Last Updated: 11/14/23

The holiday theater scene in Minneapolis is bustling with classics like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol, but also those unique gems you may not find elsewhere. Think Frozen in Concert or It’s A Wonderful Life radio play (this show sells out by the way). From shows that push the limits to family-friendly traditions, theater and musical performances are all the rage in Minneapolis during the holidays. Check out the must-see shows of the season.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

When: November 7, 2023 - January 7, 2024

Where: Children's Theatre Company, 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404

Cost: $15 - $89

A miserly and miserable, ever-so-cantankerous Grinch has observed the despicable Christmas joy of the Whos with disdain, from a distance, for decades. Enough! In this favorite holiday story, filled with music and Seussian rhymes, he conceives a dastardly plot to destroy the holiday they love. It’s the smallest of the Whos, tiny Cindy Lou, who extends a hand. Through the combination of kindness and community, we witness not only a change in the course of Who-History, but the size and capacity of the cantankerous Grinch’s heart.

All I Want For Christmas Is You...To Elf Off

When: November 9, 2023 - January 27, 2023

Where: Brave New Workshop Theatre, 824 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $25 - $45

The Brave New Workshop is back with a show for everyone who loves the holidays but wishes just one night could be a little more silent. Take a break from everything that’s stressing you out about the holidays and settle your brain for a long winter’s laugh with a hilarious collection of sketches and songs especially for the holidays. All I Want for Christmas Is You…To Elf Off continues Brave New Workshop’s legacy as the Twin Cities’ funniest and most irreverent holiday tradition.

A Very Bearded Holiday

When: Fridays, November 10 - December 29.

Where: HUGE Theater, 3037 Lyndale Ave South, Minneapolis, MN 55408

Cost: $15

Prepare yourselves for an improvised holiday movie experience like no other - and we mean that in the worst way possible. Come and watch as the Beards weave a tangled mess of holiday tropes together in a
desperate attempt to add a little more nostalgia to the world. Each show will be filled to the brim with awkward trips to small towns, indefensible holiday traditions, and possibly an erotic snowball fight. Yule never see the holidays the same way again.

A Christmas Carol at Guthrie Theater

When: November 11 – December 30, 2023

Where: Guthrie Theater, 818 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55415

Cost: $24 - $134

A miserly and miserable man, Ebenezer Scrooge greets each Christmas with “Bah! Humbug!” until he is visited one Christmas Eve by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Future. In Charles Dickens’ beloved classic, the three spirits show Scrooge happy memories from his past, difficult realities from the present and a grim future should he continue his closed-hearted ways. This world-premiere adaptation stays faithful to the text and invites audiences to experience the wonder of the holiday season through all-new scenery, costumes, props, lighting and sound.

Hip Hop Nutcracker

When: November 24, 2023

Where: State Theatre, 805 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, 55402

Cost: $49.50 - $99.50

A holiday mash-up for the whole family as it returns for another spectacular tour. This contemporary dance spectacle is a re-mixed and re-imagined version of the classic, smashing hip hop dance and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music together into a heart-stirring and inspirational holiday event.

'Twas the Night Before...by Cirque du Soleil

When: November 25 - 26, 2022

Where: Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $42 - $117

It’s the holidays, and this year, things are different. For years, Isabella and her father have read “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” together. But this year Isabella feels like she’s outgrown the family tradition. But then the magic of the poem comes to life, and Isabella and her father are unexpectedly separated by a snowstorm that sends them on a fantastical journey. In a winter wonderland inspired by the poem, they discover whimsical characters, acrobats, children and reindeer who reunite father and daughter in the holiday spirit.

A Three Tenors Christmas

When: November 24 - 27, 2023

Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, 501 West 78th Street, Chanhassen, MN 55317

Cost: $44 - $62

Back by popular demand, A Three Tenors Christmas is an absolute must for those that know quality vocal talent when they hear it. If you had to choose one show this Christmas, A Three Tenors Christmas will deliver everything you know you want and more! This holiday performance by the NorrSound Tenors is inspired by “The Three Tenors” – leaving your heart full and your face smiling under that mask. Original arrangements of powerful Christmas favorites like “O Holy Night” are paired with with epic opera ballads like “Nessun Dorma” for a perfect evening – where style, opera, and holiday spirit collide.

