Things to Do November 2025 in Washington, DC

Ride with Metro
Discover DC with ease—tap, ride, go on Metrorail with your preferred payment card and explore the city like never before. Hop on Metrobus for a quick, affordable way to reach every corner of town and plan your trip with the Metropulse app. No wonder Metro is APTA’s 2025 Transit Agency of the Year.
Plan your trip
 

Washington Capitals

Attend a Capitals, Wizards or Go-Go game
With the winter season comes incredible indoor sports action in the District. The NHL’s Washington Capitals and the NBA’s Washington Wizards play their exciting games inside Capital One Arena, while the Capital City Go-Go, part of the NBA’s developmental G-League, take to the court inside Entertainment & Sports Arena.
 

Lizzie the Musical – Oct. 31 – Nov. 30
Keegan Theatre unleashes a punk-rock musical that uncovers the fascinating legend of Lizzie Borden. An all-female rock score supports a reinterpretation of an infamous 1892 axe murder in a show that blends gothic horror, riot grrrl vibes and plenty of thrills. Unapologetic and bold, expect Lizzie to rattle the walls this fall.
Tickets
Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
 

Adams Morgan BID

Adams Morgan Fall PorchFest – Nov. 1
One of the District’s most popular neighborhoods showcases some of DC’s best musical talent. Adams Morgan Fall PorchFest will feature nearly 100 artists playing an array of genres, including classic rock, funk, go-go, rap, reggae, blue grass, classical and pop. Twenty porches, business patios and parks, as well as the closed 18th Street, will become stages for the day, drawing music-lovers from around the region into the tree-lined streets and small businesses of Adams Morgan.
Free Admission
 

National Museum of Women in the Arts

Fresh Talk: Agency in Fashion – Nov. 4
The National Museum of Women in the Arts hosts a fascinating, fashion-focused conversation moderated by Rebecca Ballard, founder of Maven Women and The Fashion Connection. Textile historian and George Washington University educator Katrina Orsini and founder of Hope for Flowers Tracey Reese will discuss the future of fashion and how inclusivity, accountability and equity are at the center of its success. After the conversation, attendees are welcome to attend a salon-style cocktail reception.
6-8 p.m. |  Tickets
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
 

Signature Theatre Company

Fiddler on the Roof – Nov. 4 – Jan. 25, 2026
The welcoming environs of Signature Theatre are the perfect setting for a beautiful staging of this iconic musical. Fiddler on the Roof concerns Jewish milkman Tevye and his community in Czarist Russia as they deal with rising anti-Semitism and a world quickly changing around them. Legendary songs include “Sunrise, Sunset” “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Matchmaker”.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
 

Curiosity + Cocktails: A Playful FUNraiser – Nov. 7
Go behind the scenes and enjoy an adults-only evening of playful experiences, decadent desserts, complimentary craft cocktails and a live DJ who will spin '90s and 2000s hits, all in support of the National Children’s Museum’s mission to spark wonder in young learners.
8-10 p.m. |  Tickets
National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

The Superfair

The Superfair – Nov. 7-9
Across three days, Gallery Place transforms into a wonderland of independently produced art. The Superfair shows off more than 2,000 works from dozens of artists. Attendees will be able to meet the creators and discuss their pieces; thanks to curator-led tours, you can also learn how to become an art collector and envision a beautifully decorated home. The creator-led fair is a rare opportunity to engage so directly with works of art and the people who made them.
Passes
737 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
 

National Children's Museum

National STEM Day at the National Children’s Museum – Nov. 8
Take the whole family to one of the coolest museums in DC for free. This unique opportunity to visit the National Children’s Museum without paying admission comes in celebration of National STEM Day. Science, tech, engineering and math are all featured across the museum’s interactive exhibits and special programming. Kids can explore wind-powered vehicles and flyer contraptions as well as a shake table pop-up.
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |  More Info
National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Washington Nationals

