Holiday Performing Arts

Don't miss these wonderful holiday shows in Denver during the year's most festive season! These old favorites and new classics are perfect for planning a winter trip around.
Bring the family and start (or carry on) a Denver holiday tradition.

Long-Running Holiday Classics

The Polar Express^TM Train Ride

WHEN: Nov. 8–10; 15–17; 22–26; daily Nov. 29–Dec. 23, 2024 (performances at 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.)
WHERE: Colorado Railroad Museum, Golden
The story of The Polar Express^TM is theatrically re-created and combined with a magical train ride at the Colorado Railroad Museum. Children get to meet Santa and experience all the sights and sounds of this classic tale as if happening all around them. This year, a whole host of carefully crafted updates have been made to ensure the health and safety of guests, cast and crew, so put on your pajamas and your most fashionable mask and bring the family to enjoy sharing hot cocoa and cookies together as the "Hot, Hot, Hot—Chocolate" song and dance unfolds before your eyes. 

'A Christmas Carol'

WHEN: Nov. 22–Dec. 29, 2024
WHERE: Wolf Theatre
Celebrate 30 years of "A Christmas Carol" at the Denver Center! Essential to the holiday season in Denver, "A Christmas Carol" is a joyous and opulent musical adaptation for the whole family that traces money-hoarding curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge’s triumphant overnight journey to redemption. Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, the DCPA Theatre Company’s production is “a splendidly festive tradition” (BroadwayWorld) that illuminates the meaning of the holiday season in a way that has resonated for generations.

Colorado Ballet: 'The Nutcracker'

WHEN: Nov. 30–Dec. 29, 2024
WHERE: Ellie Caulkins Opera House
The beloved holiday favorite returns in a dazzling production like no one's ever seen, featuring all-new sets and costumes created especially for Colorado Ballet. A sellout every year, this magical tale of Clara, the Nutcracker and the Mouse King is going to be dreamier than ever.

More Holiday Events

November

'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' in Concert

WHEN: Nov. 29–30, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
Discover the Magic of the Mean One this holiday season. Dr. Seuss’ "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" is a celebration of the holiday spirit no home should be without! Why is the Grinch such a grouch? No one seems to know, until little Cindy Lou Who takes matters into her own hands and turns both Whoville and the Grinch’s world upside down, inside out and funny side up in her search for the true meaning of Christmas.

'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical'

WHEN: Nov. 29–Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: Buell Theatre in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
The beloved TV classic "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. Come see all of your favorite characters from the special including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph, as they come to life in "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical." It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special. Don’t miss this wonderful holiday tradition that speaks to the misfit in all of us.

Kids' Matinee: 'A Dazzling Christmas'

WHEN: Nov. 30, 2024
WHERE: Dazzle
Looking for a fun alternative to the shopping mall Santa visit? Come on down to Dazzle for a lunchtime visit with Santa and Ralph, the World's Tallest Elf. There'll be stories, piano stylings by Ralph and some popular holiday songs sung by Santa himself. Bring anyone who believes in magic and could use a dose of goodness and fun in their lives! Space and time are limited, because these two are pretty busy this time of year. 

'Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet'

WHEN: Nov. 30–Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: Paramount Theatre
Gather your loved ones for the warm nostalgia of America’s favorite Christmas celebration. Experience the extraordinary international cast and Ukrainian Principal Artists performing at the peak of classical European Ballet. Be transported by the magic of jaw-dropping acrobatics, larger-than-life puppets and stunning hand-crafted sets and costumes. Don’t miss this chance to experience the wonder of "Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet."

December

Drums of the World

WHEN: Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
Marimba, bongos, bass drums, woodblocks, log drums, boo-bams, Chinese cymbals, metal trash cans, darbukas, talking drums, plastic pipe, acoustic guitar, toy trumpet, tablespoons, Burma gongs, water can, crow call, tambourine, gankogui and sleigh bells! These are just some of the percussion instruments that the virtuoso percussionists of your Colorado Symphony will be using in this dynamic concert that is fun for the entire family.

The Doo Wop Project Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 1–2, 2024
WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree
Back by popular demand, these charismatic, handsome, triple-threat Broadway stars—with their hot five-piece band—tear it up with musicality, dancing and showmanship. They “re-doo” classic Doo Wop songs from the ’50s and ’60s and make them sound fresh and new. In this holiday spectacular, the group adds their doo-wopified flare to our favorite Christmas classics. A perfect way to kick off your holiday season!

