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Christmas. Hanukah. Kwanzaa. Each bringing with it traditions, rituals, joys and special moments. There are the little things-finding the last hot toy on the shelf or exchanging heartfelt good wishes with strangers on the street. We can't help you with those events, but we can guide you to choral concerts, pageants, tree- and menorah-lighting ceremonies and other holiday events. On the next several pages, you'll find musical happenings, festivals, plays and light displays. It's a daunting array of options, so along with the comprehensive listings, we'll highlight a seasonal event that caught our eye for each of the 31 days of December. For variety's sake, we'll mix it up a bit, because seeing the "Nutcracker" every night would get kind of tedious (although you probably could if so inclined). It's not a "best of" list, just some suggestions for when you're feeling a little too harried to sift through the possibilities. Just think of it as a little something extra for you from Weekend in this season of giving. And, as always, events listed are free unless otherwise noted.
HARP CONCERT by Robin Roys, Friday at 7:30 at the Spencerville Adventist Church, 16325 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring (301/384-2920) and Sunday at 7 at the Geneva Presbyterian Church, 11931 Seven Locks Rd., Potomac (301/424-4346). U.S. AIR FORCE BAND presents a "Make the Season Bright" concert, Friday at 8, Saturday at 3 and 8 and Sunday at 3 at DAR Constitution Hall, 18th and D streets NW. Tickets to these concerts were distributed by mail, but unclaimed seats will be given to standbys 15 minutes before the concerts. 202/767-5658. BENEFIT CONCERT FOR THE HOMELESS – Augmented Eight, Princeton Tigertones, Yale Whiffenpoofs, Baltimore Jones Falls Express, Mosaic Harmony and Philomela present a benefit concert, Friday at 8 (reception at 7) at the National Presbyterian Church, 4101 Nebraska Ave. NW. $50 and $25, $15 students, ages 11 and younger free. 202/328-1100. NEW DOMINION CHORALIERS presents "A Musical Garland," Friday and Saturday at 8 at Gar-Field Senior High School, 14000 Smoketown Rd., Woodbridge. $5, $1 for children or a donation of canned food. 703/680-5129. COLLEGIUM MUSICUM, a Renaissance and medieval ensemble, presents a concert of sacred and secular music by Guillaume de Machaut and his contemporaries, Friday at 8 at the Ulrich Recital Hall in the Tawes Fine Arts Building at the University of Maryland, Adelphi Road and University Boulevard East in College Park. 301/405-7847. DEBRA TIDWELL and Charles Williams present a holiday gospel concert, Friday at 8 at the Embassy of the Czech Republic, 3900 Spring of Freedom St. NW. $16, $14 seniors and $10 students with ID and youths 18 and younger. 202/237-9834.
Saturday "A CELTIC CHRISTMAS" – Barnes and Hampton Celtic Consort presents a holiday concert, Saturday at 3:30 and 8, Sunday at 3:30, Thursday at 7, Dec. 8 at 8 and Dec. 9 at 3:30 and 8 at Dumbarton Church, 3133 Dumbarton St. NW. $25, $22 students and seniors. 202/965-2000. 20TH CENTURY CONSORT and soprano Susan Narucki present a holiday concert, including James Primosch's "Holy the Firm," Saturday at 5 (interview and master classes at 4) in the Ring Auditorium at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Seventh Street and Independence Avenue SW. $28. 202/357-3030. LAUREL ORATORIO SOCIETY presents a holiday concert, featuring Bach's "Christmas Oratorio" (in German), Saturday at 5 at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 13611 Laurel-Bowie Rd., Laurel. $18, $14 students and seniors and include a buffet at intermission. 301/464-0119. ABBY RABINOWITZ AND KALEIDOSCOPE present a concert of klezmer holiday music, Saturday at 7:30 at the Baird Auditorium in the National Museum of Natural History, 10th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. $22. 202/357-3030. WILSON NICHOLS CHORALE presents "Holiday Harmonies," Saturday at 7:30 at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 1625 Wiehle Ave., Reston. 703/742-7992. WOODBRIDGE COMMUNITY CHOIR presents a "Christmas Memories" holiday concert, Saturday at 8 at Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church Parish Hall, 13752 Mary's Way, Woodbridge, and Dec. 8 and Dec. 9 at 8 at Gar-Field High School, 14000 Smoketown Rd., Woodbridge. 703/670-8779. ALEXANDRIA CHORAL SOCIETY presents a family concert and sing-along, Saturday at 7:30 at the Washington Street United Methodist Church, 115 S. Washington St., Alexandria. $15, $5 children through age 16 or $25 for a family of two adults and their children. 703/548-4734. UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND CHORUS presents Christmas concerts, Saturday at 8, Sunday at 2 and 5 at the Memorial Chapel at the University of Maryland, Adelphi Road and University Boulevard East in College Park. $13, $10 seniors and students ($3 for children for the Sunday concert at 2). 301/405-7847. ECHOES, a 20-voice chamber choir, presents a holiday concert, Saturday at 8 at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church, 1830 Connecticut Ave. NW, and Sunday at 4 at Providence Presbyterian Church, 9019 Little River Tnpk., Fairfax. $15 to $25. 703/237-2499. NAVY BAND presents a holiday concert, Saturday at 8 at Great Mills High School, 21130 Great Mills Rd., Great Mills, Md. 301/475-9039 or 301/475-3225. CHROMATICS presents an a cappella concert of holiday songs, Saturday at 8 at the Greenbelt Arts Center, 123 Centerway, Greenbelt. $10, $8 seniors and students. 301/441-8770. LOUDOUN SYMPHONY presents "Symphony and Sleigh Bells" concerts, Saturday at 8 at Stone Bridge High School, 43100 Hay Rd., Ashburn, and Dec. 10 at 3 at Loudoun Valley High School, 340 N. Maple Ave., Purcellville. $12, $6 children (advance sales $1 off). 703/771-8287. McLEAN ORCHESTRA and the Fairfax Choral Society present a "Holiday Celebration" concert and sing-along, Saturday at 8 at Langley High School Auditorium, 6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean. $20, $17 students and seniors, $5 youths. 703/893-8646. WASHINGTON BACH CONSORT presents a concert of Advent cantatas by J.S. Bach, Saturday at 8 at St. Luke Catholic Church, 7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean, and Sunday at 3 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 4900 36th St. NW. $28, $36 and $42. 202/686-7500.
Sunday
FLAUTO DOLCE flute quartet presents a concert of holiday favorites, Sunday from 2 to 4 at Border's bookstore, 8311 Leesburg Pike, Vienna. 703/764-8243. ROCKVILLE SINGERS present a holiday concert, Sunday at 2:15 at the Glenview Mansion, in Rockville Civic Center Park, Baltimore Avenue and Edmonston Road. 301/309-3007. DEBRA TIDWELL and Charles Williams present a holiday gospel concert, Sunday at 3 at ArtSpace, City Place Mall, 8661 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring. $14, $12 seniors and $8 students with ID and youths 18 and younger. 202/237-9834. WOLF TRAP SING-ALONG – Ring in the holidays with the Marine Band at the 32nd annual holiday performance, Sunday at 4 at Wolf Trap's Filene Center, 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna. Conducted by Director Col. Timothy W. Foley, the Marine Band will accompany local school, church and community choirs in traditional holiday songs. The evening will conclude at dusk with a parade of lights generated by the flickering glow of candlelight. Free shuttle buses will run from the West Falls Church Metro station, starting at 2 and returning immediately after the event. Canned goods will be collected. Bring a candle or bell. 703/255-1900 or 202/433-4011. CORAL CANTIGAS presents "A Colonial Christmas: From Spain to the Colonies" concert, Sunday at 5 at Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church, 6601 Bradley Blvd., Bethesda. $15, $10 students and seniors, children 9 and younger free. 301/816-2314. POOR CLARES Celtic Christmas Concert, Sunday at 5 and 7:30 at the Starland Cafe, 5125 MacArthur Blvd. NW. $10. 202/244-9396. RON FREEMAN CHORALE presents its Christmas concert, Sunday at 7:30 at the Westover Baptist Church, 1125 N. Patrick Henry Dr., Arlington. 703/525-1397. ANNE ARUNDEL Community College Concert Band presents a "Winter Music Potpourri," Sunday at 7:30 at the Pascal Center for the Performing Arts at the college, 101 College Pkwy., Arnold. $7, $5 seniors and children 12 and younger. 410/541-2457.
Tuesday
WASHINGTON BACH CONSORT presents a contata concert, Tuesday at 12:10 at the church of the Epiphany, 13th and G streets NW. 202/686-7500. UNIVERSITY CHORALE presents a holiday concert, Tuesday at 8 at the Memorial Chapel at the University of Maryland, Adelphi Road and University Boulevard East in College Park. 301/405-5571.
Wednesday
NAVY BAND'S Country Current bluegrass quartet presents a concert, Wednesday at 1:30 at the Department of Agriculture, Building 003, 10300 Baltimore Ave., Beltsville. 202/433-2525. SPRING HILL Elementary School Orchestra presents a holiday concert, Wednesday at 7:30 in the school gym, 8201 Lewinsville Rd., McLean. 703/506-3400.
Thursday
PRISM BRASS QUINTET presents a holiday concert, Thursday at 7 at the Memorial Chapel at the University of Maryland, Adelphi Road and University Boulevard East in College Park. 301/484-9100.
Dec. 8
LONESTAR and Phil Vasser sing at WMZQ's Holiday Concert, Dec. 8 at 7:30 at George Mason University's Patriot Center, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax. $22.50, $32.50 and $47.50. 202/432-7328. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH of Alexandria presents "Christmas in Short Order," a living Christmas tree with full orchestra, a 100-voice choir and drama, Dec. 8 at 7:30, Dec. 9 at 2:30, 5:15 and 7:30 and Dec. 10 at 5:15 and 7:30. $5, $3 children 11 and younger. 2932 King St., Alexandria. 703/299-3614. CAPITOL HILL CHORALE presents a holiday concert, Dec. 8 and Dec. 10 at 7:30 at the Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church, Fourth Street and Independence Avenue SE. $15 and $10, children 12 and younger free. 202/547-6839. CHORAL CHAMBER CHORUS, Annapolis Chamber Orchestra and guest soloists present "A Celebration of Christmas," Dec. 8 at 8 at the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase St., Annapolis. $30. 410/263-1906. "HOLIDAY LIMITED" – Last Train Home celebrates the release of its new CD, "Holiday Limited," with an evening of seasonal and other music, Dec. 8 and Dec. 9 at 9 at IOTA Club & Cafe, 2832 Wilson Blvd, Arlington. $10. 703/522-8340.
Dec. 9
NAVY BAND'S SEA CHANTERS present a holiday concert, Dec. 9 at noon at the Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 202/737-2300, Ext. 768. CATHY FINK, MARCY MARXER and Red Grammer present a Family Holiday Concert, Dec. 9 at 1 and 3:30 at the NOAA Auditorium, 1315 East-West Hwy., Silver Spring. $8 in advance, $10 at the door. 301/263-0600.
COMBINED CHOIRS and Orchestra of the Aldersgate United Methodist Church present "Many Moods of Christmas," Dec. 9 at 3 at the church at 1301 Collingwood Rd., Alexandria. 703/765-6555.
RESTON CHORALE presents "A Seasonal Celebration" concert, Dec. 9 at 6 and 8 at the Reston Community Center, 2310 Colts Neck Rd., Reston. $12, $8 seniors and youths. 703/476-1111. WASHINGTON WOMEN'S CHORUS presents "Carols at Christmas," Dec. 9 at 7:30 at the Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church, 201 Fourth St. SE, and Dec. 10 at 4 at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 4000 Lorcom Ln., Arlington. $18, $15 seniors and students. 202/244-7367. GAITHERSBURG COMMUNITY CHORUS presents its Winter Concert, Dec. 9 at 7 at the National Institute of Standards' Red Auditorium, 1 Bureau Dr. (use West Diamond Avenue entrance), Gaithersburg. 301/258-6350. CONVIVIUM presents three a cappella concerts: "Welcome, Yule," Dec. 9 at 7 at Cranford United Methodist Church, 9912 Old Colchester Rd., Lorton; Dec. 10 at 3 at Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill, 3606 Seminary Rd., Alexandria; and Dec. 16 at 7:30 at the Dumbarton United Methodist Church, 3133 Dumbarton Ave. NW. 703/339-8770. ST. NICHOLAS EPISCOPAL CHURCH presents "An Irish Noel," Dec. 9 at 7:30 (silent auction at 6:30) at the Fellowship Hall of the Darnestown Presbyterian Church, 15120 Turkey Foot Rd., Darnestown. $12, $8 children 5 through 12 ($15 and $10 at the door). 301/548-9680. GEORGETOWN COMMUNITY CHORALE, with orchestra and soloist, presents "Gaudete, Rejoice!," Dec. 9 at 7:30 at the Nolan Performing Arts Center at Georgetown Visitation School, 1524 35th St. NW. $15. 301/431-0435. ANNE ARUNDEL Community College Concert Choir presents a holiday concert, Dec. 9 at 7:30 at the Pascal Center for the Performing Arts at the college, 101 College Pkwy., Arnold. $7, $5 seniors and children 12 and younger. 410/541-2457. MASTER CHORALE Chamber Singers present a "Christmas in Georgetown" concert, Dec. 9 at 8 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 36th and N streets NW. $18 to $26. 202/471-4055. THE CHORALIS choral ensemble, the Classical Brass Quintet, the Robinson High School Women's Chorus and the Falls Church Presbyterian Youth Choirs present "A Classic Brass Christmas," Dec. 9 at 8 at Falls Church Presbyterian Church, 225 E. Broad St., Falls Church. $15 to $25. 703/237-2499. PALESTRINA CHOIR presents a holiday concert, Dec. 9 at 8 at St. Columba's Episcopal Church, 4201 Albemarle St. NW. $15, $8 seniors and students. 703/519-1961. VOICES21 performs Christmas concerts, Dec. 9 at 8 at the First United Methodist Church, 6201 Belcrest Rd., Hyattsville, and Dec. 10 at 3 at St. John's Church, 3240 O St. NW. 301/927-6133, Ext. 20. NATIONAL MEN'S CHORUS presents two holiday concerts: Dec. 9 at 8 at Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church, 6601 Bradley Blvd., Bethesda, and Dec. 10 at 3 at the Western Presbyterian Church, 2401 Virginia Ave. NW. $15. 202/244-7191. WASHINGTON MEN'S CAMERATA presents "Christmas With the Camerata" concerts, Dec. 9 at 8 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 4900 36th St. NW and Dec. 10 at 4 at Church of the Epiphany, 1317 G St. NW. $20, $12 students. 202/364-1064. ARMY BAND AND PHYLICIA RASHAD present "A Holiday Festival," Dec. 9 at 8 and Dec. 10 at 2 and 6 at DAR Constitution Hall, 18th and D streets NW. Tickets to these concerts have been given out, but unclaimed seats will be given to standbys 15 minutes before each concert. 703/696-3399.
