9 Performances in Dallas to Bring Holiday Cheer
Embrace the sounds of the season with concerts and musicals representing all genres.
There's nothing quite like holiday music - from bouncy numbers like "Jingle Bells" to slower, nostalgic classics such as "I'll Be Home for Christmas" - to get you in the holiday spirit, so check out these performances this December.
Dallas Symphony Orchestra (DSO) concerts in December
December 3-22
All generations of Dallasites love the hometown tradition called "Christmas Pops" at the Meyerson, boasting everyone's favorite holiday melodies and carols played by world-class musicians. An appearance by Old Saint Nick paired with some "snow" really brings the magic of the season. The DSO also offers "Family Christmas Pops" on Dec. 4, which is an especially kid-friendly version of the performance, complete with children's activities prior. Catch the "Big Brassy Christmas & Organ Extravaganza" on Dec. 14, highlighting the DSO's brass and percussion musicians and the Lay Family Concert Organ. During the weekend of Dec. 17, DSO offers "Hollywood Holidays," featuring tunes from some of the most celebrated holiday film soundtracks. No matter which show you choose, the quality will be top-notch, and you'll leave feeling festive! Purchase tickets here.
Reliant Lights Your Holidays
December 4
Venture to the Dallas Arts District the first weekend of December for a concert including tributes to arena rock and the late Latina artist Selena, as well as kid's crafts and lots of beautiful holiday lights. While not your traditional "Christmas concert," the event at the AT&T Performing Arts Center has all you need for a memorable night out on the town, holiday-style. Bonus: it's free, and Santa will be there! Learn more here.
"The Nutcracker"
December 9-12
Follow Clara through her journey during the holiday classic performed at Moody Performance Hall. Ballet fans will love the opportunity to experience Tchaikovsky's iconic score, including seasonal favorites like "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" and more. Purchase tickets here.
"The Elf on the Shelf: The Musical"
December 11
You have just two opportunities to catch this stage production of the well-known, mischievous elf enjoyed by many families with performances at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Dec. 11. Taking guests behind the scenes of Santa's Scout Elves, "The Elf on the Shelf: The Musical" tells a compelling tale with eye-catching backdrops and jovial song and dance. You'll giggle, leave humming and will want to take advantage of the VIP package, which includes photos with the elves at the "North Pole." Purchase tickets and learn more about the show's COVID protocols here.
She & Him: Christmas Party
December 11
It has been a decade since "New Girl"'s Zooey Deschanel and sidekick M. Ward released "A Very She & Him Christmas," and the duo recently celebrated by producing a 10th Anniversary Deluxe Edition for fans. Deschanel and Ward will be in town for a special holiday performance at SMU's McFarlin Memorial Auditorium, where guests can hear their versions of "Baby, It's Cold Outside" and "Silver Bells" in a somewhat intimate setting (would make a great date night!). If you love Deschanel's unique, vintage-sounding voice, showcased in the popular holiday film "Elf," don't miss the group's "Christmas Party" concert. Grab a sushi roll at Oishii on SMU Blvd. before the show! Purchase tickets here.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
December 11
What can get you into the holiday spirit more than a 60-piece rock band-orchestra mash-up playing Christmas songs in a huge arena? The American Airlines Center will host the Trans-Siberian Orchestra for their 25-year celebration of the 1996 album "Christmas Eve and Other Stories." Don't miss their version of "O Holy Night," "The Silent Nutcracker" and of course, the Orchestra's driving, iconic take on "Carol of the Bells." Enjoy rooftop drinks at Happiest Hour before or after the concert. Purchase tickets here.
Robert Earl Keen's "The Road to Christmas"
December 15
Make an evening of this all-ages show, perfect for country music fans, by grabbing a fresh burger and cold beer onsite at House of Blues before Robert Earl Keen hits the stage. Waylon Payne and Brent Cobb are supporting acts for Keen's annual Christmas touring tradition. There's no telling what will be on the famous Aggie's setlist, but it's sure to be a good night. Purchase tickets and review COVID protocols here.
LeAnn Rimes: Home for the Holidays
December 17
The prolific Grammy-winning artist is returning to her hometown for a one-night event featuring Rimes' greatest hits and her spin on holiday songs. The Winspear is the perfect venue for the yodeling beauty's evening in Dallas, as the country crooner will elegantly grace the stage to sing tunes like "Blue." Purchase tickets here.
Lightwire Theater's "A Very Electric Christmas"
December 18
The whole family will be mesmerized by the story of Max - a bird who is derailed and ends up in the North Pole. Lightwire Theater is a traveling group of "electroluminescent puppeteers" whose dance moves and theatrics set to Christmas music are a can't-miss activity this holiday season. "A Very Electric Christmas" is set to be performed in Strauss Square, so bundle up and bring a blanket for the 60-minute show. Purchase tickets here.
For a complete list of holiday concerts, click here.
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