Tag Archives: DC Kids Activities this Winter

March 24, 2026 · 12:59 pm

Live Entertainment on Local Stages this Spring

A scene from Hamnet, running now at Harman Hall

Warmer weather, blooming flowers, and extra daylight aren’t the only seasonal delights to enjoy this spring. There’s also a whole new crop of live entertainment! Here’s what you can see on stages now and in the upcoming months. Happy viewing!

Cinderella
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: Through April 19
Tickets: $16
Rod puppets convey the classic tale of rags to riches, love at first sight (twice!), and getting what we all deserve. Don’t miss this fan favorite production, or your magical midnight curfew!

Good Morning, Good Night
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 19
Tickets: $25
In this brand-new show, very young children will discover the beauty of the world during daytime and nighttime. They will watch — and help — Winnie and August work the “day shift:” waking the birds, putting dew in the grass, and baking fresh clouds; and the “night shift:” releasing the fireflies, shining the stars, and banishing nightmares. Using gentle, multi-sensory storytelling and incorporating audience participation.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: Through April 5
Tickets: $45+
This enchanting and timeless tale, filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love, has been brought to life like never before, with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. The show boasts the Oscar®-winning and Tony Award®-nominated score, including the classic songs “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Recommended for ages 6+.

Saturday Morning Live!: Adventures in Time
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: March 28, 10am
Tickets: Free!
Join National Theatre at their free entertainment series for kids as they take audiences on an interactive, musical journey into the past. Writing Stories! Wowser Bowser! introduces you to Washington, DC, icons Helen Hayes and Benjamin Banneker. Learn about their important contributions and discover how to write your own stories. Be sure to register for free tickets!

Tiny Tots
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo, MD
When: Most Saturdays & Sundays at 10am
Tickets: $8
The series presents puppet shows designed for the youngest theater patrons (ages 0-4). They are shorter, the lights stay on, and the doors stay open. They have an arsenal of shows that they switch up every performance, so be sure to check the schedule to see what’s playing when you go.

Inherit the Wind
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: Through April 5
Tickets: $73-118 (find discount)
Based on the real-life Scopes “Monkey” Trial, this electrifying courtroom drama pits two towering legal minds against each other in a small-town battle over science, religion, and the right to think freely. As the town becomes a stage for national attention, personal conviction clashes with public opinion in a trial that transcends its time. Inherit the Wind, the American classic byJerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee, is a searing, deeply human portrait of a country still wrestling with the cost—and courage—of progress. Recommended for teens and older.

Hamnet
Where: Harman Hall | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through April 12
Tickets: $39-193 (find discount)
When the plague steals 11-year-old Hamnet from his loving parents, Agnes and William, they must each confront their loss alone. And yet, out of the greatest suffering, something of extraordinary wonder is born. Experience the U.S. premiere of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s stage adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s best-selling novel. Recommended for teens and older.

As You Like It
Where: Folger Shakespeare Theatre | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Through April 19
Tickets: $20-109 (find discount)
Rosalind and her cousin Celia are forced to leave the court where they find respite and adventure in nature, inevitably succumbing to the madness of love and delightfully unpredictable circumstances. This production offers a love note to DC, imbuing the forest of Arden with the familiar vibes, culture, and characters that mark the District as a singular, resilient, and redemptive place of belonging. Recommended for teens and older.

1776
Where: Ford’s Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Through May 16
Tickets: $38-95 (find discount)
This popular American musical is an insightful, vibrant and humorous take on our founding fathers’ determination to do the right thing for their fledgling nation. As members of the Second Continental Congress struggle to reach consensus, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson argue for independence from the British monarchy. The ensuing debates defined our country. As we explore this historical moment through the evolving identity of America today, this robust, award-winning musical boldly brings our country’s beginnings to blazing life.

Washington Capitals
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: March 31 | April 4 & 12
Tickets: Varies (check for deals)
See some live entertainment, sports-style! The Washington Capitals will finish their season, ut have a few regular season games during spring — and hopefully some play-offs, too. Check for discount tickets here.

The Spirit of Women’s Soccer
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: March 25 | April 24 & 29 | May 20
Admission: Tickets start at $25 (check for deals)
Spring is a great time to enjoy some soccer action as the weather warms up, and the Washington Spirit has several matches at home during that time. I highly recommend going to a game — you’ll get to see some amazing play on the pitch and support women in sports! Check for theme nights when there is extra fun to enjoy.

Washington Wizards
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: April 1, 7, 9, & 10
Tickets: Varies (check for deals)
See some basketball action while you can. The Wizards wind down the season in spring, but have a few games left on the schedule. Check here for possible discounts.

