Holiday & Christmas Plays in Chicago

Now a beloved Chicago tradition, The Goodman Theatre ushers in the holiday season with its adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic holiday story A Christmas Carol. Audiences look forward to the "bah humbugs," the electrifying arrival of the ghosts, the jubilant musical numbers and dancing, and Scrooge's joyful rediscovery of life, love and the Christmas spirit. Goodman's Carol continues to lift heats and spirits after four decades more than a million visitors, and the timeless holiday tale promises to be merrier and more magical than ever. The Daily Herald says the play is "the crown jewel of the holiday season" -- find out for yourself or relive the magic again.

ELF THE MUSICAL, inspired by the hit film, is the hilarious and heartwarming tale of Buddy, a young orphan child whose life is changed forever when he mistakenly crawls into Santa's sack of toys one Christmas Eve. When he discovers he is human, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and, in turn, helps the Big Apple rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. This all-new tour, based on the acclaimed 2024 Broadway production, was hailed by The New York Times, which said, "The show has CRACKED THE CODE OF ALL-AGES COMEDY, the kind that will leave children and grown-ups equally helpless with laughter," and celebrated in The New Yorker, "It's enough to MAKE YOU BELIEVE IN THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS." This modern-day holiday classic, says The Daily Beast, "is a gift for kids and adults, and a very 'sparklejollytwinklejingley' night out!"

George Bailey - the Everyman from small town Bedford Falls whose dreams of escape and adventure were stopped by family obligation and civic duty - has fallen onto desperate times. Only a miracle can save him from despair. Filled with original music and classic holiday carols, this warm "holiday favorite makes the bell ring every time." (Chicago Tribune) For nearly 25 years, American Blues has treated audiences to a live retelling of the Frank Capra classic in a 1940s radio broadcast tradition, making It's a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! the second longest-running holiday play in Chicago!

THE LONG CHRISTMAS DINNER - nine decades long in just one 75-minute act - showcases the lives of several generations of the Bayard family. Wilder breaks the boundaries of time as we measure it, and invites us to partake in "one long, happy Christmas dinner" - past, present and future. As generations appear, have children, wither, and depart, only the audience sees what changes and what remains the same. Join TUTA for this lively and musical holiday production, and reflect on life, death, and the family traditions we celebrate and endure with TUTA's ensemble.

From the creators of MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, your favorite Rock 'n' Roll legends return this Christmas for a brand-new holiday musical experience. Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley come together again to celebrate the holidays at Sun Records studio, filled to the brim with Christmas cheer and enough musical talent to power a city grid. Jam-packed with the sounds of the season and the chart toppers that made the "Million Dollar Quartet" famous, the gang is up to their usual antics as we journey through stories of Christmas past, present, and future.

Witness the magical 1893 Chicago World's Fair with young Marie and her Nutcracker Prince in two-time Tony Award winning choreographer Wheeldon's holiday masterpiece. It's a celebratory Christmas Eve, and thanks to a surprise visit from the enchanting Great Impresario, Marie embarks on a spellbinding adventure into a realm of spectacle and wonder. Experience our holiday magic in this must-see tradition boldly reimagined for a new generation.

There’s nowhere star of Broadway stage and screen, Anthony Rapp (Rent, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, Star Trek: Discovery) would rather be than home in Chicago for the Holidays this December! Experience an intimate holiday cabaret at Lookingglass Theatre accompanied by Rick Bertone and joined by some of Chicago’s favorite voices – this is a unique night that will leave you feeling merry and bright!

Three charming storytellers unlock four vintage trunks, pull levers and turn cranks to reveal your family's favorite Beatrix Potter animal adventures. In proper English accent and period costumes, the actors weave toy theater magic with Beatrix Potter’s classic narration while recruiting kids to chime in at interactive moments, all accompanied by a veritable one-man-band playing original music on guitar, banjo, cello and toy piano.

Get ready to deck the halls and lift your spirits with Black Ensemble's Holiday Spectacular-a heartwarming, high-energy musical celebration perfect for the whole family! Featuring your favorite Black Ensemble performers, this dazzling show is packed with classic and contemporary holiday hits that will have you singing along, dancing in your seat, and feeling the joy of the season.