Dec. 10
ROCKVILLE COMMUNITY CHORUS presents a Holiday Concert, Dec. 10 at 2 at Rockville Senior Center, 1150 Carnation Dr., Rockville. 301/309-3007 or 301/309-3340.
TAMMERLIN presents a Christmas folk concert, Dec. 10 at 2 at Harmony Hall Regional Center, 10701 Livingston Rd., Fort Washington. $10, $8 seniors and students, $5 children 11 and younger. 301/203-6070 (TDD: 301/203-3803). MONTGOMERY COUNTY YOUTH ORCHESTRAS offer a Holiday Concert, Dec. 10 at 2:30 at Richard Montgomery High School, 250 Richard Montgomery Dr., Rockville. 301/654-2018. WORLD CHILDREN'S CHOIR presents a holiday concert at a tea, Dec. 10 from 3 to 5 at the Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner, 1700 Tysons Blvd., McLean. $40. 703/917-5498. COLONIAL ENGLISH HANDBELL RINGERS present a holiday concert, Dec. 10 at 3 at the Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St., Alexandria. 703/838-4994. CHRISTMAS CONCERT featuring five vocal choirs, three handbell choirs and instruments, Dec. 10 at 4 at the Chevy Chase Presbyterian Church, 1 Chevy Chase Circle NW. 202/363-2202. CHILDREN'S CHORUS OF WASHINGTON presents a Holiday Concert, Dec. 10 at 4 at the National City Christian Church, 5 Thomas Circle NW. $25 and $15, $7 seniors and children. 202/237-1005. ANDY COONEY sings at an "Irish Holiday Concert," Dec. 10 at 5 at Pat Troy's Irish Restaurant & Pub, 111 North Pitt St., Alexandria. $35. 703/549-4535. ST. LUKE Lutheran Church's musicians present the world premiere of Andrew Carter's "Maryland Magnificat," Dec. 10 at 5 at the church, 9100 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring. A meet-the-composer session will be held at 4:30. 301/588-4363. TAKOMA PARK SINGERS present a Holiday Concert, Dec. 10 at 7 at the Municipal Building, 7500 Maple Ave. Takoma Park. 301/270-4048. ADVENT CHORAL AND BELL CONCERT is presented Dec. 10 at 7 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 3022 Woodlawn Ave., Falls Church. 703/532-6617. THE NEW MINSTRELS OF THE RHINE explore the German roots of American carols and seasonal songs, Dec. 10 at 7:30 at Strathmore Hall, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda. $20. 301/530-0540. CAPITOL WIND SYMPHONY presents a Holiday Concert, Dec. 10 at 7:30 at the Ernst Community Cultural Center at Northern Virginia Community College, 8333 Little River Tnpk., Annandale. $10, $6 seniors and students. 202/607-5510.
Dec. 12
NIH CHAMBER SINGERS present a Holiday Concert, Dec. 12 at noon in the Masur Auditorium, in the Clinical Center, and Dec. 14 at 7:30 in the 14th floor auditorium in the Clinical Center. Both concerts are at the National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda. 301/435-3209. PIANIST AL DAVIS performs seasonal favorites, Dec. 12 at 7:30 at the Oxon Hill Branch Library, 6200 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill. 301/839-2400. BALTIMORE CHORAL ARTS SOCIETY presents "Christmas With Choral Arts," Dec. 12 at 7:30 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, 5200 N. Charles St., Baltimore. $35, $25. 410/523-7070.
Dec. 13
BAROQUE ARTISTS perform holiday music during an afternoon tea, Dec. 13 at 2 at Harmony Hall Regional Center, 10701 Livingston Rd., Fort Washington. $6. 301/203-6070 (TDD: 301/203-3803).
HOLIDAY CONCERT by Norwegian pianist Hakon Austbo, Dec. 13 at 6:30 at the IDB Cultural Center, Inter-American Development Bank, 1300 New York Ave. NW. 202/623-3774 or 202/623-3558. W.T. WOODSON HIGH SCHOOL Choral Department presents "Songs of the Season," Dec. 13 at 7 at the Bedinger Auditorium, at the school, 9525 Main St., Fairfax. Free, but donations of nonperishable food items will be accepted. 703/503-4600.
CAROLS AND BRASS with carol singers and the Salvation Army brass ensemble, Dec. 13 at 7:30 at St. James Church, 5757 Solomons Island Rd., Lothian, Md. Refreshments at 6, followed by a covered dish dinner at 6:30. 410/867-2838. WOMEN'S CHORUS HOLIDAY CONCERT to benefit area charities, Dec. 13 at 7:30 at the Janet Lang Recital Hall at the Levine School of Music, 2801 Upton St. NW. 202/686-9772. RESTON WINTER CONCERT with Wind Ensemble and Symphonic bands, Dec. 13 at 7:30 at South Lakes High School, 11400 South Lakes Dr., Reston. 703/715-4500. ERIC FELTEN JAZZ ORCHESTRA presents Duke Ellington's "Nutcracker Suite," Dec. 13 at 8 and 10 at at Blues Alley, 1041 Wisconsin Ave. (rear). $18 cover plus $7 food/drink minimum. 202/337-4141. Dec. 14
HOLIDAY CONCERT and Sing-Along, by the Bethesda Little Theatre, Dec. 14 from noon to 1 in the Masur Auditorium, Clinical Center, at the National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda. 301/589-0720. KUMSITZ – Community sing-along of Jewish folk music from klezmer, Yiddish, Hasidic and Sephardic traditions, Dec. 14 from 7 to 9 at the Levine School of Music, 2801 Upton St. NW. $5. 202/686-9772.
Dec. 15
CHRISTMAS CONCERT - Enjoy holiday music from "It's a Wonderful Life," Dec. 15 at 7 at the South Bowie Community Center, 1717 Pittsfield Lane, Bowie. Reservations required. 301/249-1622 (TDD: 301/218-6768). NATIONAL CHAMBER ORCHESTRA and the Cantate Chamber Singers present holiday concerts, Dec. 15 and Dec. 16 at 8 at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre in Civic Center Park, Baltimore Avenue and Edmonston Road in Rockville. $17, $25 and $33. 301/762-8580. A CHRISTMAS CANTATA by the combined choirs of St. Mary's Church, Dec. 15 at 8 at the church, 5222 Sideburn Rd., Fairfax. 703/978-4141. CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL CHOIR presents "A Coventry Carol," Dec. 15 at 8, Dec. 16 at 8 and Dec. 17 at 2 and 5:30 in Gaston Hall in the Healy Building at Georgetown University, 35th and O streets NW. $28, $34 and $38. 202/544-7077. Dec. 16
BALTIMORE CHORAL ARTS SOCIETY presents its "Christmas for Kids" concert, Dec. 16 at 11 at Goucher College's Kraushaar Auditorium, 1021 Dulaney Valley Rd., Baltimore. $10. 410/523-7070. FAIRFAX SYMPHONY and the Reston Chorale present a Holiday Festival Concert, Dec. 16 at 3:30 at the George Mason University Center for the Arts, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax. $12, $6 students. 703/218-6500. CATHEDRAL CHORAL SOCIETY presents "The Joy of Christmas" concert, Dec. 16 at 4, Dec. 17 at 4 and Dec. 18 at 7:30 at Washington National Cathedral, Massachusetts and Wisconsin avenues NW. $15 to $43. 202/537-8980. GOSPEL TRUTH CHOIR presents "Glory!," a gospel-style musical with liturgical dances and children's choir celebrating the joy of Christmas, Dec. 16 at 5 at Meade Memorial Episcopal Church, 322 N. Alfred St., Alexandria. $10, $5 children 12 and younger. Advance ticket sales only. 703/549-1334. MORMON CHOIR of Washington, D.C., presents a Christmas Concert, Dec., 16 at 5 in the Great Hall at the National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW. 703/533-1973. MARYLAND BOY CHOIR presents a Christmas Concert, Dec. 16 at 7:30 at University United Methodist Church, 3621 Campus Dr., on the campus of the University of Maryland, Adelphi Road and University Boulevard East in College Park. $10, $5 students and seniors. 301/559-3456. METROPOLITAN CHORUS presents a concert of holiday music, Dec. 16 at 7:30 and Dec. 17 at 3 at the Gunston Performing Arts Center, 2700 S. Lang St., Arlington. $15, $10 seniors, students and military, children 12 and younger free. 703/836-4822. NAVY BAND offers Holiday Concerts, Dec. 16 at 7:30 and Dec. 17 at 3 at DAR Constitution Hall, 18th and D streets NW. Tickets are free, and you can request up to four tickets by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Holiday Tickets, U.S. Navy Band. 617 Warrington Ave. SE, Washington Navy Yard, DC 20374-5054. Designate "A" for Saturday, "B" for Sunday. Unclaimed seats will be given to standbys 15 minutes before each concert. 202/433-2525. HOLIDAY SING-ALONG on Dec. 16 from 8 to 11 p.m. at the Year of the Rabbit Coffee Pub, 6700 Race Track Rd., Bowie. 301/809-0979. 21st CENTURY ENSEMBLE and the Mount Vernon Unitarian Church Choir presents "Magnificats Through the Ages" and selected carols, Dec. 16 at 8 at the Mount Vernon Unitarian Church, 1909 Windmill Lane, Mount Vernon. $15. 703/660-0028. CONGRESSIONAL CHORUS, the Mount Vernon Brass Quintet and organist Russell Freeman present "Glory! An American celebration in Carols and Brass," Dec. 16 at 8 at the Church of the Holy City, 1611 16th St. NW. $15 at the door, $12 in advance, half-price for students and seniors, 11 and younger free. 703/237-2213.
Dec. 17
ROCKVILLE CONCERT BAND presents a Holiday Concert, Dec. 17 at 3 at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre in Civic Center Park, Baltimore Avenue and Edmonston Road in Rockville. 301/309-3340. McLEAN CHORAL SOCIETY presents "Carols at Christmas," Dec. 17 at 3 at the McLean Presbyterian Church, 1020 Balls Hill Rd., McLean. $15, $12 seniors and students, $5 ages 12 and younger. 703/356-7464. YOUTH ORCHESTRAS of Prince William County offer a Holiday Concert, Dec. 17 at 3 at Gar-Field High School, 14000 Smoketown Rd., Woodbridge. $6, $4 seniors and children, ages 4 and younger free. 703/590-7083. THE ALEXANDRIA HARMONIZERS join the Potomac Harmony Chorus for a Holiday Festival, Dec. 17 at 3 at T.C. Williams High School, 3330 King St., Alexandria, $8. 703/922-0962. CONCERT ARTISTS OF BALTIMORE present a Holiday Concert, Dec. 17 at 3 at Strathmore Hall, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda. $20. 301/530-0540. UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OPERA COMPANY performs a musical tribute to the Winter Solstice, Hanukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and other holidays of the season, Dec. 17 at 3 at ArtSpace in City Place Mall, 8661 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring. $8, $5 seniors and youths. 301/593-7075. AMADEUS CONCERTS presents "Christmas in Great Falls," including Dylan Thomas's "A Child's Christmas in Wales," Dec. 17 at 4 at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 1024 Springvale Rd., Great Falls. $15, $12 seniors and $10 students. 703/759-5334. OX HILL BAPTIST CHURCH Sanctuary Choir and guest orchestra perform traditional and contemporary Christmas anthems, including works from the "Messiah," Dec. 17 at 4 and 7 at the church, 4101 Elmwood St., Chantilly. 703/378-5555. FAIRFAX CHORAL SOCIETY, High School Honors Chorus and Children's Chorus, with full orchestra, present "Christmas in Fairfax," Dec. 17 at 4 at George Mason University's Center for the Arts Concert Hall, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax. $23 and $28, seniors and youths, $20 and $25. 703/642-0862, Ext. 1. THOMAS CIRCLE SINGERS and Orchestra present a Christmas Concert, Dec. 17 at 4 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 4900 Connecticut Ave. NW. $15, $10 seniors and students. 202/546-7282. CIRCLE SINGERS present "Christmas Around the World," Dec. 17 at 4 at Church of the Epiphany, 1317 G St. NW. $15, $10 seniors and students and free for children 12 and younger. 202/882-8528. CHAPEL RINGERS handbell choir and vocal choir offer a Christmas concert, Dec. 17 at 5 at the Fort Myer Memorial Chapel, Building 480, Fort Myer. 703/696-3532. WESTWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH ADULT and Youth Choirs, accompanied by orchestra and harp, present "Canticle of Joy," Dec. 17 at 7 at the church, 8200 Old Keene Mill Rd., Springfield. 703/451-5120. KINGS PARK CONCERT BAND performs a concert of holiday music, Dec. 17 at 7:30 in the Reston Community Center, 2310 Colts Neck Rd., Reston. Free, but tickets are required. Get them at the Community Center or the front door. 703/476-1111. ROCKVILLE COMMUNITY CHORUS presents a Holiday Concert, Dec. 17 at 7:30 at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre in Civic Center Park, Baltimore Avenue and Edmonston Road in Rockville. 301/309-3340.
Dec. 18
FAIRFAX HIGH SCHOOL Winter Concert, Dec. 18 at 7:30 at the school, 3500 Old Lee Hwy. Fairfax. 703/219-2355.
