiple activities including a Seasonal Makers Market.
December 7 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Washington-Liberty High School | Virginia Square
Save the date and plan to attend one of Arlington's most fun and festive traditions! The Washington-Liberty Holiday Bazaar returns on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
The 64th Annual Washington-Liberty High School Holiday Bazaar will feature local artisans selling jewelry, clothing, housewares, art prints, photography, pet items, and much more. You’ll be able to shop for that perfect holiday gift!
Students representing WLHS clubs and sports teams also will sell food, drinks, and holiday items to raise funds for their activities. Come out for a great time with friends and neighbors while supporting WLHS students!
Rosslyn BID
December 7 & 8 | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Central Place Plaza | Rosslyn
Free
Shop local and find the perfect gifts this holiday season! Whether you're looking for a few last gifts on your list or are just getting started, our holiday market has something for everyone. Shop a variety of local vendors selling art, jewelry, bath products, snacks, and much more.
We'll also have tons of free festive fun happening during the market, including:
- Hot chocolate to sip on to stay warm as you stock up! (while supplies last)
- Write a letter to Santa to drop off at our North Pole mailbox. You know he'll be checking his list twice!
- Barrel train rides on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (13 and under)
- Story time with Mrs. Claus and Buddy the Elf on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Visits from Santa on Saturday from 12 to 2:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
The Crossing Clarendon
December 7 & 8 | 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. | The Crossing Clarendon | Clarendon
Free
Kick off the holiday season with a full weekend of festive vibes. Shop curated gifts from URBNmarket vendors, enjoy live music, and get into the holiday spirit.
Arlington Public Library
December 7 & 8 | Central Library | Virginia Square
Free
The Library is hosting a free shopping experience for the holidays. Developed from community donations, the Holiday Gift Nook is open to all and free for all.
Public Shopping Hours:
Sat., Dec. 7: 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Sun. Dec. 8: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
How it works:
- Pick up a free ticket before entering the shop and exchange it for one item.
- We might need to limit the number of people in the Gift Nook spaces at any one time. Please anticipate the possibility of waiting in line.
- Visit the gift wrapping station to personalize and wrap your gift(s).
LAC Studios
December 9 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | LAC Studios | Leeway-Overlee
Free
Looking for unique gifts this holiday season? Shop Local! The annual LAC Studios Holiday Show & Sale features ceramics, pottery and hand pulled prints for sale by the member-artists of LAC Studios. Just in time to put under the tree!
Arlington Artists Alliance
December 13-15 | Fort C.F. Smith Park | Woodmont
Free
Don’t miss Winter Artful Weekend in its 22nd year! Our annual holiday art fair will showcase nearly 40 artists from the Arlington Artists Alliance. This event is free and open to the public. Find original works for every budget and occasion.
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington and Made in Arlington
December 15 | 12 - 3 p.m. | MoCA Arlington | Virginia Square
Free
Join us for a cozy and fun-filled afternoon at Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington. Gather your loved ones for this free event! Museum exhibitions will be open for viewing.
Highlights:
- “Made in Arlington” Market outdoors
- Food Trucks
- Face Painting
- DJ Cinema Hearts: spinning holiday records on vinyl
- Art making activities: tote bag decoration and more!
Free | Multiple locations
Join the Rosslyn BID as they celebrate the holidays in the neighborhood with fun, festive events all season long.
Dec. 2-20: Give back at the Holiday Clothing Drive
Dec. 3-19: Explore the neighborhood to Find Cheerio
Dec. 4: Grab some holiday goodies from the Rosslyn Trike
Dec. 5: Brighten your week as we Light the Plaza
Dec. 6: Get in the spirit with your furry friends at Santa Paws Yappy Hour
Dec. 7 & 8: Find the perfect local gift for everyone's wish list at the Rosslyn Holiday Market
December 5 | Water Park | National Landing
Free
Enjoy our tree lighting, live music, and holiday themed-drinks on December 5th from 6pm to 8pm! Bring your family and friends to join us in celebrating the season.