DC United
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: April 4 & 25 | May 13, 16, & 23
Admission: Varies (check for deals)
Spring will be a good time to see a DC United match before they pause in June while the World Cup is happening. Games are always fun and a great way to enjoy a day or evening outdoors. Concessions are at the stadium, but you can make a longer outing of it and grab a bite before or after matches. There are a lot good dining options in the Capitol Riverfront area, just a short walk away, for family-friendly recommendations see this round-up on KidFriendly DC.

Dog Man The Musical
Where: Capital One Hall | Tysons, VA
When: April 4
Tickets: $41.90
Based on the worldwide bestselling hit series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious and heartwarming production following the chronicles of Dog Man, who with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime?? Find out in this epic musical adventure.

Aesop’s Fables
Where: Adventure Theatre | Glen Echo, MD
When: April 24- May 24
Tickets: $28
This vibrant, theatrical adventure brings timeless tales to life with wit, warmth, and whimsy. The fast-paced production features a lovable troupe of traveling storytellers — Wolfie, Syd, Harriet, and Barry — who use humor and imagination to retell five classic fables: The Tortoise and the Hare, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, The Wind and the Sun, The Lion and the Mouse, and The Wolf and the Jackdaw. Each story delivers a valuable life lesson on patience, honesty, kindness, and perseverance, making it a delightful experience that entertains while inspiring young audiences to think, feel, and grow.

The Wiz
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: April 7-12
Tickets: $59-218
This groundbreaking twist on The Wizard of Oz changed the face of Broadway—from its iconic score packed with soul, gospel, rock, and 70s funk to its stirring tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world.

44: The Musical
Where: Klein Theatre
When: April 18 – May 10
Tickets: $39-185
Barack Obama’s election changed history. And as we can clearly see, it also ended racism forever! But 44: The Musical is the story of Obama you won’t read about in history books… because history books are now banned in most states. But also because 44 is the story of Obama as Joe Biden kinda sorta remembers it…

The Book of Mormon
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: April 28 – May 3
Tickets: $89-380+
This outrageous musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. With standing room only productions in London, on Broadway, and across North America, The Book of Mormon has truly become an international sensation.

PAW Patrol Live!
Where: EagleBank Arena | Fairfax, VA
When: May 1-3
Tickets: 58+
Get ready to PAW-ty like never before in a fantastic new PAW Patrol Adventure! After Chase, Marshall, Skye and the gang save Adventure City with their Mighty Pup Powers, it’s time for the paw-some-est street party ever. But when Supervillain Scientist Victoria Vance feels left out of the festivities, she unleashes her latest invention to crash the party and steal the spotlight for herself! Can the Mighty Pups, armed with their super-charged powers, outsmart Victoria to ensure Adventure City’s biggest bash goes off without a hitch? It’ll take the power of paw-sitivity and mighty teamwork to foil her plans and keep the party pumping. With heroic action, catchy tunes and bark-loads of interactive fun, PAW Patrol’s electrifying new adventure is sure to leave tails wagging and audiences cheering!

The Forest of the Witch
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: May 2-24
Tickets: $18
With a 700-year history, Turkish shadow theatre is one of the world’s oldest shadow play traditions, brought to the stage through Ayhan Hulagu’s original solo performance. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Karagöz is reimagined here through The Forest of the Witch, blending tradition with contemporary storytelling. This performance brings the past and present together in a surprising and playful way—traditional, modern, unexpected, and delightfully entertaining.

Cinderella
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: May 8-10
Tickets: $76+
Join The Washington Ballet for a powerful reimagining of a timeless story: Sergei Prokofiev’s Cinderella. This production dives deep into the heart of the tale, revealing a Cinderella defined by her strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit. The choreography offers a blend of classical artistry and contemporary sensibility, creating a stunning showcase for our company and student dancers alike. It’s an emotional journey that mirrors the complexities of modern life, reminding us all that even in the darkest moments, change is within reach.

Saturday Morning Live!: 123 Andrés
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: May 9 & 23
Tickets: Free!
Join National Theatre at their free entertainment series for kids as they present a concert by GRAMMY winners 123 Andrés — “rock stars for little language learners.” Be sure to register in advance.

The Great Gatsby
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: May 12 – 24
Tickets: $84-128
Based on the classic American novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the Tony Award-winning new musical is an unforgettable journey of love, wealth and tragedy that brings the Roaring Twenties to life on stage.

Dare to Dream Jr.
Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Center | Arlington, VA
When: May 29 – June 7
Tickets: $16/adult, $13/child
This production is a high-energy musical revue that follows a group of trainees on their first day at the Walt Disney Imagineering Studio. Featuring songs from The Princess and the Frog, Coco, Encanto, and Frozen II, the trainees discover the power of dreams to unite and inspire as they journey through iconic Disney moments. It’s a magical celebration for all Disney fans! Recommended for ages 4 and older.

