Pamala Stanley, a staple of the Rehoboth Beach gay scene, says Georgetown Jingle is an important opportunity to bring cheer to sick children. (Photo courtesy Stanley)

Georgetown Jingle

Sunday

1-4 p.m. and 7-11 p.m.

Four Seasons Hotel

2800 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.

georgetownjingle.com

$50-75 for children

$150-225 adults

Group packages available

 

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington

Sparkle, Jingle, Joy holiday concert

With guest Matt Alber

Dec. 20-21 at 8 p.m.

Dec. 21 at 3 p.m.

Lisner Auditorium

730 21^st Street, N.W.

$29-54

gmcw.org

The holiday season brings plenty of festive events for the whole family to enjoy. The Georgetown Jingle fundraiser on Sunday and the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington’s “Sparkle, Jingle, Joy” holiday concert next weekend are two celebrations that shouldn’t be missed.

The eighth annual Georgetown Jingle featuring Pamala Stanley returns for a two-part Christmas jubilee at the Four Seasons Hotel Washington-Georgetown (2800 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.). The event raises funds for Dr. Aziza Shad’s pediatric oncology programs at Georgetown’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center.

From 1-4 p.m. Santa Claus and friends pay a visit to guests amongst a holiday crafts station, silent auction and raffles. Georgetown Jingle re-opens from 7-11 p.m. for a “Jingle Evening” with food from favorite D.C. area chefs and a silent auction. Stanley, whose performance is sponsored by Rehoboth institution the Blue Moon, performs both afternoon and evening shows. There is an emphasis on Christmas songs in the afternoon and Stanley is accompanied by Rob Barita’s seven-piece band in the evening.

“You see the kids and they’re so brave,” Stanley says. “You see what their poor bodies go through and some of them have no hair. They’re precious people and this day is heartwarming. I just want people to have a good time.”

David Herchik and Richard Looman, two of Georgetown Jingle’s co-chairs, got the idea for the fundraiser after their client’s daughter was diagnosed with cancer. They decorated her hospital room to cheer her up and were inspired to help the cause. Their family-themed fundraiser tries to re-create that feeling.

“This is the only event in D.C. specifically for every member of the family,” Herchik says. “You can feel comfortable bringing your six-month-old or your teenager. It’s all about inclusivity and children.”

Since 2006 Georgetown Jingle has raised more than $1.5 million that has built the children’s unit, paid for family psychology and continued family services for those who lose their child.

The Gay Men’s Chorus presents “Sparkle, Jingle, Joy” at Lisner Auditorium (730 21st St., N.W.) with special guest Grammy Award-winner Matt Alber for the holiday season. There are three performances with one on Dec. 20 at 8 p.m. and two on Dec. 21 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. The chorus, a 200-member ensemble, mixes fun costumes and lights with Christmas and Hanukkah classics.

“It’s an irresistible evening of holiday favorites,” Artistic Director Jeff Buhrman says. “It’s such an eclectic performance. Just when you expect it to go in one direction it goes in another.”

Alber returns to perform with the chorus and sing several solos.

“His music is filled with such heart,” Buhrman says. “It’s truly inspiring. He’s a warm, wonderful performer.”

“Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming” is a combined performance that Buhrman says is expected to be one of the biggest crowd pleasers of the night.