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The 2025 holiday season brings an extraordinary lineup of theatrical magic to Chicago stages. From timeless classics reimagined to innovative new productions, there's truly something for everyone in this year's collection of holiday plays in Chicago. Whether you're seeking heartwarming family traditions, laugh-out-loud comedies, or spectacular musical experiences, Chicago's theatre scene delivers unforgettable entertainment that captures the spirit of the season.
Below are just a handful of highlights, each one a reason to make live theatre part of your celebrations. To explore the complete lineup of Christmas shows in Chicago this season, be sure to visit our Holiday & Christmas Plays in Chicago page.
It's A Wonderful Life Live in Chicago at American Blues Theater
Now celebrating an incredible 24 years as a Chicago holiday tradition, American Blues Theater's It's a Wonderful Life Live in Chicago is an absolute must-see production that has earned its place as the second longest-running holiday show in the city. Running November 21 through December 28, 2025, this enchanting adaptation transforms the beloved Frank Capra film into a 1940s radio broadcast experience complete with original music and cherished holiday carols. Watch as George Bailey's inspiring journey from despair to redemption unfolds in this intimate theatrical setting that has touched the hearts of Chicago audiences for nearly a quarter century. It's more than a show—it's a Chicago institution.A Christmas Carol at Goodman Theatre
No list of Christmas shows in Chicago would be complete without the Goodman Theatre's legendary production of A Christmas Carol. Running November 15 through December 31, 2025, this treasured adaptation has been lifting hearts and spirits for over four decades, welcoming more than a million visitors through its doors. This is the Christmas show that defines Chicago's holiday theatre tradition. From Scrooge's iconic "bah humbugs" to the spine-tingling arrival of the ghosts, from jubilant musical numbers to the protagonist's joyful rediscovery of life and love, every moment sparkles with theatrical magic. After forty years, this production continues to grow merrier and more enchanting, earning its reputation as "the crown jewel of the holiday season."Elf The Musical at Auditorium Theatre
The hilarity and heart of the beloved holiday film comes to vibrant life at the Auditorium Theatre December 2-14, 2025. This all-new touring production, based on the acclaimed 2024 Broadway version, tells Buddy's unforgettable story—from his accidental trip to the North Pole in Santa's toy sack to his fish-out-of-water adventures in New York City searching for his birth father. Critics rave that this production has mastered the art of all-ages comedy, delivering equal doses of laughter for children and adults alike. With its message about rediscovering the true meaning of Christmas, this "sparklejollytwinklejingley" musical promises a gift of an evening for the whole family.Million Dollar Quartet Christmas at Marriott Theatre
Rock 'n' roll meets holiday cheer at the Marriott Theatre from November 5 through January 4, 2026. This festive new musical brings together Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley for a Christmas celebration at Sun Records studio that's overflowing with seasonal spirit and legendary musical talent. Experience classic Christmas favorites alongside the chart-topping hits that made these icons famous, all woven together with stories of Christmas past, present, and future. It's a rollicking good time that puts a fresh spin on holiday entertainment.The Nutcracker presented by Joffrey Ballet at Lyric Opera
The Joffrey Ballet transforms the classic tale into a spectacular journey through Chicago's 1893 World's Fair, running December 5-28, 2025 at the Lyric Opera. Two-time Tony Award-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon has boldly reimagined this holiday masterpiece for contemporary audiences. Join young Marie and her Nutcracker Prince on Christmas Eve as they're whisked away by the mysterious Great Impresario into a realm of wonder and spectacle. This isn't your grandmother's Nutcracker—it's a thrilling reinvention that honors tradition while creating new magic for today's families.Cirque du Soleil - 'Twas The Night Before... at Chicago Theatre
Cirque du Soleil brings its signature blend of acrobatic artistry and theatrical wonder to the Chicago Theatre December 11-28, 2025. This exhilarating reimagining of the classic Christmas poem follows Isabella, a skeptical young girl who finds herself transported to a topsy-turvy world inspired by "A Visit from St. Nicholas." Through breathtaking performances and imaginative storytelling, this production celebrates the power of sharing and friendship while creating the kind of unforgettable memories that define the holiday season. Experience Christmas magic as only Cirque du Soleil can deliver it.Manual Cinema's Christmas Carol at The Studebaker Theater