Dec. 19
SPRING HILL Chamber Orchestra and Chorus presents a holiday concert, Dec. 19 at noon at the McLean Hilton, 7290 Jones Branch Rd., McLean. 703/506-3400. ROCKVILLE CONCERT BAND presents a Holiday Concert, Dec. 19 at 3 at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre in Civic Center Park, Baltimore Avenue and Edmonston Road in Rockville. 301/309-3340. VIENNA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH offers "Glorious Sounds of Christmas" with eight choirs and full orchestra, Dec. 19 at 4 and 7 at the church, Park and Church streets in Vienna. 703/938-9050. NATIONAL CONCERT BAND OF AMERICA presents a Holiday Concert, Dec. 19 at 6 at the U.S. Soldiers' and Airmen's Home, North Capitol Street and Scale Gate Road NE. 301/933-2919.
Dec. 20
W.T. WOODSON High School Orchestra presents a Holiday Concert, Dec. 20 at 7:30 at the school auditorium, 9525 Main St., Fairfax. 703/503-4600. FOURTH GRADE ORCHESTRA of the Spring Hill Elementary School presents a holiday concert, Dec. 20 at 7:30 in the school gym, 8201 Lewinsville Rd., McLean. 703/506-3400. SOUTHWEST CHAMBER PLAYERS perform a gala Christmas concert, Dec. 20 at 7:30 at St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, Maine Avenue and Sixth Street SW. 202/484-6354. SANTA JAM featuring the Tom Principato Band, Mary Ann Redmond Band, Danny Morris Band, Linwood Taylor Band and other area musicians, Dec. 20 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the State Theatre, 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church. Admission: one unwrapped child's Christmas gift or $5. 703/237-0300. POTOMAC HARMONY SHOWTIME CHORUS presents a holiday concert, Dec. 20 at 8 at Ballston Common Mall, 4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. 703/764-3896.
Dec. 21
HESPERUS presents "Dancing Day," a concert of medieval, Renaissance and traditional Christmas music, Dec. 21 at 7:30, Dec. 22 at 7:30 and Dec. 23 at 3 and 7:30 at the Rosslyn Spectrum, 1611 N. Kent St., Rosslyn. $18, students and seniors $10. 703/525-7550. ST. MARTIN'S CHOIR holds its annual Christmas concert, Dec. 21 at 7:30 at the St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 201 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg. 301/840-1831.
Dec. 22
TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA presents a concert of Christmas music and a story of a little girl lost on Christmas Eve, Dec. 22 at 8 at DAR Constitution Hall, 18th and D streets NW. $24.50 and $32.50. 202/432-7328.
Dec. 27
IONA presents a holiday concert of songs and music from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall and France, Dec. 27 at 2 and 3 at Sully plantation, on Route 28 a half-mile north of U.S. 50 in Centreville. $6, $5 seniors and students and $4 children. 703/437-1794.
Dec. 28
JOHN GUILLORY AND JODY MARSHALL present a holiday concert, Dec. 28 at 2 and 3 at Sully plantation, on Route 28 a half-mile north of U.S. 50 in Centreville. $6, $5 seniors and students and $4 children. 703/437-1794. DUO CORIOLAN - Cellist Scott Tisdel and pianist Stefanie Jacob present a holiday concert Dec. 28 at 7:30 at Temple Micah, 2829 Wisconsin Ave. NW. $15. 202/342-9175.
Friday
KWANZAA CELEBRATION - Learn the African American traditions of Kwanzaa and enjoy a performance by the Caribbean Circle, for children 12 through 16, Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. Deerfield Run Community Center, 1300 Laurel-Bowie Rd., Laurel. 301/953-7882 (TDD: 301/445-4512).
Dec. 8
KWANZAA FUN - Inner Visions presents holiday fun, with arts and crafts, dancing, drumming, story time with Baba C. and a photo with the Kwanzaa Angel, Dec. 8, Dec. 9, Dec. 29 and Dec. 30 from noon to 5. 926 Philadelphia Ave., Silver Spring. 301/608-8740.
Dec. 9
KWANZAA FAMILY WORKSHOP - Storyteller Marjani Dele explains the seven principles of Kwanzaa and how to celebrate it with a family project, Dec. 9 from 10 to 1, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, 1602 Morris Rd. SE. Reservations required; for ages 6 to adult. 202/786-9056. KWANZAA WORKSHOP - Denise Higgs leads a workshop on the traditions and history of Kwanzaa, for children 5 and older, Dec. 9 from 1 to 2. Reservations required by Dec. 8. Glen Dale Community Center, 11901 Glenn Dale Blvd., Glenn Dale. 301/352-8983 (TDD: 301/218-6768).
Dec. 10
WINTER HOLIDAY FESTIVAL - Kwanzaa dances, Christmas and Hanukah art workshops, and other entertainment, Dec. 10 from 2:30 to 4:30 at the Corcoran Gallery of Art, 500 17th St. NW. The program is for children ages 5 through 12 and is free for those ages, but reservations are required. 202/639-1727.
Dec. 19
KWANZAA WORKSHOP - Children and adults can learn how to celebrate the African American holiday, Dec. 19 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center, 6120 Sargent Rd., Chillum. 301/853-2005 (TDD: 301/445-4512).
Dec. 27
KWANZAA CELEBRATION - Song, dance and audience participation in the customs and traditions of Kwanzaa, Dec. 27 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Columbia Park/Kentland Community Center, 2411 Pinebrook Ave., Landover. Reservations required by Dec. 22. 301/386-2278 (TDD: 301/445-4512).
Dec. 28
KWAZINGO - Play a holiday game of bingo and learn about the traditions of Kwanzaa, Dec. 28 from 4:30 to 5:30. All ages welcome. Glenarden/Theresa Banks Complex, 8615 McLain Ave., Glenarden. 301/772-3151 (TDD: 301/218-6768). KWANZAA CELEBRATION - Celebrate Kwanzaa with African dancers, drummers and the Kwanzaa ceremony, Dec. 28 at 7. Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center, 6120 Sargent Rd., Chillum. 301/853-2005 (TDD: 301/445-4512). KWANZAA CELEBRATION - Learn about the seven principles through games, crafts and entertainment, Dec. 28 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. All ages welcome. William Beanes Community Center, 5108 Dianna Dr., Suitland. $1 bi-county residents, $2 nonresidents. 301/568-7719 (TDD: 301/203-6030). "THE SPIRIT OF KWANZAA" - Fabian Barnes and his Dance Institute of Washington combine dance, music and poetry to honor the seven principles of life and values of the community in celebration of this African American holiday, Dec. 28 and 29 at 7 in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall. $10-$15. 202/467-4600 (TDD: 202/416-8524).
Dec. 29
KWANZAA CELEBRATION - Learn about the seven principles of the holiday and enjoy different foods and traditions, Dec. 29 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. All ages welcome. Reservations required by Dec. 22. $2 bi-county residents, $3 nonresidents. Oakcrest Community Center, 5200 Marlboro Pike, Capitol Heights. 301/736-5355 (TDD: 301/218-6768).
ABBY RABINOWITZ AND KALEIDOSCOPE present a concert of klezmer holiday music, Saturday at 7:30 at the Baird Auditorium in the National Museum of Natural History, 10th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. $22. 202/357-3030.
Dec. 10
WINTER HOLIDAY FESTIVAL – Hanukah and Christmas art workshops, Kwanzaa dances and other entertainment, Dec. 10 from 2:30 to 4:30 at the Corcoran Gallery of Art, 500 17th St. NW. The program is for children ages 5 through 12 and is free for those ages, but reservations are required. 202/639-1727.
Dec. 14
KUMSITZ - Community sing-along of Jewish folk music from klezmer, Yiddish, Hasidic and Sephardic traditions, Dec. 14 from 7 to 9 at the Levine School of Music, 2801 Upton St. NW. $5. 202/686-9772.
Dec. 17 HAPPY HANUKAH PARTY – Dec. 17 from 10 to 1 at the District of Columbia Jewish Community Center, 1529 16th St. NW. Activities include art projects from 10 to 10:45, a concert by the Robyn Helzner Duo at 11 (tickets $8, children under 2 not using their own seats are free) and latkes at noon ($3). 202/518-9400. "THE EIGHT NIGHTS of Hanukah," with Israeli dancing, arts and crafts, food and entertainment, Dec. 17 from 1 to 4 at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, 6125 Montrose Rd., Rockville. $4 activities, $3.50 per show, $10 package for all shows and activities. 301/230-3734. HANUKAH PARTY – Dec. 17 from 7 to 9 at the Chevy Chase Holiday Inn, 5520 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase. $17, children 5 through 11 $8.50 (younger free); $4 cover charge, without dinner. Entertainment by the Machaya Klezmer Band. 301/951-0001.
Dec. 21
LIGHTING OF THE MENORAH – Celebrate the beginning of Hanukah Dec. 21 at 5 with speeches, music and the lighting of a giant menorah, Dec. 21 at 5 on the northwest corner of the Ellipse near Constitution Avenue. Call 202/619-7222.
MENORAH LIGHTING CEREMONY on Dec. 21 at 7 at Bethesda Metro Center, with choirs from Jewish Day School, a magic show and free ice skating (weather permitting). The Bethesda Metro Center is at Wisconsin Avenue and East-West Highway in Bethesda. 301/652-4988. HANUKAH CELEBRATION – Cantor Aaron Marcus directs "Lights: A Hanukah 5761 Celebration in Song," featuring the Keshet Chorale of the District of Columbia Jewish Community Center; the B'nai Shalom of Olney Adult Choir; and Hazamir, the Greater Washington, D.C., National Jewish High School Chorus, Dec. 21 at 6 on the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage. 202/467-4600 (TDD: 202/416-8524).
Dec. 23
THE KLEZMER NUTCRACKER – The Boston-based klezmer ensemble Shirim performs a "Klezmer Nutcracker," Dec. 23 at 8 and Dec. 24 at 3 at the D.C. Jewish Community Center's Cecile Goldman Theater, 1529 16th St. NW. $20, $10 children 10 and younger. 800/494-8497; for information, 202/777-3254.
Dec. 24
TEMPLE SINAI NURSERY SCHOOL presents its winter benefit concert, "Singin' With Sally," Dec. 24 at 11 a.m. at Temple Sinai, 3100 Military Road NW. $10, $5 children under 2, or $35 for family of four or more. 202/363-6394, Ext. 349. Dec. 26
JINNY MARSH'S HOT KUGEL KLEZMER BAND performs joyous klezmer dances and poignant melodies, Dec. 26 at 6 on the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage. 202/467-4600 (TDD: 202/416-8524).
"A CHRISTMAS CAROL" – Ford's Theatre presents Charles Dickens's "A Christmas Carol," through Dec. 31 at the theater at 511 10th St. NW (Metro: Federal Triangle, Metro Center). Performances are Fridays at 7:30, Saturdays at 2:30 and 7:30, Sundays at 2:30, Tuesdays at 7:30, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 1 and 7:30. Tickets are $27 to $43; call 703/218-6500 (service charges added). For information, call 202/347-4833. "A TUNA CHRISTMAS" – Comedians Joe Sears and Jaston Williams bring the oddball characters of tiny Tuna, Tex., to life in "A Tuna Christmas," at the Warner Theatre, 13th and E streets NW (Metro: Metro Center, Federal Triangle). Performances are Friday at 8, Saturday at 2 and 8 and Sunday at 2 and 7. Tickets are $30.50 to $42.50. Call 202/432-7328 (service charges added); for information, call 202/783-4000. "CHRISTMAS AT THE OLD BULL AND BUSH" - Interact Theatre Company presents holiday cheer with vaudeville entertainment in a British pub, with refreshments, caroling and other activities, at the Old Vat Theater at Arena Stage, Sixth Street and Maine Avenue SW. Performances are Friday at 7:30, Saturday at 2 and 7:30, Sunday at 2, Wednesday through Dec. 8 at 7:30, Dec. 9 at 2 and 7:30, Dec. 10 at 2, Dec. 13 and Dec. 14 at 7:30, Dec. 15 at 6, Dec. 16 and Dec. 17 at 2 and 7:30, Dec. 19 through Dec. 21 at 7:30, Dec. 22 and Dec. 23 at 2 and 7:30, Dec. 26 through Dec. 29 at 7:30, Dec. 30 at 2 and 7:30, Dec. 31 at 2, Jan. 2 through Jan. 5 at 7:30, Jan. 6 at 2 and 7:30, and Jan. 7 at 2. $28 and $30, $25.25 and $27 students and seniors. 703/218-6500.
Friday
THE WASHINGTON REVELS present their annual holiday performance, the "Christmas Revels," a program that this year features the magic of Celtic lands, Friday at 7:30, Saturday at 2 and 7:30, Sunday at 2 (sign-interpreted), Dec. 8 at 7:30, Dec. 9 at 2 and 7:30, and Dec. 10 at 2 (audio-described) at Lisner Auditorium, 730 21st St. NW. $18 to $30, $12 to $20 for ages 18 and younger. 703/218-6500. "THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER," by the Little Theatre of Alexandria, Friday at 8, Saturday and Sunday at 1 and 3 and Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 at 1 and 3. $5. 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria. 703/683-0496. "ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS," presented Friday through Dec. 23 at the West End Dinner Theatre, 4615 Duke St., Alexandria. Performances are Thursdays through Sundays (dinner at 6, show at 8) with matinees on Wednesdays and Sundays (dinner at noon, curtain at 2). $31 to $36, with discounts for seniors and military. 703/370-2500. "NOWELL WE SING," a holiday drama in music, dance, story and song, Friday at 8 at Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church, 6601 Bradley Blvd., Bethesda. $18, $7 children 12 and younger. 202/546-2228.
Saturday
"BABES IN TOYLAND" is presented Saturday through Dec. 30 at the West End Dinner Theatre, 4615 Duke St., Alexandria. Performances are Saturday and Dec. 9 and Dec. 16 at 11 and 2; Dec. 23, Dec. 28, Dec. 29 and Dec. 30 at 2. $7. 703/370-2500. "SCROOGE" is presented by the Performing Arts Ensemble, Saturday at 7 in the Masur Auditorium, in the Clinical Center, Building 10, at the National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda. Advance tickets are $8, $4 children 12 and younger (all tickets $2 more at the door). 301/594-5596.
Wednesday
"IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE" – A seniors trip to Toby's Dinner Theater for a performance of the holiday classic, Wednesday from 9:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For ages 55 and older. $29 bi-county residents, $31 nonresidents. Camp Springs Senior Center, 6420 Allentown Rd., Camp Springs. 301/449-0490 (TDD: 301/203-6030).
