The holiday fun continues! Need a dopamine boost? Check out the decor at hotels that go all out (no overnight stay necessary). Pick up some holiday sweets or festive dishes for your holiday table (or make a dinner or brunch reservation for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day). Then burn off those calories at a nearby ice rink, including the new one at the Capital One Center in Tysons. Got guests in from out of town? Here are some ways to keep them entertained. If you still need things to do, here’s what’s coming up this week:
I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas at the Alden Theatre
The Barter Players present a show about waiting for the birth of a zoo’s first hippo during Christmastime. The hourlong family-friendly adventure takes the stage Dec. 22, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $25, $20 for seniors and $15 for MCC district residents. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean
Waterskiing Santa Show
Who needs a sleigh when you can make your grand entrance on water skis? Santa will arrive with a splash along the Alexandria waterfront Dec. 24, 1 p.m. Free to attend. Between BARCA Pier and Founders Park, Alexandria
Matzoball
The annual event that aims to bring Jewish singles together will return Dec. 24, 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Dance, schmooze and mingle at Decades DC. Tickets are $45 or $70 for a fast pass to skip the line at the entrance. 1219 Connecticut Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.
Christmas at Mount Vernon
George Washington’s house will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so go have a look-see with visiting friends and family. You can also treat yourself to afternoon tea on Dec. 22-23 and 27-28. On certain dates through Jan. 6, watch a chocolate-making demo.
Drag Bingo Night at Freddie’s Beach Bar and Restaurant
Spend Christmas Eve, 8 p.m., trying your luck at a game of bingo while enjoying half-price burgers and enjoying the antics of drag performers. Playing is free. 555 23rd St., S., Arlington (National Landing)
Miracle on 34th Street, The Musical at Capital One Hall
See the holiday classic that leaves viewers wondering if the Santa at the storied Macy’s in New York City is the real deal. Get tickets to the Dec. 26-28 performances here. 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons
The Second City’s Jack Frost Roasting on an Open Fire
Have some laughs with the comedy troupe that launched the careers of Bill Murray and Tina Fey, among others. Watch as comedians lampoon classic holiday family gatherings, office parties, movies and Mariah Carey. Performances run Dec. 26-30. Check the website for time and age restrictions; some shows are for adults only. Tickets are $51 or $61. Arlington Drafthouse, 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington (Columbia Pike)
Holiday Events at Tysons Corner Center
Let’s face it: You’re probably going to hit the mall at some point, and you might as well enjoy some merriment while you’re there. Through Dec. 24, visit Santa’s Chalet on the lower level near Wasabi to say hi to the big man himself. (A visit is free but professional photo packages carry a fee.) Stop by the Enchant Light Experience on PenFed Plaza through February 2026. It’s got 14 interactive light sculptures. 1961 Chain Bridge Road, Tysons
Santa at Tysons Galleria
Find Santa Claus prepping for the big night through Dec. 24 on Level 1 near Lucky Strike. Get a photo with the jolly old elf during regular mall hours. Got a pet? Bring your furry or feathered baby to Pet Night with Santa on Dec. 16, 4-7 p.m. 2001 International Drive, McLean
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Winter Lantern Festival
Art, technology and live performance converge at this limited-time event in Tysons. Meander amid hand-crafted, illuminated Chinese lanterns that tell the story of ancient folklore. Tickets include access to an acrobatics show starring award-winning performers from China. Tickets start at $18. This event runs through Jan. 18. Lerner Town Square, 8025 Galleria Drive, Tysons
Holding Together by the Arlington Artists Alliance
On display through Jan. 11 at the Alliance Gallery, this show features artwork depicting a shift from chaos to strength and calmness. It asks, “How can we hold it together when chaos surrounds us?” See the collage, sculpture, painting and other pieces noon-6 p.m. on Wednesdays-Sundays. The Crossing Clarendon, 2700 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington (Clarendon)