Sesame Street Live: Elmo’s Got the Moves
Where: Capital One Hall | Tysons, VA
When: June 5
Tickets: $47+
Families will discover fun and playful ways to move—from yoga and jumping rope to cartwheeling and silly dance moves, all in a welcoming environment that brings the magic of Sesame Street from the screen to the stage. More than just a show, Elmo’s Got the Moves is a shared moment of laughter and learning, an experience to treasure long after the final song.

Live Entertainment Around DC this Winter

Monster Trucks will put on a show in late January

Stay warm and entertained at a show this winter! Children’s plays, puppet shows, monster trucks, musicals, sports events, date night options… there’s live entertainment to indulge every interest. Here are details on what you can see at local venues, listed in order of start date, with discounts noted where available. Happy Viewing!

Fiddler on the Roof
Where: Signature Theatre | Arlington, VA
When: Through January 25
Tickets: $47-96 (look for discount)
The iconic musical is staged in Signature’s in-the-round intimate setting. Tevye, a poor Jewish milkman, his family and their tightknit community honor tradition but must contend with a changing world and a rise in antisemitism at their home in Czarist Russia. The glorious score with songs “Sunrise, Sunset” “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Matchmaker” unite with exquisite dance in this classic of the musical theater canon filled with humor, heart – and life.

Frosty the Snowman
Where: Adventure Theatre | Glen Echo, MD
When: Through January 11
Tickets: $28
Do you want to build a snow man? How about watching him spring to life in front of you for one day of adventures before he melts away? In this merry wintertime romp, chock-full of chuckles and comic antics, Frosty gallops into the hearts of kids and adults alike — even the heart of one skeptical -– through his uproarious antics. Recommended fo all ages.

Washington Capitals
Where: Capital One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Many dates
Tickets: Varies (find discounts)
See some live entertainment, sports-style! The Washington Capitals ae in the thick of their season and will be hosting many games at home through winter. Check for discount tickets here.

Washington Wizards
Where: Capitol One Arena | Penn Quarter, DC
When: Many dates
Tickets: Varies (find discounts)
The Wizards also have plenty of games still on the schedule, so you can see some exciting basketball action. Check here for possible discounts.

High School Musical Jr.
Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre | Arlington, VA
When: January 9-18
Tickets: $13-16
Encore Stage & Studio presents their signature “by kids for kids theatre” of this screen to stage show… Are you ready to “Get’cha Head in the Game”? Encore’s talented youth performers are bringing Disney’s High School Musical JR to the stage! Cheer for Troy, Gabriella, and the whole East High crew as they sing, dance, and learn that being yourself is the real star power. Gather your friends and family, grab your Wildcats spirit gear, and get ready for a performance packed with energy, fun, and big feels.

Antony & Cleopatra
Where: Klein Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: January 9-25
Tickets: $74+
Synetic Theatre returns triumphantly to the Shakespeare Theatre with its epic wordless adaptation of Antony & Cleopatra. Featuring the unparalleled skills of the Synetic ensemble, this passionate love story is a collision of empires, as the ascension and assassination of Julius Caesar gives way to the sweeping love story of the Queen of Egypt, Cleopatra, and Caesar’s mighty captain, Antony. Vato Tsikurishvili and Irina Kavsadze star as the pair whose love shakes the foundations of empires.

Saturday Morning Live!: The R.E.M.I.X.
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: January 10, 10am & 11:30am
Tickets: Free!
Join National Theatre at their free entertainment series for kids as they R.E.M.I.X the mainstage with Sole Defined! R.E.M.I.X. is their name and percussive dance is their game. There are two performances, at 10am and 11:30am. Be sure to register for free tickets!

Stomp
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: January 16-18
Tickets: $67+ (look for discount)
STOMP is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique—an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered armfuls of awards and rave reviews and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms.
Recommended for ages 4+.

Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: January 21-22
Tickets: 37+
In this a-MEOW-zing musical show, Gabby unboxes a special acorn that needs the magical touch of a rainbow to grow. But when CatRat causes a color cat-astrophe and breaks the rainbow, Gabby and the Gabby Cats must find the colors again to set things right. Recommendeded for ages 2-6.

Monster Jam
Where: Capital One Arena | Downtown DC
When: January 24-25
Tickets: $20+
The world’s largest monster truck tour will thunder its way back into DC. Fans will have the chance to cheer, scream, and be amazed as massive Monster Jam trucks and world champion drivers take over Capital One Arena for a weekend packed with stunts, smiles, and jaw-dropping skills. With awesome trucks, amazing stunts, big air, and action-packed excitement, it’s the definition of fun for everyone.

Clue
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: January 27 – Februray 1
Tickets: 54+
A mansion. A murder. A mystery. Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist. Recommended for ages 12+.