Irish Christmas in America

WHEN: Dec. 1, 2024
WHERE: 1 East Memorial Parkway, Northglenn
This family-friendly performance features lively instrumental tunes on fiddle, flute, uilleann pipes and harp, along with thrilling Irish dancing.

Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony

WHEN: Dec. 4, 2024
WHERE: Buell Theatre in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
Kick off December as AEG Presents Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony live at the Buell! 

Celtic Woman: White Christmas Symphony Tour

WHEN: Dec. 5, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
Celebrate this holiday season with the celestial voices of multi-platinum Irish singing sensation Celtic Woman with your Colorado Symphony.

3MoMezzos: Motown & More Holiday

WHEN: Dec. 5, 2024; early show at 6:30 p.m., late show at 9 p.m.
WHERE: Dazzle
3 Mo Mezzos is a powerhouse singing group of three award-winning theater actresses from the Metro Denver area: Natalie Oliver-Atherton (True West Award Winner, Miss Colorado American 2023 and Founder of The Namasté Works Arts Alliance), Shandra Crayton-Artis ("Porgy and Bess," "Hairspray"), and Rajdulari (Henry Award Nominee, "Ain’t Misbehavin," "Caroline or Change," "Crowns"). The concert will feature holiday music from Motown and beyond and take you on a musical journey through many of your favorite Christmas tunes. 

'Little Women'

WHEN: Dec. 5–29, 2024
WHERE: Dairy Arts Center, Boulder
“Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents.” And so begins one of the most beloved classics of American literature — a story that has warmed generations of readers since it was first published in 1868. With the men off fighting the Civil War, Marmee and sisters Jo, Beth, Amy and Meg are left to fend for themselves. They learn how to grapple with poverty, sickness and death as they each discover and embrace their destinies. Bring your family to the Dairy this holiday season and spend some time with the March family. Relive their adventures, their passionate loves, their ups and downs and their joy in being together.

El Javi: Acoustic Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 6 & 7, 2024
WHERE: Dazzle
El Javi is a gifted North American guitarist who fearlessly explores instrumental music, transcending the confines of traditional music genres. His music is a remarkable blend of various styles and techniques that come together to create an eclectic acoustic fusion that is truly unique. Beyond his exceptional musicianship, El Javi’s celebration of cultural diversity through music underscores the power of music to transcend language and culture, forging connections and understanding between people of all backgrounds. This December, head to Dazzle on December 6 and December 7 to hear him play acoustic versions of your holiday favorites.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

WHEN: Dec. 6–8, 2024
WHERE: Buell Theatre in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for more than 35 years! Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound. The program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects – capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting.

A Holiday Evening with Leslie Odom, Jr.

WHEN: Dec. 7, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
Leslie Odom, Jr. is a multifaceted performer, Tony® winner, GRAMMY® winner, and a three-time Emmy® Award nominee recognized for his work on the Broadway stage, on television, in film and as a recording artist. For his critically acclaimed performance as legendary soul singer Adam Cooke in Regina King's "One Night in Miami," Odom Jr. was nominated for the Academy Award as Best Supporting Actor. He received a second nomination in the same year as a songwriter for co-writing the film's original song, "Speak Now." Best known for his breakout role as Aaron Burr in the hit musical "Hamilton," Odom Jr. returns to Denver to perform holiday favorites, selections from his 2020 release titled "The Christmas Album" and more.

Girl Named Tom: The Joy of Christmas Tour

WHEN: Dec. 7, 2024
WHERE: Bluebird Theater
Don't miss the folk-singing trio of siblings in town for a special holiday show. They were the winners of Season 21 of "The Voice." 

A Very Saxy Christmas: The Sax Syndicate

WHEN: Dec. 7, 2024
WHERE: Dazzle
Get ready for a second year of saxy holiday magic at Dazzle! Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of the saxophone as The Sax Syndicate delivers a festive repertoire ranging from timeless classics to contemporary holiday favorites, all with The Sax Syndicate's signature five-part jazz harmonies. Perfect for your special holiday date night, a Christmassy night on the town, or a holiday excursion for all the saxophone lovers!

