Your Guide to Chicago’s 2025 Holiday Performances

Chicago is set to sparkle this holiday season with an incredible array of performances across the city and suburbs. From beloved traditional stage productions to innovative dance, soulful concerts, and laugh-out-loud comedy, there’s something to ignite the festive spirit in every Chicagoan.

Traditional Stage Classics & New Tales

The spirit of the holidays comes alive on stage with timeless stories and fresh interpretations. Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” returns in multiple productions, notably at the Goodman Theatre (Nov. 15-Dec. 31) with new direction and a returning Scrooge, and a unique puppetry-live music blend from Manual Cinema at Studebaker Theater (Dec. 12-28). Relive the magic of “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” at Paramount Theatre (through Jan. 11, 2026) or experience the enduring charm of “It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago!” from American Blues Theater (Nov. 21-Dec. 28) in its 24th year as a 1940s radio play.

For those seeking something new, Buffalo Theatre Ensemble presents “Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley” (Nov. 20-Dec. 21), a fresh take on “Pride and Prejudice” characters. Families will love “Elf the Musical” (Dec. 2-14) at the Auditorium Theatre, bringing the popular film to life with song and dance. Don’t miss the solo performance of “Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol” at Lifeline Theatre (Nov. 28-Dec. 21) for a different perspective on a classic.

Nontraditional & Uniquely Chicago Experiences

Step outside the box with Chicago’s diverse and often daring holiday entertainment. Cirque du Soleil brings “’Twas the Night Before…” to the Chicago Theatre (Dec. 11-28), blending acrobatics with a classic poem. For a dose of humor, The Second City offers “Holidazed and Amused” (Nov. 26-Jan. 1, 2026), poking fun at seasonal chaos, alongside their family-friendly “Rudolph Runs Wild!”. Dare to laugh at Veronica Garza’s R-rated “Who’s Holiday!” at Theater Wit (Nov. 28-Dec. 28).

Music lovers can catch “Million Dollar Quartet Christmas” at Marriott Theatre (through Jan. 4, 2026) for a rockabilly-gospel holiday jam. Drag enthusiasts can celebrate with “The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show” at the Chicago Theatre (Dec. 7) or ring in the New Year with “IMHO’s New Year’s Eve Party!” at The Den Theatre (Dec. 31). And for a truly unique event, explore Victorian ghost stories at the historic Driehaus Museum with “Holiday Spirits” (Dec. 11-12).

Dance & Grace: The Nutcracker and Beyond

No Chicago holiday season is complete without “The Nutcracker.” The Joffrey Ballet’s acclaimed version (Dec. 5-28) at the Lyric Opera House reimagines Clara’s journey against the backdrop of the 1893 World’s Fair. Many other companies offer their own renditions, including Ruth Page Civic Ballet, Salt Creek Ballet, Ballet 5:8, and Ballet Chicago across various venues throughout December.

Beyond ballet, immerse yourself in “A Flamenco Christmas” (Dec. 5-7) with The Newberry Consort and Arte Puro, fusing Spanish and Latin American holiday music with live dance. For a jazzy twist, “Duke It Out! Nutcracker” (Dec. 6) from the Music Institute of Chicago alternates between Tchaikovsky’s score and Duke Ellington’s jazz interpretation.

A Symphony of Holiday Sound: Traditional & World Music

From classical masterworks to global rhythms, Chicago’s music scene offers rich auditory experiences. Handel’s “Messiah” will be performed by both Music of the Baroque (Nov. 30-Dec. 1) and The Apollo Chorus of Chicago (Dec. 13-14). The Chicago Symphony Orchestra presents its annual “Merry, Merry Chicago!” (Dec. 19-23) with traditional carols and American compositions at Symphony Center, which also hosts the Vienna Boys Choir and A Chanticleer Christmas.

Explore diverse musical traditions with The Klezmatics’ “Happy Joyous Hanukkah” (Dec. 4) at Ravinia’s Martin Theatre, or celebrate Mexican culture with “A Mariachi Christmas” from the Latin Grammy-nominated Mariachi Herencia de México (Dec. 7, Dec. 19-20). The Chicago a Cappella ensemble takes you on a global journey with “Holidays a cappella” (Dec. 5-14), featuring carols from various continents.

Pop, Rock, & Jazz: Modern Holiday Grooves

If contemporary sounds are more your style, Chicago has a beat for your holiday. Country star Brett Eldredge brings his “Glow” tour (Dec. 4-6) to the Chicago Theatre. Indie singer-songwriter Sleeping at Last (Ryan O’Neal) joins the Chicago Philharmonic (Nov. 29) for orchestral arrangements of his Christmas music at the Auditorium Theatre. For an unforgettable tribute, the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus presents “Holly Dolly Christmas” (Dec. 5-7), a rhinestone-filled celebration of Dolly Parton.

The Black Ensemble Theater (Dec. 6-14) offers “A Black Ensemble Holiday Spectacular” with soulful renditions of carols and gospel. Experience the distinctive hybrid sounds of Mannheim Steamroller Christmas (Dec. 20) at the Nederlander Theatre, or enjoy a “Soulful Motown Christmas” concert (Dec. 13) from The Seven Thirty Theatre, featuring hits by Motown legends.

Holiday Performance Snapshot

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago’s Holiday Shows

• What kind of holiday shows can I find in Chicago?
  Chicago offers a wide spectrum, including traditional plays like “A Christmas Carol,” modern musicals, comedy revues, ballet and contemporary dance, classical music concerts, jazz, pop, rock, and world music performances.
• Are there family-friendly options available?
  Absolutely! Many productions are geared towards families, such as “Elf the Musical,” “The Nutcracker” (Joffrey Ballet and others), “That’s Weird, Grandma,” “The Beatrix Potter Holiday Party,” and Cirque du Soleil’s “‘Twas the Night Before…”.
• Where can I see “The Nutcracker” in Chicago?
  The Joffrey Ballet’s renowned “Nutcracker” is at the Lyric Opera House. Additionally, various companies like Ruth Page Civic Ballet, Salt Creek Ballet, A&A Ballet, Ballet 5:8, Ballet Chicago, and Hyde Park School of Dance present their versions at different venues across the city and suburbs.
• Are there any New Year’s Eve specific performances?
  Yes! The Marriott Theatre hosts “New Year’s Rockabilly Eve” with the cast of “Million Dollar Quartet Christmas.” The Chicago Magic Lounge offers special shows, and The Den Theatre has “IMHO’s New Year’s Eve Party!” for a comedic close to the year.
• When should I book tickets for these shows?
  Given the popularity and limited runs of many holiday performances, it’s highly recommended to book your tickets as early as possible, especially for popular shows and prime dates, to ensure availability.

With such a rich and varied calendar of performances, Chicago is truly a winter wonderland for arts and culture lovers. Plan your festive outings now to experience the magic of the season!

Your Guide to Chicago Holiday Performances