DC Beer Fest – Nov. 8
The biannual tradition continues. Nationals Park will be packed with more than 80 craft breweries in attendance as well as local food trucks, live music and much more. Two sessions are available to give all the beer aficionados out there a couple of options. VIP tickets can also be purchased.
12-8 p.m. |  Tickets
Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
 

Felipe Esparza – Nov. 8
Stand-up comedian, actor and podcaster Felipe Esparza visits DC’s Lincoln Theatre as part of his At My Leisure world tour. Since winning Last Comic Standing in 2010, Esparza’s stage show has only grown in popularity. He’s also appeared on series such as The Eric Andre Show and Superstore and hosts the What’s up Fool? podcast.
7 p.m. |  Tickets
Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
 

The Phillips Collection

Out of Many: Reframing an American Art Collection – Nov. 8 – Feb. 15, 2026
The Phillips Collection presents both well-known and understudied artists in a dynamic new exhibit meant to examine the complexity of American art as the country turns 250 years old. Visitors can experience how artists have depicted landscapes, cultures, stories and people from the early 20th century to the present.
Hours & Admission
The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
 

Arena Stage

Damn Yankees – Through Nov. 9
The minds behind this new adaptation of an American classic include Lortel Award winner Will Power, Pulitzer Prize winner Doug Wright and Tony Award winners Lynn Ahrens and Sergio Trujillo. From its pure love of baseball to its femme fatale and fateful pact with the Devil, Damn Yankees promises to be a crowd-pleaser at Arena Stage.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
 

Honor those who served this Veterans Day – Nov. 11
Many of the monuments and memorials in the nation’s capital honor service members, shedding light on the immense sacrifices that the U.S. Armed Forces have made to protect this country. Any time of year, but especially on Veterans Day, choose from a collection of monuments, memorials and special programming to celebrate and honor those who served.
 

African American Civil War Museum

African American Civil War Museum Reopening – Nov. 10-11
Celebrate the grand reopening of the African American Civil War Museum (which is supported by the African American Civil War Memorial) with two days of events. The DC institution will debut its new home (part of the redevelopment of the Grimke School) with a dedication of its new Lincoln statue (depicting the 16th President signing the Emancipation Proclamation), a trail march, a public ribbon-cutting, a happy hour, a Reading of the Names and more.
More Information |  Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Geese – Nov. 12
There’s something about Geese’s music that scrapes the sky, so it’s fitting that the four-piece outfit hail from The Big Apple. Singer Cameron Winter is a withering chameleon, able to conform his voice around any melody or rapturous noise his outstanding band can conjure. With their third LP on the way, expect Geese to play some new tunes during what promises to be an epic set at 9:30 Club.
7 p.m. |  Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
 

Warner Theatre

Samara Joy – Nov. 12
Five Grammys before the age of 26. It’s hard to imagine, but it’s reality when it comes to Samara Joy. With two wins each for Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best Jazz Performance as well as one for Bets New Artist, the mega-talented singer has already one of her generation’s most acclaimed performers. Don’t miss your chance to see her at Warner Theatre.
8 p.m. |  Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

ho ho ho ha ha ha – Nov. 12 – Dec. 21
Julia Masli’s award-winning show that changes literally every night returns to Woolly Mammoth Theatre with a special festive edition. The audience’s problems are invited to the stage and wow, does Masli have some surprising and hilarious solutions. Prepare to see a production unlike any you’ve ever seen.
Tickets
Woolly Mammoth Theatre, 641 D Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Dupont Circle Pop-up

DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle – Nov. 14 – Dec. 23
Opening just before Thanksgiving through mid-December, the 1500 block of 19th Street NW hosts 30-plus small businesses with artisanal goods, boutique brands, worldwide handcrafts and unique gift items, plus festive decor, local performers and beloved holiday treats. 
Free Admission
1500 Block of 19th Street NW, Washington, DC
 