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Chicago. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Christmas Carols on Strings at Chicago Cultural Centre under the gentle glow of candlelight.

Now over 200 years old, Charles Dickens finds himself once again booked to perform his overly familiar Christmas tale just as he has every December since 1853. Dickens, however, has other ideas. Perhaps he'll get his wish of simply hosting a festive holiday party. Or, perhaps, the Spirits of Christmas might intervene to give him what he really needs: a chance to rediscover the beauty in his work - and the joy of sharing it with an audience - one more time.

Brush up on your Yuletide trivia, watch as audience members play for actual prizes in this uniquely interactive show. Laugh as the show tackles the wackiest myths and most outrageous facts about Christmas, including jolly old St. Nick's origins and where candy canes come from. There’s also a hilarious quiz pitting boys against girls on stage to see who knows the most about the holiday season! Watch and laugh from the comfort of your own home!

Set in Victorian-era London, Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol tells the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts that visit him one fateful Christmas Eve hoping to change his miserly ways. Continue your tradition or start a new one by gathering the whole family for the 30th anniversary of Drury Lane Theatre's heartwarming production. Complete with falling snow and magical illusions, the play is a visually-stunning experience and, at one hour long, perfect for children of all ages.

Charles Dickens' enchanting tale of redemption and hope comes to life in Arlington Heights' favorite holiday tradition. On a snowy Christmas Eve brimming with memorable characters, ghostly apparitions and splendid holiday music, miserly Ebenezer Scrooge visits the past, present and future to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre's updated, record-breaking production returns with enough magic, joy and Christmas spirit to delight audiences of all ages.

In the early years of his young adult life C.S. Lewis believed the story of Christ's birth was nothing more than feel-good myth. That all changed after a particular encounter with his great friend and fellow author, J.R.R. Tolkien. Although both men loved mythology in general, Tolkien was convinced that the Jesus myth was the one true myth. That was the start of Lewis' journey from Atheism to Christianity. From that point on, Christmas, for Lewis, took on an entirely different meaning. Here we find him at his home near Oxford on Christmas Eve hosting a group of Americans who are spending the holiday in England. They are about to experience an unforgettable assortment of Yuletide recollections which stimulates a whole range of emotions - curiosity, laughter, gladness and even some tears. Above all, they will discover how that encounter with Tolkien forever changed his Christmas celebrations.

'Twas the Night Before... is an exhilarating spin on the beloved Christmas classic as only Cirque du Soleil could imagine. This festive show about the wonders of sharing and friendship promises to spark lasting memories in the hearts of families this holiday season. Join Isabella, a curious girl who's become jaded by the hoopla surrounding Christmas, as she is whisked away to an upside-down, inside-out world where she meets characters inspired by the original timeless poem.

an original play for young audiences. The Cozy Cabin Tales is a series of wintry fables and folktales, as told by a group of friends waiting out a snowstorm in their cabin. With only a small fire to keep them warm, to pass the time, they bring their fantastical tales to life. While listening to the stories, they’re also learning some real-life lessons along the way. A heartwarming way to spend an hour with the family this holiday season.

The story of "Elf" begins one fateful Christmas Eve, when an orphaned baby boy accidentally crawls into Santa's sack of toys. When he's discovered upon Santa's return to the North Pole, a childless elf volunteers raise him. But growing up, Buddy the Elf, being human, doesn't make toys very well (he also keeps hitting his head on the rafters); so, when Buddy's birth father is discovered living in New York City, Buddy is dispatched from the North Pole to live with him. Once there, he thaws the hearts of gruff New Yorkers, and helps the Big Apple rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.

Georgiana and Kitty, two best friends who have been overshadowed by older siblings, find their own adventure and new relationships. In true Austen form, there are letters that reveal secrets, arranged engagements and meddlesome siblings. Nothing, however, will stop these determined friends from forging their own way in a holiday tale filled with music, ambition and sisterhood. Talkin' Broadway calls "Georgiana and Kitty" "...a lesson in staying true to oneself and a testament to the powerful things that women can accomplish;" and the San Mateo Journal calls it, "A joyful, uplifting way to celebrate the holidays." Whether an Austen fan or a first timer to the series, this play will be a charming holiday treat.

a sketch comedy show that has been running for over 15 years brings a drinking game to the audience. The actors will be sure to tell you the drinking games, or you can follow along with the “DRINK” light on stage! Happy Holly-Daze is a staple in Chicago comedy and each year brings new Holiday themed sketches front and center.

