Your Guide to Holiday Plays in DC: 2025 Season Highlights
Nov 6, 2025
This season, Washington, DC is overflowing with festive theatre, from beloved family classics to offbeat comedies, dazzling spectacles, inventive premieres, and celebrations that go far beyond tinsel and snow. Whether you’re looking for a cozy tradition, a laugh-filled night out, or a fresh twist on the holidays, there are holiday plays in DC and the surrounding area for every taste, age, and tradition. To explore the complete lineup of Christmas shows in DC and seasonal productions across the region, be sure to visit our dedicated Holiday & Christmas Plays in DC page on Theatre In DC.
Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at The National Theatre
December 30 - January 4, 2026This Broadway sensation brings the beloved tale of Whoville's most famous grouch to life with spectacular visuals and unforgettable music. As Max the Dog guides audiences through the story, watch the green meanie whose undersized heart leads him to plot the theft of Christmas itself. Featuring iconic songs like "You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch" and "Welcome Christmas," this production dazzles with stunning sets and costumes drawn directly from Dr. Seuss' whimsical artwork, delivering a powerful reminder about what the holidays truly mean.
A Christmas Carol at Ford's Theatre
November 20 - December 31, 2025Experience Charles Dickens' timeless story of redemption as three spectral visitors guide the bitter Ebenezer Scrooge toward transformation. This music-enriched production brings beloved characters to vibrant life alongside a charming children's ensemble. With acclaimed actor Craig Wallace returning to embody the miserly Scrooge, Ford's Theatre continues its treasured annual tradition of presenting this tale that captures both the wonder and warmth of the season.
Elf The Musical at Toby's Dinner Theatre
November 7 - January 4, 2026Follow Buddy's extraordinary adventure from the North Pole to the Big Apple in this contemporary holiday favorite. After accidentally hitching a ride in Santa's gift sack as an infant, Buddy grows up among elves, only to discover his human heritage. His quest to find his biological father in New York City becomes a heartfelt journey about identity, belonging, and rekindling the Christmas spirit. This delightful musical encourages everyone to celebrate their inner elf.
Frosty The Snow Man at Adventure Theatre MTC
November 26 - January 11, 2026Watch magic unfold as a snowman comes alive for one unforgettable day of winter adventure. This joyful production overflows with laughter and playful hijinks as Frosty captures hearts young and old—even winning over a doubtful police officer. Perfect for families, this wintertime romp delivers comedy and charm before Frosty's inevitable farewell.
ho ho ho ha ha ha ha at Woolly Mammoth Theatre
November 13 - December 21, 2025Julia Masli brings her acclaimed, award-winning improvisational show back to Woolly with a festive twist. Following successful runs in New York, Edinburgh, London, and Melbourne, this holiday edition invites audience members to share their seasonal dilemmas for hilariously unexpected resolutions. With a completely unique performance every single night, this production offers something truly different from traditional holiday fare.
Miracle on 34th Street The Musical at Capital One Hall
December 26 - December 28, 2025From the legendary composer of The Music Man, Meredith Willson's musical adaptation of the classic film asks the question: could Macy's Santa actually be the real Kris Kringle? Single mother Doris Walker resists holiday romanticism for her daughter Susan, but when their neighbor Fred takes Susan to meet Santa, an unexpected wave of belief and love sweeps through New York City. Featuring beloved songs including "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas," this wholesome, joyful production delivers perfect family entertainment.
Rules For Living at Round House Theatre
December 3 - January 4, 2026Making its American premiere after a hit run at London's National Theatre, this wickedly funny comedy explores what happens when family dysfunction meets holiday gatherings. As long-buried tensions and absurd coping strategies collide during Christmas dinner, the characters' internal rules become hilariously visible on stage. This high-energy, brilliantly choreographed production captures the chaos and relatability of family celebrations with sharp wit and inventive staging.
Step Afrika's! Magical Musical Holiday Step Show at Arena Stage
December 5 - December 21, 2025Join DJ Nutcracker and his Arctic companions for an electrifying celebration featuring the award-winning performers of Step Afrika! This high-octane production combines dynamic stepping, festive music, and infectious holiday spirit for an unforgettable family experience. Now in its fourth year at Arena Stage, this fan-favorite tradition sells out quickly, so plan ahead to secure your seats.
Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins
December 11 - December 22, 2025When the Goblin King and Queen forbid candle-lighting in a small village, Hershel must use his wits to break the curse and restore Hanukkah celebrations to the community. This charming puppet production adapts Eric Kimmel's beloved story, offering families a wonderful opportunity to explore Hanukkah traditions through theatrical storytelling.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze at Theater at MGM National Harbor
December 19 - December 20, 2025Experience the wonder of the season through breathtaking circus artistry wrapped in Broadway-style musical theatre. This dazzling annual tradition combines contemporary acrobatics, stunning visuals, and holiday music into an enchanting spectacle. Perfect for the whole family, this production transforms the circus into the ultimate seasonal celebration.
From beloved classics to imaginative new traditions, laugh-out-loud comedies to heartwarming family favorites, this is a holiday season where there truly is a show for everyone. And this is only a sampling of the holiday plays in DC and the greater region. To discover every production, plan your outings, and make the most of the 2025 season, visit our Holiday Plays in DC page for the full list of Christmas shows in the DC area and be sure to keep checking back as more holiday shows are added.