'The Story of the Nutcracker'

WHEN: Dec. 7–28, 2024; Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
WHERE: Miners Alley Playhouse, Golden
When Marie’s gift from her Godfather Drosselmeier on Christmas Eve gets broken, she tries to find and fix the Nutcracker. Instead, he comes alive, and a story-within-the-story begins! Become a part of the Nutcracker tale and see if everyone gets to live happily ever after in this Theatre for Young Audiences performance.

Purnell Steen & The 5 Pts. Ambassadors Celebrate a Cool Yule!

WHEN: Dec. 8, 2024
WHERE: Dazzle
For more than 30 years, Purnell Steen and the Five Points Ambassadors has been dedicated to preserving and playing the jazz and blues music of Denver's legendary Five Points neighborhood and is a regular at Dazzle. Join them this December to listen to jazzy versions of your favorite holiday tunes!

Kantorei: Frostiana - A Choral Holiday

WHEN: Dec. 8, 2024
WHERE: 1 East Memorial Parkway, Northglenn
Kantorei celebrates the season with some of your favorite carols old and new, including some of John Rutter’s most famous settings including Candlelight and Angels’ Carols. British Jazz/Classical composer Alexander L’Estrange infuses holiday standards with his colorful harmonies and Kantorei sopranos and altos will perform American Composer Daniel Pinkham’s Company at the Creche accompanied by the tenors and basses playing bells; A glorious way to ring in the holiday season.

The Nutcracker Suite

WHEN: Dec. 9, 2024; early show at 6:30 p.m., late show at 9 p.m.
WHERE: Dazzle
Directed by John Gunther, CU’s award-winning big bands will perform Duke Ellington's amazing jazz interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s famous score for “The Nutcracker Suite.” The CU Jazz Ensemble has been recognized as one of the nation’s outstanding big bands.

'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation' + Live Conversation with Chevy Chase

WHEN: Dec. 11, 2024
WHERE: Bellco Theatre
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and laughs as we celebrate the timeless classic "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" with a special 35th Anniversary screening of the film followed by a live conversation and Q&A with Chevy Chase and his wife, Jayni. A post-show photo op with Chevy Chase is included with all P1 tickets.

Gerald Albright's Lone Tree Sessions: Take 6 Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 11, 2024
WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree
The “baddest vocal cats on the planet!” are back at LTAC! This season don’t miss the inimitable Take 6 as they perform an a capella Christmas celebration. With accolades galore under their belts, this musical phenomenon has six virtuosic voices united in crystal clear harmony, against a backdrop of syncopated rhythms, innovative arrangements, and funky grooves that bubble into an intoxicating brew of gospel, jazz, R&B and pop.

Ho-Ho-Ho Holiday Cabaret

WHEN: Dec. 11, 2024
WHERE: 4635 West Colfax Avenue
Get ready to be entertained and filled with holiday cheer at Side Pony Coffee & Cocktails. This event will feature Dixie Krystals who will sing, dance and spread the festive spirit. So, gather your loved ones and come enjoy an evening of laughter, joy and holiday magic.

The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show

WHEN: Dec. 13, 2024
WHERE: Paramount Theatre
You better watch out, you better not cry, because “The Queens of Christmas” are coming to Denver with a brand new edition of the internationally acclaimed The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show! Another holiday season brings another year of fabulous spectacle, whip-smart comedy, brand-new songs, and annual favorites. Join the sugary DeLa and spicy Jinkx for an evening the New York Times says is “sure to lift your spirits and make you howl with laughter.”

LAPOMPE: Django Carols

WHEN: Dec. 13, 2024; early show at 6:30 p.m., late show at 9 p.m.
WHERE: Dazzle
LAPOMPE returns once again to Dazzle for their annual "Django Carols" holiday show, featuring classic seasonal music in the style of Django Reinhardt's hot club jazz. Come see live performances of the songs from their “Carols” EP including original compositions and mashups of jazz and holiday standards.

Riders in the Sky Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 13, 2024
WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree
It’s a great big western ho-ho-ho from “America’s Favorite Cowboys!” Join Riders in the Sky for “Christmas The Cowboy Way,” featuring their unique “brand” of cowboy humor sprinkled with a dash of holiday spice. Perfect for saddle pals of all ages, you’ll hear original songs and be invited to join Riders in singing traditional holiday classics. So put on your merry cheer and saddle up and ride!

