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As Chicago enters December, there’s no better way to embrace the festivities than by attending a holiday show in chicago. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite performances you won’t want to miss while you’re in town. From Andrew Bird to The Nutcracker, here are the best holiday shows in Chicago.
5 must-see holiday shows in Chicago
Andrew Bird’s Gezelligheid Holiday Concerts
Grammy-nominated artist Andrew Bird is returning this December in Chicago with his annual Gezelligheid Holiday Concerts. These intimate performances, named after the Dutch word for “cozy,” have become a cherished part of Chicago’s holiday season since 2009. The concert features a mix of instrumental violin pieces, holiday classics, and fan favorites.
📍 Location: Fourth Presbyterian Church, Chicago
🗓️ Dates: December 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 13
The Nutcracker
The Joffrey Ballet is back with its critically acclaimed production of The Nutcracker this December. Choreographed by two-time Tony Award® winner Christopher Wheeldon, this reimagined classic tells the story of an immigrant family during the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. The performance features live music by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Scott Speck, Music Director of The Joffrey Ballet.
📍 Location: Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago
🗓️ Dates: December 5–28, 2024
Experience The Holiday in Concert with the Chicago Philharmonic
Experience Nancy Meyers’ The Holiday in a whole new way. The live-to-film experience with the Chicago Philharmonic will be unforgettable. Watch the Christmas classic and listen to the score of world-renowned composer Hans Zimmer in a whole new way.
📍 Location: Auditorium Theatre, Chicago
🗓️ Date: December 20, 2025
Candlelight Christmas Concerts
Get ready for a whole roster of holiday-themed and Candlelight Chicago Christmas concerts brought to life by talented musicians as thousands of candles illuminate the room. They have decked the halls with bells and holly, ready for you to enjoy an evening at venues like Stan Mansion, Salvage One, Wicker Park Lutheran Church, and St Luke’s Episcopal Church.
📍 Location: Various spots
🗓️ Dates: December 11—December 30, 2025
Elf The Musical
If you love watching Elf every year, then you’ll love the Elf the musical.
The Musical follows Buddy’s adventure from the North Pole to New York City in a joyous tale of family, belonging, and Christmas magic.
📍 Location: The Auditorium Theatre
🗓️ Dates: December 2—14, 2025