December 5 | 6 - 8:30 p.m. | The Village at Shirlington | Shirlington
Free
Get ready to shine at our annual Tree Lighting celebration, where the Village's charm comes to life with a festive sparkle like no other! It’s the most wonderful time of the year at the Village At Shirlington! Join us for Light Up The Village on Thursday, December 5, from 6-8:30 pm.
- 6:00 pm Holiday Musical Performance by Signature Theatre
- 6:30 pm Tree Lighting celebration
- 6:40 pm Horse and Carriage Rides
- 7:00 pm Photos with Santa (located at Hardwood Artisans)
- Seasonal Makers Market
- Live Holiday Music Performance by Bishop O’Connell High School
- FREE Face Painting and Balloon Twisting
- Strolling Entertainment
- Merchant specials and promotions
December 7 | Metropolitan Park | National Landing
Free
Join us at The Lodge, a ski-inspired winter festival at Metropolitan Park, complete with holiday cheer, seasonal treats, and activities for all ages—including kids and pets. From cozy nooks to lively gatherings, it’s the ultimate holiday destination for everyone. Wrap yourself in the warmth of Nordic hygge and the festive spirit of Quebecois joie de vivre at The Lodge in National Landing!
December 11 | Met Park | National Landing
Join us on December 11th for a seasonal event right here in Met Park, Plants in the Park: Holiday Terrarium Crafting! Drop by anytime between 11AM and 2PM on the central green to create your own festive terrarium. This hands-on activity, brought to you by PlantHouse, is perfect for all ages and skill levels, offering a wonderful opportunity to get creative and bring a touch of nature into your home for the holidays. All materials will be provided, and our friendly instructors will be there to guide you through the process.
Arlington County Parks & Recreation
November 28 - December 15 | Gulf Branch Nature Center & Long Branch Nature Center
Free
Santa wants to hear from you! A special mailbox will be set up just for your Santa letters.
Put your letter in the mailboxes located at the Gulf Branch Nature Center and the Long Branch Nature Center between Nov. 28 - Dec. 15 to ensure timely delivery to the North Pole. Letters received by Dec.15 will get a postcard from Santa. Be sure to include your home address so Santa knows where to send you a postcard.
In the spirit of giving, please also bring any canned food items for the Arlington Food Assistance Center and place them in the labeled box next to the Santa mailbox.
December 14 | Water Park | National Landing
Free
Join us on Saturday, December 14th from 4 to 8pm for a magical evening filled with:
- Ice Skating
- Interactive Snow Globe Photo Booth
- Visits From Santa + Mrs. Claus
- Performances from Arlington Philharmonic
- Food, Fun and so Much More!!!
December 14 | Arlington National Cemetery
On Saturday, Dec. 14, members of the general public can take part in this year’s National Wreaths Across America Day, beginning at 8 a.m. Arlington National Cemetery will be one of more than 4,600 participating locations nationwide. Volunteers may place wreaths at the base of a veteran’s headstone or columbarium niche to honor their legacy and remember their sacrifice. Registration is recommended but not required.
December 6, 13, & 20 | Met Park | National Landing
Free
Join us this December for a series of festive, family-friendly movies at Met Park! Movies will be shown on December 6th, 13th, and 20th, starting promptly at 7 PM.
Movie Lineup:
- December 6: Frozen
- December 13: Frozen 2
- December 20: Abominable
Arlington Public Library
December 31 | Central Library | Virginia Square
Free
Children of all ages and an accompanying adult are invited to ring in the "noon" year with a New Year's Eve-themed storytime, festive crafts, and a photo booth. We will count down to 12:00 noon with a balloon drop.
Registration recommended: First-come, first-served seating. By registering, you will receive event updates.
thru March | Westpost | National Landing
$10-13. Skate rentals $6.
Formerly Pentagon Row Outdoor Ice Skating, the Plaza has an outdoor dual-sided stone fireplace and many shops, restaurants and a coffee shop. Westpost’s 7,200 square foot ice rink is now the largest outdoor rink in Northern Virginia and the second-largest in the state.