Dec. 8
"CHRISTMAS IN OLD TOWN XI" – A musical presentation of the town's history, Dec. 8 at 7, Dec. 9 at 3 and 7 and Dec. 10 at 7. Downtown Baptist Church, 212 S. Washington St., Alexandria. 703/549-5544. FOOLS FOR CHRIST Parable Production Company presents "As If There Were Something," a Christmas play by Jack Kurtz, Dec. 8 through Dec. 11 at 7:30 at the Bush Hill Presbyterian Church, 4916 Franconia Rd., Alexandria. 703/971-1171. Dec. 9
"JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF CHRISTMAS," presented Dec. 9 at 1:30 and Dec. 10 at 4 at Walker United Methodist Church, 4102 N. Glebe Rd., Arlington. 703/538-5200. "THE HOLIDAY WISHES" – The Fairmount Players present a holiday play, Dec. 9 at 2 at the Fairmount Heights Branch Library, 5904 Kolb St., Fairmount Heights. 301/883-2650. "CHRISTMAS FOR KIDS," including "The Reluctant Dragon," by the Annapolis Chorale with music by John Rutter, Dec. 9 at 7:30 at the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase St., Annapolis. $10. $8 children. 410/263-1906.
Dec. 10
"A COLLECTION OF CHRISTMAS SHORTS," featuring "Humbug," Dec. 10 at 2 and Dec. 16 at 2 at Aldersgate United Methodist Church Theatre Stage, 1301 Collingwood Rd., Alexandria. $3. 703/765-6555. DAWN CRAFTON DANCERS of Gaithersburg present "Happy Holidays 2000," Dec. 10 at 2:30 at the Junior Woman's Club of Chevy Chase, 7931 Connecticut Ave., Chevy Chase. Festivities run from 1 to 3. $6, which includes supplies for children's arts and crafts projects. 301/840-8400.
Dec. 12
"HOLLY FOLLIES" presented by Susan Wall's Carousel Puppets, Dec. 12 at 7:30 at the Largo-Kettering Branch Library, 9601 Capital Ln., Largo. 301/336-4044.
Dec. 14
"A CHRISTMAS CAROL" – is presented by Prince George's Little Theatre, Dec. 14 and Dec. 15 at 8, Dec. 16 at 2 and 8, and Dec. 17 at 2 at the Prince George's Publick Playhouse, 5445 Landover Rd., Cheverly. $5. 301/277-1710.
Dec. 15
"CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK" – Encore Theatrical Arts Projects presents a musical for the entire family, Dec. 15 at 7:30, Dec. 16 at noon, 3 and 7:30, and Dec. 17 at noon and 3 at the Ernst Community Cultural Center, Northern Virginia Community College, 8333 Little River Tnpk., Annandale. $10 and $12. 703/222-5511. "A CHRISTMAS CAROL" – Alden Theatre presents a musical version of the Dickens classic, Dec. 15 at 7:30, Dec. 16 at 1 and 3:30, Dec. 17 at 3, Dec. 20 through Dec. 22 at 7:30, Dec. 23 at 1 and 3:30 and Dec. 27 through Dec. 29 at 7:30. $6.50 McLean residents, $8 nonresidents. McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. 703/790-9223 or 202/432-7328. "THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO SCROOGE" – An Adaptation of "A Christmas Carol," by John Whorre and Tom Elie, Dec. 15 at 7:30, Dec. 16 at 7:30 and Dec. 17 at 6:30 at Christ Chapel, 13909 Smoketown Rd., Woodbridge. 703/670-8481, Ext. 100. "THE RELUCTANT DRAGON," a family holiday program by the Choral Arts Society of Frederick, is presented Dec. 15 and 16 at 7:30 at the Kussmaul Theatre, Frederick Community College, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. $10 in advance ($12 at the door), students and seniors $10, children 6 through 12 $5 (younger free). 301/663-6495. "SAINT WENCESLAS," a musical based on the story behind the Christmas carol, Dec. 15 at 8 and Dec. 16 at 3 at the Middleburg Community Center, 300 W. Washington St. in Middleburg, and Dec. 17 at 3 at the Warrenton Middle School, 244 Waterloo St., Warrenton. $10. 540/253-7460. "HOLIDAY MAGIC 2000" – The Talent Machine Co.'s annual holiday dance spectacular, Dec. 15 at 8, Dec., 16 at 2 and 7:30, Dec. 17 at 2 and 6:30, Dec. 18 at 7:30, Dec. 21 at 7:30, Dec. 22 at 7:30 and Dec. 23 at 2, at Key Auditorium at St. John's College, 60 College Ave., Annapolis. $10, $6 children 5 and younger. 410/956-0512.
Dec. 16
"AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS" – A musical presentation of the holiday classic by the Annapolis Chorale and actors, Dec. 16 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anne's Episcopal Church, Church Circle, Annapolis. $10, $8 students. 410/263-1906. "THE HOLLY FOLLIES" – The Carousel puppets and Holly the Elf host a talent show at the North Pole, Dec. 16 at 11 and 12:30 at the Lucketts Community Center, 42361 Lucketts Rd., Lucketts, and Dec. 23 at 11 and 12:30 at the Sterling Community Center Annex, 1115 W. Church Rd. Sterling. $5. 703/444-9426.
Dec. 20
"ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS" – West End Dinner Theatre presents the holiday musical, with dinner, on Dec. 20. Reston residents $37, nonresidents $49. Bus pickup at the Hunter Woods Center Rite Aid drugstore at 11 and return by 5. 703/476-4500.
SEASONS OF LIGHT – Roberta Gasbarre takes a fun-filled look at holiday traditions, including Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa, Saint Lucia, Advent, Hindu Devali and Irish Samhain, Mondays through Fridays at 10 and 11:30 plus Dec. 9 at noon, through Dec. 20 at Discovery Theater, in the Smithsonian's Arts and Industries Building, 900 Jefferson Dr. SW. The program is for ages 4-9. $5. 202/357-3030.
Friday
HOLIDAYS IN LEESBURG – Enjoy carriage rides, a tree lighting, a holiday parade and entertainment, Friday from 5 to 9 in the historic area of Leesburg, around King and Market streets. 703/777-1368. MANASSAS CELEBRATION – Enjoy a tree lighting, Friday at 6; a Christmas parade, Saturday at 10:30; and sidewalk carolers, carriage rides and other entertainment on Sunday from noon to 5 in and around Historic Manassas Inc., 9431 West St., Manassas. On Dec. 9, the Virginia Railway Express sponsors a train ride with Santa, at 11, 12:30 and 2. Call 703/361-6599 for information. WARRENTON marks the holidays with a Grand Illumination, Friday from 6:15 to 9 p.m., a Christmas parade, Saturday at 10 a.m. and horse-drawn wagon rides, Dec. 8 from 6:15 to 9 p.m., on Main Street. 540/349-8606.
Saturday
CHRISTMAS IN MIDDLEBURG – Enjoy the Hunt Parade, bagpipers, hayrides, marching bands and Santa during the Christmas in Middleburg celebration, Saturday from 9 to 5. The parade is at 11. 800/752-6118. MONTGOMERY COUNTY HOLIDAY PARADE – Saturday at 10 on Georgia Avenue, from Sligo Avenue to Wayne Avenue, right to Fenton Street and right on Fenton to Ellsworth Avenue. 301/946-3072. SCOTTISH CHRISTMAS WALK – Alexandria celebrates its Scottish Heritage with its annual Scottish Christmas Walk, a weekend festival that includes: The Scottish Christmas Walk Parade, Saturday from 10:30 to noon, features more than 100 Scottish clans, pipe and drum corps, dog clubs, antique cars and other attractions, and follows a winding route from South Pitt and Wilkes streets to South St. Asaph and Wilkes streets. Six Alexandria homes, decorated for the holidays by interior designers, are open for tours Saturday from 11 to 4. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 Saturday; get them and a guide at the Campagna Center, 418 S. Washington St. 703/549-0111. HOLIDAY TRAIN SHOW – Every Saturday from 11 to 5 through December, with seven train lines and a Christmas village. 13617 Connecticut Ave., Aspen Hill. 202/726-3333.. CHRISTMAS IN NEW MARKET – Strolling musicians, bagpipers, carolers, Civil War reenactors and other activities, Saturday from noon to 6 and Sunday from noon to 5 in downtown New Market. 301/865-5544. PARADE OF BOATS – Alexandria's Waterfront hosts a parade of boats decorated for the holidays, Saturday from 5 to 6. The best viewing area is the Waterfront at the foot of King Street and adjacent streets. 703/838-4200, Ext. 204. PARADE OF BOATS – Washington's Waterfront hosts a parade of decorated boats, Saturday at 6:30 in the Washington Channel. The best viewing area is along the Waterfront, from Sixth to 10th Streets SW, or Hains Point. 202/554-2487. TOYS FOR TOTS DANCE – With the band Sasparilla, Saturday from 8 to midnight at the Spanish Ballroom in Glen Echo Park, Goldsboro Road and MacArthur Boulevard in Glen Echo. $8. 301/340-9732. LUCIAFEST – Scandinavian holiday celebration with special foods, dancing and other entertainment, Saturday at 8:15 at Rosemary Hills Elementary School, 2111 Porter Rd., Silver Spring. Entertainment by Peascods Gathering, Gammaldans Spelmanslag. $5. 703/356-3036, 301/585-1130. HOLIDAY HAND DANCE – Saturday from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. for ages 25 and older, Kettering/Largo Community Center, 431 Watkins Park Dr., Upper Marlboro. Bi-county residents $8 couple, $5 single; nonresidents, $10 couple and $6 single. 301/390-8390 (TDD: 301/218-6768).
Sunday
"TREES OF CHRISTMAS," opening Sunday and continuing through Jan. 2 at the National Museum of American History, features six trees decorated with handmade crafts. The museum is open daily from 10 to 5:30 (closed Christmas Day). 202/357-2700 (TDD: 357-1729).
Monday
HOLIDAY TEAS with entertainment, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Dec. 11, Dec. 12, Dec. 13, Dec. 18, Dec. 19 and Dec. 20 at Strathmore Hall, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda. $12.60; reservations required. 301/530-0540.
Tuesday
SENIOR HOLIDAY DESSERT SAMPLER – Meet friends and enjoy holiday desserts and entertainment, for ages 60 and older, Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m, Prince George's Plaza Community Center, 6600 Adelphi Rd., Hyattsville. Free, but reservations are required by Tuesday. 301/864-1611 (TDD: 301/445-4512).
Dec. 8
SENIOR HOLIDAY LUNCHEON – Dance to the music of the Richard Bray Orchestra and enjoy a luncheon, and the gift of a new teddy bear, Dec. 8 from 11:30 to 2:30 at the Hyatt Regency Town Center, on Reston Parkway in Reston. $16; reservations required. 703/476-4500. CHRISTMAS BALL – The Court Dancers hold a light buffet, with informal dancing, Dec. 8 from 8 p.m. to midnight, at Nixon's Country Ballroom, 2800 Nixon's Farm Lane, West Friendship. $30. 301/330-0072.
Dec. 9
WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION with hot cider, popcorn and carol singing, Dec. 9 from 5 to 8 at National Colonial Farm, 3400 Bryan Point Rd., Accokeek. $2, 50 cents per child. 301/283-2113. LIGHTED BOAT PARADE – The Eastport Yacht Club holds its annual Lighted Boat Parade, on Spa Creek, around the City Dock and Annapolis Harbor, Dec. 9 f0rom 6 to 8. The best viewing areas are anywhere on the waterfront. 410/263-0415. CHRISTMAS DANCE with music by Sid Kowalczyk, Dec. 9 from 8:30 to 11:15 at the Fellowship Hall at the National Presbyterian Church, 4101 Nebraska Ave. NW. $6.50. 301/649-3079.
Dec. 10
18TH CENTURY WASSAIL with singing, dancing and chants, Dec. 10 from 1 to 4 at the Claude Moore Colonial Farm, 6310 Georgetown Pike, McLean. $3, $1.50 children 3 through 12. 703/442-7557. WINTER HOLIDAY FESTIVAL – Christmas and Hanukah art workshops, Kwanzaa dances and other entertainment, Dec. 10 from 2:30 to 4:30 at the Corcoran Gallery of Art, 500 17th St. NW. The program is for children ages 5 through 12 and is free for those ages, but reservations are required. 202/639-1727.
Dec. 13
HOLIDAY MYSTERY PARTY – For ages 60 and older. Solve a mystery and enjoy a holiday party, Dec. 13 from noon to 2 at the Cora B. Wood Senior Center, 3601 Taylor St., Brentwood. Reservations required by Dec. 11. 301/699-1238 (TDD: 301/445-4512).
Dec. 14
HOLIDAY CELEBRATION with refreshments, singing, dancing and entertainment, including a visit by Santa, for ages 55 and older, Dec. 14 from 11 to noon, Camp Springs Senior Center, 6420 Allentown Rd., Camp Springs. 301/449-0490 (TDD: 301/203-6030). HOLIDAY HOOPLA – Stories, music, skits and holiday fun, Dec. 14 at 7 at the Oxon Hill Branch Library, 6200 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill. 301/839-2400. CHRISTMAS DANCE – Dec. 14 from 6:30 to 9, for ages 6 through 12, at Potomac Landing Community Center, 12500 Fort Washington Rd., Fort Washington. $5 bi-county residents, $6 nonresidents. 301/292-9191 (TDD: 301/203-6030).
Dec. 15
WINTER WONDERLAND WEEKEND – Enjoy a performance of "Duke Ellington's 'Nutcracker,' a Jazz Hip-Hop Rap-Infused Holiday Favorite," Dec. 15 and Dec. 16 at 7:30 and Dec. 17 at 5:30 at Hine Junior High School, Seventh Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. $10, $5 children 12 and younger. On Dec. 16 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., the black-tie Snow Ball will be held at the Capitol Hill Club, 300 First St. SE. The Pan American Jazz Orchestra will play. $70 singles, $125 couples. And on Dec. 17 from 1 to 5, tour six elegant Capitol Hill Homes. Tickets $25, $10 children 12 and younger. 202/547-6839.
Dec. 16
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS DANCE with Doc Scantlin and His Imperial Palms Orchestra, Dec. 16 at 9 at the William Talley Recreation Center, Bentz and Second streets, Frederick. $30. 301/228-2844.
