’Tis the season when Chicago’s stages give way to Ebenezer Scrooges, George Baileys and Nutcracker princes — plus, the sounds of klezmer, flamenco, bluegrass and Motown.
It’s all here in our guide to this year’s holiday performances.
Top 10 holiday shows in Chicago for 2025: Are you Scrooge, George Bailey or Jinkx this year?
Traditional stage
Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas”: Following its Midwest premiere of “Frozen” last season, Paramount turns to a more nostalgic but equally snowy musical this winter. Based on the 1954 film, “White Christmas” has song-and-dance numbers aplenty to fill the Aurora theater’s spacious stage, including “Sisters,” “Snow” and, of course, the titular tune. Paramount Theatre in Aurora through Jan. 11, 2026.
“Miracle on South Division Street”: The Nowaks of Buffalo, New York, have long cherished an unusual bit of family lore: in 1942, the Virgin Mary appeared in their grandfather’s barber shop. When a deathbed confession challenges this legend, they must confront their own understandings of faith and family in this comedy-drama. Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest through Dec. 14.
“A Christmas Carol”: Jeff-nominated director Malkia Stampley takes the reins of the Goodman’s annual staple for the first time, with Christopher Donahue returning for his second season as Scrooge and Ella Boparai debuting as Tiny Tim. Fresh elements in this 48th iteration include movement by choreographer Tor Campbell, music by Andy Hansen and music direction by longtime cast member Gregory Hirte. Goodman Theatre, Nov. 15-Dec. 31. Also Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace, Nov. 28-Dec. 27; Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights, Nov. 25-Dec. 24; Milwaukee Rep, Associated Bank Theater Center in Milwaukee, Nov. 25-Dec. 24. Plus, Manual Cinema returns to the Studebaker with its innovative adaptation blending puppetry, live music and film. Studebaker Theater, Dec. 12-28.
“Georgiana and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley”: Buffalo Theatre Ensemble presents the third installment of the “Christmas at Pemberley” trilogy by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon. This Austenite tale gives Georgiana and Kitty, two supporting characters from “Pride and Prejudice,” their turn in the spotlight as they navigate new relationships and adventures. McAninch Arts Center in Glen Ellyn, Nov. 20-Dec. 21.
“It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago!”: American Blues Theater’s annual sojourn to sleepy Bedford Falls returns for its 24th year, making it the second-longest-running holiday play in Chicago. Presented in the style of a 1940s radio play, this adaptation of Frank Capra’s classic film features original music and holiday carols. American Blues Theater, Nov. 21-Dec. 28. Also Oil Lamp Theater in Glenview, Nov. 20-Dec. 28; Athenaeum Center, Dec. 12-31; Governors State University in University Park, Dec. 13; Milwaukee Rep, Associated Bank Theater Center in Milwaukee through Dec. 21.
“Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol”: Lifeline ensemble member Phil Timberlake reprises his Jeff Award-nominated solo performance in this retelling of the Dickens classic from the perspective of Scrooge’s partner, Jacob Marley. The one who was dead, to begin with. Lifeline Theatre, Nov. 28-Dec. 21.
“Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins”: In Strawdog Theatre Company’s adaptation of Eric Kimmel’s picture book, a troupe of actor-musicians uses puppetry and songs to tell the story of folk hero Hershel of Ostropol, who must outwit some pesky goblins to save his town’s Hanukkah celebrations. Raven Theatre, Nov. 29-Dec. 28.
“The Long Christmas Dinner”: TUTA Theatre remounts its 2024 production of this Thornton Wilder drama, which follows several generations of an American family through a series of Christmas dinners over 90 years. Bramble Arts Loft, Dec. 1-28.
“Elf the Musical”: For those who thought the 2003 film starring Will Ferrell simply needed more songs, there’s good news: the stage version is all about spreading Christmas cheer by singing loud for all to hear. Broadway in Chicago presents a new national tour based on the 2024 Broadway revival of this goofy musical. Auditorium Theatre, Dec. 2-14.
