National Cathedral Christmas Concerts
Handel's Messiah - Friday, December 4, 2009, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, December 5, 2009, 4 p.m.; Sunday, December 6, 2009, 4 p.m. Michael McCarthy conducts the National Cathedral’s men and youth choirs with Baroque orchestra in an authentic presentation of Handel’s beloved oratorio. Soloists include Rufus Müller, tenor, Craig Phillips, bass-baritone, Clare Wilkinson, mezzo-soprano, Gillian Keith, soprano. Tickets: $20-$80. Call (202) 537-2228 or order online.Joy of Christmas - December 12-13, 2009. A perennial Washington holiday favorite from the opening procession of the advent wreath to the final note of the last beloved carol, this festive concert has long been a family Christmas tradition. It will include favorite carols for all to sing, including the world premiere of a Christmas carol by the renowned American composer Lee Hoiby, and features The Heritage Signature Chorale. Takes place in the Gothic splendor of Washington National Cathedral. Tickets: $20-$80. A special family matinee will be held on Saturday, December 12 at noon. All seats are general admission and $25. Order tickets online.
Children's Christmas Pageant - Saturday, December 19, 2009, 2 p.m. This joyous event is designed for children and welcomes the birth of the baby Jesus. Free and open to the public; Call (202) 537-6200.
National Cathedral Tours, Exhibits & Family Programs
The First Noel, Creches from Across the Globe - November 23, 2009 – January 8, 2010, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. A delight to people of all ages every Advent and Christmas season, Washington National Cathedral displays crèches from its collection of over 500 nativity sets. The crèches are from many countries and cultures from around the world, and from many U.S. states and territories are represented in the display each year. Free and open to the public during Cathedral visiting hours; located in the lower level.Close-Up Tour: Angels Everywhere - December 3, 2009 at 3 p.m.; December 6, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. Discover how angels have been depicted in stained glass, needlepoint, wood carving, and stone carving throughout Washington National Cathedral. Ages 10+, $5 per person, no reservations needed, meet at West End docents' station, Call(202) 537-6200.
Tour and Tea - Most Tuesdays & Wednesdays in November and December; 1:30 pm. Enjoy an in-depth Cathedral tour followed by tea with a scenic view of Washington. The tour begins inside the nave, and tea follows at 3 pm in the Pilgrim Observation Gallery. Special tour topics include stained glass, wrought iron, and needlework. $22 per person. Reservations required, make an online reservation or call (202) 537-8993.