Are you tired of the same-old holiday reruns? Then skip them and dash to The Second City to see our holiday hit Holidazed and Amused! What better way to send off 2025 than to roast it like chestnuts on an open fire? Festive family gatherings, office parties, classic holiday movies... nothing is off limits! The Second City proudly continues its 65 year tradition of delivering innovative, fast-paced satirical comedy with this fresh take on festive fun. Stuffed with seasonal songs, sketches, and of course, a generous helping of our world-famous improv comedy, it's a holiday show you can actually look forward to!

Experience unmatched holiday cheer with Frank Capra's beloved classic film, "It's a Wonderful Life," reimagined as a captivating live radio play, complete with foley sound effects and set in Oil Lamp's WBFR radio studio. Journey to Bedford Falls, where George Bailey's troubles lead him to wish he was never born. Clarence, an angel sent to intervene, steps in to make his wishes come true and George quickly learns just how many lives he has touched and just how blessed he really is.

The holiday season continues with WGSU's annual tradition, It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. Rediscover the magic of Frank Capra's timeless masterpiece, It's a Wonderful Life, in a fun and immersive way. With the help of an ensemble led by the Center's staff, this live radio play adaptation takes you back in time to the 1940s, perfect for the whole family, as you become part of a live studio audience attending a radio broadcast of this beloved holiday tale.

Your classic holiday family gatherings, office parties, movies, and Mariah Carey on infinite repeat will be severely lampooned in this fast-paced, interactive comedy revue stuffed with seasonal songs, sketches, and, of course, a heaping slice of our world-famous improv comedy. Warm your heart with the most “wonderful” show of the year.

1 actor. 19 characters. 90 minutes of rousing good cheer! In Dickens' Christmas Carol, Scrooge gets a chance to amend his ways, but what happened to his partner Jacob Marley? Find out in Lifeline Theatre's production of Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol, a one-man show written by Goodman Theatre's own Scrooge, Tom Mula, featuring a Jeff-nominated performance by longtime Chicago actor and Lifeline ensemble member, Phil Timberlake.

Award-winning comedy icons, writers, actors, and drag queen powerhouses BenDeLaCreme & Jinkx Monsoon are coming back to town with the wildly successful, internationally acclaimed, "The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show." Throughout the show's history Jinkx and DeLa have met sentient Christmas treats, twisted space-time with Dickensian Ghosts, escaped the meta clutches of their own holiday traditions, and led a harrowing rescue mission in the Nutcracker's Land of Sweets - You never know what wild and unexpected sleigh ride these queens have in store.

A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS , the ultimate holiday variety show will mesmerize, twist, flip, and jingle all the way to Chicago this holiday season. Showcasing the world's top cirque talent, the cast of world-class acrobats, contortionists, and aerialists will push the boundaries of imagination where gravity is defied and human potential knows no limits-taking audiences on a dazzling, winter wonderland journey where the performers are supported by a captivating musical score that will tug at your heartstrings, elevate your spirit and have you tapping your foot and singing along to hit Christmas songs in the ultimate variety extravaganza. This festive show entertains audiences of all ages making it a perfect date night, fun family adventure, or group outing.

"Mannheim Steamroller Christmas" by Chip Davis has been America's favorite holiday tradition for over 35 years! Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics along with a selection of compositions from Chip's groundbreaking Fresh Aire series which introduced the distinctive Mannheim sound to all of America. The program celebrates the group's recent anniversary of 35 years since the first Christmas album and over 40 years since the first Fresh Aire album and includes dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting. Experience the magic as the spirit of the season comes alive with the signature sound of Mannheim Steamroller.