Innovation meets tradition at The Studebaker Theater December 12-28, 2025, where Manual Cinema presents a groundbreaking theatrical experience unlike any other. This unique production follows Aunt Trudy, a holiday skeptic channeling her late husband's Christmas spirit over a family Zoom call, as her retelling of the Scrooge story takes on unexpected life. Through the combined artistry of actors, puppeteers, musicians, and live cinema, Manual Cinema elevates Dickens's timeless ghost story to stunning new heights. After the remarkable success of their online version, this in-person production promises to establish itself as a new Chicago holiday tradition.Mika Scrooge at eta
UrbanBroadwayTheatre presents a bold and contemporary take on A Christmas Carol at eta Creative Arts Foundation December 12-14, 2025. Now in its third year, this original production reimagines the classic tale through the perspective of a female music producer navigating grief, ghostly visitations, and ultimately forgiveness. Set in Chicago's fictional OakParkVille West suburb, this ensemble piece blends music and memory to create a fresh interpretation that resonates with modern audiences while honoring the story's timeless themes of redemption and transformation.The Real Housewives of The North Pole at The Clutch
Hell In A Handbag Productions delivers outrageous holiday comedy at The Clutch from November 20 through January 4, 2026. When Santa and the North Pole elite face fraud indictments, their privileged spouses must find a way to save their families from financial disaster. Enter Andy Cohen and Bravo with the perfect solution: reality television! Watch Mrs. Ruth Claus, Mrs. Frosty The Snowman, Suzy Snowflake, and Gladys Dasher compete for fame and fortune in this hilariously irreverent sendup of reality TV culture. It's deliciously campy holiday entertainment for adults who like their Christmas with a side of satire.White Christmas at Paramount Theatre
The Paramount Theatre presents this iconic musical spectacular running November 12 through January 11, 2026. Follow former WWII GIs Bob and Phil, now a celebrated song-and-dance duo, as they travel to a charming Vermont ski resort and meet the talented sister act Betty and Judy. When they discover the resort is owned by their beloved former General who's facing financial ruin, they do what entertainers do best—put on a show! Expect epic dance numbers, dazzling costumes, and a finale performance of "White Christmas" so moving it will make you believe in the magic of the season all over again.Mrs. Claus! A Holiday Musical Beverly Arts Center and Stahl Family Theater
Mrs. Claus! A Holiday Musical Beverly Arts Center and Stahl Family TheaterChicago Kids Company brings family-friendly fun to Beverly Arts Center and Stahl Family Theater December 3-23, 2025. When Santa's all-important list goes missing just before Christmas, Mrs. Claus teams up with the Elf Class of 2025 to track it down and save the holiday. This colorful, high-energy production designed specifically for young audiences promises mystery, adventure, and plenty of holiday spirit. Will Mrs. Claus crack the case in time? There's only one way to find out in this delightful show that's perfect for introducing children to the magic of live theatre.
Who's Holiday! at Theater Wit
Theater Wit offers adults-only holiday entertainment November 28 through December 28, 2025, with this wildly funny and surprisingly heartfelt comedy. Cindy Lou Who is all grown up, and she's got quite a story to tell about that fateful Christmas Eve she met the Grinch—and the twisted turns her life has taken since. This irreverent yet touching production takes the familiar Whoville characters in unexpected directions, delivering both outrageous humor and genuine emotional depth. It's the perfect choice for adults seeking holiday theatre with an edge.These remarkable productions represent just a sampling of the incredible holiday plays in Chicago this season. From century-old classics to contemporary innovations, from family-friendly spectacles to adult-oriented comedies, the city's theatre community has created a festival of entertainment that celebrates every facet of the holiday spirit. To explore the complete lineup of festive productions and plan your perfect holiday theatre experience, visit our Holiday Shows in Chicago page for the full calendar of seasonal performances throughout the city.