Joy Around the World

WHEN: Dec. 13–14, 2024
WHERE: 4500 E. Hampden Ave.
The Denver Children’s Choir will perform in a musical celebration like no other. From the soul-stirring melodies of Rachmaninoff’s "Bogoroditse Devo" to the fabulous carol arrangements by Karl Jenkins, the repertoire promises to transport you to a place of pure bliss. Be enchanted by carols from diverse cultures, embracing the beauty of global harmony through music. Don’t miss this enchanting evening that will resonate with your heart and soul.

A Colorado Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 13–15, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
The warm sounds of the holidays fill the hall with festive seasonal favorites featuring the Colorado Symphony Chorus and Colorado Children's Chorale, all hosted by beloved Denver vocalist Devin DeSantis. This family-friendly evening features traditional carols, your new favorite winter tunes, and a chance to sing along to your heart’s content! And you better not pout because Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to see who’s naughty and who’s nice in preparation for the big night!

'A Christmas Carol' Burlesque Revue

WHEN: Dec. 13–22, 2024
WHERE: The Clocktower Cabaret
The well-known tale of Mr. Scrooge is told with a burlesque flair! See all your favorite characters from Charles Dickens' classic "A Christmas Carol" with a modern twist! This old holiday favorite is sure to entertain you in a new way with burlesque, aerial, circus and more. Note: This show is appropriate for audiences over the age of 18.

Holly Jolly Family Concert

WHEN: Dec. 14, 2024
WHERE: Newman Center for the Performing Arts
Hop into the holiday spirit with an interactive and engaging one-hour performance featuring popular music of the seasons for families of all ages. The performance includes a gift bag for kids and singalongs for the whole family!

'Amahl and the Night Visitors'

WHEN: Dec. 14, 2024
WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center
The classic story of a magic star, a shepherd boy, and how unselfish love can work miracles, Amahl and the Night Visitors is the perfect family holiday tradition! In this one-hour, family-friendly opera, beautiful music weaves a tale of a star, three strangers, and a boy whose faith is rewarded. Amahl and the Night Visitors is presented in collaboration with Central City Opera.

Boston Brass + Brass All-Stars Big Band: Christmas Bells are Swingin’

WHEN: Dec. 14, 2024
WHERE: Macky Auditorium, Boulder
The renowned Boston Brass team up with all-star brass players from around the globe to heat up your holiday season. The big band performs exciting arrangements of classics like the Stan Kenton Christmas Carols, “Greensleeves” and “Motown Jingle Bells” that will delight audiences of all ages.

Boston Brass + Brass All-Stars Big Band: Christmas Bells are Swingin’

WHEN: Dec. 14–15, 2024
WHERE: 1 East Memorial Parkway, Northglenn
Back by popular demand! Motones & Jerseys: Holiday Hi-Fi features a stellar lineup of nine singers, backed by an incredible band, performing your favorite holiday classics alongside some of the greatest songs of the 20th century.

Denver Jazz Orchestra Holiday Show

WHEN: Dec. 15, 2024; early show at 4:30 p.m., late show at 7 p.m.
WHERE: Dazzle
Join the Denver Jazz Orchestra for its annual Dazzle Holiday Show, featuring swinging versions of some of your holiday favorites as well as a few Latin interpretations of the great seasonal carols. This one always sells out, so make your reservations early!

Derek Hough Dance for the Holidays

WHEN: Dec. 16, 2024
WHERE: Paramount Theatre
Emmy Award-winning and New York Times bestselling author Derek Hough began dancing in Salt Lake City at age 11 before moving to London to train at the Italia Conti performing arts school. With three Emmys and twelve nominations, he is the most nominated male choreographer in TV history. Hough has acted in film, TV, and stage, including roles in "Make Your Move," "Nashville" and "Hairspray Live!" He starred in "Footloose" on London’s West End and co-hosted ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" as a judge and six-time champion, partnering with celebrities like Nicole Scherzinger and Jennifer Grey.

Annie Booth Trio & Friends: Charlie Brown Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 16–24, 2024
WHERE: Dazzle
Acclaimed pianist and bandleader Annie Booth, along with longtime bandmates bassist Patrick McDevitt and drummer Alejandro Castaño, are celebrating the 11th year of their popular Denver holiday tradition: a live performance of songs from the classic Charlie Brown Christmas. 