An avowed holiday skeptic, Aunt Trudy has been recruited to channel her late husband Joe's famous Christmas cheer over a Zoom call with family. But as Trudy becomes more absorbed in her own version of the Ebeneezer Scrooge story, the puppets take on a life of their own, and the family's call transforms into a stunning cinematic adaptation of Dickens's classic ghost story. After the stunning success of its online Christmas Carol, Manual Cinema uses its groundbreaking creativity and powerful storytelling to elevate one of the most famous holiday stories ever told to new heights in this unique theatrical experience. Featuring the combined talents of actors, puppeteers and musicians, come experience a new holiday tradition unlike anything else you've seen before.

Steppenwolf Theatre and Mark Cortale invite you to ring in the holidays with A Merry Little Christmas with Megan Hilty. Join the two-time Tony Award nominee and her longtime friend and music director Matt Cusson as they weave together classic and contemporary holiday tunes along with Broadway favorites - all sure to get you in the spirit of the season!

Mika Scrooge is a bold reimagining of A Christmas Carol, told through the lens of a female Music Producer through grief, ghosts, and forgiveness. Now in its third year, this original production blends music, memory, and ensemble storytelling rooted in Chicago's Fictional OakParkVille West suburb.

The Nowaks of Buffalo, NY, have always believed in their family's miraculous Christmas Eve story—until Ruth decides to turn it into a one-woman show, only to have a deathbed confession threaten to unravel the legend. As the truth emerges, the Nowaks must face their faith, family and hilarious truths in this heartfelt comedy.

It's almost Christmas, and Santa's list is missing! Join Mrs. Claus and the Elf Class of 2025 as they try to find it in time to save Christmas. Who stole the list? How will they get it back? Will Mrs. Claus save the day? Chicago Kids Company's biggest and most colorful show will put you in the Holiday Spirit in no time!

The all-star cast of Airotic Soiree is back in Chicago this December with a brand-new holiday spectacular: Naughty Noel. Sip on festive cocktails, choose from the restaurant's exceptional menu, and surrender to the season's most seductive celebration, where world-class acrobats, dazzling dancers, and sensual spirits take you on a holiday adventure filled with daring stunts, mesmerizing beauty, and a hint of mischief.

This Christmas, bring the whole family back to a simpler time with NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet! The acclaimed holiday tradition is live in theaters for the 30th anniversary tour. Gather friends and family to relive your fondest childhood memories. NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet is overflowing with larger than life puppets, breathtaking acrobatics and dazzling costumes. Experience the exquisite artistry of the international cast featuring dancers from all over the world performing at the highest level of classical technique. Share in the message of peace and harmony and get your tickets now!

Porchlight Sings the Season celebrates the holidays with music from Broadway and Hollywood with Porchlight luminaries performing songs from Mame, Meet Me in St. Louis, Holiday Inn and others. This premiere offers a musical respite from the holiday stress with an unforgettable evening of festive entertainment, sing-alongs, a salute to Chicago holidays past, warm cookies, an ugly holiday sweater contest and more to warm up the season with festive and nostalgic entertainment for the whole family.

The North Pole is in trouble. Santa and all the North Pole power players are indicted for fraud and it's up to the women to try and save their families from financial ruin. But how? Years of wealth and privilege have left them with a lot of designer clothes and jewelry, but little else. Luckily, Andy Cohen and the Bravo network swoop in to save the day with the perfect showcase for those with no talent or skills - reality television! Join Mrs. Ruth Claus, Mrs. Frosty The Snowman, Suzy Snowflake, Gladys Dasher, and others as they claw their way to instant fame.

Step into the spirit of the season with ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH EXPERIENCE A JOHN DENVER CHRISTMAS - an intimate, nostalgic journey back to the 1970s, when John Denver's music filled the airwaves and hearts across the country. Led by acclaimed performer Rick Schuler, this enchanting holiday concert features beloved Denver classics like "Rocky Mountain High," "Take Me Home, Country Roads," "Annie's Song," and "Sunshine On My Shoulders." The evening also includes a heartfelt tribute to Denver's iconic holiday specials, with seasonal favorites such as "Aspenglow," "Silent Night," "Joy to the World," and "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire." Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering Denver's music for the first time, this show will leave you feeling inspired and full of holiday cheer. A true celebration for all ages-don't miss the unforgettable event that brings the magic of John Denver to life.

