After the busy winter holidays, life often seems to slow down in January. But many of us see the new year as the perfect time to try something different. Although it’s not great weather for outdoor festivals, the DMV boasts impressive cultural offerings including live theater, music, and world-class museums. Check out our list of highlights as we start the new year.
WASHINGTON D.C.
Photo courtesy of Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute
L’Impératrice | January 16
With a new singer, Louve, this French pop and nu-disco group is touring to promote their 2024 album Pulsar.
Meet the Pandas | January 24
Giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao have been settling into their new home. Starting in late January, you can visit the new bear pair in their renovated habitat on Asia Trail. Zoo admission is free, but you can support the Giant Panda program through membership and donations. Click here for more information.
TINA – The Tina Turner Musical | January 24 – 26
Back by popular demand! An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters.
Restaurant Week | January 27 – February 2
Eat your way through a week of dining deals during Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week. Dine in or enjoy takeout diners with prix-fixe menus for lunch/brunch ($25-$35) and dinner ($40-$65) from delicious local restaurants!
Washington, DC Auto Show | January 31 – February 9
Walter E Washington Convention Center
The Washington, DC Auto Show showcases more than 600 new cars, trucks, minivans, and sport utility vehicles. From January 20-29 top manufacturers will be on site displaying hundreds of their latest and greatest vehicles!
MARYLAND
What the Constitution Means to Me | January 15 – February 16
As a teenager, Heidi Schreck traveled across America, earning her college tuition by winning constitutional debate competitions. Now, as an Obie Award-winning playwright, she takes a closer look at the Constitution and its effects on four generations of women in her family.
Cambridge Ice & Oyster Fest | January 17 – 19
The event features dozens of dazzling ice sculptures, interactive games for children of all ages, carving demonstrations, an outdoor oyster bar, fire pits, ‘smores stations, and much more.
Free Admission
Say it Loud, Play it Loud | January 18
BlackRock Center for the Arts, Germantown
Celebrate the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. with a line-up of films, performances, music, and art throughout the BlackRock Center for the Arts.
Tickets required
Entrepreneur Showcase Hosted by Bethesda Green | January 23
This year’s theme, Innovating for a Sustainable Future, highlights how local entrepreneurs are shaping a better tomorrow through cleantech innovations and sustainable business solutions. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to hear their pitches and connect with others passionate about making an impact.
Free Admission
Song of the North | January 31
The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda
Song of the North is an awe-inspiring stage production adapted from an epic poem published in the year 1010 by Persian poet Ferdowsi. Featuring nine performers and nearly 500 puppets, show creator Hamid Rahmanian brings to life centuries-old text with the robust energy of contemporary theater.
VIRGINIA
A Funny Think Happened on the Way to the Forum | Through January 12
It’s a comedy tonight in Sondheim’s zany, hysterical, Tony Award-winning musical romp. With mistaken identities, wily ruses, madcap chases, a love story, and a happy ending, of course, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum’s audacious and irreverent spectacle has something for everyone.
Interfusion Festival | January 9 – 13
Crystal Gateway Marriott, Arlington
Interfusion Festival was founded in 2016 under The Institute for Integrative Wellness (IFIW). Since that time, it has become the primary indoor transformative festival of North America bringing together the like-minded. You can check out the schedule here.
Discover the Orchestra: Safari! | January 18, 4 PM
Woodgrove High School, Purcellville
Loudoun Symphony Orchestra invites families to enjoy a live full-orchestra concert in a setting that is perfect for young children. Arrive early at 3:00 PM for face painting, craft making, and to touch and try musical instruments at our Instrument Petting Zoo.
Collage Dance Collective presents RISE | January 18
McLean Community Center Alden Theatre, McLean
Inspired by the words of civil rights leader and pioneer, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final speech, “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop,” this thought-provoking ballet is both a reflection of what we have overcome and envisions where we go from here.
Leesburg Cars & Coffee | January 19
Leesburg Public House, Leesburg
Come check out all types of vehicles and models while enjoying a refreshing cup of coffee with others who love cars just as much as you do!!
All You Need is Love | January 21
Get ready to turn back time and relive the magic of the greatest band in musical history as ‘All You Need Is Love’ hits the stage in celebration of John Lennon’s 85th year.
Alexandria Restaurant Week | January 31 – February 9
Explore a record number of 90+ participating restaurants below, offering special multi-course prix fixe dinner menus at $30, $40, or $50 per person, plus fast casual offers.
WEST VIRGINIA
Umphrey’s McGee Cruising Altitude 2025 Tour | January 18
Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, Charles Town
In the twenty-four years since eclectic improv-rock band Umphrey’s McGee formed, their sound has been an amalgamation of genres, moods, and tempos, effortlessly flowing from one feeling to the next throughout an album or concert—or sometimes within a singular song. So come jam out to Umphrey’s McGee in West Virginia. Must be 21 and older to attend!
