Don't buy a gift; give an experience. This year, The Washington Ballet celebrates 15 years of its very-DC version of The Nutcracker, through December 28 at the historic Warner Theatre in downtown Washington DC.

Set to Tchaikovsky's magical score, this celebrated production set in 1882 early Georgetown has become the signature Nutcracker in our nation's capital. The curtain rises and the audience is transported back in time to a Georgetown mansion, where party guests include Frederick Douglass, John Paul Jones, Harriet Tubman, Ben Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. The Washington Ballet's iconic version is equal parts history lesson, mischief and humor. With General Washington as the heroic Nutcracker and George III as the Rat King, the story comes to life with over 100 dancers, intricate, stunning set designs and original custom costumes. Audiences will be captivated by stunning duets by Anacostia Native Americans and a springtime on the banks of the Potomac. Waltzing cherry blossoms, dancing cardinals and dancing sugar plums plus other enchanting adaptations make this unique production at the majestic Warner Theatre a special treat that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.