This column is sponsored by Arlington Arts/Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
’Tis the season for gathering with family and friends!
If you’re looking for ways to entertain your guests or explore Arlington’s vibrant arts scene this holiday season, we’ve got you covered. With events running through December, Arlington’s Winter Arts Highlights offers a comprehensive guide to arts and cultural happenings across the county, ensuring you’ll find something for everyone.
Arlington, together with D.C. and Alexandria, ranks third among the most arts-vibrant communities in the U.S. as evaluated by the National Center for Arts Research’s Arts Vibrancy Index. This ranking assesses vibrancy by analyzing supply, demand, and government support for the arts across 900+ communities. Since the index’s debut in 2015, Arlington has remained a top-ranked community for the arts, bolstered by a creative mix of visual and performing artists.
This high ranking was achieved because of Arlington’s exceedingly talented and creative array of visual and performing artists.
This winter, their offerings include soulful cabaret evenings at the Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre (through November 24); an opportunity to shop local at LAC Studios Holiday Show and Sale (December 7); holiday performances by The Arlington Philharmonic Brass Quintet (December 7-8; 14-15); Encore Stage & Studio’s staging of Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. (through November 24); Jane Franklin Dance’s performances of “Set” (December 9-10); and an Artist Talk and Tour of current exhibits at Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington (November 22).
This winter, Arlington’s vibrant cultural calendar includes unique events for all ages. Below are some featured highlights, with a full schedule available on the Arlington Arts’ Winter Arts Highlights page.
Arlington Chorale & The Alexandria Symphony: Carmina Burana — Abound
November 16 | 7:30 p.m. | Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall | Alexandria
Ludwig van Beethoven: Egmont Overture
Jocelyn Hagen: World Premiere (commissioned by Arlington Chorale)
Carl Orff: Carmina Burana
Carl Orff’s chorale classic Carmina Burana takes center stage in November for this one night only performance featuring the Arlington Chorale and other local artists. Beethoven’s Egmont Overture and a new work by composer Jocelyn Hagen round out this electrifying program.
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington: Conversations With Curators
November 22 | 1-2: p.m. | MoCA Arlington | Virginia Square
Join MoCA Arlington’s curators for a discussion about and tour of the museum’s current exhibitions! This free tour will include highlights from the museum’s current exhibitions, including Assembly 2024: Horizon Scanning, Marisa Stratton: You Will Never Be Forgotten, and Best in Class: MoCA Arlington Artist Instructors.
Arlington Philharmonic: Full Orchestra
November 24 | 4 p.m. | Washington-Liberty High School Auditorium | Shirlington
This full symphony orchestra concert features the gorgeous, sweeping, full and innovative music of Dvorak, Sibelius and Strauss.
Encore Stage & Studio: The Lion King, Jr.
Through November 24 | Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre | Arlington Heights
In this adaptation of the beloved Disney animated film, young actors bring the story of Simba and his friends to life! The young and carefree lion cub faces serious consequences that force him to flee his kingdom, leaving his cruel uncle Scar to rule in his place. With the help of his new friends Timon and Pumbaa, Simba learns the joys of “Hakuna Matata,” or “no worries,” until his past catches up with him. Will responsibility and honor win out? Discover the answer for yourself as you sing along to the classic songs of Elton John and Tim Rice, including “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” Recommended for ages 4 and older.
Signature Theatre: I’ll Take You There: Stax Record Co.
Through November 24 | Signature Theatre | Shirlington
A counterpart of Motown, Stax Records Co. brought America “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay,” “Soul Man,” “Mr. Big Stuff,” “What A Man,” “In the Midnight Hour” and the “Theme from Shaft.” As part of Signature Theatre’s Cabaret Series, join vocalists Isaac “Deacon Izzy” Bell and Kanysha Wiliams and groove to the sound of Southern soul with the smooth style of the Memphis recording company that discovered Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Booker T & the M.G.’s, Carla Thomas and the Staple Singers.
Arlington Chorale:Enchant
December 7 | 5 p.m. | Westover Baptist Church | Westover
Join us for an enchanting concert that will warm your heart and spark your holiday spirit! Immerse yourself in the joy and wonder of the season as the Arlington Chorale brings beloved holiday classics to life. From festive carols to spirited sing-alongs, this concert is a celebration of love, togetherness, and the enchantment of the holiday season. Let the music transport you to a world of winter wonder with snow-covered landscapes and the joyous laughter of children. Bring the whole family to enjoy the music, and stay afterwards to meet the performers and enjoy some Christmas cookies.
Arlington Philharmonic: Brassy Brilliance:Holiday Brass Ensemble Concert
December 7, 8, 14 and 15 | National Landing Water Park| National Landing
Holiday Origami Online Workshop
December 8 | 5 p.m. | Study Japanese in Arlington | virtual
Get into the holiday spirit with our fun online origami workshop! Learn how to fold holiday-themed creations from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our step-by-step guidance will help you create memorable, handmade artwork for the season. Join us for this creative, hands-on experience and make your holidays even more special! *Models to fold are subject to change.
LAC STUDIOS: Holiday Show & Sale
December 9 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | LAC Studios | Leeway-Overlee
Looking for unique gifts this holiday season? Shop Local! The annual LAC Studios Holiday Show & Sale features ceramics, pottery and hand pulled prints for sale by the member-artists of LAC Studios. Just in time to put under the tree!
Encore Stage & Studio: Jingle Bell Jam
December 6-15 | Gunston Theatre Two | Long Branch Creek
Join Encore Stage & Studio for our first-ever winter revue! From heartwarming holiday scenes and songs, Encore’s Jingle Bell Jam is the perfect way to deck the halls and bring in the holiday spirit!
Arlington Artists Alliance: Winter Artful Weekend
December 13-15 | Fort C.F. Smith Park | Woodmont
Don’t miss Winter Artful Weekend in its 22nd year! Our annual holiday art fair will showcase nearly 40 artists from the Arlington Artists Alliance. This event is free and open to the public. Find original works for every budget and occasion.
National Chamber Ensemble: Holiday Cheer!
December 14 | 7:30 p.m. | Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington | Barcroft
NCE’s Holiday Concert will bring the finest classical masterpieces and holiday favorites together for the whole family. Star soprano Sharon Christman and Outstanding Young Artist Award string competition winners perform. The concert concludes with a Carols Sing-Along to get everyone in the holiday spirit!
Jane Franklin Dance:December at TOTR
December 14 -15 | Theatre on the Run |Green Valley
Join one of our region’s most innovative contemporary dance ensembles for a year-end celebration featuring choreography by Jamal Abrams, Michala Conroy, Emily Crews, Robert J. Priore, Robert Rubama and Kelsey Rohr.