The National Theatre

The Life and Music of George Michael – Nov. 15
Few pop stars in history have scaled the global heights of George Michael, from his emergence as part of WHAM! to a decades-long solo career packed with unforgettable songs and moments. Attendees of this epic, one-night-only show at The National Theatre are sure to be dancing in the aisles as they experience Michael’s music like never before, from “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go” to “Careless Whisper” to “Freedom” to “Faith” and many, many more.
7:30 p.m. |  Tickets
The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Shakespeare Theatre Company

The Wild Duck – Through Nov. 16
Henrik Ibsen’s timeless drama comes to Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Theatre for a special fall engagement guided by Artistic Director Simon Godwin. A wealthy businessman’s son aims to destroy his friend’s life while a young girl tries to protect an innocent creature from the ugly truth of the world.
Tickets
Klein Theatre, 450 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Digable Planets – Nov. 18
In honor of the 30th anniversary of their second and final LP’s release, Digable Planets embark on a tour that will feature Blowout Comb’s wholly original sound and tracks. Even though they only have two albums to their name, the trio are considered trailblazers in both jazz rap and alternative hip-hop.
8 p.m. |  Tickets
Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
 

Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

Hadestown – Opens Nov. 18
Winner of eight Tony Awards in 2019 (including Best Musical), Hadestown is a vibrant musical experience that blends two mythic tales into a hair-raising voyage into the underworld. Expect an energetic ensemble of dancers and singers as your imagination is swept up in the tales of Orpheus and Eurydice and King Hades and his wife, Persephone.
Tickets
The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

A Christmas Carol – Nov. 20 – Dec. 31
In this time-honored holiday tradition in the nation’s capital, acclaimed actor Craig Wallace assumes the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in a lavish Victorian-style musical production of Charles Dickens’ timeless classic. Scrooge’s riveting journey alongside the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future is a joy even if you’ve experienced it a hundred times before – especially in one of the world’s most historic theaters.
Tickets
Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Wednesday – Nov. 21
Distinct in their contemporary mix of shoegaze rock and country music, Wednesday was initially formed as a solo project of vocalist Karly Hartzman but has now blossomed into one of the most acclaimed acts in indie rock. The group also features guitarist MJ Lenderman, who has built a successful solo career of his own.
10 p.m. |  Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
 

Umbrella Art Fair

Umbrella Art Fair – Nov. 21-23
Circle the calendar for this free three-day fair at The Square in DC. Umbrella showcases culture, creativity and cuisine in an event that could only go down in “America’s most worldly city.” The fair prioritizes the daring and the bold and prides itself on serving as a platform for independent artists and entrepreneurs.
More Info |  RSVP
The Square, 1850 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20006
 

DowntownDC Holiday Market – Nov. 21 – Dec. 23
This year's edition of the DowntownDC Holiday Market will occupy the street and sidewalk on F Street between 7th and 9th Streets, NW. Now in its 21st year, its bright lights bring Penn Quarter and Chinatown to life, providing a holiday spark to the neighborhood. The spacious, open-air village is free and open to the public, kicking off the season just ahead of Thanksgiving (closed on Thanksgiving Day) and closing just before Christmas.
Free admission
F Street between 7th and 9th Streets NW, Washington, DC
 

Ambe J. Photography

Fremont Ave. – Through Nov. 23
A daring production at Arena Stage pits three generations of Black men against each other in a game of Spades. At the center is the family’s matriarch, who’s equal parts beloved and feared. Raw and emotional, what begins as a night at the card table turns into a powerful reckoning with masculinity, identity and family secrets.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
 

Photo by Matthew Murphy

Some Like It Hot – Opens Nov. 25
Take a trip back to Prohibition-era Chicago and join two musicians in a fantastic musical adventure. After the duo witnesses a mob hit, they must run for their lives in a colorful production that combines comedy, action, song and dance. The show won more theater awards than any in its season and was named Best Musical by the Drama Desk, The Drama League and the Outer Critics Circle.
Tickets
The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Opaline Bar and Brasserie

Celebrate Thanksgiving in the Nation's Capital – Nov. 27
Give thanks and savor the flavors of the season at DC restaurants this Thanksgiving. In previous years, Gatsby, Mi Vida and Succotash have served up all-American classics, while Officina, ilili and Estuary have offered more international takes on tradition. For a family brunch, spots like Fairmont, Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City and the Salamander are known for lavish brunches perfect for when you just don't feel like cooking any more.
 