Dec. 20
HOLIDAY MIXER – String popcorn, enjoy music, singing and dancing, for ages 60 and older, Dec. 20 at 10:30 a.m. Langley Park Senior Center, 1500 Merrimac Dr., Hyattsville. 301/434-2900 (TDD: 301/445-4512).
Dec. 21
HOLIDAY PARTY for all ages, Dec. 21 from 4 to 5:30 at the College Park Youth Services Center, 4912 Nantucket Rd., College Park. 301/345-4425 (TDD: 301/445-4512).
Dec. 22
HOLIDAY PARTY for ages 55 and older, Dec. 22 from 11:30 to 1:30 at the Evelyn Cole Senior Center, 5720 Addison Rd., Seat Pleasant. Reservations required by Dec. 15. 301/386-5525 (TDD: 301/218-6768).
Dec. 25
CHRISTMAS NIGHT DANCE at the Hollywood Ballroom, Dec. 25 from 8 to 11. $10. 2126 Industrial Pkwy., Silver Spring. 301/622-5494.
Dec. 26
HOLIDAY CELEBRATION – The National Museum of American History holds its annual family celebration of Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa and the New Year, Dec. 26 through Dec. 28 from noon to 4. Performers include Lox & Vodka, Washington Toho Koto Society, Pan Masters Steel Orchestra, the Celtic band Rira, Philadelphia Mummers, local and nationally known storytellers, Japanese flower arrangers, Salvadoran toymakers and makers of Hebrew paper cutouts and a Kwanzaa altar. There are hands-on activities for kids and a daily pinata breaking. Daily pinata breaking at 3. 14th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202/357-2700 (TDD: 202/357-1729).
Dec. 31
NEW YEAR'S SWING DANCE featuring the Bill Eliot Combo, Dec. 31 from 8 to 12:30 a.m. at the Spanish Ballroom in Glen Echo Park, Goldsboro Road and MacArthur Boulevard in Glen Echo. $10. 301/340-9732.
MIRACLE OF LIGHTS – This drive-through holiday light show, which benefits the Medical Care for Children Partnership, runs through Jan. 6 in Bull Run Regional Park, 7700 Bull Run Dr., in Centreville. The show is open from 5:30 to 10:30 every night, including holidays. Admission to the light show is $12 per vehicle with up to 14 passengers. Take I-66 west to Exit 52, go south on Route 29 for two miles, turn left on Bull Run Post Office Road and follow signs. 703/709-5437. SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS – A drive-through tour of more than 70 animated and stationary holiday light displays, the Symphony of Lights runs nightly through Jan. 7 at Symphony Woods in Columbia. The event, a fund-raiser for Howard County General Hospital's Maternal-Child Health Services and Programs, is open Sundays through Thursdays from 6 to 10, and Fridays and Saturdays from 6 to 11 through Dec. 14; from Dec. 15 to Jan. 7, the light show is open 6 to 11 nightly. Admission to the 20-minute tour is $12 per car, van or RV, with up to 11 passengers. Take U.S. 29 north to Exit 18-B (Broken Land Parkway) and follow signs to the Merriweather Post Pavilion/Symphony Woods entrance. 410/740-7666. GARDEN OF LIGHTS – See a display of more than 500,000 lights forming animals, plants and fountains at Brookside Garden's Garden of Lights holiday show, through Jan. 7. The show, a half-mile walk, is open Friday through Sunday, Thursday through Dec. 10, Dec. 14 through Dec. 17, Dec. 20 through Dec. 23, Dec. 26 through Dec. 30 and Jan. 4 through Jan. 7 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Last visitors are admitted at 8:30 p.m. Admission is $10 per car. Brookside Gardens is at 1800 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton. 301/962-1453. WINTER LIGHTS – Gaithersburg's Winter Lights Festival runs through Dec. 31 at Seneca Creek State Park, 16950 Clopper Rd., Gaithersburg. The 3.5-mile drive-through exhibit of more than 200 illuminated displays will be open Sundays through Thursdays from 6:30 to 9:30, and Fridays and Saturdays from 6 to 10 p.m. (closed Dec. 25). Admission is $10 per car. 301/258-6350. LIGHTS ON THE BAY – Holiday spectacular with 60 illuminated exhibits along a 2.5-mile drive on the shore of the Chesapeake Bay, open through Dec. 31 nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. in Sandy Point State Park. Take U.S. 50 east to Exit 32 and follow the signs. $12 per car. 410/295-3161. WINTERFEST OF LIGHTS – Nightly train rides through a fantasy land of dazzling lights, nightly through Jan. 2, from 5:30 to 9:30 Sundays through Thursdays and 5:30 to 10:30 Fridays and Saturdays at Northside Park, 125th Street and Coastal Highway in Ocean City. $3 for all over 12; younger free. 410/250-0125. FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS – Drive through a holiday display of more than 400,000 lights, featuring a giant tree, lighted train station, Santa and more, 5 to 9:30 nightly through Jan. 1 at Watkins Regional Park, 301 Watkins Park Dr., Upper Marlboro. Donation of canned goods accepted. 301/699-2456 (TDD: 301/699-2544).
Friday
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS – 300,000 lights decorate the grounds and landscaping around the Visitors Center in the Festival of Lights at the Washington Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, nightly through Jan. 1 from 5:30 to 10. Inside the Visitors Center, regional music groups will perform nightly at 7 and 8, and 15 beautifully decorated trees will be on display. The Visitors Center is at 9900 Stoneybrook Dr., Kensington. Call 301/587-0144. TREE LIGHTING on Friday at 7 at Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center, 6120 Sargent Rd., Chillum. 301/853-2005.
Saturday
TREE LIGHTING with music, dancers, puppet and magic shows, Saturday from 4 to 7 at City Hall, 31 S. Summit Ave., Gaithersburg. Free, but bring a new, unwrapped toy for the area's needy. 301/258-6350. MEMORIAL ILLUMINATION AT ANTIETAM – Volunteers place more than 23,000 candles on the battlefield, each representing casualty from the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, Saturday at 6 at Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg, Md. The driving tour begins at 6 p.m. on Route 34 east of Sharpsburg. In case of inclement weather, the illumination will be postponed to the evening of Dec. 9. 301/432-5124. TREE LIGHTING and holiday music, Saturday at 6 at North Brentwood Community Center, 4012 Webster St., North Brentwood. 301/864-0756.
Sunday
TREE LIGHTING ceremony, with entertainment and Santa, Sunday at 7 at Bowie City Hall, 2614 Kenhill Dr. 301/262-6200.
Dec. 11
NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE – Lighting starts the annual Pageant of Peace, Dec. 11 at 5 on the Ellipse just south of the White House. President Clinton is expected to light the tree, with entertainment by various celebrities. The National Christmas Tree, as well as the trees representing every state and territory, will remain on the Ellipse until Jan. 1. Each evening, there are musical performances from 6 to 8:30 (except Dec. 24 and Dec. 25). 202/208-1631.
Dec. 21
LIGHTING OF THE MENORAH – Celebrate the beginning of Hanukah Dec. 21 at 5 with speeches, music and the lighting of a giant menorah, Dec. 21 at 5 on the northwest corner of the Ellipse near Constitution Avenue. Call 202/619-7222.
OATLANDS PLANTATION – This historic plantation, decorated with the kissing balls and greenery of the Victorian era, welcomes visitors during its Christmas at Oatlands celebration, through Dec. 30. The house is open for tours from 10 to 4:30 Mondays through Saturdays and 1 to 4:30 Sundays (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). Admission is $8, $7 for seniors and students ages 12 to 16, $1 for ages 6 through 11 (younger free). Candlelight tours are offered Saturday and Dec. 9, Dec. 16 and Dec. 23 from 5:30 to 8:30 ($10, $3 for children 11 and younger). Oatlands is on U.S. 15 six miles south of Leesburg. 703/777-3174. MOUNT VERNON – Costumed reenactors lead visitors through Mount Vernon, which is decorated for the holidays and illuminated by hundreds of candles, Friday through Sunday and Dec. 8-10 from 5 to 8 p.m. Tours end with cookies and caroling around a bonfire. Tickets are $10, $5 children 11 and younger. Advance purchase is recommended. For tickets, call 202/432-7328; for information, call 703/780-2000. Mount Vernon is on the southern end of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, eight miles south of Alexandria.
Friday
CARROLL COUNTY FARM MUSEUM holds its "Christmas Past and Present" celebration with holiday decorations, tours of the historic farmhouse and other activities, Friday from 10 to 4, Saturday from 10 to 8, Sunday from 10 to 5, Dec. 8 from 10 to 4, Dec. 9 from 10 to 8 and Dec. 10 from 10 to 5. $1, children 6 and younger free. The museum is at 500 S. Center St., Westminster. 410/848-7775 or 800/654-4645. DARNALL'S CHANCE HOUSE MUSEUM – View holiday decorations at this historic mansion, Friday through Dec. 10. Hours are Mondays through Saturdays from 10 to 4, Sundays from noon to 4. 14800 Governor Oden Bowie Dr., Upper Marlboro. $1 or a donation of two canned foods. 301/952-8010 (TDD: 301/699-2544). MARIETTA HOUSE MUSEUM – Take a candlelight tour Friday through Sunday from 6 to 8:30. $4, $2 students 4 through 18. Candlelight group tours by appointment are available Monday through Dec. 21. $3. 5626 Bell Station Rd., Glenn Dale. 301/464-5291 (TDD: 301/699-2544). HARPERS FERRY holds its annual Yuletide program, "Keeping Christmas-1860," with period decorations, tours of historic homes, street entertainers and other activities. The holiday activities are Friday from 5:30 to 10 p.m., Saturday from 1 to 10 and Sunday from noon to 5. Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is on U.S. 340 in Harpers Ferry, W. Va., Call 304/535-6029. MARYLAND STATE HOUSE is open for tours by candlelight, Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. State Circle, Annapolis. 410/974-3400.
Saturday
CLAUDE MOORE PARK – Roast marshmallows, stroll historic Vestal's Gap Road, take a candlelight tour of Lanesville House and enjoy other holiday activities, Saturday from 4 to 8 at the park, 21544 Cascades Parkway, Sterling. 703/444-1275. SOTTERLY PLANTATION holds its Olde Fashioned Christmas Celebration, with music, holiday decorations, Christmas treats, hands-on crafts and other activities, Saturday and Sunday from 11 to 4. $7, children 11 and younger free. Sotterly Road in Hollywood, Md. 301/373-2280. WOODLAWN PLANTATION offers holiday teas, Saturday and Sunday and Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 at noon and 2. $20; reservations required. 9000 Richmond Hwy., Mount Vernon. 703/780-4000. MARYLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY – Tour Baltimore's famous Christmas Gardens, miniature villages built around Christmas trees, Saturday from 1 to 4 at the Maryland Historical Society, 201 W. Monument St., Baltimore. $5. 410/685-3750, Ext. 321. RADIO AND TELEVISION MUSEUM – Enjoy vintage Christmas broadcasts and memorabilia and holiday treats at an Open House, Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4. 2608 Mitchellville Rd., Bowie. 301/390-1020. MORVEN PARK celebrates the holidays with traditional decorations, Saturday through Dec. 17. Hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays from noon to 4, Sundays from 1 to 4 (closed Mondays). Tours start every 30 minutes, with the last tour at 4. $5, $4 seniors, $1 ages 6 through 12. 41793 Tutt Ln., Leesburg. 703/777-2414. CANDLELIGHT HOUSE TOURS of private Frederick homes decorated in holiday splendor, Saturday from 5:30 to 9:30 and Sunday from noon to 4. $15. Buy tickets and get a tour brochure at the Tourism Council of Frederick County, 19 E. Church St. 301/228-2844. BELAIR MANSION is decorated for the holidays and welcoming visitors, Saturday from 6 to 9 and Sunday from 4 to 7. $3, children 11 and younger free. Belair also offers elegant holiday teas, Thursday and Dec. 28 at 4. $15; reservations required. 12207 Tulip Grove Dr., Bowie. 301/809-3089.
Sunday
BOWIE RAILROAD TRAIN STATION hosts a Holiday Open House, with cider, cookies and other diversions, Sunday from noon to 4:30. 8614 Chestnut Ave., Bowie. 301/809-3089. LOGAN CIRCLE HOUSE TOUR – Tour eight beautiful Victorian homes, Sunday from 1 and 5. $15 in advance, $20 on Sunday. Buy tickets at Barrel House, 1341 14th St. NW, Java House at 17th and Q streets NW and Ruff and Ready at 14th and S streets NW. 202/265-4461. GLENVIEW MANSION holds a Holiday Open House, with entertainment and decorations, Sunday and Dec. 10 and Dec. 17 from 1 to 4. Rockville Civic Center Park, Baltimore Avenue and Edmonston Road in Rockville. 301/309-3001. WOODLAWN PLANTATION presents "An 1820 Christmas-Feasts, Frivolity and Family," Saturday and Dec. 10 and Dec. 17 from 5:30 to 7:30. Learn about traditional Christmas activities by candlelight. $15; reservations suggested. 9000 Richmond Hwy., Mount Vernon. 703/780-4000.
Tuesday
WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS – Christmas decorations may be viewed at the White House Tuesday through Saturday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon, Tuesday through Dec. 29. The line starts at the Southeast Gate of the White House. No tickets are required. 202/208-1631. HEURICH HOUSE MUSEUM is welcoming visitors to see its holiday decorations, Tuesday through Jan. 5 (closed Sundays, Christmas and New Year's) from 10 to 4. $3, $1.50 seniors and students. The museum also offers candlelight tours, Dec. 14, Dec. 15, Dec. 22, Dec. 23, Dec. 27 and Dec. 28 from 5 to 7. $7.50, $4 seniors and students (children 11 and younger free). Call 202/785-2068, Ext. 100 for reservations. 1307 New Hampshire Ave. NW. 703/785-2068.
Wednesday
MONTPELIER MANSION celebrates the holidays with candlelight tours, Wednesday, Thursday, Dec. 8 and Dec. 9 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. $3, $1 children 6 through 15. Route 197 and Muirkirk Road in Laurel. 301/953-1376.