Family Dinner

When: Saturdays & Sundays, November 11 - December 31, 2023

Where: HUGE Theater, 2728 Lyndale Ave South, Minneapolis, MN 55408

Cost: $20

The improvised holiday show you can relate to returns! A family coming home for the holidays, each with a secret you suggest...It's just like your family, if your family were played by some of the funniest improvisers in the Twin Cities!

The New Standards Holiday Show

When: December 1 - 2, 2023

Where: State Theatre, 805 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, 55402

Cost: $30-$155

For sixteen years, illustrious Minnesota jazz trio The New Standards and friends have been dazzling audiences with their soulful, funny, and spectacular Holiday Show. Chan Poling (The Suburbs), John Munson (Trip Shakespeare, Semisonic) and Steve Roehm (Billygoat, Electropolis) act as ringleaders for a merry troupe of vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, and an all-star lineup of surprise special guests featuring a deep roster of music pals. Expect the unexpected at this delightful and beloved holiday tradition.

Nutcracker in Wonderland

When: December 8 - 10, 2023

Where: Cowles Center, 528 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $38

Jump down the rabbit hole for the most curious adventure. The beloved Tchaikovsky Nutcracker score will take on a new meaning as Clara and Alice join forces to battle the Rat Queen, whirl through the Land of Snowflakes, and encounter Wonderland residents like the Mad Hatter, mischievous Cheshire Cat, perpetually tardy White Rabbit, and spiteful Queen of Heart.

Christmas at The Local

When: November 21 - December 31, 2023

Where: Ritz Theater, 345 13th Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413

Cost: $35 - $75

On a cold winter’s night, a group of locals gather to raise a glass and play a tune, calling forth the spirit of the holidays through story and song. Voices blend, memories are rekindled, and a bit of mystery hangs in the air. Theater Latté Da stages the world premiere of this rollicking new celebration of the season.

Stevie Ray's Comedy Cabaret — Mistletoe Mischief

When: November 24 - December 31, 2023, every Friday and Saturday evening

Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, 501 West 78th Street, Chanhassen, MN 55317

Cost: $23 - $48

The funny folks at Stevie Ray’s Improv Comedy have created a new show for the holidays. Featuring comedy sketches, music, and improv – celebrate the season with laughter! You toss out suggestions & they create comedy on the spot!

A Very Carey Christmas Cabaret!

When: November 24 - 25, 2023

Where: Bryant Lake Bowl Cabaret Theater, 810 W Lake Street Minneapolis, MN 55408

Cost: $15-18

Following in the footsteps of Dean Martin and Carol Burnett, this high-energy variety show features live music, burlesque, big laughs, surprise guests, and so much more! A little naughty, a little nice, and a whole lot of Christmas cheer make for the perfect kick-off to your holiday season. With only two performances to enjoy, don't miss your chance to spend an evening with the always-entertaining Nichole Carey and company!

George Maurer Group Annual Holiday Show

When: November 27, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $20 - $30

This merry band of “genre-bending eclectics” (Jazz 88-FM) has been entertaining sold-out houses at the Dakota with their annual holiday show since 2000. Taking the stage by storm with their irreverent style and sly musical humor, the George Maurer Group will bring you an evening filled with witty stage banter, clever musicianship, and surprising twists on holiday classic—think Thelonious Monk meets “Sleigh Ride,” the Beatles’ “Drive My Sleigh,” Herbie Hancock’s “Driftin’” ala “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and more!

Black Nativity at Penumbra Theatre

When: November 28 – December 24, 2023

Where: Penumbra Theatre, 270 N. Kent St, St. Paul, MN 55102

Cost: $20 - $45

Remembrance and renewal. A beloved holiday tradition is born anew. Hughes’ masterwork returns to our stage featuring familiar faces and new talent, including new lead vocals and choreography, backed by the Kingdom Life Church Choir. Gather with us to remember those we lost this year and welcome those who will carry the torch.