Paranormal Activity
Where: Harman Hall | Penn Quarter, DC
When: January 28 – February 7
Tickets: $39-132 (look for discount)
James and Lou move from Chicago to London to escape their past…. An original story set in the world of the terrifying Paranormal Activity film franchise, Shakespeare Theatre Company’s thrilling new play will haunt you long after the lights go out. We can’t say anything else. Recommended for teens and older.

Chez Joey
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: January 30 – March 15
Tickets: $83-133 (look for discount)
The year is 1940-something, and Chicago’s night scene is sizzling. Enter Joey Evans. A slick-talking, velvet-voiced songster with dreams bigger than the bandstand. But in a city where the right connections mean everything, he is caught between a bright-eyed chorus girl and a wealthy baroness who can bankroll his big break—for a price. As the lights dim and the music swells, Joey’s got a choice to make: play it straight or risk it all for the spotlight. Recommended for teens and older.

The World to Come
Where: Woolly Mammoth Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: February – March 1
Tickets: $41+ (look for discount)
The residents of the SeaBreeze Hebrew Home for the Aging carry on as usual: knitting, playing Scrabble, fighting, and falling in love. As the apocalyptic outside world threatens their way of life, Fanny, Barbara, Ruth, and Hal fight to protect the community they’ve built together. Even while battling armored nurses, a wild ostrich, strange prophecies, and their ailing bodies, they find joy in each other’s company. The World to Come is a surprising new epic that reveals how powerful friendship can be as a form of resistance. Recommended for ages 16+.

The Enchanted Mermaid
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: February 7 – March 1
Tickets: $16
Once upon a time, our hero John Cobbler stumbled upon a hidden castle. A beautiful maiden has been transformed into a mermaid! Can John use his wits to free the mermaid and escape from the wicked Lord Fish? Based upon the Walter de La Mare short story “Lord Fish” written in 1927, this show features elegantly crafted Bunraku-style puppets with elaborately built miniature castle and interior sets.

Little Miss Perfect
Where: Olney Theatre | Olney, MD
When: February 8 – March 8
Tickets: $47-96
Joriah Kwamé became a viral TikTok star with his song “Little Miss Perfect,” which garnered millions of views and launched this new musical with Broadway aspirations. High school kids are under a lot of pressure. Just ask Noelle, who has lived up to expectations of perfection her whole life, even as she’s attempted to blend in as one of the few Black students at a predominantly white school. But now it’s senior year, and a scholarship to Howard University is within her reach —if she can demonstrate leadership skills. With an irresistible mix of hip-hop, showtunes, and pop sounds, Little Miss Perfect distills Noelle’s journey as she seeks to escape her small Midwestern town. If this were a fil, it would be. rated PG.

Freckleface Strawberry The Musical
Where: Adventure Theatre | Glen Echo, MD
When: February 13 – March 29
Tickets: $28
Freckleface Strawberry The Musical, based on the beloved New York Times best-selling book by celebrated actress, Julianne Moore, is a fun and touching family musical. Freckleface Strawberry will do anything to get rid of her freckles – from scrubbing them with soap to caking on makeup… and even wearing a ski mask to school! Will her schoolmates realize that it’s her under the mask? Will Freckleface be brave enough to finally face her complexion in the mirror? With the help of her loveable schoolmates, including an amazingly talented ballerina, a cutie jock, a charming ditz and a totally kooky teacher, Freckleface learns that everyone is different – and that’s what makes everyone special. Recommended fo all ages.

Havana Hop
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: February 14 – March 7
Tickets: $15-45
A charming, dynamic tale of culture and originality, created by award-winning DC and IStage artist Paige Hernandez, using her childhood as inspiration. What if you were invited to dance for President Obama? You’d want it to be the best dance ever! Meet young Yelia who visits her grandmother in Cuba to add a salsa flavor to her own hip-hop style! Journey with Yelia as she discovers the fun of her multi-cultural heritage. Recommended for ages 5-10.

Saturday Morning Live!: Words, Beats, & Life
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: February 14 & 28, 10am & 11:30am
Tickets: Free!
Join National Theatre’s free entertainment series for some family-friendly beats from friends at Words, Beats & Life! WBL is a transformative Hip-Hop performance experience, rooted in the music and dance culture of Washington, DC, that aims to transform individual lives and communities through Hip-Hop culture in all its forms. There are two performances, at 10am and 11:30am. Be sure to register for free tickets!

Inherit the Wind
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: February 27 – April 5
Tickets: $73-118 (look for discount)
Based on the real-life Scopes “Monkey” Trial, this electrifying courtroom drama pits two towering legal minds against each other in a small-town battle over science, religion, and the right to think freely. As the town becomes a stage for national attention, personal conviction clashes with public opinion in a trial that transcends its time. Inherit the Wind, the American classic byJerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee, is a searing, deeply human portrait of a country still wrestling with the cost—and courage—of progress. Recommended for teens and older.

