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When the weather turns cold, Chicago’s stages heat up, bringing the magic of the holidays to the spotlight. Audiences of all ages can embrace holiday cheer in every corner of the city, from downtown theatre venues to neighborhood playhouses.
Iconic musicals, graceful ballets, and show-stopping productions — whatever puts you in the holiday mood, Chicago’s performing arts scene delivers with festive flair. Celebrate the season with these must-see winter shows, and check out our events calendar for even more holiday magic.
A Christmas Carol
Goodman Theatre
Nov. 15 – Dec. 31, 2025
Between ghostly visits and joyful revelations, A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre channels the holiday spirit with heart and humor. This cherished Chicago tradition brings Charles Dickens’s classic tale to the stage with stunning performances, enchanting sets, and heartfelt moments that capture the season’s true spirit. Perfect for all ages. Get tickets.
It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago!
American Blues Theater
Nov. 21 – Dec. 28, 2025
Experience the magic of It’s a Wonderful Life, where George Bailey’s timeless story unfolds in a unique 1940s radio broadcast style. With original music and holiday carols, this heartwarming classic has captivated audiences for nearly 25 years, becoming a signature highlight in Chicago’s winter lineup. Best for ages 6+. Get tickets.
Rudolph Runs Wild
The Second City
Nov. 28 – Dec. 31, 2025
Bring the whole family to Rudolph Runs Wild by The Second City for a fun-filled holiday comedy extravaganza! Enjoy a mix of traditional and new family-friendly songs, sketches, and world-famous improv hijinks. This interactive theatrical experience invites audience participation and promises laughter and holiday memories for all ages. Get tickets.
The Nutcracker
Lyric Opera House
Dec. 5 – 28, 2025
Let The Nutcracker sweep you away, as the Joffrey Ballet reimagines this holiday favorite against the backdrop of Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair. On Christmas Eve, young Marie’s imagination takes flight as she joins the Nutcracker prince on a fantastical journey. Award-winning Christopher Wheeldon’s spellbinding choreography brings Tchaikovsky’s iconic score to life. A visual feast of lavish costumes and breathtaking sets, this seasonal hallmark welcomes theatergoers of every generation. Get tickets.
Elf The Musical
The Auditorium Theatre
Dec. 2 – 14, 2025
Buddy the Elf is back — and he’s bringing big laughs, big heart, and a whole lot of holiday cheer. Inspired by the beloved film, Elf The Musical follows Buddy’s adventure from the North Pole to New York City in a joyful tale of family, belonging, and Christmas magic. Perfect for kids ages 5+, this all-new tour turns up the holiday cheer with a story that’s as sweet as it is silly. Get tickets.
Manual Cinema’s Christmas Carol
Studebaker Theater
Dec. 12 – 28, 2025
Enjoy an unforgettable holiday classic at the historic Studebaker Theater with Manual Cinema’s unique rendition of A Christmas Carol. This innovative performance combines handmade puppetry and live music to bring Charles Dickens’s timeless tale to life. Get tickets.
Straight No Chaser
The Chicago Theatre
Nov. 29, 2025
Get ready for a sleigh-full of festive fun as a cappella group Straight No Chaser heads out on their Holiday Road Tour — a high-energy celebration of seasonal favorites. Known for their stunning renditions of pop classics and modern hits, this ensemble promises to celebrate the season with a holiday hits setlist featuring their soaring vocals and pitch-perfect harmonies. Get tickets.
‘Twas the Night Before…
The Chicago Theatre
Dec. 11 – 28, 2025
In ‘Twas the Night Before…, Cirque du Soleil transforms a timeless poem into a mesmerizing spectacle of acrobatics, music, and emotion. As Isabella journeys through a snowy dreamscape to reunite with her father, she rediscovers the joy of tradition and the warmth of togetherness. Featuring gravity-defying aerial feats and holiday songs with a twist, this family-friendly show enchants audiences of all ages. Get tickets.
Mrs. Claus! A Holiday Musical
Beverly Arts Center
Dec. 3 – 23, 2025
Move aside, Santa — it’s Mrs. Claus’s turn in the spotlight. Mrs. Claus! A Holiday Musical follows the namesake matron as she takes charge of the holiday season with style, sass, and catchy songs. A festive treat for kids and grown-ups alike, this uplifting musical celebrates the unsung hero of Christmas with toe-tapping tunes and lovable characters. Get tickets.
Merry, Merry Chicago!
Symphony Center Orchestra Hall
Dec. 19 – 23, 2025
The holidays hit a high note at Orchestra Hall as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus perform beloved carols and seasonal favorites. Full of festive surprises, Merry, Merry Chicago! will leave you humming all the way home. Come experience the music — and the magic — of the holidays. Get tickets.
A Christmas with C.S. Lewis
Broadway Playhouse
Dec. 16 – 21, 2025
Enter the cozy study of C.S. Lewis in 1962, where the beloved author welcomes a group of guests for an evening of storytelling, wit, and reflection. A Christmas with C.S. Lewis invites audiences into an intimate theatrical experience, as Lewis shares the moments and relationships that shaped his life — all through the lens of the holiday season. Get tickets.
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Party
Chicago Children’s Theatre
Dec. 6 – 28, 2025
Hop into the holidays with Peter Rabbit and pals in this interactive trunk and puppet show. Beatrix Potter’s endearing tales spring to life through puppetry and interactive storytelling. With gentle narration, original music, and moments of audience participation, it’s a delightful experience for little ones and their grown-ups. After the curtain call, head to the lobby for a puppet meet-and-greet and festive party filled with holiday cheer and treats. Get tickets.
Who’s Holiday!
Theater Wit
Nov. 28 – Dec. 28, 2025
Who’s Holiday! serves up a madcap tale of heartbreak and holiday havoc. A grown-up Cindy Lou Who throws back cocktails and spills the scandalous tea on her life after the Grinch. This wildly entertaining, adults-only holiday comedy is equal parts raunchy, ridiculous, and unexpectedly heartfelt. Get tickets.
More holiday shows in Chicago
Don’t forget to check out the events calendar for a full list of theatre and performing arts events happening in Chicago.
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