“Charles Dickens Begrudgingly Performs ‘A Christmas Carol’ Again”: Every December since 1853, Charles Dickens has obliged his loyal audiences with live readings of his most famous book. Inexplicably still alive in 2025, the author is sick of it. This newly revised production of creator-performer Blake Montgomery’s one-man show is directed for the first time by Jonathan Berry. Theater Wit, Dec. 4-28.
“Sherlock Holmes and the Christmas Clowns”: James Sparling and Adam Bitterman, who have played Holmes and Watson in City Lit’s Conan Doyle adaptations since 2014, reprise their roles in this world premiere. Based on a story by G.K. Chesterton, John Weagly’s script replaces Chesterton’s amateur detective with Holmes, who seeks three precious jewels stolen during a Christmas pantomime. City Lit Theater, Dec. 12-Jan. 4, 2026.
“Christmas with C.S. Lewis”: For over two decades, British actor David Payne has written and performed plays based on the life of C.S. Lewis, author of “The Chronicles of Narnia.” In this production, set in the writer’s cozy Oxfordshire home on Christmas Eve, Lewis shares memories of his friendship with J.R.R. Tolkien and reflects on his conversion to Christianity. Broadway Playhouse, Dec. 16-21.
“Annie”: While not strictly a holiday show, “Annie” centers on the red-haired orphan’s Christmas visit to the mansion of billionaire Oliver Warbucks, which proves to be a life-changing event for both. Music Theater Works presents the seven-time Tony Award-winning musical, boasting familiar tunes such as “Tomorrow” and “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile.” North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, Dec. 18-Jan. 4, 2026.
Nontraditional stage
“Million Dollar Quartet Christmas”: Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley come together for a holiday jam session at Sun Records in this seasonal spin-off of the popular jukebox musical “Million Dollar Quartet.” From the creators of the original, this new production offers a toe-tapping soundtrack of rockabilly, gospel and country hits. Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire through Jan. 4, 2026. Plus, the cast rings in 2026 with two special concerts titled “New Year’s Rockabilly Eve,” Dec. 31.
“The Real Housewives of the North Pole”: David Cerda, artistic director of Hell in a Handbag Productions, turns his parodic pen to the juicy genre of reality TV in this world premiere, sure to be full of over-the-top divas and campy humor. The Clutch, Nov. 20-Jan. 4.
“A Magical Cirque Christmas”: This family-friendly variety show features stunning acts by acrobats, contortionists and aerialists, performed to a modern soundtrack of Christmas music. CIBC Theatre, Nov. 25-30.
The Second City: Awkward office parties and dysfunctional family gatherings are all fair game in “Holidazed and Amused,” The Second City’s send-up of seasonal chaos; Nov. 26-Jan. 1, 2026. For its younger audiences, the company remounts “Rudolph Runs Wild!,” an interactive revue blending songs, sketch comedy and improv. The Second City
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, Nov. 26-Dec. 31. Plus, “Jack Frost Roasting on an Open Fire” tours to McAninch Arts Center in Glen Ellyn, Dec. 6; Paramount Theatre in Aurora, Nov. 20-Dec. 23.The Annoyance: With two holiday-themed shows in rotation, the comedy club offers a queer take on Dickens in “A Very Steamworks Christmas” (Nov. 28-Dec. 20) and an original musical set in a drama department in “Miracle at Century High School” Nov. 29-Dec. 20, both at The Annoyance
“Who’s Holiday!”: Veronica Garza returns for a fifth season in her Jeff-nominated role as Cindy-Lou Who, a bitter, boozy 40-year-old who spins a sordid tale — in R-rated Seussian rhymes — to set the record straight on that dirty old Grinch. Theater Wit, Nov. 28-Dec. 28.
“That’s Weird, Grandma: Holiday Party!” Kids say, and sometimes write, the darnedest things. In this family-friendly comedy show, PlayMakers Laboratory adapts stories written by Chicago elementary school students into raucous sketches, songs and movement pieces that celebrate the imaginations of young people. Neo-Futurist Theater, Dec. 5-14.