George Washington's Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon by Candlelight – Nov. 28-29
Take to George Washington's former estate for a tour guided by candlelight. Hear of holiday traditions in 18th-century Virginia, learn about the build-up to the American Revolution and enjoy the estate's array of seasonal activities, including greeting Aladdin the Christmas Camel, dancing in the greenhouse and spiced cider.
Tickets
George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA 22121
 

Winter Wonderfest – Nov. 28 – Dec. 30
Celebrate the season with days of magical merriment at Nationals Park, which will transform into the city's headquarters for all things thrilling, chilling and fantastically fun. Activities include a 100-foot tubing slide, a Northern Lights Experience, a winter train ride, LED see-saws, a putt-putt challenge, curling lanes, a snowball speed throw challenge and a sculpture garden. There will even be a 21-and-over area with a hidden speakeasy. Tickets are available now. Use the code "VISITDC" for $5.50 off each ticket purchased.
Tickets
Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
 

Washington Ballet

The Washington Ballet presents The Nutcracker – Nov. 29 – Dec. 28
DC's favorite ballet company pulls out all the stops for this classic Christmas tale that features a special DC twist. The Russian ballet goes local thanks to a Nutcracker Prince in the likeness of George Washington and cherry blossom set designs. Set in historical 1882 Georgetown, you will be dazzled by an impressive roster of dancers and the beautiful Tchaikovsky score. This year marks the 20th anniversary of this quintessential program that is a highlight of every holiday season in the District.
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

National Museum of Women in the Arts

Women Artists from Antwerp to Amsterdam, 1600-1750 – Through Jan. 11, 2026
More than 40 Dutch and Flemish women artists are showcased in a new exhibit at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Pieces include paintings, lace, prints, paper cuttings, embroidery and sculpture, all of which deepens understanding of the Dutch and Flemish visual culture of the period. Artists displayed include Gesina ter Borch, Maria Faydherbe, Anna Maria de Koker, Judith Leyster and Magdalena van de Passe.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
 

The Phillips Collection

Rik Freeman: Wade in the Waters – Through Feb. 19, 2026
DC artist Rik Freeman’s work is showcased in-depth at this free exhibition displayed at Phillips@THEARC. For more than three decades, Freeman has engaged history, community, resilience and joy in his work. Wade in the Waters zooms in on waterways – from the beaches of Bahia to the Anacostia River – and how they connect to the diaspora over generations.
Wednesday & Thursday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. |  Free Admission
Phillips@THEARC, 1801 Mississippi Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20020
 

National Museum of Women in the Arts

Tawny Chatmon: Sanctuaries of Truth, Dissolution of Lies  – Through March 8, 2026
The photography-based work of Tawny Chatmon receives a glorious tribute at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. The exhibition will debut pieces from Chatmon’s latest series, which also incorporate audio narrative, embroidery, film and assemblage. Selections from Chatmon’s acclaimed previous work will also be on display.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
 

Folger Shakespeare Library

Imagining Shakespeare: Mythmaking Storytelling in the Regency Era – Through Aug. 2, 2026
For the first time since 1805, 14 paintings from the renowned Boydell Shakespeare Gallery in London are on view together. Visit the Folger Shakespeare Library and capitalize on this rare chance to see the tremendous collection, which features depictions of scenes from the Bard’s plays as imagined by leading artists of the day.
Hours |  Free Admission
Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
 

Places to Stay

Hotel Nell

Need some inspiration for a place to stay in between events? Washington, DC is filled with a multitude of hotels to fit your needs. Whether you are looking for that specialty boutique hotel or booking at your favorite hotel brand, Washington, DC's booking engine has it all. Find your stay today!