I’mPossible
Where: Warner Theatre | Downtown DC
When: March 1
Tickets: $39.75+
Known as the first inclusive circus in the country, Omnium blends world-class acrobatics, dazzling aerials, and jaw-dropping feats with performers of all abilities, cultures, and backgrounds. I’m Possible follows young Johnny on his journey to courage, strength, and perseverance through an awe inspiring, madcap circus adventure with no limits, no boundaries, and no barriers. The show doesn’t just wow audiences, but also delivers a powerful message of inclusion, resilience, and joy. Omnium proudly provides access for audiences of all ages & abilities, too.

Cinderella
Where: The Puppet Co. | Glen Echo Park, MD
When: March 7 – April 19
Tickets: $16
Rod puppets convey the classic tale of rags to riches, love at first sight (twice!), and getting what we all deserve. Don’t miss this fan favorite production, or your magical midnight curfew!

Twelve Dancing Princesses (Doce Princesas Bailarinas)
Where: Creative Cauldron | Arlington, VA
When: March 13-29
Tickets: $18/student, $20/adult, $65/family 4-pack
A group of princesses, each more beautiful than the last, are locked in their room each night, but in the morning, their dancing shoes are completely worn through as if they had been dancing all night! Unable to find the cause, the King promises that anyone who can solve the mystery may choose one of his daughters to wed. Join our Learning Theater Ensemble as a brave young soldier reveals the secret and a magical dancing kingdom. This enchanting adaptation of this classic Grimm tale features Spanish language elements and original music by Matt Conner and Stephen Gregory Smith.

1776
Where: Ford’s Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: March 13 – May 16
Tickets:
This popular American musical is an insightful, vibrant and humorous take on our founding fathers’ determination to do the right thing for their fledgling nation. As members of the Second Continental Congress struggle to reach consensus, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson argue for independence from the British monarchy. The ensuing debates defined our country. As we explore this historical moment through the evolving identity of America today, this robust, award-winning musical boldly brings our country’s beginnings to blazing life.

The Simon & Garfunkel Story
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: March 14-15
Tickets: $77+
Using huge projection photos and original film footage, and featuring a full live band performing all the hits, the immersive concert-style theater show chronicles the amazing journey shared by the folk-rock duo, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. It tells the story from their humble beginnings as Tom & Jerry to their incredible success as one of the best-selling music groups of the ‘60’s to their dramatic split in 1970. It culminates with the famous “The Concert in Central Park” reunion in 1981 with more than half a million fans in attendance.

Live Entertainment Around DC this Spring

See Kimberly Akimbo at National Theatre this spring <br>[Photo courtesy of National Theatre]

With the new season comes a whole new line-up of shows on local stages! Here’s a round-up of live entertainment you can catch throughout spring, with shows listed in order of start date. Tickets are available for all of the shows, and discounts are noted where available. Happy viewing!

Mother Goose
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: Through April 13
Tickets: $19.50 (find discount)
Through innovative puppets, props, and original music, eight classic Mother Goose rhymes come gently and tunefully to life. The magical Mother Goose invites the children in the audience to join in with each rhyme’s story, teaching them that the very best way to do what needs to be done is to do it together. Among the rhymes the children will experience are “The Itsy Bitsy Spider,” “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” “Old King Cole,” and “Humpty Dumpty.” Recommended for ages 1-5.

In the Heights
Where: Signature Theatre | Arlington, VA
When: Through May 4
Tickets: $40-103 (find discount)
Lights up on Washington Heights, NYC where the streets are full of music, and everybody’s got a dream. With the neighborhood on the brink of gentrification, and a life-changing winning lottery ticket somewhere in their midst, the vibrant inhabitants share hope, loss and love as they plan their futures while cherishing their home. Recommended for ages 8+.

The Age of Innocence
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: Through March 30
Tickets: $59-99 (find discount)
When Countess Ellen Olenska escapes Europe and a cruel past, only to find herself trapped behind the suffocating gilded cage of New York society and in love with the man engaged to her cousin May, she battles privilege, desire, and tradition in pursuit of her own destiny. Recommended for teens and older.

A Room in the Castle
Where: Folger Shakespeare Theatre | Capitol Hill, DC
When: Through April 6
Tickets: $20-84 (find discount)
How does a woman survive the court of Denmark? How does anyone? A Room in the Castle finds Ophelia, her handmaid, and Queen Gertrude on the other end of a wild prince’s antics and realizing just how dangerous life in this castle has become. A universal thriller that explores how we help one another through harrowing times, what mothering a potential madman means, and what responsibilities generations have to each other, A Room in the Castle rebrands the stories of the women of Shakespeare’s Hamlet into a hilarious and heart-rending drama with music and defiant hope for the future. Recommended for teens and older.

Sister Act
Where: Ford’s Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: March 14 – May 17
Tickets: $58-95 (find discount)
This riotous musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet. To escape the mob, a nightclub singer hides in a convent. While there, she helps her new sisters to discover their powerful voices while she finds her own.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Where: Imagination Stage | Bethesda, MD
When: March 21-23
Tickets: $15
Ichabod Crane arrives in the quiet town of Sleepy Hollow; a valley town filled with ghosts and legends. As he tries to win the heart of Katrina Van Tassel, he faces a rugged rival, Brom Bones. Their rivalry escalates until one fateful night Icabod’s dreams turn to nightmares. Perhaps he should have heeded the town’s warnings of the Headless Horseman after all… Recommended for all ages.

Sleepova
Where: Olney Theatre | Olney, MD
When: March 26 – April 27
Tickets: $46-95
Whether or not sleepover parties with friends were part of your upbringing, you’re invited to join Elle, Shan, Funmi, and Rey at theirs. These four Black British teenagers are growing up fast, each coping with unique challenges. But even these issues — whether living with sickle cell disease, coming out to family, a crisis of faith, or a romantic misadventure, are confronted with humor, sincerity, and optimism. Most of all, Sleepova is a testament to the joys of friendship, centering a quartet of young women finding strength in each other, as they face the world together. Recommended for teens and older.

Sesame Street Live!
Where: Warner Theatre | Downtown DC
When: March 28
Tickets: $37-116 (find discount)
Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street are coming to your neighborhood to say hello! At Sesame Street Live! Say Hello, sing, dance, and play alongside your favorite furry friends, all while you follow Elmo’s puppy, Tango, in a fun game of hide & seek. So put on your dancing shoes and make your way to where the air is sweet for this all-new celebration on Sesame Street!

Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: March 28 – April 6
Tickets: $25.30 (find discount)
Leonardo is a terrible monster. He tries so hard to be scary, but he just… isn’t. Then Leonardo finds Sam, the most scaredy-cat kid in the world. Will Leonardo finally get to scare the tuna salad out of someone? Or will it be the start of an unlikely friendship? Watch what happens when a terrible, not-so-scary monster meets the most scaredy-cat kid, bringing Mo Willems’ book to life.

Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus
Where: Eagle Bank Arena | Fairfax, VA
When: March 28 – April 6
Tickets: Start at $20
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey returns with a reimagined edition of The Greatest Show On Earth. This iconic production, designed to entertain today’s families, brings together 75 performers from 18 different nationalities, showcasing over 50 exhilarating circus acts in a fast-paced, action-packed two-hour show.

Make It Wow!
Where: Strathmore | Bethesda, MD
When: March 29
Tickets: $30-130
Hosted by Mindy Thomas of the Wow in the World podcast and Carly Q. Ciarrocchi of Who, When, Wow: Mystery Edition, Make it Wow! is a fast-paced, science-packed, laughter-inducing, interactive live game show where real kids are the stars! Make it Wow! features two teams of Wowzer contestants who — with the help of the live audience — will wow the world with their own inventions that they make live on stage.

NSO Family Concert: Earth to Space
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: March 30
Tickets: $25.30
Explore the vastness of space with music inspired by the planets, stars, and beyond! In anticipation of the upcoming voyage of Artemis II, the National Symphony Orchestra celebrates the discoveries and beauty of space through music and images. Following the performance, young audience members can ask questions and hear stories from the show’s artists and creative team including Kennedy Center Youth Ambassador for the Arts and Environment Aneeshwar Kunchala and astronaut and textile artist Karen Nyberg. Recommended for ages 5+.

Bad Books
Where: Round House Theatre | Bethesda, MD
When: April 2-27
Tickets: $50-89
When a troubled teen is given a controversial book, his mother visits the local library to discuss “appropriate” reading material with the librarian. However, their reasonable discussion quickly turns into a heated confrontation, sparking a dramatic chain reaction of unexpected consequences. With both heartbreak and humor, Sharyn Rothstein offers compassion and empathy as an antidote to the deep debates that divide us. Staged in the round, this brilliant world premiere challenges us to see past our political divisions and first impressions, and asks us what it truly means to care for our children. Recommended for teens and older.

Mother Earth & Me
Where: Discovery Theater | National Mall, DC
When: April 2-4
Tickets: $3-9
The magic of earth science takes center stage in this fun, interactive Discovery Theater original. Explore the origins of our planet, sing about the water cycle, and understand our vital role to protect the ecosystem. Science and folklore about the “big blue marble” we call home kick off Earth Month, and audiences become Earth Superheroes and take home some great ideas to start right away! Recommended for children in grades K-2.

Annie
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: April 11-20
Tickets: $49-139
Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most.

