Things to Do January 2025 in Washington, DC

Whether you’re in town for New Year's, Martin Luther King Jr. Day or any day in between, be sure to check out our special discounts and packages, from luxurious experiences to budget-friendly options. 

Regardless of the season, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience in the nation's capital. After you’ve read through this list, make sure to check out our things to do for the week and weekend as well as our accessibility guides to monuments and museums on the National Mall.

 

Ice skate in DC
Lace up some skates and triple axel 'round the District at popular ice skating rinks at the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden, Washington Harbour in Georgetown, Canal Park in Capitol Riverfront and The Wharf. Make sure to read our detailed breakdown of each spot.

 

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. Discounted tickets to select games for each team are available below.
Washington Capitals Discounted Tickets
Washington Wizards Discounted Tickets
Capital City Go-Go Discounted Tickets
 

National Museum of African American History and Culture

In Slavery's Wake – Opens Dec. 13, 2024
The National Museum of African American History and Culture's new exhibit offers a dynamic mix of history, art and media. Visitors can observe connections between Black freedom-makers across time and join in a global conversation on the continued impacts of slavery and colonialism. The multi-lingual experience features 100 objects, 250 images and 10 multi-media interactives and films.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily |  Reserve Timed Passes
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture, 1400 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560

 

Harry Benson: Washington D.C.
For the duration of the 2024-25 NBA and NHL seasons, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Ted and Lynn Leonsis and Jeff Skoll present a landmark exhibit featuring more than 150 photographs by legendary photojournalist Harry Benson, renowned for his chronicles of culture, politics, music, movies, television and sports. The gallery, produced by Ted Leonsis and Jeff Skoll, is located next door to Capital One Arena at 707-709 7th Street NW and spans two floors across 10,000 square feet. The free exhibit includes photographs of every President and First Lady since Dwight Eisenhower, iconic images of legendary athletes and musicians, a behind-the-scenes look at The Beatles' arrival to the United States, stunning moments from the Civil Rights Movement and much more.
Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. |  Free Admission |  Reserve Tickets
707-709 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
 

Celebrate Hanukkah around the District – Dec. 25 – Jan. 2
The District is shining bright for the Jewish festival of lights. Take part in menorah lightings on all eight nights at the larger-than-life National Menorah as well as at the Union Market District. Stay tuned for other pop-ups, festivals and ways to celebrate.

 

Season's Greenings – Nov. 28 – Jan. 5
Trade in your dreams of a white Christmas for something even better – a green Christmas. At this year's Season's Greenings exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Gardens, displays will feature not only holiday lights, but thousands of poinsettias, unbelievable plant-based sculptures of DC landmarks, a circuit of model trains and pollinators galore. Tickets are not required.
Free Admission
100 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20001

 

& Juliet – Dec. 17 – Jan. 5
From the Emmy Award-winning writer of "Schitt’s Creek" comes & Juliet, a fresh and funny new musical that reimagines what happens if Juliet chooses life after Romeo. Framed with a playlist of pop anthems like “Since U Been Gone," the romantic comedy is filled with second chances and upbeat energy – a vibrant twist on a classic love story you won’t want to miss.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566

 

Life of Pi – Dec. 17 – Jan. 5
Winner of three Tony Awards and the Olivier Award for Best Play, Life of Pi is a Broadway and West End sensation. Based on the best-selling novel, this epic tale of survival and hope follows 16-year-old Pi as he navigates life on a lifeboat with a hyena, zebra, orangutan and Bengal tiger. With stunning visuals, masterful puppetry and brilliant stagecraft, Life of Pi delivers a breathtaking theatrical experience that will leave audiences reflecting on the show for weeks to come. 
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566

 

Sheryl Underwood & Friends – Jan. 3-5
A legend of DC comedy, Sheryl Underwood made her first appearance at the DC Improv in the 1990s. Since then, she's built a media empire, co-hosted "The Talk," a daily panel show on CBS, made regular appearances on the Steve Harvey Morning Show, hosted Sheryl Underwood Radio and serves as CEO of Pack Rat Productions. On stage, Sheryl continues to push the envelope, getting into relationships, politics, current events and culture.
Tickets
DC Improv Comedy Club & Restaurant, 1140 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036

 

Craig Robinson – Jan. 9-12
Comedian Craig Robinson started as a Chicago public school teacher and is now recognizable face to anyone that has seen "The Office." Best known for not only his stint at Dunder Mifflin but his roles in hit films and TV shows like "Killing It," "Dolemite Is My Name," "This is the End" and "Hot Tub Time Machine," Craig has hopes to help people find humor and joy in their everyday life. Beyond the screen, he delivers a standout live show, blending stand-up comedy with music for a night packed with nonstop fun.
Tickets
DC Improv Comedy Club & Restaurant, 1140 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036

 

Mo Lowda & The Humble – Jan. 17
These indie rockers from Philadelphia mix grit, soul and powerful vocals into their music to create a sound that has been selling out concerts around the country. Attendees can look forward to a high-energy performance with guitar solos to spare in one of DC's most iconic venues. 
Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

 

Honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day in DC – Jan. 18
The nation's capital presents unique opportunities to reflect on the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Walk along his moving memorial along the Tidal Basin, visit the site of the famous "I Have a Dream" speech at the Lincoln Memorial, see incredible photography and historic artifacts at the National Museum of African American History and Culture or attend a commemorative event, including the Peace Walk and Parade.

