The Nutcracker Ballet and Other Holiday Shows for Kids in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia

The Washington Ballet gives The Nutcracker a historic twist at the Warner Theatre. Photo by XMB photography
The Washington Ballet gives The Nutcracker a historic twist at the Warner Theatre. Photo by XMB photography
11/12/23 - By Jennifer Swope

Seeing The Nutcracker ballet is one of the most classic holiday experiences for families, and no two productions are alike. We've found nearly 20 variations of The Nutcracker taking place in the DC area in 2023, from the Washington Ballet's historic twist to The Hip Hop Nutcracker to Maryland Youth Ballet's abbreviated version of the show, The Mini-Nut.

In addition to the The Nutcracker, families can take in a variety of other holiday shows, including A Christmas Carol at Ford's Theatre, Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins at Glen Echo Park, and contemporary shows such as Step Afrika! Magical Musical Holiday Step Show.

Read on for our list of performances of The Nutcracker 2023 and other holiday shows near DC. For more holiday fun, check out our Christmas Activities and Holiday Guide for DC kids and our Family Activity Calendar.

Many of these holiday shows are popular and sell out quickly, so be sure to purchase advance tickets. Subscribe to our newsletters to get stories like this delivered directly to your inbox.

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Places featured in this article:


The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre- Rockville Civic Center Park

Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center

George Mason University Center for the Arts

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

Discovery Theater – Ripley Center

George Mason University Center for the Arts

Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall

George Mason University Center for the Arts

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts