Happy New Year! We hope 2026 is filled with health, happiness, and laughter for you and your family. We have compiled a list of some fun, family-friendly events to kick off the year right. There are lots of ways to entertain and engage your kids in January, whether they love theater, music, art, or history. This month, there are also a number of events to observe Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. For additional ideas of how to enjoy the DC area this winter, check out our guides to Ice Skating Rinks, The Best Indoor Play Places, and Museums and Galleries.
The Snowman and the Snowdog
Now – January 4
Imagination Stage
Bethesda, MD
The Snowman and the Snowdog is a follow-up to Raymond Briggs’ beloved story, The Snowman. Audiences will be enchanted by this tale of a boy whose dog is lost. He builds a snowman and a snowdog friend for it. The two creations come to life one night and join the boy on a wondrous adventure. it is recommended for kids from 4 to 10 years old. Tickets can be purchased online.
Folger Frost Fair
Now – January 4
Folger Shakespeare Library
Washington, DC
This winter festival offers family-friendly activities, holiday music, festive decorations, and more. For example, kids can participate in a Holiday Seek-and-Find, craft stations, watch printing press demonstrations, and more. This event is FREE, but check out the website for its schedule of activities.
Winter Skate Spectacular
Now – February 8
National Building Museum
Washington, DC
Show off your ice skating skills at this indoor skating experience at the National Building Museum. Visitors must purchase tickets ahead of time to reserve their time slots. Take a look at the website for scheduling details, including time slots specifically for toddlers and Museum Members. There will be drop-in sessions and themed activities for kids and families. There will also be after-hours programs and events for adults.
Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run
Now through February 28 (weekends only)
Cameron Run Regional Park
Alexandria, VA
Looking for some winter magic? Look no further than this family-friendly outdoor experience. Ice skate under the stars and then wander the Winter Village, full of twinkling lights, festive displays perfect for selfies, and hot drinks and snacks for purchase. Tickets are required for ice skating and for entrance into the Winter Village and must be purchased online.
After Emancipation History Hike
January 4
Peirce Mill at Rock Creek Park
Washington, DC
This morning walk, guided by a park ranger, will teach participants about the lives of people who were formerly enslaved and later lived in the area. Who were they? What did they do after gaining their freedom? The walk lasts about 1.5 hours and is FREE. It is recommended for ages 12 and over. While you are at Rock Creek Park, don’t miss the other engaging activities the National Park Service is offering this day including, the Stellar Star Show (11am and 2pm), Friends of Peirce Mill Open House (12pm – 4pm), and Mobilizing Memories at Meridian Hill (2pm – 4pm).
National Museum of Women in the Arts: Free Community Day
January 4 & 14
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Washington, DC
The National Museum of Women in the Arts invites the public to explore its beautiful space celebrating and encouraging women in the arts during its Free Community Days. These occur on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of each month. Visitors can enjoy the Museum’s collections on their own, or during one of two drop-in tours. There is also an art-making activity that will inspire visitors of all ages. While admission is FREE on these days, it is recommended that you register online in advance.
High School Musical Jr.
January 9 – 10 and January 16 – 18
Thomas Jefferson Community Theater
Arlington, VA
Encore Stage & Studio is bringing this energetic, fun-filled musical to the stage with an all-student cast and crew. Audiences will tap their toes as Troy, Gabriella, and the other students at East High learn about friendship and following your dreams. Tickets are available online. Please see the website for information about the ASL performance, as well as two pre-show add ons: Troy & Gabriella’s Karaoke Party and the Wildcats Triathlon Decathlon.
K-Pop Demon Hunters Sing-along Screening
January 10
National Museum of Asian Art
Washington, DC
If your family has become addicted to this cultural phenomenon, they will love singing its catchy songs along with a crowd during a screening of the film. This family-friendly event is FREE, but registration is required.
Teen Studio: New Year, New Artist
January 10
Hirshhorn Museum
Washington, DC
If you have a teen who loves art, this monthly art-making workshop is for them. Teen Studio gives kids from 13 to 19 years old the opportunity to learn about artists and their work that is on view at the Hirshhorn, then use what they’ve learned as inspiration to create their own art. This month’s session will focus on works by Jean-Michel Basquiat. Teen Studio is FREE to attend.
Sunday Storytime
January 11
Planet Word Museum
Washington, DC
Sunday Storytime is held monthly at Planet Word Museum. Families with kids from age 2 to 6 are invited to this fun-filled session full of songs, stories, and hands-on fun. This event’s read-alouds are presented by children’s librarians from the DC Public Library. After Storytime, families can explore the museum exhibits and check out children’s books from a pop-up DC Public Library wagon.
Sketchbook Club: Circus Clown and Elephant
January 13 & 14
National Gallery of Art
Washington, DC
If you have an artistically-inclined kiddo, take them to this 30-minute session at the National Gallery of Art armed with paper and colored pencils, crayons, or markers. Teaching artists will lead a guided sketch of the majestic elephant, inspired by the piece, Circus Clown and Elephant. Sketchbook Club is recommended for families with children of all ages. This event is FREE to attend, but you must register online.