Share silliness this holiday season with Rudolph Runs Wild... a jolly extravaganza for kids, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and reindeer of all ages! Featuring a fun and festive blend of family-friendly songs and sketches from The Second City's rich comedy archives, fresh new material written specifically for young audiences, and - of course - the ridiculous improv hijinks The Second City is world famous for. Brighten your winter with this one-of-a-kind interactive theatrical experience offering audience members, young and old, the chance to enjoy the comedy fun both from their seats and by joining The Second City performers onstage! Make hilarious holiday memories with The Second City's Rudolph Runs Wild...

Originally presented at the Arie Crown Theatre from 1965 until 1997, this production recreates highlights from Ruth Page’s beloved original full-length staging. It features exquisite dancing, world-renowned guest artists, stunning costumes and magical settings in the Land of Snow and Land of Sweets.

Salt Creek Ballet's The Nutcracker marches back onto the North Shore Center stage with an affordable full-length holiday production performed in the grand tradition by a professional company with exceptional guest soloists! For a holiday production that first delighted audiences way back in 1892, Salt Creek Ballet's The Nutcracker demonstrates how to make this historic ballet and holiday tradition just as accessible and relevant today. The Nutcracker is the perfect way to introduce young children to the power and beauty of classical dance.

Come dashing through the snow to the best elfing holiday experience this side of the North Pole! Explore a winter wonderland with eight immersive installations in search of Santa's vintage speakeasy (shh, don't tell Mrs Claus). Along the way, you'll find everything from naughty gingerbread girls and rugged lumberjacks to living snow globes. Then, once you stumble into Santa's speakeasy, enjoy Christmas cocktails, delicious food and a live band. The night concludes with an eye-popping variety show with a mix of ballet, burlesque and unique, jaw-dropping acts in which all of Santa's wildest secrets are revealed! You'll be laughing, singing along, and getting your buzz on.

Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson travel to the country to spend the holidays with an old army comrade of Watson's. What they don't know is that one of the other guests at this English manor is a notorious international thief. When a priceless present is stolen during a Christmas pantomime, can Sherlock discover the culprit before the curtain falls? Carols, courtship and comedy bring cheer to the cold winter in this holiday treat.

That's Weird, Grandma features adaptations of stories written during PML's creative writing residencies in Chicago elementary schools. PML's ensemble of professional actors, comedians and musicians bring the young authors' stories to life as raucous sketches, songs and movement pieces, performing first for students in their schools and then for the public. These stories - from hilarious dialogues between unlikely characters to poignant pleas for social change, along with holiday-inspired stories - resonate with adults while celebrating the imaginations of young people.

A festive celebration for the whole family! Join us for an enchanting night featuring the delightful voices of the Metropolis Children’s Choir, captivating performances by Chicago stars, and the incredible talent of the finest Chicago Musicians. Plus, be enchanted by two rising young performers singing all your favorite holiday tunes.

Pageantry and spectacle come to life in this iconic holiday musical. World War II is over, and former GIs Bob and Phil have become a highly popular song-and-dance team. The men travel to a quaint ski resort in Vermont where they meet Betty and Judy, an equally talented up-and-coming sister act. Once there, they realize the mountain resort is owned by their former General, who is on the brink of losing it all. "Let's put on a show in the barn!" is the classic answer to help the beloved General save his business, culminating with epic dance numbers, spectacular costumes and a finale rendition of "White Christmas" that will make you a believer.

Who's Holiday! is a wildly funny and heartfelt adults-only comedy that tells the story of Cindy Lou Who as she recalls that Christmas Eve she first met the Grinch and the twisted turn of events her life has now taken.

Audiences will enjoy an amazing afternoon of rhythm and dance for all with the Chicago Tap Allstars at Winter Wonderland. The festive event will feature stars of Chicago's tap dance community, including M.A.D.D. Rhythms, Chicago Tap Theatre, brand new collaborations between Chicago's premiere tap choreographers and performances by the youth following in their footsteps. Held at the Harold Washington Cultural Center, a perfect venue for this unforgettable matinee, experience the magic of tap dancing in person.