Charlotte’s Web
Where: Adventure Theatre | Bethesda, MD
When: April 25 – May 25
Tickets: $25
Charlotte’s mission to save Wilbur unfolds with the unveiling of her miraculous web, adorned with the proclamation “Some pig.” Thus begins a triumphant crusade, culminating in Wilbur’s salvation and a poignant gesture honoring Charlotte’s legacy. This timeless tale celebrates the power of friendship and the enduring impact of kindness, promising both actors and audience an enchanting afternoon filled with warmth and wonder. Recommended for all ages.

Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: A Discovery Play
Where: Discovery Theater | National Mall, DC
When: April 23-25
Tickets: $3-9
Join an adventure through the neighborhood led by our favorite community helpers. We’ll meet the crossing guard, the librarian, and all become volunteer firefighters. Recycled crafting and interactive songs make this community day the perfect blend of learning and just plain fun! One of our Discovery Plays for your youngest learners.

ALICE (in wonderland)
Where: Capital One Hall | Tysons, VA
When: April 24-27
Tickets: $25 – $100
The Washington Ballet brings his fantastical adventure will come to life with familiar characters from Lewis Carroll’s stories. Journey alongside Alice as she tumbles into the whimsical wonderland, encountering curious creatures, magical transformations, and the elusive White Rabbit. With vibrant costumes, playful puppetry and zany choreography, this production will entertain the whole family with an unforgettable escape into a world where imagination knows no bounds. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary adventure!

Matilda in Concert
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 25-26
Tickets: $29-109 (find discount)
Hosted and narrated by Matilda director and star Danny DeVito, the beloved modern fairytale comes to life on the big screen as David Newman conducts his enchanting score live-to-picture! Based on the book by Roald Dahl, Matilda tells the larger-than-life story of a little girl gifted with genius intelligence and magical powers—which she uses to survive her self-absorbed parents and an evil headmistress.

Dog Man: The Musical
Where: Warner Theatre | Downtown DC
When: April 26
Tickets: $35-118
Dog Man:The Musical is a hilarious production based on the worldwide bestselling series from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club.
Best buds George and Harold have been creating comics for years, but now that they’re in 5th grade, they figure it’s time to level up and write a musical based on their favorite character, Dog Man, the crime-biting sensation who is part dog, part man, and ALL HERO!! How hard could it be?

Falu
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: April 26, 11am & 1L30pm
Tickets: $25.30
Grammy Award–winning and internationally recognized artist,Falu introduces children to the wonders of the world. Her songs take families on musical journeys through South Asia and the day-to-day of a child’s wonder. Each concert is a celebration of how music can beautifully express both difference and connection across cultures. Recommended for ages 5+.

Mother Earth & Me
Where: Discovery Theater | National Mall, DC
When: April 29-30
Tickets: $3-9
The magic of earth science takes center stage in this fun, interactive Discovery Theater original. Explore the origins of our planet, sing about the water cycle, and understand our vital role to protect the ecosystem. Science and folklore about the “big blue marble” we call home kick off Earth Month, and audiences become Earth Superheroes and take home some great ideas to start right away! Recommended for children in grades 3-5.

Marooned: A Space Comedy
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: May 3-4
Tickets: $25.30
Help a stranded astronaut find her way home in this innovative new puppet show. Internationally acclaimed company Alex and Olmsted presents this Jim Henson Foundation grant-awarded production with music from the Voyager Golden Record. Recommended for ages 7+.

Minty Fresh Circus
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: May 8, 7pm
Tickets: $25.30
With an Afro-futuristic vibe and a steam-punk look, Minty Fresh Circus features movement, music, and circus arts in a time-bending journey of redemption. Watch as the artists perform a range of spectacular circus and dance skills sourced from the African Diaspora, including vernacular dance, Lindy, hip hop, percussive hand games, and more. Recommended for all ages.

Look Both Ways: A Tale Told in Ten Blocks
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: May 9-11
Tickets: $25.30 (find discount)
Ten unique perspectives are brilliantly woven into one funny, piercingly poignant look at the detours we face on the walk home, and in life. Washington, D.C.–area native, New York Times best-selling author, and Kennedy Center Next 50 leader Jason Reynolds conjures 10 tales (1 per block) about what happens after the dismissal bell rings.

The Big Jam
Where: Capitol One Hall | Tysons, VA
When: May 10, 7-9pm
Tickets: $15-25
Support young musicians & celebrate the power of music! The Vienna Jammers, a non-profit marimba and steel pan musical ensemble for kids ages 7-18, will take the stage, showcasing the incredible talent, dedication, and passion of local youth. Joined by world-renowned musician Etienne Charles, these young percussionists will bring an electrifying performance filled with rhythm, culture, and high-energy beats. By attending, you’re not just enjoying an unforgettable show, you’re investing in music education and supporting the next generation of artists.

Twelfth Night
Where: Folger Shakespeare Theatre | Capitol Hill, DC
When: May 13 – June 22
Tickets: $20-84
Viola washes up on the shore after losing her twin brother in a shipwreck. In disguise as her twin brother, she lands in the world of Duke Orsino. A playful interpretation of a beloved Shakespeare comedy that brings gender fluidity, mistaken identities, and what it means to move between worlds into a joyful discovery of love. Recommended for teens and older.

Senior Class
Where: Olney Theatre | Olney, MD
When: May 16 – June 22
Tickets: $26-101
When budget cuts to the arts program mean their high school theatre can’t pay for My Fair Lady, Colin and G.B., two Broadway-obsessed students, decide to stage their own original musical version of Shaw’s Pygmalion. The search for an actress to play Eliza Doolittle leads them to a Harlem-born-and-bred subway dancer who just might be perfect — but artistic egos and culture clashes threaten to undermine the production before the big opening night. Can the Senior Class musical be saved? (And will Colin score his much-wished-for “Jimmy” Award to launch his meteoric rise to stardom as the first-ever J-EGOT?) Amy Anders Corcoran (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical) directs this World Premiere musical-lovers’ musical full of dancing and comedy, dedicated to the timeless belief that the show must go on! Recommended for teens and older.

Kimberly Akimbo
Where: National Theatre | Downtown DC
When: May 20 – June 1
Tickets: $69-169
A new musical about growing up and growing old (in no particular order), Kimberly Akimbo is the winner of 5 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush … and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure. Recommended for ages 13+.

Frankenstein
Where: Klein Theatre | Penn Quarter, DC
When: May 27 – June 22
Tickets: $39-142 (find discount)
Shakespeare Theatre Company’s production reimagines Mary Shelley’s romantic gothic science fiction masterpiece as a chilling exploration of what it means to create a new life. Visceral and provocative, this production reveals the inner lives of Elizabeth and Victor Frankenstein in bold new ways. Riding the edge of cinematic thriller and intense drama, Frankenstein redefines the legend we know, the name we fear, and the monstrous act at the heart of the story. Recommended for teens and older.

Jojo’s Backyard Safari
Where: Discovery Theater | National Mall, DC
When: May 28-30
Tickets: $3-9
It’s time for high adventure as Jojo goes on the lookout for all kinds of fascinating creatures in the wilds of his very own yard. What will he find hidden in plain sight? Come along on the trek as we learn, create, and play in this musical mini-travelogue about the hidden natural world close to home. One of our Discovery Plays for your youngest learners. Recommended for ages 3-6.

The Wizard of Oz
Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre | Arlington, VA
When: May 30 – June 8
Tickets: $15/adult, $13/child
Encore Stage & Studio presents this theatre by kids for kids show… When a tornado rips through Kansas, young Dorothy is whisked away to the magical land of Oz. She bravely embarks on a journey to Emerald City where she encounters a host of whimsical characters: good witches, bad witches, animals that talk, scarecrows that walk, and things magical to behold. Will Dorothy prevail over evil and make it back home? Follow the yellow brick road and find out with us! We recommend this production for ages 4+.

Les Misérables
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: June 11 – July 13
Tickets: $49-219 (find discount)
Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice, and redemption—a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. Seen by over 130 million people worldwide in 53 countries, 438 cities, and 22 languages, Les Misérables is unquestionably one of the world’s most popular musicals. Recommended for teens and older.

A Wrinkle in Time
Where: Arena Stage | Southwest DC
When: June 12 – July 20
Tickets: $69-119 (find discount)
Meg Murry’s father was experimenting with time travel and the fifth dimension when he mysteriously disappeared. Now, Meg, her friend Calvin, and her younger brother Charles Wallace must race to rescue him. Can they outwit the forces of evil they will encounter on their heart-stopping journey through space? Join Meg on this epic quest in an adventurous new musical adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s Newbery Medal-winning classic novel that will energize your spirit, expand your imagination, and inspire you to believe that love, friendship, and courage can conquer all.

Legally Blond
Where: The Kennedy Center | Foggy Bottom, DC
When: June 13-22
Tickets: $59-325 (find discount)
The fabulous, feminist modern classic! When the effervescent Elle Woods is dumped by her boyfriend, she follows him to Harvard Law School, determined to win him back. But what starts as a plot to regain her relationship turns into much more as Elle realizes her true potential—in law, love, and life. Legally Blonde is a hilarious, inspirational romp that proves you don’t have to change who you are to achieve your dreams. Recommended for ages 12+.

Kendrick Lamar & Sza
Where: Northwest Stadium | Landover, MD
When: June 18
Tickets: Check for resale here
One of the biggest concerts coming to the area in the next few months. Northwest Stadium is formerly Commander Field and Fed Ex Field. While tickets are sold out, plenty of resale tickets are still available.

What’s your family excited to see this spring?