Time: A Luxmuralis Light and Sound Installation
January 15 – 24
Washington National Cathedral
Washington, DC
Luxmuralis, the UK-based art collective, has brought its immersive art installation of sound and light to the National Cathedral. Time uses mind-blowing visuals and sound to explore our concept of time, allowing visitors to experience the beginning of our universe and transport through wormholes. You will see the birth of Earth. This experience lasts about 45 minutes, though visitors can go at their own pace. Tickets can be purchased online.
Campfire Fridays
January 16
Hidden Pond Nature Center
Springfield, VA
This family-friendly evening program explores the wonders of nature. Depending on the date, this program may include nature walks, animal presentations, interactive activities, and more. And of course, S’mores are included. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Participants must be at least 5 years old. Tickets are $10 per person and can be reserved online.
Little Critters: Nature Play at the Bird House
January 17
National Zoo
Washington, DC
Kids from 0 to 5 years old are invited to this FREE drop-in play time where they will learn how animals stay warm in the winter. No pre-registration is required, but parents and guardians must stay with their child during the session.
Drawing Stories: Family Art Day
January 17
National Museum of the American Indian
Washington, DC
Families will gain an understanding of the Museum’s current exhibit, Unbound: Narrative Art of the Plains, during this Family Art Day. Family Tours, Curator Tours, and hands-on activities will be offered throughout the day. Please check out the website for a schedule of the days events.
21st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace Walk & Parade
January 19
Entertainment & Sports Arena
Washington, DC
Join in this DC community celebration of the work and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year, the event will return to the outdoors along MLK Avenue. There will be a Peace Rally (9:30am) and Peace Walk (10:30am), followed by a Health & Wellness Fair (10:30am). The parade will begin at 11am.
Remember the Dream: A Day Honoring Dr. King
January 19
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Washington, DC
Celebrate the legacy of Dr. King from 11am until 2pm. Drop-in activities will be offered throughout the Museum including exploring its new HBCU exhibit, receiving a personalized poem from the Typewriter Poets, and participating in a service project. The 4th Floor Overlook will host Dr. King’s birthday party which will include crafts, balloons, live musical performances, and a sing-along to Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday.” This event is FREE to attend, but online registration is required.
Stargazing
January 24
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Chantilly, VA
Learn about the planets, stars, and the moon with the Museum staff and members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club during this evening of stargazing. Attendees can use the Club’s telescopes and receive expert help. This outdoor event is FREE and open to the public. It is also weather permitting.
Get the USA 250th Party Started!
January 24
National Postal Museum
Washington, DC
This family-friendly day of fun will be a great way to kick off America’s 250th birthday celebration. Enjoy a curator-led tour and story time. Share your wishes for our nation in the “Mailbox to the Future.” Invent your own postal innovation. Learn about the history of Native people in this nation. This FREE event is open to all ages.
Musical Tails
January 24 & 25
Kennedy Center
Washington, DC
The delightful tales of the Mother Goose Suite by Maurice Ravel and Camille Saint-Saëns’ The Carnival of the Animals will be brought to life by the chamber music of a National Symphony Orchestra piano quintet. Audiences will enjoy the English and Spanish narration of these fantastical tales. This production is recommended for kids age 5 and older. Tickets can be purchased online.
Monster Jam
January 24 & 25
Capitol One Arena
Washington, DC
Monster Jam is back and is sure to thrill the whole family with its high octane fun! The legendary Grave Digger® and more will compete in intense competitions of speed and skill. Tickets for this family-friendly event are required for all attendees aged 2 and over. Check out the website for information about the Monster Jam Pit Party before the event where fans can get up close and personal with the giant trucks, meet drivers, and take part in other family-friendly activities. There is also a Post-Event Driver Meet & Greet that allows for an even more exclusive opportunity to meet the drivers and take photos.
Try Hockey for Free Day
January 25
The Wharf Ice Rink & Canal Park
Washington, DC
Kids from 5 to 14 years old are invited to give hockey a try at The Wharf Ice Rink and Canal Park. The Washington Capitals Youth Hockey will host this FREE event at both locations. You must register your child online. A hockey stick will be provided, but all participants must bring their own helmet (a bike helmet will work great). This event is for DC residents and students with DCPS.
The Washington, DC Auto Show
January 25 through February 1
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Washington, DC
This family-friendly event gives attendees the chance to explore tons of vehicle models, admire classic and exotic cars, and take free test drives. Additionally, visitors can test drive Toyotas and Chevrolets, try out an E-Bike at the Strictly E-bikes Test Track, get out some wiggles in a bounce house, and so much more. Oh, and if you are looking to expand your family, the “Subaru Loves Pets” adoption event is bringing dogs from local shelters to the car show to find a good home. Tickets available online.
