Handel's Messiah at Washington National Cathedral
Audiences experience Handel’s beloved oratorio, including the triumphant “Hallelujah Chorus,” presented under the cathedral's soaring Gothic architecture. The concert is performed by the Washington National Cathedral Choir and Baroque Orchestra under the direction of Dr. Jared Johnson. The complete performance runs two and a half hours and includes an intermission.
What to Expect
Cathedral Choir and Baroque Orchestra perform under soaring Gothic architecture.
Event Details
Duration
2.5 hours, including intermission.
Ages
All ages (highlights program is family-friendly)
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Washington National Cathedral
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Classical music lovers and families choosing the shorter highlights program
Vibe
Grand and reverent
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Fri Dec. 4 at 7 pm; Sat Dec. 5 at 6 pm; Sun Dec. 6 at 6 pm.
Tips & Advice
- Bring younger children to the 60-minute Highlights program on December 5, an abbreviated family-friendly version, instead of the full 2.5-hour performance.
- Buy livestream tickets if you can't make it to the Cathedral, but remember streaming is only offered for the December 6 performance.
- Book the new Messiah + Overnight Stay package if you want to stay at the Virginia Mae Center, since it includes two Premium Nave tickets.
- Allow a full 2.5 hours for the complete Messiah, which includes an intermission partway through the performance.
Special Events & Promotions
- New for 2026: Messiah + Overnight Stay package with a night at the Virginia Mae Center and two Premium Nave tickets, December 4, 5 or 6.
- Handel's Messiah: Highlights, a 60-minute family-friendly program on Saturday, December 5, separate ticket.
- Livestream tickets available for the December 6 performance only.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who performs?
The Washington National Cathedral Choir and Baroque Orchestra, directed by Dr. Jared Johnson.
How long is the concert?
The full Messiah runs 2.5 hours, including an intermission.
Is there a shorter option for families?
Yes. Handel's Messiah: Highlights on Saturday, December 5, is a separately ticketed 60-minute family-friendly program. It runs from the Sinfonia (Overture) to the Hallelujah Chorus.
Can I watch from home?
Yes, with livestream tickets. The livestream is only for the December 6 performance.
What's new this year?
The Messiah + Overnight Stay package is new for 2026. It includes one night in a Standard Guest Room at the Cathedral's Virginia Mae Center and two Premium Nave tickets to a performance on December 4, 5 or 6.
More Christmas Events Near Washington
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.