Thursday
RIVER FARM'S MAIN HOUSE is decorated for the holidays and is open Thursday through New Year's Day from 8:30 to 5 weekdays (closed Christmas). 7931 E. Boulevard Dr., Alexandria. 703/768-5700, Ext. 0.
Dec. 8
GUNSTON HALL PLANTATION is decorated for the holidays and welcoming visitors, Dec. 8 and 9 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. $7, $6 seniors and $2 children. The plantation also offers a Family Holiday Buffet, Dec. 8 at 6 and 8 and Dec. 9 at 5:30 and 8. $27. 10709 Gunston Hall Rd., Lorton. 703/550-9220.
Dec. 9
B&B HOLIDAY TOUR – Tour 10 bed and breakfast inns in Annapolis, Dec. 9 from noon to 5. $10 in advance, $12 on the day of the tour. Tickets available at the Visitors Center, 26 West St., or the information booth on the City Dock. 410/268-7070. BUSSARD-MAGRUDER FARMHOUSE offers candlelight tours and hayrides, Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 from noon to 8. 18400 Muncaster Rd., Derwood. 301/670-4661. FORT WARD MUSEUM holds a holiday Open House, with an actress portraying Clara Barton reading "‚'Twas the Night Before Christmas," period music and other activities, Dec. 9 from 1 to 4. $2, $1 children. 4301 W. Braddock Rd., Alexandria. 703/838-4848. THE LYCEUM holds a Victorian holiday party, "A Dickens of a Christmas," with entertainment and refreshments, Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 from 2 to 4. $3. On Dec. 10 at 3, the Colonial Handbell Ringers present a concert at the Lyceum. Free admission. 201 S. Washington St. 703/838-4994. CLIFTON CANDLELIGHT TOURS – Enjoy a parade by the Clifton Horse Society Dec. 9 at 2, tour five historic homes from 3 to 7 and enjoy carols and other activities. House tour tickets are $10 in advance with a toy donation for the Salvation Army, $12 with no toy ($12 and $15 on Dec. 9); $5 ages 5 through 11 (younger free). Tickets available at the Clifton Store, 7140 Main St., Clifton. 703/968-0740. MUSEUMS BY CANDLELIGHT – Tour 18 museums and historic sites by candlelight, Dec. 9 from 2 to 8 in Frederick. Pick up a tour brochure at the Frederick County Visitor Center, 19 E. Church St. 301/663-8687 or 800/999-3613. HIS LORDSHIP'S KINDNESS house museum celebrates the season with candlelight tours, Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 from 4 to 7 and Dec. 11 from 5 to 8. $5, $3 children 6 through 14. 7606 Woodyard Rd., Clinton. 301/856-0358. SULLY HISTORIC SITE – Take a candlelight tour of a historic plantation house and visit with Confederate Army reenactors at their holiday encampment, Dec. 9 and Dec. 16 from 5 to 7:30. $6, $5 seniors and students, $4 children. On Route 28 one-half mile north of U.S. 50 in Centreville. 703/437-1794. CHARLES CARROLL HOUSE holds a Candlelight Supper, with views of the annual lighted boat parade, Dec. 9 at 5:30. $50. 107 Duke of Gloucester St., Annapolis. 410/269-1737 for reservations. The Eastport Yacht Club holds its annual Lighted Boat Parade, on Spa Creek, around the City Dock and Annapolis Harbor, Dec. 9 from 6 to 8. The best viewing areas are anywhere on the waterfront. 410/263-0415. ALEXANDRIA CANDLELIGHT TOURS – Take a tour of five historic sites, with music and holiday decorations, Dec. 9 from 6 to 9 and Dec. 10 from 4 to 7. $12, $10 seniors, $5 students in advance; $15, $12 seniors and $5 students at the door. Buy the tickets at Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St., Alexandria. 703/838-4242.
Dec. 10
SMALLWOOD RETREAT HOUSE holds a Colonial Christmas celebration, with decorations, tours and other activities, Dec. 10 from 1 to 7. 2750 Sweden Point Rd., Marbury, Md. 301/743-7613. CHERRY HILL FARMHOUSE offers staged readings of holiday works by Charles Dickens, Dylan Thomas and Louisa May Alcott, Dec. 10 at 2 at the farmhouse, 312 Park Ave., Falls Church. $3, plus a Toys for Tots donation. 703/248-5171. BILLINGSLEY CANDLELIGHT TOURS – Take a candlelight tour of an 18th century house decorated for the holidays, Dec. 10 from 3 to 7. $3; reservations required. 6900 Green Landing Road, Upper Marlboro. 301/627-0730 (TDD: 301/699-2544). LOUDOUN MUSEUM holds its Holiday Gala, with period music, a silent auction, wine and desserts, Dec. 10 from 7 to 10 at Raspberry Plain, 16500 Agape Lane, Leesburg. $25. 703/777-0099.
Dec. 15
CIVIL WAR CHRISTMAS PROGRAM – Civil War Christmas music, a talk on the history of Christmas during the Civil War and a visit by a Civil War Santa, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. at Antietam National Battlefield, Visitor Center, Route 65 north of Sharpsburg, Md. 301/432-5124.
Dec. 16
SURRATT HOUSE MUSEUM presents a Civil War Yuletide, with candlelight tours, period greenery and displays of antique dolls and toys, Dec. 16 and Dec. 17 from 5 to 9 and Dec. 18 from 6 to 9. $3, $2 seniors, $1 children 5 through 18 (younger free). 9118 Brandywine Rd., Clinton. 301/868-1121. COLVIN RUN MILL holds a holiday festival with displays of antique toys, visits with Santa, caroling and storytelling, Dec. 16 from 4 to 7. $5, $4 seniors, $2 children 3 and older. 10017 Colvin Run Rd., Great Falls. 703/759-2771.
Dec. 17
BALTIMORE HOUSE TOUR – Tour homes in Baltimore's historic Federal Hill and Otterbein neighborhoods, Dec. 17 from 3 to 7. $12 in advance, $15 on Dec. 17. Buy the tickets at the Visitor Center, 808 S. Ann St., Fells Point; on Dec. 17, the tickets will be available at Long & Foster's, 900 S. Light St. 410/675-6750.
Dec. 26
CANDELIGHT TOURS of houses of worship in Frederick, Dec. 26 from 4 to 9. Brochures available at the Frederick County Tourism Council, 19 E. Church St., Frederick. 301/663-8687 or 800/999-3613.
Dec. 27
RIVERSDALE HOUSE MUSEUM holds its holiday celebration with guided tours, Dec. 27 through Dec. 29 from noon to 4. $3, $2 seniors, $1 students, children 5 and younger free. Candlelight tours, with music and refreshments, are offered Dec. 28 and Dec. 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. $5, $4 seniors, $3 students, ages 5 and younger free. 4811 Riverdale Rd., Riverdale Park. 301/864-0420 (TDD: 301/699-2544). CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY Church Tour – Tour 12 churches in upper Montgomery and Frederick counties, Dec. 27 from 3 to 9. For directions and information, call 301/695-2633, Ext. 7240. WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT TOURS – See White House Christmas decorations, Dec. 27 through Dec. 29 from 5 to 7. No tickets are used, nor are group reservation accepted. The line begins at the southeast gate. 202/208-1631.
Dec. 30
WILLIAM PACA HOUSE hosts a Family Holiday Celebration, Dec. 30 from 10 to 4. Activities include games, crafts, dance and English carols. 186 Prince George St., Annapolis. 410/263-5553.
OLNEY CHILDREN'S BALLET presents Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker," Friday at 7, Saturday at 3 and 7 and Sunday at 1 at the Parilla Performing Arts Center at Montgomery College, 51 Mannakee St., Rockville. $12, $8 students in advance, $2 more at the door. 301/774-9850. CENTER DANCE COMPANY performs Act II, "Kingdom of the Sweets," from "The Nutcracker," and "In the Balance" and "Pas de Sept," Friday and Saturday at 7:30 and Sunday at 3 at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Rd., Arlington. $12, $8 students and seniors. 703/522-2414.
Saturday
"NUTCRACKER" TEA – The Maryland National Youth Ballet performs scenes from "The Nutcracker" at a special holiday tea for families, Saturday and Dec. 9, Dec. 16, Dec. 18, Dec. 19, Dec. 20 and Dec. 21 from 11 to 12:30 and 2 to 3:30 and Dec. 22 from 11 to 12:30 at the Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner, 1700 Tysons Boulevard, McLean. $40. 703/917-5498. TOWSON UNIVERSITY DANCE Company performs the second act of "The Nutcracker," Saturday at 1 and 3 and Sunday at 3 in the Stephens Hall Theatre, 8000 York Rd., on the campus of Towson University. $12, $8 seniors and children 12 and younger. 410/830-2787. ROCKVILLE CIVIC BALLET performs "The Nutcracker," Saturday at 2:30 and 7:30, Sunday at 1 and 4:30, Dec. 9 at 2:30 and 7:30 and Dec. 10 at 2:30 at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, in Rockville Civic Center Park, Baltimore Avenue and Edmonston Road in Rockville. $7, $5 children and seniors. 301/309-3340.
Dec. 8
WASHINGTON BALLET performs "The Nutcracker," Dec. 8 at 7; Dec. 9 at 2 and 7; Dec. 10 at 1; Dec. 15 at 7; Dec. 16 at 2 and 7; Dec. 17 at 1 and 5; Dec. 19, Dec. 20 and Dec. 21 at 7; Dec. 22 at 2; Dec. 23 at 2 and 7; and Dec. 24 at 1 at the Warner Theatre, 13th and E streets NW. $26.50-$43.50. 202/432-7328. ARLINGTON DANCE THEATRE presents "The Nutcracker," Dec. 8 at 7:30, Dec. 9 at 5 and Dec. 10 at 2 at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Rd., Arlington. $15, $12.50 children and seniors. 703/524-4750.
Dec. 9
BALLET THEATRE OF MARYLAND performs "The Nutcracker," Dec. 9 at 2, Dec. 10 at 3, Dec. 16 at 2 and 7 and Dec. 17 at 3 at the Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase St., Annapolis. $24, $12 children. 410/263-2909.
Dec. 12
AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE presents "The Nutcracker," Dec. 12 through Dec. 15 at 8, Dec. 16 at 2 and 8 and Dec. 17 at 2 in the Kennedy Center Opera House. $45-$95. 202/467-4600 (TDD: 202/416-8524).
Dec. 13
NATIONAL BALLET COMPANY presents "The Nutcracker," Dec. 13, Dec. 15, Dec. 18 and Dec. 20 at 10:30 a.m. and Dec. 16 and Dec. 17 at 2:30 at the Hallam Theatre at Prince George's Community College, 301 Largo Rd., Largo. $15 to $30. 301/218-9822. ELLINGTON'S "NUTCRACKER SUITE" – The Eric Felten Jazz Orchestra presents Duke Ellington's adaptation of the famous work, Dec. 13 at 8 and 10 at Blues Alley, 1041 Wisconsin Ave. (rear). $18 cover plus $7 food/drink minimum. 202/337-4141. THE ELLINGTON "NUTCRACKER" is danced by the National Ballet Company, Dec. 14, Dec. 19 and Dec. 21 at 10 a.m. and Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Hallam Theatre at Prince George's Community College, 301 Largo Rd., Largo. $15 to $30. 301/218-9822.
Dec. 15
JONES-HAYWOOD DANCE COMPANY presents excerpts from "The Nutcracker," Dec. 15 at 6 on the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center. 202/467-4600 (TDD: 202/416-8524). WINTER WONDERLAND WEEKEND – Enjoy a performance of "Duke Ellington's 'Nutcracker,' a Jazz Hip-Hop Rap-Infused Holiday Favorite," Dec. 15 and 16 at 7:30 and Dec. 17 at 5:30 at Hine Junior High School, Seventh Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. $10, $5 children 12 and younger. 202/547-6839.
Dec. 16
CROSSROADS DANCE PROJECT dances "The Gift of the Nutcracker," Dec. 16 at 3 and 7:30 at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Rd., Arlington. $10, $8 children and seniors. 703/749-3390. MIA SAUNDERS SCHOOL of Ballet presents "The Nutcracker," Dec. 16 and 17 at 3 at Centreville High School theater, 6001 Union Mill Rd., Clifton. $10, $8 seniors, $6 students. 703/679-9215. MANASSAS DANCE COMPANY performs "The Nutcracker," accompanied by the Prince William Symphony Orchestra, Dec. 16 at 7 and Dec. 17 at 5 at Stonewall Jackson Senior High School, 8860 Rixlew Lane in Manassas. $18, $14 seniors and $8 children. 703/218-6500 or 703/257-1811.
Dec. 22
MARYLAND YOUTH BALLET dances "The Nutcracker," Dec. 22 at 7, Dec. 23 at 1 and 7, Dec. 26 at 1 and 7, Dec. 27 at 1, Dec. 28 at 1 and 7, Dec. 29 at 1 and Dec. 30 at 1 and 7 at the Parilla Performing Arts Center at Montgomery College, 51 Mannakee St., Rockville. $18, $13 children ($1 discount for advance purchase). 301/652-2232.
Dec. 23
THE KLEZMER NUTCRACKER – The Boston-based klezmer ensemble Shirim performs a "Klezmer Nutcracker," Dec. 23 at 8 and Dec. 24 at 3 at the D.C. Jewish Community Center's Cecile Goldman Theater, 1529 16th St. NW. $20, $10 children 10 and younger. 800/494-8497; for information, 202/777-3254.
Dec. 27
VIRGINIA BALLET presents "The Nutcracker," Dec. 27 through Dec. 29 at 2 and 7 at the Ernst Community Cultural Center at Northern Virginia Community College, 8333 Little River Tnpk., Annandale. $17, $12 seniors and $10 children. 703/249-8227.