“The Beatrix Potter Holiday Party”: Designed for children up to age 8, this interactive show employs puppetry, music and toy-theater techniques to animate four of Potter’s beloved animal stories, including “The Tale of Pickles and Ginger,” a new offering this year. After the performance, families can enjoy treats, crafts and photo opportunities. Chicago Children’s Theatre, Dec. 6-28.
“The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show”: The musical comedy featuring drag-queen duo BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon returns with a brand-new show, promising campy cabaret and Christmas cheer. Chicago Theatre, Dec. 7.
“Holiday Spirits: A Collection of Victorian Yuletide Ghost Stories”: Where better to tell spooky stories than a 19th century mansion? At the historic Driehaus Museum, Ghostlight Ensemble presents two immersive performances inspired by the Victorian tradition of reading ghost stories by the fireplace. Driehaus Museum, Dec. 11-12.
“’Twas the Night Before …” by Cirque du Soleil: Inspired by the classic poem “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” by Clement-Clarke Moore, this production follows young Isabella on a fantastical journey to rediscover the magic of the season. A cast of 26 delivers dazzling acrobatics, from aerial straps to hoop diving and hair suspension. Chicago Theatre, Dec. 11-28.
Matt Rogers “Christmas in December”: Comedian, actor and writer Matt Rogers — who cohosts the podcast “Las Culturistas” with SNL’s Bowen Yang — takes his fan-favorite holiday tour on the road again, stopping in Chicago for a one-night-only mashup of music and comedy. Vic Theatre, Dec. 19.
Chicago Magic Lounge: With cabaret-style seating and an Art Deco-themed bar and kitchen, this adults-only venue presents a holiday schedule of shows during the week after Christmas, plus two performances on New Year’s Eve. Chicago Magic Lounge, Dec. 26-31.
“IMHO’s New Year’s Eve Party!”: Darby Lynn Cartwright and Alexis P. Bevels, the Los Angeles-based drag queens who host the “IMHO” YouTube series and podcast, ring in the New Year with their new show — a mix of singing, dancing and comedy, with a side of trauma-dumping and videos deemed too naughty for YouTube. The Den Theatre, Dec. 31.
Dance
“The Nutcracker”: For the past decade, Chicagoans have enjoyed a “Nutcracker” that captures an iconic moment in our city’s history. The Joffrey Ballet’s version reimagines Clara as the child of immigrant workers preparing for the 1893 World’s Fair, and the grand exhibits in Jackson Park guide her dreamy journey across the globe. Lyric Opera House, Dec. 5-28. Also, Ruth Page Civic Ballet tours to the Beverly Arts Center on Nov. 22, Governors State University on Dec. 6-7, Northeastern Illinois University on Dec. 13-14 and College of Lake County on Dec. 20-21; Salt Creek Ballet at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts on Dec. 5-6; A&A Ballet at Athenaeum Center on Dec. 6; Ballet 5:8 at Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center on Dec. 6-14; Ballet Chicago at Athenaeum Center on Dec. 12-14 and Harris Theater, Dec. 19-21; Hyde Park School of Dance at Mandel Hall on Dec. 12-14; Milwaukee Ballet at Marcus Performing Arts Center in Milwaukee on Dec. 6-26.
“A Flamenco Christmas”: Early-music ensemble The Newberry Consort partners with Hispanic arts company Arte Puro for an energetic fusion of Spanish flamenco music, Latin American holiday music and live flamenco dancing. Presented in Spanish and English, the program features music of the 16th to 18th centuries, played on traditional instruments. St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, Dec. 5; Galvin Hall in Evanston, Dec. 6, National Museum of Mexican Art, Dec. 7.
“Duke It Out! Nutcracker”: The Music Institute of Chicago’s ensemble-in-residence, Quintet Attacca, teams up with members of Braeburn Brass and Dance Chicago in a one-hour version of “The Nutcracker” that alternates between Tchaikovsky’s original score and the jazz version by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston, Dec. 6.