 

Black Kinesphere

Dissonance Dance Theatre: Black Kinesphere – Jan. 18
"Kinesphere" refers to the space around the body in stillness and motion. Black Kinesphere explores this concept through an evening of dance works by Black choreographers (Shawn Short, Kareem B. Goodwin, Kameron N. Saunders, Kevin McEwen, Marcus Isaiah and Shawn Rawls), blending contemporary and classical styles. A taste of the diverse compositions include Don’t Look Back (2025), inspired by comic book battles and set to Tina Guo's Wonder Woman theme, Unsettled (2018), which plays with human wit through contemporary pointe ballet, and 12×6 (2016), which reflects on the nature of human connection between strangers in ordinary urban life.
Tickets
Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002

 

Yamato: The Drummers of Japan – Jan. 23
Japanese Taiko drums are renowned for their bold, energetic sound and electric stage presence. Featuring a collection of 40 drums, this world-famous Taiko group celebrates the strength of human spirit amidst a tech-driven world. Since 1993, Yamato has delivered over 4,500 moving performances across 54 countries, showcasing the joy and power of acoustic drumming.
Tickets
Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852

 

Blind Pilot – Jan. 26
To celebrate their first album in eight years, Blind Pilot’s tour is taking their signature indie folk sound across the country. The Portland-based band attracts audiences with rock melodies that explore love, loss and self-discovery, particularly some favorites from "3 Rounds and a Sound," delivered with the heartfelt energy that defines their live shows.
Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001

 

Bar Japonais © Nina Palazzolo

Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week – Date TBA
Washington, DC's Winter Restaurant Week returns every January with the promise of high-quality dining, excellent deals and relief to the winter blues. Savor every last bite while taking advantage of special menus and pricing, including to-go options and cocktail and wine pairings, courtesy of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington and 200+ participating eateries. 

 

Witness history during Inauguration in the nation's capital – Jan. 20
Presidential inaugurations in Washington, DC, are some of the most exciting days in the city – and in U.S. history. Beginning with the stately swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol and continuing on with celebratory parades and balls, it's an incredible opportunity for locals and visitors alike gather and witness this powerful showcase of American democracy. 

 

Capital One Arena

Monster Jam at Capital One Arena – Jan. 24-25
Roaring back to Penn Quarter is Monster Jam, two days packed with monster truck freestyle stunts, top-notch competitions and races. The family-friendly event is a chance to see some of the best drivers in the world. Be sure to check out the Pit Party, where fans get the chance to meet the drivers.
Tickets
601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004

 

Job – Jan. 28 – Mar. 16
Opening this January at Signature Theatre is Job, a psychological thriller that explores the dark side of corporate work, social media and technology. An Off-Broadway sensation and New York Times Critic’s Pick, the show is sure so leave the audience feeling haunted, pensive and on the edge of your seat. 
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206

 

Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association

Celebrate Lunar New Year in the District – beginning Jan. 29
Locations all over the city ring in the Year of the Snake with colorful celebrations, including performances, educational talks, special tours and hands-on activities. Be sure to check out the festive Downtown Parade (Feb. 2), events at the Smithsonian's free National Museum of Asian Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum (Feb. 1), the National Ballet of China at the Kennedy Center and more.
More Info

 

The Washington Auto Show – Jan. 31 – Feb. 9
Cars have always held a special allure, captivating the American imagination from the early days of the Model T. Witness the evolution of the vehicle firsthand by attending the Washington, DC Auto Show, which takes place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Even if you don't consider yourself a devoted car enthusiast, there are still plenty of reasons to check out the city's largest annual indoor event.
Tickets
Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt. Vernon Place NW, Washington, DC 20001

 

Nashville Emerging Artists Night – Jan. 31 – Feb. 1
They don’t call Nashville “Music City” for nothing! For years, aspiring young musicians have flocked to country music’s city of dreams with big ambitions. The Barns welcomes six of Nashville’s most-anticipated emerging artists: rock-turned-country storyteller Randall Fowler, genre-crossing innovator Jimmy Woods, country-pop musicians and American Idol contestants Emily Brooke and Tristan McIntosh, heartfelt singer/songwriter Emily Ortego, and breakout CMA Festival performer Landon Wall.
Tickets
Wolf Trap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182

 

Broadway Center Stage: Schmigadoon! – Jan. 31 – Feb. 9
Don't miss your chance to see the world premiere of the Emmy Award®–winning hit show Schmigadoon!, based on AppleTV's whimsical, musical comedy series. When New York couple Josh and Melissa venture out to the mountains, they hope to save their relationship. Instead, they find themselves trapped in the 1940s-era singing town of Schmigadoon.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566