BALTIMORE'S NEW YEAR'S EVE takes place from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. around the Inner Harbor. Enjoy a MasqueParade of gigantic papier mache puppets, a skating party at the Inner Harbor Ice Rink, children's activities and a fireworks display in the area. Everything is free, except admission to the Inner Harbor Ice Rink. Dance to music by the Crawdaddies at the Harborplace Amphitheatre, 9 p.m. to 12:30. In case of severe weather, the fireworks show will be postponed to Jan 1. 410/837-4636 or 888/225-8466 or visit the Web site: www.bop.org. FIRST NIGHT LEESBURG marks the New Year with more than 100 events, including concerts, historical reenactments, puppet shows, storytellers and other activities from 5 to midnight in the historic area around King and Market streets. A First Night Parade takes place at 5, with a light show at 5:30 at the courthouse, King and Market Streets. Admission buttons are $8, $3 for ages 3 through 12 (younger free) and will be sold at booths in the historic area. Call 703/749-2351 or 800/752-6118. FIRST NIGHT MONTGOMERY County features more than 100 performers on 15 indoor stages at the Montgomery County Fairground, on Perry Parkway off Route 355 in Gaithersburg. The program starts at 3 with a free children's program that features Dinorock Puppets and other entertainers, plus fireworks at 6. Admission and all activities between 3 and 6 are free. At 7 the entertainment includes the Fabulous Hubcaps, the Seldom Scene, the Nighthawks, Tom Principato, Pan Master Steel Orchestra, WPG Trio, Body and Soul, MoonFire and others. Admission to the evening events is $10, children 10 and younger free. Admission buttons will be sold on site and in advance at county libraries and recreation centers. Parking is free, and free shuttles will run between the festival and the Shady Grove Metro station from 2:30 until 12:30 a.m. Call 240/777-6821 or visit the Web site: www.co.mo.md.us/rec/fnm.html.
"YES, VIRGINIA, There Is a Santa Claus," illustrations by Thomas Nast, through Jan. 21 at the Newseum, 1101 Wilson Blvd. Local celebrities will read the classic editorial: Saturday at 11:30, Andrea Roane from WUSA-TV; Dec. 9 at 11:30, Washington Post columnist Donna Britt and her husband, Post staff writer Kevin Merida; Dec. 16 at 11:30, actor Robert Prosky. A Family Day at the Newseum takes place Dec. 16 from 10 to 5, with a performance by the McLean High School Madrigal Singers, hands-on activities, News Bingo and other entertainment. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 to 5 (closed Christmas and New Year's). Call 703/284-3544. KRIS KRINGLE PROCESSION takes place in Frederick Friday at 6, with the parade starting at Everedy Square, 8 East St., then winding through the historic area to Baker Park, Second Street and West College Terrace, for a tree lighting and carols. 301/228-2844.
Saturday
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – Saturday and Dec. 9 and Dec. 16 from 9 to 11 at Buddy's Downtown, 100 Main St., Annapolis. $9.95. 410/956-0512. SANTA TRAINS – Ride the train with Santa and visit his workshop, Saturday and Sunday and Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 at 11, 1 and 3. $7, $5 children 3 through 12 (younger free). Walkersville Southern Railroad, Walkersville, Md. Take I-270 north to U.S. 15 north to Biggs Ford Road and continue two miles to the station in Walkersville. 301/898-0899 or 877/363-9777. HOLIDAY TEA PARTY with Ritz C. Bear and Bearemy, Saturday and Dec. 9 and Dec. 16 from 11 to 12:30, Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner, 1700 Tysons Blvd., McLean. $40. 703/917-5498.
Sunday
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – Sunday and Dec. 10 and Dec. 17 from 11 to 3 at the Riverside Hearth restaurant, at Lansdowne Resort, 44050 Woodbridge Pkwy., Leesburg. $32.95, children 6 through 12 $16.95 (younger free). 703/729-4105.
Dec. 8
SANTA'S CHRISTMAS MAGIC SHOW – Meet Santa and Frosty, Dec. 8, Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 from 3:30 to 5:30 and 6:30 to 8:30 at the Good Knight Angelic Kingdom, 11001 Rhode Island Ave., Beltsville. $10 at the door, $8 in advance. 301/595-8989.
Dec. 9
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – Enjoy breakfast, a magic show, face painting and an afternoon of swimming, Dec. 9 starting at 10 at Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center, 6120 Sargent Rd., Chillum. $5 bi-county residents, $6 nonresidents. 301/853-2005. VISIT WITH SANTA – Enjoy Santa and a Beale Street Puppet performance of "Candy Cane Christmas," Dec. 9 from 10 to 11:30 at the Bowie Community Center, 3209 Stonybrook Dr., Bowie. $2 bi-county residents, $3 nonresidents. 301/464-1737 (TDD: 301/218-6768). BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – Dec. 9 from 10 to noon, for children 2 through 8, at the Huntington Community Center, 13022 Eighth St., Bowie. $7 bi-county residents, $9 nonresidents. Reservations required by Dec. 8. 301/464-3725 (TDD: 301/218-6768) CHRISTMAS AT THE HEIGHTS – Children 3 through 12 can join Santa and his helpers in playing games, making crafts and listening to stories, Dec. 9 at 11 at the Marlow Heights Community Center, 2800 St. Clair Dr., Marlow Heights. $2 bi-county residents, $3 nonresidents. 301/423-0505 (TDD: 301/203-6030). BRUNCH WITH SANTA – For children 12 and younger, Dec. 9 at 11 at Columbia Park Community Center, 2901 Kent Village Dr., Landover. $1 bi-county residents, $2 nonresidents. 301/341-3749 (TDD: 301/445-4512). BRUNCH WITH SANTA and a puppet show, Dec. 9 from 11 to 1 for children 12 and younger. Reservations required by Monday. Bladensburg Community Center, 4500 57th Ave., Bladensburg. 301/277-2124 (TDD: 301/445-4512). BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – Dec. 9 from 11 to 1, for children 6 through 12. $3 bi-county residents, $4 nonresidents. Glassmanor Community Center, 1101 Marcy Ave., Oxon Hill. 301/567-6033 (TDD: 301/203-6030). SANTA'S WORKSHOP – Enjoy a show by Blue Sky Puppet Theater, Dec. 9 at 11:30 and 1, Harmony Hall Regional Center, 10701 Livingston Rd., Fort Washington. $4; reservations suggested. 301/203-6070 (TDD: 301/203-3803). SANTA'S FUN HOUSE – Enjoy games, crafts and entertainment and meet Santa Dec. 9 from noon to 2, for children ages 6 through 12. $2 bi-county residents, $3 nonresidents. William Beanes Community Center, 5108 Dianna Dr., Suitland. 301/568-7719 (TDD: 301/203-6030). LUNCH & PHOTO WITH SANTA – Enjoy a performance by Blue Sky Puppet Theater, lunch and a photo with Santa, Dec. 9 from noon to 2:30, for children 4 through 12. $2 bi-county residents, $3 nonresidents. Kettering/Largo Community Center, 431 Watkins Park Dr., Upper Marlboro. 301/390-8390 (TDD: 301/218-6768). SANTA FLY-IN – Make holiday crafts and cards while waiting for Santa to fly into College Park's Aviation Museum, Dec. 9 from noon to 4. $4, $3 seniors and $2 children. 1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Dr., College Park. 301/864-6029 (TDD: 301/864-4765). AFTERNOON WITH SANTA – Enjoy arts and crafts, entertainment and a visit from Santa, for children of all ages, Dec. 9 at 1. Tucker Road Community Center, 1771 Tucker Rd., Fort Washington. 301/248-4404 (TDD: 301/203-6030). SANTA'S WORKSHOP – Children 12 and younger can make gifts for family and friends at Santa's Workshop, Dec. 9 from 2 to 5 at Palmer Park Community Center, 7720 Barlowe Rd., Landover. $2 bi-county residents, $3 nonresidents. 301/773-5665 (TDD: 301/218-6768).
Dec. 10
SANTA EXPRESS TRAIN – Take a round-trip excursion to Baltimore or Philadelphia with Santa, Dec. 10, with departures at 9 at Union Station, 9:12 at New Carrollton, 9:30 at BWI Airport Station, 9:45 at Baltimore's Penn Station. Tickets are $49, $39 children 2 through 12; first class $169. 703/273-8440. SANTA AT MONOCACY NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD – Children of all ages are invited to spend an afternoon with him at Monocacy National Battlefield, Dec. 10 at 4. The jolly old elf will be dressed in Civil War era-clothing. 4801 Urbana Pike, Frederick, Md. 301/662-3515.
Dec. 14
SANTA LETTER WRITING – Write a letter to Santa, Dec. 14 from 5 to 6 at Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center, 6120 Sargent Rd., Chillum. 301/853-2005.
Dec. 16
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA – Dec. 16 at 9. $3 bi-county residents, $4 nonresidents. Reservations required by Dec. 14. Morningside Town Hall, 6901 Ames St., Morningside. 301/736-2301 (TDD: 301/203-6030). FIESTA DE HERMANDAD – Holiday party with face painting, Santa and brunch, for ages 1 through 12, Dec. 16 at 10 a.m. at the Langley Park Community Center, 1500 Merrimac Dr., Hyattsville. Reservations required by Dec. 8. 301/445-4508 (TDD: 301/445-4512). BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Children 10 and younger can enjoy breakfast with Santa, crafts and games, Dec. 16 from 10 to noon. $3 bi-county residents, $4 nonresidents. Reservations required. Mount Rainier Nature/Recreation Center, 4701 31st Pl., Mount Rainier. 301/927-2163 (TDD: 301/699-2544). JINGLE BELL CARNIVAL PARTY – Children from pre-K through the sixth grade can enjoy crafts, refreshments and games, Dec. 16 from 10:30 to 12:30 at the North Brentwood Community Center, 4012 Webster St., North Brentwood. Register by Dec. 10. $3 bi-county resident, $4 nonresident. 301/864-0756. SATURDAY WITH SANTA – Enjoy Santa, entertainment and crafts, for children 3 through 11, Dec. 16 from 10:30 to 12:30. $4 bi-county residents, $5 nonresidents. Upper Marlboro Community Center, 5400 Marlboro Race Track Rd. 301/627-2828 (TDD: 301/203-6030). CHILDREN'S HOLIDAY PARTY – Dec. 16 at 11, with Santa and entertainment, all ages welcome. Berwyn Heights Community Center, 6200 Pontiac St., Berwyn Heights. 301/345-2808 (TDD: 301/445-4512). CHILDREN'S HOLIDAY PARTY – Dec. 16 from 11 to 1:30, with crafts, entertainment and Santa, for ages 3 through 12. Beltsville Community Center, 3900 Sellman Rd., Beltsville. $1 bi-county resident or canned good donation, nonresidents $2 or canned good donation. 301/937-6613 (TDD: 301/445-4512). BRUNCH WITH SANTA – Children 4 through 9 will enjoy a brunch with Santa, Dec. 16 from 11 to 2. $3 bi-county residents, $4 nonresidents. Reservations required by Dec. 15. Peppermill Community Center, 610 Hill Rd. Landover. 301/350-8410 (TDD: 301/218-6768). LUNCH WITH SANTA – Dec. 16 from 11 to 2 in the Roof Terrace Restaurant at the Kennedy Center. Children's buffet is $9.95 per child, with a regular menu for adults. 202/416-8555 for reservations. PICTURES WITH SANTA – See Santa's landing zone and get your picture taken with him, Dec. 16 from noon to 4 at Lake Accotink Park, 7500 Accotink Park Rd., Springfield. $8 per child. Registration advised. 703/569-3464. HOLIDAY FUN – Children 12 and younger can have fun with Chuckles from Poppin' Magic and Santa, Dec. 16 from 1 to 3. Reservations required by Dec. 8. $2 bi-county residents, $3 nonresidents. Oakcrest Community Center, 5200 Marlboro Pike, Capitol Heights. 301/736-5355 (TDD: 301/218-6768).
Dec. 17
HAYRIDES WITH SANTA – Take a hayride with St. Nick, Dec. 17 from 10 to 1 and Dec. 18 from 11 to 2 at Frying Pan Park, 2709 W. Ox Rd., Herndon. $4. Prepaid reservations required by Dec. 11. 703/437-9101. BRUNCH WITH SANTA, Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman and other characters, Dec. 17 from 10:30 to 1, Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner, 1700 Tysons Boulevard, McLean. $52, $18 children ages 4 through 12. 703/917-5498. AFTERNOON WITH SANTA – Spend the afternoon visiting with Santa, Dec. 17 from 2 to 5 at Oxon Hill Manor, 6901 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill. 301/839-7782 (TDD: 301/454-4512). SANTA'S FRIENDS – Enjoy "The Magic Toy Shop" presented by Bob Brown Puppets and visit with Santa's friends, Dec. 17 at 7 at Deerfield Run Community Center, 13000 Laurel-Bowie Rd., Laurel. 301/953-7882 (TDD: 301/445-4512).
Dec. 19
CHRISTMAS PUPPET SHOW – Children 6 through 12 can enjoy a show by Blue Sky Puppet Theater, Dec. 19 from 1:30 to 2:30 at the Baden Community Center, 13601 Baden Westwood Rd., Brandywine. 301/888-1500 (TDD: 301/203-6030).
Dec. 21
HOLIDAY PARTY with Santa, Dec. 21 from 4 to 5:30 at the College Park Youth Service Center, 4912 Nantucket Rd., College Park. 301/345-4425 (TDD: 301/445-4512).
Dec. 22
HOLIDAY PARTY for seniors 55 and older, Dec. 22 from 11:30 to 1:30 at the Evelyn Cole Senior Center, 5720 Addison Rd., Seat Pleasant. Reservations required by Dec. 15. 301/386-5525 (TDD: 301/218-6768).
Dec. 24
WATER-SKIING SANTA, his Kneeboarding Reindeer, Flying Elves and a jet-skiing Grinch perform on the Potomac River, Dec. 24 at 1. The best viewing area is from Lady Bird Johnson Park on the Virginia side between the 14th Street and Memorial bridges. 703/280-1788.
"MESSIAH" SING-ALONG – Presented by the Levine School of Music, Sunday at 3 at the Westover Baptist Church, 1125 N. Patrick Henry Dr., Arlington. 202/686-9772. CATHEDRAL CHOIR of the Metropolitan A.M.E. Church presents Handel's "Messiah," Sunday at 5 at the church, 1518 M St. NW. 202/331-1426. CHOIRS OF FORT BELVOIR perform Handel's "Messiah, part I with orchestra, Sunday at 7:30 in the Belvoir Chapel, Belvoir Road and 12th Street, Fort Belvoir. 703/780-5328.
Dec. 8
CATHEDRAL CHOIR of Men and Boys, soloists and orchestra perform Handel's "Messiah," Dec. 8 at 7:30 and Dec. 10 at 4 at Washington National Cathedral, Wisconsin and Massachusetts avenues NW. $10-$48. 202/537-5757.
