Keep your calendar exciting this weekend with a range of events, festivities, and more across the DMV region! Shop holiday markets and Christmas shows or complete a scenic 5K as you support pet welfare. There are also multiple opportunities to enjoy tree lighting and holiday lights this weekend to get into the holiday spirit.
Shows, Activities, Events & More in Maryland This Weekend
Want the scoop on what’s happening across Maryland this weekend? Check out this list of the best shows, festivals, musicals, and even a cookie exchange!
Matilda the Musical
Where? 21744 South Coral Drive
When? November 22nd
Matilda the Musical is kicking off this Friday at Three Notch Theatre in Lexington Park. The musical is inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl and is sure to be a captivating experience for audiences of all ages. Matilda has won 47 international awards and continues to delight sold-out audiences across the world. Showtimes are scheduled for 8:00 PM on Thursdays through Saturdays and 3:00 PM on Sundays. There will be a sensory-friendly performance on Thursday, December 5th at 7:00 PM as well. Tickets are priced at $20 for adults, $15 for children ages 6 to 11, and kiddos under 5 are free. While the show isn’t recommended for young children, parental discretion is advised.
18th Annual Willowbrook Art Show
Where? 5410 Leaf Treader Way
When? November 22nd & 23rd
This free art show will be hosted at The Carriage House in Columbia this Friday and Saturday. The organizer is Willowbrook Studio, which comprises a group of artists who work across a diverse array of mediums and varied approaches to produce an impressive body of work. The event will showcase a collection of small works of art and an array of tasteful crafts and gift items just in time for all of your holiday shopping needs. Swing by to explore the offering and see what piece talks to you! There will be a reception from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Friday and Saturday’s art show hours run from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. No credit cards — cash or check. Some artists will also accept Venmo, Zelle, and PayPal.
Maryland Christmas Show
Where? 797 East Patrick Street
When? November 22nd-24th
The annual Maryland Christmas Show is a two-weekend event that’s kicking off this Friday! Nothing brings the holiday spirit around quite like the 41st season of this family favorite. Visitors make the trip from near and far to discover the vast array of goods and treats that are for sale at the show and market. The Maryland Christmas Show is situated in historic Frederick City and features fine artisans and merchants who make holiday shopping a breeze. From art, pottery, toys, and Christmas ornaments — you’ll find anything and everything relating to the holidays. Not all exhibitors participate in both weekends, so if you find something you like, buy it! Wear comfortable shoes and warm layers when visiting as the show takes place across seven heated buildings.
District’s Family Fun Fest: Pie & Food Truck Festival
Where? 1615 East Randolph Road
When? November 23rd
Everyone is invited to join in on the fun at the District’s Family Fun Fest this weekend! This all-ages event is scheduled from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM this Saturday at Pilgrim Hills Park in Silver Spring. Event highlights include a pizza food truck serving up hot and delicious slices, free pies that you can take home, face painting that the kids will love, and an array of family-friendly activities, games, and prizes. This is intended to be a local gathering where guests can make memories, enjoy great food, and celebrate everything that this beautiful community has accomplished. RSVP now to save a spot!
Holiday Arts and Crafts Show
Where? 2747 Riva Road
When? November 23rd
Don’t miss the Holiday Arts and Crafts Show at Byzantium Annapolis this Saturday and Sunday! Over 60 crafters and artists will be in attendance, each with a unique offering that’s perfect for holiday shopping sprees. There will also be Greek food and pastries served all day, so work up your appetite and dive into specialty bites. Proceeds from this event will benefit Johns Hopkins Pediatric Brain Tumor Research, so you can feel good about where your hard-earned money is going this holiday season! Show hours run from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday and 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday.
2024 Harvest Hustle 5K & 10K
Where? 10410 Theodore Green Boulevard
When? November 24th
The 10K begins at 7:45 AM and the 5K starts at 8:00 AM. Registration fees are priced at $35 for the 5K and $50 for the 10K, with a $5 increase to be expected on race morning for each distance. Registration includes a finisher’s medal! The course is a flat paved out-and-back route. There will even be a virtual run option for those who can’t make it out on race day. The race benefits Lovepaws, which was originally founded as a shelter intake prevention program on a mission to keep pets in homes and out of local shelters. Outreach efforts are targeted toward helping pet owners in low-income and underserved communities in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties.
The Ultimate Holiday Cookie Exchange
Where? 400 Sagner Avenue #100
When? November 24th
RAK Brewing Co is excited to announce The Ultimate Holiday Cookie Exchange this Sunday from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM! The brewery is situated in Frederick and Cookie Connoisseur tickets are priced at $20. Participants must bring a minimum of four dozen home-baked cookies to swap and the recipe that was used to whip them up! Whether you consider yourself a pro home baker or you simply love cookies — this is the perfect opportunity to indulge in this cheerful holiday treat. Don’t want to bake anything? Snag a tasting ticket for $35! You’ll head back home with a dozen cookies and recipes that allow you to recreate your favorite bites at home.
Shows, Activities, Events & More in Washington D.C. This Weekend
Hang out in the capital city this weekend and visit the Downtown DC Holiday Market to cross a few names off your shopping list or check out the Waldorf School Fall Bazaar!
NSO Coffee Concert: Alexandra Dovgan
Where? 2700 F Street NW
When? November 22nd
This Friday’s NSO Coffee Concert is scheduled for 11:30 AM and will feature Alexandra Dovgan as she plays Schumann. This specially scheduled performance of the National Symphony Orchestra will additionally feature Anton Bruckner: Symphony No. 4, “Romantic.” Friday’s full-length performance will be held in the Concert Hall and is recommended for grades 7 through 12, with an estimated duration of two hours with a 20-minute intermission. Alexandra Dovgan was a “revelation” at the 2018 Grand Piano Competition at the age of 10 and has since gone on to become a teenage phenomenon with sold-out concerts worldwide. Witness her extraordinary talent this weekend at a concert that will surely be one to remember.
Downtown DC Holiday Market
Where? F Street NW
When? November 22nd-December 23rd
Are you ready to be enchanted this holiday season? Then check out the Downtown DC Holiday Market in the Penn Quarter-Chinatown neighborhood. The market is celebrating its 20th anniversary and has undergone a transformation under the guidance of a new market operator — The Makers Show! This year, visitors can expect an expanded marketplace featuring a curated lineup of over 100 vendors. Additional new features include dedicated food vendors with festive treats such as churros, waffles, and delicious apple cider donuts. There will also be a central market bar, The Winter Chalet by Dirty Habit, offering holiday-inspired drinks and cocktails. Don’t miss the Sounds of the City on the main stage, as well as the Reindeer games for the little ones. There are various photo opportunities around the market, including the Chilling with My Snowmies installation.
Washington Waldorf School Fall Bazaar