“Winter Wonderland”: This afternoon of rhythm and dance brings together stars of Chicago’s tap dance community, including M.A.D.D. Rhythms and Chicago Tap Theatre, with brand-new collaborations between Chicago’s premier choreographers and performances by up-and-coming dancers. Harold Washington Cultural Center, Dec. 6.
“Holiday Rhythms”: Chicago Human Rhythm Project showcases its tap-dance expertise in a holiday performance featuring artistic director Jumaane Taylor, co-founder Lane Alexander and dancers Keyana Latimer and Marty Bronson, with live jazz music from the Eric Hochberg Trio and special guests Dee Alexander, Sam Thousand and Brinae Ali Bradley. Jazz Showcase, Dec. 8.
Traditional music
Handel’s “Messiah”: George Frideric Handel’s beloved 18th-century oratorio gets full-length outings from Music of the Baroque, conducted by Dame Jane Glover with Yulia Van Doren, Sasha Cooke, Miles Mykkanen and Will Liverman as vocal soloists. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, Nov. 30; Symphony Center, Dec. 1. The Apollo Chorus of Chicago’s rendition, led by Stephen Alltop, features soloists Emily Birsan, Stephanie Sánchez, James Reese and Peter Morgan. Holy Name Cathedral, Dec. 13; Alice Millar Chapel in Evanston, Dec. 14. More from Music of the Baroque: Holiday Brass & Choral Concerts in River Forest, Chicago, Winnetka and Evanston, Dec. 18-21.
Mark O’Connor’s “An Appalachian Christmas”: The Grammy-winning composer performs on four instruments — fiddle, acoustic guitar, mandolin and mandocello — in a mix of Christmas music and original compositions in bluegrass and Americana styles. His wife and fellow Grammy winner, Maggie O’Connor, joins on the fiddle and vocals. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, Dec. 2.
“Holidays a cappella”: Chicago a Cappella takes a musical journey across continents with unaccompanied carols from England, Australia and Puerto Rico, along with jazz-era hits, contemporary works and a cappella favorites like Pentatonix’s “That’s Christmas to Me.” At each concert, the ensemble will collect donations of food, clothing and essential supplies for local nonprofits. Fourth Presbyterian Church
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, Dec. 5; Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville, Dec. 7; Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston, Dec. 13; Pilgrim Congregational Church in Oak Park, Dec. 14.The Klezmatics: “Happy Joyous Hanukkah”: The Grammy Award-winning klezmer band combines Jewish traditions with influences from jazz, gospel, punk, classical, Latin and Balkan music. In this program, the ensemble revisits its 2006 recording of Woody Guthrie’s “Happy Joyous Hanukkah,” a collection of a dozen songs by the folk singer in collaboration with the Yiddish poet Aliza Greenblatt. Ravinia’s Martin Theatre in Highland Park, Dec. 4. More at Ravinia: COLE in Your Stocking, Dec. 5; Canadian Brass, Dec. 6; A Charlie Brown Christmas, Dec. 7.
“A Mariachi Christmas”: Mariachi Herencia de México, the two-time Latin Grammy-nominated ensemble from Chicago, honors both the magic of Christmas and the cultural vibrancy of Mexico in this Christmas edition of their world tour. Thalia Hall, Dec. 7; Old Town School of Folk Music, Dec. 19-20.
“Porchlight Sings the Season”: Porchlight Music Theatre premieres a new holiday revue of seasonal music from Broadway and Hollywood, starring local musical theater performers Adrian Aguilar, Neala Barron, Sharriese Hamilton and George Keating. Audiences can expect songs from “Mame,” “Meet Me in St. Louis,” “Holiday Inn” and more — plus, warm cookies and an ugly sweater contest. Rhapsody Theater, Dec. 8-9.