Dec. 9
LAUREL ORATORIO SOCIETY presents a "Messiah" sing-along, Dec. 9 at 7:30 at the Laurel Presbyterian Church, 7610 Old Sandy Spring Rd., Laurel. $7, scores available for $1. 301/474-8617.
Dec. 10
SANCTUARY CHOIR of Rock Spring Congregational United Church of Christ presents the "Messiah," Dec. 10 at 3 in the church, 5010 Little Falls Rd., Arlington. 703/538-4886. "MESSIAH" SING-ALONG is presented by the Bethesda Little Theatre and the NIH Community Orchestra, Dec. 10 at 3 at Masur Auditorium, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda. $10. 301/897-8184. "MESSIAH" SING-ALONG is presented Dec. 10 at 4 at Burke Presbyterian Church, 5690 Oak Leather Dr., Burke. 703/764-0456. MORMON CHOIR presents a "Messiah" sing-along, Dec. 10 at 7 at the Washington Stake Center, 10000 Stoneybrook Dr., Kensington. Chorus books provided. 301/926-0449.
Dec. 15
CONCERT CHOIR of St. Raphael's Catholic Church and the Gospel and Traditional choirs of St. Martin's Church will present selections from Handel's "Messiah," Dec. 15 at 8 at St. Raphael's Catholic Church, Falls and Dunster roads, Rockville, (301/762-2143, Ext. 114) and Dec. 17 at 5 at St. Martin's Catholic Church, 1908 N. Capitol St. NW, (202/232-1144). $10 in advance, $15 at the door for either concert. NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, Paul McCreesh conducting, with Dominique Labelle, soprano; Patricia Bardon, mezzo-soprano; Benjamin Butterfield, tenor; Stephan Loges, bass-baritone; and the Washington Bach Consort Chorus, J. Reilly Lewis, director, present Handel's "Messiah," Dec. 15 and 16 at 8:30, Dec. 17 at 1 and Dec. 19 at 8:30 in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall. $19-$66. 202/467-4600 (TDD: 202/416-8524)
Dec. 16
ANNAPOLIS CHORALE presents the "Messiah," Dec. 16 at 8 and Dec. 17 at 3 at St. Anne's Episcopal Church, Church Circle, Annapolis. $22.50. 410/263-1906. FAIRFAX SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA and the Reston Chorale present a sing-along of the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's "Messiah," Dec. 16 at 3:30 at the George Mason University Center for the Arts, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax. $12, $6 for children 11 and younger (not recommended for children 3 and younger). 703/218-6500.
Dec. 17
HANDEL'S "MESSIAH" is performed, Dec. 17 at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. at the Old Presbyterian Meeting House, 213 S. Fairfax St., Alexandria. 703/549-6670. NEW DOMINION CHORALE presents "Messiah," Dec. 17 at 4 at St. Luke Catholic Church, 7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students. 703/442-9404.
Dec. 19
COMBINED CHOIRS of Mount Vernon and West Potomac high schools perform Handel's "Messiah," Dec. 19 and 20 at 7:30 at the Little Theater at Mount Vernon High School, 8515 Old Mount Vernon Rd., Alexandria. $5. 703/619-3139.
Dec. 23
LANDON SYMPHONETTE, Washington Civic Opera Chorus, St. Bartholomew's Singers and the Landon Little Singers, with guest soloists, present the "Messiah," Dec. 23 at 5 at Mondzac Performing Arts Center, 6101 Wilson Lane, Bethesda. $10, $8 seniors, $6 students. 301/320-1090 or 703/527-0734. COMMUNITY CHORUSES, a professional orchestra and soloists onstage lead a "Messiah" sing-along, Dec. 23 at 7:30 in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall. Tickets are free and will be distributed Saturday (Dec. 2), starting at 10 a.m., in the Kennedy Center's Hall of Nations. There is a limit of two tickets per person. On Dec. 23, persons without tickets will be admitted to any unclaimed seats 15 minutes prior to curtain time, on a first-come basis.
GEORGE STEVENS JR. and children from the National Dance Institute pay tribute to 1995 Kennedy Center Honoree Jacques D'Amboise with music and dancing, Friday at 6 p.m. on the Millennium Stage. GEORGE SHEARING DUO featuring Neil Swainson - Jazz legend George Shearing, the author of "Lullaby of Birdland," is in concert, Friday at 7:30 and 9:30 in the Terrace Theater. $27.
Saturday
"MESSIAH" TICKET GIVEAWAY – Free tickets for the "Messiah" sing-along on Dec. 23 will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of two tickets per person, starting Saturday at 10 a.m. in the Hall of Nations. (These reserved-seat tickets are good only until 15 minutes before curtain, at which time seats will be given to patrons waiting in line). WASHINGTON CHAMBER SYMPHONY – Join in favorite holiday songs, a full symphony orchestra and more, Saturday at 2 in the Concert Hall. For ages 4 and up. $12-$37.50. Immediately after the concert, the WCS holds its annual Holiday Tea at the residence of the ambassador of the Netherlands. Tickets for the tea are $75. For more information or tickets for the tea, call 202/452-1321. THE KLEZMATICS celebrate the ecstatic nature of klezmer music, Saturday at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Sunday
NORMAN BRENTLEY, a classical flutist, performs Sunday at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Monday
PANTHERA, an a cappella ensemble, offers an eclectic repertoire from madrigals to spirituals to jazz and popular songs, and vocalist Mable "May" Knott and her jazz quartet perform a versatile blend of classical, jazz, ballads and show tunes, Monday at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Tuesday
SONABO, a vocal quintet, performs innovative arrangements of traditional Latin American songs, Tuesday at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Wednesday
THE SISTERS MORALES, singers/songwriters, perform a holiday concert of dynamic harmonies, Wednesday at 6 on the Millennium Stage. NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Baroque Festival – The NSO, Jose Luis Garcia conducting, present J.S. Bach's Cantata No. 29; Concerto for Two Violins and Orchestra in D minor; Concerto for Violin, Oboe and Orchestra in C minor; Prelude and Fugue in D minor for Organ Solo; Soler's Three Sonatas (U.S. premiere), orchestrated by Anton Garcia-Abril; and Handel's Organ Concerto No. 16 in F major, Wednesday at 7 in the Concert Hall. $19-$66.
Thursday
21ST CENTURY ENSEMBLE uses computer music technology in its holiday performance, Thursday at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 8
NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA POPS – Gail Levine conducts a "Happy Holidays" concert, performed by the NSO and singers and dancers, Dec. 8 at 1:30 and 8:30 and Dec. 9 at 8:30 in the Concert Hall. $20-$69. STANLEY THURSTON and the Celebration Choir present a gospel concert, Dec. 8 at 6 on the Millennium Stage. GRIEG PIANO TRIO – This prize-winning ensemble presents a holiday concert, Dec. 8 at 7:30 in the Terrace Theater. Free, but tickets are required. The tickets are available at the Kennedy Center box office or by calling 202/467-4600 ($2 service charge). Unclaimed seats will be given to stand-bys 15 minutes before the concert.
Dec. 9 Carlton Burgess and Complete Praise present a gospel concert, Dec. 9 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 10
MASTER CHORALE OF WASHINGTON – The Master Chorale (formerly Paul Hill Chorale) presents its trademark Candlelight Processional and Recessional plus traditional songs of the season, NBC-4's Arch Campbell narrates "Brother Heinrich's Christmas" and Luis Haza's American Youth Philharmonic helps lead the audience in a sing-along of holiday favorites, Dec. 10 at 1:30 in the Concert Hall. $15-$45. CHORAL ARTS SOCIETY OF WASHINGTON – Enjoy holiday favorites from this acclaimed choral group, Dec. 10 at 5, Dec. 12 at 7 and Dec. 17 at 5 in the Concert Hall. $17-$47. A GOSPEL CELEBRATION – Contemporary gospel artists (TBA) will wind up the three-day festival of gospel music, Dec. 10 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 11
MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS – Harvey Phillips and his guest conductors fill the Grand Foyer with music from more than 200 tubas, sousaphones and euphoniums, Dec. 11 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 12
SHINDANA COOPER, storyteller and poet, takes her audience on a journey from an African village to life on a southern plantation, finally arriving at an Underground Railroad safe house, Dec. 12 at 6 on the Millennium Stage. AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE presents "The Nutcracker," Dec. 12 through Dec. 15 at 8, Dec. 16 at 2 and 8 and Dec. 17 at 2 in the Opera House. $45-$95.
Dec. 13
U.S. AIR FORCE BRASS QUINTET presents a concert of holiday and classical melodies, Dec. 13 at 6 on the Millennium Stage. PHANTASM, VIOL QUARTET – This quartet plays the music of royal winter festivals and parties, including works by Mozart, Locke, Bach and Mico, Dec. 13 at 7:30 in the Terrace Theater. $25.
Dec. 14
JOHNNY CUNNINGHAM, fiddler, and singer/songwriter Susan McKeown perform a blend of Irish, jazz and folk music, Dec. 14 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 15
JONES-HAYWOOD DANCE COMPANY presents excerpts from "The Nutcracker," Dec. 15 at 6 on the Millennium Stage. NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA BAROQUE FESTIVAL - The NSO, Paul McCreesh conducting, with Dominique Labelle, soprano; Patricia Bardon, mezzo-soprano; Benjamin Butterfield, tenor; Stephan Loges, bass-baritone; and the Washington Bach Consort Chorus, J. Reilly Lewis, director, present Handel's "Messiah," Dec. 15 and 16 at 8:30, Dec. 17 at 1 and Dec. 19 at 8:30 in the Concert Hall. $19-$66.
Dec. 16
THE WASHINGTON CHORUS presents "Music for Christmas," a program of traditional and contemporary holiday favorites for the whole family, Dec. 16 at 2:30, Dec. 17 at 8:30 and Dec. 21 at 7:30 in the Concert Hall. $15-$46. "HOLIDAY VAUDEVILLE I" – Cellist Sean Grissom, spoon-player Joseph Jones, the Alexandria Kleztet and Celtic musician Seamus Kennedy present a holiday concert, Dec. 16 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 17
"HOLIDAY VAUDEVILLE II" – Cellist Sean Grissom, the Carol Ringers hand bell choir, Dick Monday and Tiffany Riley of the New York Goofs and the a cappella ensemble Reverb present a holiday concert, Dec. 17 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 18
HANS KINDLER CELLO SOCIETY, a massed cello ensemble, presents a holiday concert, Dec. 18 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 19
Da VINCI'S NOTEBOOK, an award-winning a cappella quartet, presents a holiday concert, Dec. 19 at 6 on the Millennium Stage. MASTER CHORALE OF WASHINGTON – The Master Chorale (formerly Paul Hill Chorale) presents its trademark Candlelight Processional and Recessional plus traditional songs of the season and leads the audience in a holiday sing-along, Dec. 19 and Dec. 20 at 7:30 in the Concert Hall. $17-$47.
Dec. 20
BETH GRAY, vocalist, joins with award-winning vocalist Matthew Volbrecht will perform seasonal songs, Dec. 20 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 21
HANUKAH CELEBRATION – Cantor Aaron Marcus directs "Lights: A Hanukah 5761 Celebration in Song," featuring the Keshet Chorale of the District of Columbia Jewish Community Center; the B'nai Shalom of Olney Adult Choir; and Hazamir, the Greater Washington, D.C., National Jewish High School Chorus, Dec. 21 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 22
LAST TRAIN HOME, the popular D.C. roots-rock band, plays a combination of holiday pop, country and swing tunes from its new album, "Holiday Limited," Dec. 22 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 23
WMAL'S CHRISTMAS AT THE KENNEDY CENTER – 20th annual live Kennedy Center holiday broadcast featuring music and comedy performances for the holidays, Dec. 23 from 10 to 1 in the Concert Hall. ERIC MINTEL QUARTET – Original jazz compositions and improvisations, Dec. 23 at 6 on the Millennium Stage. "MESSIAH" SING-ALONG – Washington's most popular free holiday audience-participation event features area choruses, a professional orchestra and soloists onstage, Dec. 23 at 7:30 in the Concert Hall. Tickets are free and were distributed on Dec. 2 (details at top). On Dec. 23, people without tickets will be admitted to any unclaimed seats 15 minutes prior to curtain time, on a first-come basis.
Dec. 24
PRISM BRASS QUINTET, contemporary and classical works, Dec. 24 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 25
ALL-STAR CHRISTMAS DAY JAZZ JAM – Two-hour concert featuring Washington, D.C., jazz stars Keter Betts, Ron Holloway, Chuck Redd, Robert Redd, Delores Williams, Tom Williams and other musicians, Dec. 25 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 26
JINNY MARSH'S HOT KUGEL KLEZMER BAND performs joyous klezmer dances and poignant melodies, Dec. 26 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 27
UNIFIED JAZZ ENSEMBLE – Award-winning ensemble plays classic jazz and original compositions, Dec. 27 and 29 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 28
FAITH, SPIRIT AND SOUL performs American spirituals, inspirational music and folk songs, Dec. 28 at 6 on the Millennium Stage. "THE SPIRIT OF KWANZAA" – Fabian Barnes and his Dance Institute of Washington combine dance, music and poetry to honor the seven principles of life and values of the community in celebration of this African American holiday, Dec. 28 and Dec. 29 at 7 in the Concert Hall. $10-$15.
Dec. 30
J STREET JUMPERS play Harlem swing, '40s jump-blues sounds and classic New Orleans R&B, Dec. 30 at 6 on the Millennium Stage.
Dec. 31
SALON ORCHESTRA OF WASHINGTON performs traditional holiday music, Dec. 31 at 6 on the Millennium Stage. NEW YEAR'S EVE at the Kennedy Center with Murry Sidlin and members of the National Symphony Orchestra - Murry Sidlin conducts an entertaining and sometimes uproarious concert, Dec. 31 at 8:30 in the Concert Hall. $55-$85. Tickets-holders for any of the paid performances on New Year's Eve may remain in the Grand Foyer afterward for waltzing and swing dancing to the strains of the Salon Orchestra of Washington. Drinks will be available for purchase.
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(Santa illustration by Coco Masuda/The Washington Post)
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