Now that NYC is in full holiday mode, what better way to get into the holiday spirit than see a festive show or performance? NYC’s Broadway and beyond offers some of the best entertainment around, and we’ve rounded up some jolly shows you’ve got to see while they’re in town. From the famous Rockettes to burlesque Christmas shows, there’s a little something for everyone!
Check out what’s on:
1. Christmas Spectacular with The Radio City Rockettes
Of course we have to start off with the most recognizable Christmas spectacular that comes to NYC every year. The amazin’ Radio City Rockettes will kick off their headlining show on November 17 until January 1! These iconic dancers will mesmerize you with their kick line and even get you to smile and cheer, thanks to their stunning lights and stage setup too. Check out the full schedule of shows here and reserve your tickets today!
Where: Radio City Music Hall
2. New York City Ballet: The Nutcracker
One of NYCB’s most acclaimed productions, The Nutcracker, will be on show starting November 24… and it’s definitely worth it! George Balanchineâs rendition of the age-old tale features over 150 dancers and musicians, 125 children from the School of Ballet, and gorgeous production assets like a one-ton Christmas tree that grows from 12 to 41 feet, an onstage snowstorm, and hundreds of elaborate costumes. Learn more here.
Where: David H. Koch Theater
3. Santa’s Secret
For a raunchier Christmas show and speakeasy experience, you’ve got to check out Santa’s Secret in The Shops at Hudson Yards. Between the wintery lumberjacks and glamorous performers in snow globes, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the entertainment while you sip on holiday cocktails. Learn more about Santa’s Secret here.
đ Get your tickets right now!
4. New York Theatre Ballet: The Nutcracker
Experience four ticketed performances of The Nutcracker at Brookfield Place this holiday season, set to Tchaikovskyâs cherished score. Alongside innovative choreography by long-time New York Theatre Ballet choreographer, Keith Michael you can grab tickets now to a rendition that will blow you away! The shows are set to happen on December 1 – 3. Learn more here.
Where: Winter Garden at Brookfield Place
5. Candlelight Christmas Concerts
Enjoy the sounds of breath-taking holiday music by candlelight, at some of NYC’s most stunning venues. These festive concerts will feature the city’s best symphonies and musicians to create one-of-a-kind holiday music experiences like none-other! Check out the calendar of shows below and purchase tickets now:
- Dec 15 + 16: Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring âThe Nutcrackerâ and More at Church of the Heavenly Rest
- Dec 20 + 21: Candlelight: Holiday Soul and Jazz Classics
- Dec 21 + 22: Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring âThe Nutcrackerâ and More
- Dec 23: Candlelight: Holiday Carols on Strings
6. Z100’s Jingle Ball
NYC’s Z100 radio station always throws the best Christmas concert every year, and this year’s Jingle Ball lineup features some of the hottest names in music! Headlined by Olivia Rodrigo, SZA, OneRepublic, and so many more, this show simply can’t be missed. The show is December 8 at Madison Square Garden!
Where: Madison Square Garden
7. Mariah Carey’s “Merry Christmas To All” Concert
All we want for Christmas…is to see the Christmas queen herself, Mariah Carey! She’ll be singing her iconic tune along with many more on December 17 at MSG! Come on, what could be more legendary than seeing one of the most famous Christmas songs of all-time (we’re talking over 1B streams) in a magical city like NYC?
Where: Madison Square Garden
8. Cirque du Soleil’s âTwas the Night Before
âTwas the Night Before⊠is Cirque du Soleilâs first holiday show, based on the classic poem âA Visit from Saint Nicholasâ by Clement Clarke Moore. Complete with thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters, and a soundtrack including holiday classics re-invented by Cirque du Soleil…you’re sure to be amazed! This story about a jaded young girl who rediscovers the magic of the holidays is something like you’ve never seen before! It’s playing from December 7 – 28. Learn more about the show here.
Where: The Theater at Madison Square Garden
9. The Magic Flute
This Mozart theatrical experience is back this holiday season, and it’s a beautiful fairytale about a noble prince named Tamino that goes on a quest to win a fair princess named Pamina. The show runs from December 8 – 30! Learn more about the show here.
Where: Metropolitan Opera House
10. Big Band Holidays at The Lincoln Center
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In the mood for a little jazz? The Big Band Holidays events are jazz performances that are great for the whole family! You can expect hearty and festive jazz versions of popular Christmas tunes, all complete with top-tier musicians that are out of this world. The shows run from December 13 – 17!
Learn more here.
Where: Lincoln Center
11. Company XIV: Nutcracker Rouge
Last but not least on our list is Nutcracker Rouge, an erotic and sensual twist on the classic Nutcracker! Leave the kids at home and step into this playful experience that features drinks, circus performers, and even partial nudity. If you’re looking for a sexy and festive date night before Christmas, this is our pick. Previews start on November 16. Learn more about it here.
Where: Theatre XIV