“A Merry Little Christmas with Megan Hilty”: The two-time Tony Award nominee, currently starring in the Broadway musical “Death Becomes Her,” performs classic and contemporary holiday tunes along with Broadway favorites in a weekend of solo concerts. Grammy nominee and Hilty’s longtime friend Matt Cusson joins as music director. Steppenwolf Theatre, Dec. 12-13.
“Merry, Merry Chicago”: Guest conductor John Morris Russell leads members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Chorus in a festive program ranging from traditional carols to works by 20th-century American composers such as Margaret Bonds — the Chicagoan who set the poetry of Langston Hughes to music in her Christmas cantata, “The Ballad of the Brown King.” Symphony Center, Dec. 19-23. More at Symphony Center: Vienna Boys Choir, Nov. 29; A Chanticleer Christmas, Dec. 9; Home Alone in Concert, Dec. 12-14; Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass, Dec. 16.
“The Holiday” in Concert: The cozy 2006 romantic comedy starring Jack Black, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law and Kate Winslet plays on the big screen as the Chicago Philharmonic performs Hans Zimmer’s sentimental score live. Auditorium Theatre, Dec. 20.
Pop, rock and jazz
Sleeping at Last’s “Home for the Holidays”: Indie singer-songwriter and Wheaton native Ryan O’Neal, who performs under the moniker Sleeping At Last, joins the Chicago Philharmonic and Chicago Chamber Choir with orchestral arrangements of his Christmas music and pieces from his non-holiday catalog, such as “Turning Page” from “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 1.” Auditorium Theatre, Nov. 29.
Brett Eldredge’s “Glow”: Country star Brett Eldredge performs original songs from his three holiday albums, including the recently released “Merry Christmas (Welcome to the Family),” alongside seasonal standards. Comedian Steven Rogers opens for all three shows. Chicago Theatre, Dec. 4-6. More holiday music at the Chicago Theatre: Straight No Chaser, Nov. 29.
“Holly Dolly Christmas”: The Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus mounts a mighty tribute to Dolly Parton, with nearly 250 singers performing hits by the queen of country — plus choreography, a live band and rhinestones galore. Harris Theater, Dec. 5; Northeastern Illinois University, Dec. 6; North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, Dec. 7.
“A Black Ensemble Holiday Spectacular”: Black Ensemble Theater, known for its high-energy musical performances backed by a live band, presents a family-friendly revue offering soulful renditions of beloved carols, powerful gospel numbers and classic and contemporary holiday tunes. Black Ensemble Theater, Dec. 6-14.
Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas: In a throwback to the 1970s, tribute performer Rick Schuler journeys through John Denver’s acoustic country and folk catalog, from seasonal favorites such as “Aspenglow” to classics like “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” Broadway Playhouse, Dec. 12-14.
A Soulful “Motown Christmas” Concert: The Seven Thirty Theatre, a Chicago-based company dedicated to African American storytelling, presents a festive tribute to Motown and soul music. With a live band and energetic choreography, this revue includes hits by The Temptations, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Diana Ross and The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin and more. Harris Theater, Dec. 13.
The Lovettes’ “Boogie Woogie Santa Claus:” The Chicago-based vocal trio celebrates the golden era of holiday pop with two concerts featuring hits by The Andrews Sisters, The Ronettes, The Supremes, Darlene Love and more. The set list includes “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree,” “Sleigh Ride” and “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.” Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, Dec. 15-16.
Pink Martini All-Stars Present: A Season of Stars: In its all-new holiday show, Pink Martini’s signature blend of classic pop, big band sound and Hollywood glamour provides a smooth backdrop for vocals from three of its longtime collaborators: NPR’s Ari Shapiro, singer-songwriter Edna Vazquez and “America’s Got Talent” finalist Jimmie Herrod. Auditorium Theatre, Dec. 17.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas: Founded by Grammy Award winner Chip Davis, Mannheim Steamroller has spent the past four decades reimagining Christmas music with its distinctive hybrid of orchestral, electronica and rock sounds. The ensemble brings its driving rhythms and flashy production elements to Chicago for two performances only. Nederlander Theatre, Dec. 20.
Emily McClanathan is a freelance writer.