Celebrate Shakespeare and Austen at the Folger Frost Fair This Winter

Folger Shakespeare Library's Frost Fair Returns

The Folger Shakespeare Library is excited to welcome everyone to its second annual Frost Fair, a stunning winter festival that transforms Washington, D.C. into a Dickensian wonderland. The event runs from November 28, 2025, to January 4, 2026, featuring a myriad of activities that spotlight Shakespeare’s brilliance while celebrating the literary legacy of Jane Austen on her 250th birthday.

The Folger will be transformed with holiday adornments, inviting visitors to stroll through a seasonal spectacle that echoes the historic Frost Fairs, renowned gatherings that were once held on the frozen River Thames. These fairs offered early modern Londoners an extraordinary diversion from their everyday lives, filled with entertainment, merriment, and camaraderie. Inspired by this history, the Folger Frost Fair aims to evoke a similar spirit of joy and community during this festive season.

Holiday Highlights and Activities

Visitors to this year's Frost Fair can indulge in various offerings, including:
1. Musical Performances - The Folger Consort will present its popular concert series, Resplendent Joy, featuring early Spanish Christmas carols and traditional music from both Spain and Portugal between December 5-14. These enchanting performances are sure to immerse attendees in the jubilant atmosphere of the season.
2. Celebrating Jane Austen at 250 - In honor of Jane Austen's milestone birthday, the Folger has curated a special event on December 20, 2025. “An Austen Afternoon” will feature an elegant afternoon tea in the Reading Room followed by a Regency Dance, offering attendees the chance to learn spirited dances from the period. Those wishing to join the celebration are encouraged to wear Regency-inspired attire, enhancing the ambiance of the occasion.
3. Emily Dickinson Birthday Tribute - On December 9, at 7:30 PM, poetry enthusiasts can join the tribute celebrating not only Emily Dickinson’s legacy but also Austen’s birthday. Notable speakers will include Dickinson scholar Martha Nell Smith as well as contemporary author Nikki Payne. The evening concludes with a slice of Dickinson's famous black cake, based on her own recipe.
4. Interactive Experiences - Visitors can partake in numerous family-friendly activities such as storytime sessions, crafting workshops, and hands-on printing demonstrations showcasing how Shakespeare's iconic works were produced.
5. Holiday Sing-Along - For those eager to sing along, a festive sing-along scheduled for December 19 promises to bring holiday cheer to voices of all ages. Attendees will be provided with songbooks and crafting opportunities to enrich their experience.
6. Special Dining Offerings - Don't miss out on seasonal treats including hot chocolate and festive pastries available from Quill & Crumb, the Folger's café. After enjoying the festivities, guests can also take advantage of free gift-wrapping services and special shopping deals at the Folger Shop on select dates.

The Folger Experience

The Folger Shakespeare Library is a cultural beacon that connects audiences with Shakespeare's works and the historical context surrounding them. Beyond the Frost Fair, the library offers exhibitions, performances, and educational programs year-round, inviting everyone to engage with the arts and humanities in meaningful ways. With over 20,000 items—including manuscripts, rare books, and artifacts related to Shakespeare—visitors have the unique opportunity to explore the world of the Bard in-depth.

The Frost Fair emphasizes community engagement and artistic appreciation, making it a must-visit event for families, literature lovers, and festival-goers alike. The Folger is located at 201 East Capitol Street, SE, Washington, DC 20003, and operates Tuesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM, along with extended hours on Fridays until 9 PM. Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $15, ensuring that access to the splendid world of Shakespeare is open to all.

The Frost Fair promises to be a memorable experience, blending the charm of classic literature with contemporary festivity. Embrace the joy of the season by joining in the celebration at the Folger! More details can be found at folger.edu/frostfair.