Holiday Brass

WHEN: Dec. 19, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
Holiday Brass is one of Colorado’s favorite festive traditions ringing with nostalgia! Witness the brilliance and power of the Colorado Symphony Brass in a resounding program of seasonal ballads, carols, and more. Whether it comes from the vitality of the Renaissance, the glory of the Baroque, or the nostalgic jubilation in the music of Hollywood’s most popular Christmas movies, Holiday Brass will end 2024 on a high note.

Soundtracks of the Season

WHEN: Dec. 19, 2024
WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center
Experience an enchanting evening filled with your favorite holiday film scores, from the heartwarming melodies of "Home Alone" to the whimsical tunes of "The Polar Express." This concert promises to be a festive celebration of cinema and symphony. 

Eva Noblezada Holiday

WHEN: Dec. 20, 2024
WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center
Fresh from the Broadway stage, Eva Noblezada joins the center for a festive show celebrating the holiday season! Noblezada is currently starring on Broadway as Daisy in "The Great Gatsby." She won a Grammy and was nominated for a Tony for her role as Eurydice in "Hadestown." It was Eva’s second Tony nomination in her first two Broadway roles, following her earlier nod in 2017 for the title role of "Miss Saigon."

Cirque Dreams 'Holidaze'

WHEN: Dec. 20–24, 2024
WHERE: Bellco Theatre
Cirque Dreams "Holidaze" dazzles with a brilliant and whimsical family holiday spectacular. As the longest-running cirque holiday theatrical event, this annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style production around an infusion of contemporary circus arts. As lights dim and the music swells, audiences will have visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads as a fantastical cast of holiday storybook characters come to life on stage. An original music score includes new twists on seasonal favorites such as “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and “Carol of the Bells.” Singers, dancers, penguins, toy soldiers and reindeer invoke the dreams behind a child’s eye on the most magical of nights. Amidst a backdrop of new sets, scenery and storylines, this family-friendly production is sure to put a twinkle in your eye!

'Amahl and the Night Visitors'

WHEN: Dec. 20–22, 2024
WHERE: 1660 Sherman St​.
The classic story of a magic star, a shepherd boy, and how unselfish love can work miracles, Amahl and the Night Visitors is the perfect family holiday tradition! In this one-hour, family-friendly opera, beautiful music weaves a tale of a star, three strangers, and a boy whose faith is rewarded. Amahl and the Night Visitors is presented in collaboration with Central City Opera.

Leahy Christmas

WHEN: Dec. 21, 2024
WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree
Join the Leahy siblings for a Celtic celebration of the holidays. Over the course of their notable career, Leahy has secured a place as one of Canada’s most highly regarded progressive folk-roots bands. Experience the “Leahy sound” – a combination of strong stride piano, driving rhythm guitar, unique bass lines and layered with a contemporary drumming style – in an evening of familiar holiday tunes with a Celtic twist.

Too Hot to Handel

WHEN: Dec. 21–22, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall
This exuberant jazz, gospel, and R&B-infused concert brilliantly reinvents Handel’s Messiah and returns by popular demand, with associate conductor Christopher Dragon at the podium! Featuring incredible guest soloists and members of the Colorado Symphony Chorus, this exhilarating night of music will have you rejoicing in the aisles.

The Second City: 'The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly Sweater'

WHEN: Dec. 22, 2024
WHERE: Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree
The Second City presents "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly Sweater" – an evening stuffed with seasonal songs, sketches, and of course, a generous helping of Second City’s world-famous improv comedy. 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.

'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe'

WHEN: Dec. 28-29, 2024
WHERE: 1 E. Memorial Parkway, Northglenn
Ballet Ariel welcomes the holidays with a fresh, new way to celebrate the season. “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe” ballet is based on the popular book by C.S. Lewis, with original choreography by Director Ilena Norton and battle scenes choreographed by Gregory Gonzales.

Greensky Bluegrass

WHEN: Dec. 30–31, 2024
WHERE: The Mission Ballroom
Don't miss this eclectic bluegrass jam band to close out the year.

'A Night in Vienna'

WHEN: Dec. 31, 2024
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall 
A Colorado cultural tradition returns featuring your symphony waltzing along with you into 2025! Start your celebration in style with the Colorado Symphony’s presentation of "A Night in Vienna," a rousing selection of polkas, waltzes and marches.