National Cathedral Christmas Concerts
Handel's Messiah - Friday, December 7, 2012, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, December 8, 2012, 4 p.m.; Sunday, December 9, 2011, 4 p.m. The Cathedral's combined choirs, Baroque-period orchestra, and guest soloists perform this essential Christmas music experience under the direction of Canon Michael McCarthy. Tickets: $25-$85. Call (202) 537-2228 or order online.Joy of Christmas - December 15-16, 2012. 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. The sing-along concert presented by the Cathedral Choral Society includes traditional favorites such as "Joy to the World" and "O Come, All Ye Faithful," under the direction of J. Reilly Lewis. Tickets: $25. A special family matinee will be held on Saturday, December 15 at noon. All seats are general admission and $25. Order tickets online.
Children's Christmas Pageant - December 22, 2012, 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.
Carols by Candlelight - December 23-24, 2012, 6 p.m. Passes are required for the event on Saturday. Favorite carols, beautiful Christmas music, and lit candles help to tell again the ancient story of the birth of the Prince of Peace.
Christmas Day Organ Recital - December 25, 2012, 5:15 p.m. Featuring Cathedral organists Scott Dettra and Jeremy Filsell. All are welcome.
National Cathedral Tours, Exhibits & Family Programs
Annual Crèche Exhibit - “And Heaven and Nature Sing,” - November 19, 2012 through January 6, 2013. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., lower level of the Cathedral. See an exhibition of nativity scenes from around the world. This year’s exhibit is located in the crypt, just outside Bethlehem Chapel.The Holy Family: Close-up Tour - 2012 Dates: December 2 (1:30 p.m.) and 6 (3 p.m.) These tours offer an in-depth look at aspects of Cathedral artisanship for visitors aged 10 and older. The tour meets at the docent station, nave level, just inside the visitor entrance. For more information call (202) 537-6200; reservations not required. $10 per person.
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. $30 per person. Reservations required, make an online reservation or call (202) 537-8993.
