As the holiday season approaches, Boston becomes a vibrant hub of festive performances and events. From timeless classics to contemporary spectacles, the city’s theaters and concert halls offer diverse shows to delight audiences of all ages. Here’s a curated list of must-see performances this Season:
1. Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet, The Nutcracker, presented by the Boston Ballet. This enchanting production runs at the Citizens Bank Opera House from November 29 to December 29, 2024. Audiences will be captivated by the stunning choreography and elaborate sets that bring this holiday classic to life.
2. Urban Nutcracker
Anthony Williams’ Urban Nutcracker offers a modern, Boston-centric twist on the traditional ballet. Set against the backdrop of present-day downtown Boston, this performance blends classical dance with urban flair. Catch it at the Shubert Theatre from December 14 to December 22, 2024.
3. Black Nativity
Celebrating its 54th Season, Langston Hughes’ Black Nativity returns to Boston from December 6 through December 22, 2024. This powerful performance presents the traditional Christmas story through a compelling combination of gospel music, dance, and narrative, offering a unique cultural experience.
4. Holiday Pops
Join the Boston Pops for their annual Holiday Pops concerts, a cherished tradition featuring festive music and holiday cheer. Performances are scheduled throughout December at Symphony Hall, with a special Kids’ Matinee on December 8, 2024. Enjoy classics like “Jingle Bells,” “The 12 Days of Christmas,” and “Sleigh Ride” in a family-friendly atmosphere.
5. A Christmas Carol
Commonwealth Shakespeare Company brings a dazzling new production of Dickens’s timeless tale, A Christmas Carol, to Boston’s Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre. Performances run from December 8 to December 22, 2024, offering audiences a heartwarming journey through Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformative Christmas Eve.
6. The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show
Take advantage of The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show for a dose of holiday humor. Dubbed “The Queens of Christmas” by Entertainment Weekly, Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme bring their festive extravaganza to Boston on December 14, 2024. Expect a night of comedy, music, and holiday camp.
7. Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas, One and All!
The queen of Christmas, Mariah Carey, will perform at TD Garden on December 5, 2024. This concert is part of her “Merry Christmas One and All!” tour, promising an evening filled with holiday hits and fan favorites.
8. Home Alone in Concert
Experience the beloved holiday film Home Alone like never before, with the Boston Pops performing John Williams’ score live to picture. This special event occurs from December 27 to December 29, 2024, at Symphony Hall, offering a delightful post-Christmas treat for the whole family.
9. The Snow Queen by Grand Kyiv Ballet
The Grand Kyiv Ballet presents The Snow Queen, adapted from Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairy tale that inspired Disney’s Frozen. Set to the melodies of composers such as Edvard Grieg, Jules Massenet, Mozart, and Vivaldi, this heartwarming performance is scheduled for December 20, 2024.
10. Deck The Hall Ball
‘Tis the Season! Deck The Hall Ball returns to Agganis Arena on Saturday, December 14, 2024, featuring a stacked lineup, including Teddy Swims, The Fray, and Mark Ambor. This festive concert is sure to get you into the holiday spirit.
This holiday season, immerse yourself in Boston’s rich cultural offerings. Whether revisiting a cherished classic or discovering a new favorite, the city’s performances promise to make your holidays truly memorable.