Where? 4800 Sangamore Road
When? November 23rd
The 2024 Washington Waldorf School Fall Bazaar is scheduled from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM this Saturday. The bazaar will feature over 40 artisans and vendors, as well as activities and crafts for kiddos of all ages. There will be live music and puppet shows to keep guests entertained and engaged, as well as an array of books, toys, and other hand-crafted gift inspiration. Enjoy gourmet lunch and dessert options at the bazaar while you shop! A sample of what vendors will have available includes exquisite jewelry, high-quality knitwear, woodwork, charming felted animals, and other treasures from around the globe! The Enchantment Shop is designed for children ages 4 to 11 who want to make their own purchases in a shopping experience just for them. The shop is stocked with handmade and natural pieces that can be purchased with Bazaar tickets.
Shows, Activities, Events & More Near Arlington, VA This Weekend
Looking for new ways to explore Northern Virginia this weekend? Make sure to pay a visit to the GardenFest of Lights and if you have a sweet tooth, you won’t want to skip the annual Alexandria Cookie Crawl!
Holiday Tree Lighting


Where? 300 King Street
When? November 23rd
You won’t want to miss out on this iconic holiday event in Alexandria! Kick off the holiday season with the holiday tree lighting in Market Square this Saturday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The city invites the community to join Mayor Justin Wilson and an array of holiday friends at the annual ceremony. Not only does this gathering mark the tree lighting, but it also serves as the closing ceremony to Alexandria’s yearlong 275th Celebration. Admission is free and the event will be held rain or shine. Listen for the town crier as they call everyone to gather around the tree to participate in the countdown. After 7:00 PM, enjoy music and merriment while Santa and Mrs. Claus walk around the square and visit with families.
Annual Old Town Alexandria Cookie Crawl
Where? 1117 King Street
When? November 23rd & 24th
The annual Old Town Alexandria Cookie Crawl is a favorite holiday tradition amongst all ages. After all, who doesn’t love to treat themselves to a decadent cookie or two (or three)? At the crawl, participants will receive a commemorative cookie tin and will have the opportunity to swing by 30 stops to receive a pre-wrapped cookie at each location. This is fun for the whole family and a great way to explore the walkable shopping district. The cookie crawl takes place across Saturday and Sunday and participating locations include Red Barn Mercantile, The Dog Park, The Garden Wellness Center, Hotel AKA Alexandria, Morrison House, Old Town Books, and many, many more.
Cars and Coffee
Where? 1915 Towne Center Boulevard
When? November 24th
Every Sunday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, check out the Cars and Coffee event in the lot adjacent to Gordon Biersch in Annapolis. This is the perfect excuse to check out all types of cars from classic to modern. You’ll meet new people and find friends to talk shop with if you enjoy all things cars. This event runs year round and car enthusiasts of all ages are welcome to stop by. Sip on a cup of Joe and enjoy the fresh air while you see what’s new in the car industry.
Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights



Where? 1800 Lakeside Avenue
When? Through January 5th
Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights opened to the public on November 18th, so make sure to swing by this weekend to experience the best botanical garden holiday lights in the US. This year’s theme is “Homes & Habitats.” This is a favorite tradition for many and it’s difficult to not be in awe of the millions of lights, botanical decorations, model trains, and more! There will be a warming fire to keep you cozy, as well as hot chocolate and s’mores for a classic winter treat. Tickets are on sale for $22 for non-member adults and $12 for non-member youth ages 3 to 12. When you purchase your tickets, you’ll choose an arrival window that ranges between 30-minute increments from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Popular times sell out quickly so buy in advance!
We Hope You Enjoy Your Weekend!
Kick off the weekend with something fun! Whether you’re ready to dive into all things Christmas spirit or you want to catch an art show or even Matilda the Musical — there’s something for everyone, including the little ones! Circle back next week to see what’s happening around the National Capital Region.