A Christmas in Ochopee

When: November 29 - December 11, 2023

Where: Red Eye Theater, 2213 Snelling Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404

Join the Weetleys, a loving Miccosukee family, as the try their best to prepare their holiday feast among the chaos of secret finances, extreme competitive lawn decorating, geniuses and jailbirds, gambling and gator wrestling.

Rock & Roll XMAS Spectacular

When: November 29 – December 3 & December 6 – 10

Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, 501 West 78th Street, Chanhassen, MN 55317

Cost: $44 - $64

Get ready to crank your holiday spirit all the way up! Returning for the fourth time to our holiday series is this hugely popular rockin’ event. This production will surprise and thoroughly delight, and don’t be deceived; this isn’t a send-up to the '50s and '60s, but rather it’s a multi-media, musical extravaganza mixing rock hits of the '70s to today with hilarious stories and parodies favorite yuletide songs as you’ve never heard them before. Join an 8-piece all-star cast of musicians as they uniquely rock their way through Christmas classics in the most imaginative way possible delivering as much fun as Santa himself! For example, hear the blending of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” set to Peter Frampton’s “Show Me The Way!” Each song is funnier and yes, even more cleverly done than the one before it.

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet presented by Talmi Entertainment

When: November 30 - December 2, 2023

Where: Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $34 - $102

The beloved family tradition is back: Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet! Gather your loved ones for the warm-glow-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.

A Very Die Hard Christmas

When: Thursday-Saturday, Starting November 30 - December 23, 2023

Where: Bryant Lake Bowl Cabaret Theater, 810 W Lake Street Minneapolis, MN 55408

Cost: Details TBD

“Yippee Ki Yay, Father Christmas!" Back again, comes the holiday treat with all the trimmings: singing, dancing, and bloodshed! Don't miss this yuletide tradition combining the action and suspense of Die Hard with the sentiment of everyone's favorite TV Christmas specials loaded with music, magic, and mayhem!

The Holidays at Crooners

When: November 30 - December 15, 2023

Where: Crooners Supper Club, 6161 Hwy 65 NE, Minneapolis, MN 55432

Cost: $20 - $50

Celebrate the season with over 50 amazing shows at the Crooners Supper Club, including Arne Fogel: A Crosby Holiday, Masters of Improvisation: Ho Ho Holiday Edition, The Big Christmas Singalong, A Co-MingL Christmas, Erin Schwab and Jay Fuchs: Naughty and Nice, Kat Perkins: North Country Christmas.

The New Standards Holiday Show

When: December 1 - 2, 2023

Where: State Theatre, 805 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Cost: $30 - $145

For sixteen years, illustrious Minnesota jazz trio The New Standards and friends have been dazzling audiences with their soulful, funny, and spectacular Holiday Show. Chan Poling (The Suburbs), John Munson (Trip
Shakespeare, Semisonic) and Steve Roehm (Billygoat, Electropolis) act as ringleaders for a merry troupe of vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, and an all-star lineup of surprise special guests featuring a deep
roster of music pals. Expect the unexpected at this delightful and beloved holiday tradition.

Travis Anderson Trio's "Charlie Brown Christmas"

When: December 4, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $15 - $20

Celebrating fifteen years together, The Travis Anderson Trio puts their spin on Vince Guaraldi’s classic music from “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. With holiday gems “Christmas Time Is Here”, “Skating” and of course the iconic Peanuts theme, “Linus and Lucy”, this will be a trip down memory lane. Pull out the hot cocoa and enjoy some serious holiday nostalgia!

Jake Shimabukuro – Holidays in Hawai’i

When: December 5, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $55 - $65

By now, if you know the ukulele, you might know the name, of the innovator who is Jake Shimabukuro. He has captivated audiences around the world with his unique and dynamic style. With his mother as his first teacher of the instrument, Jake embraced a deep love and respect for the `ukulele and has explored new and unexpected ways to push the boundaries of what was possible on the humble four strings. Each album has showcased his mastery of the instrument and his ability to weave together diverse genres to create a cohesive and captivating musical experience. He is undoubtedly one of the most innovative and exciting musicians of his generation, changing the perception of the instrument itself and breaking barriers of what kind of music it is capable of.

Nicholas David’s 10th Annual St. Nick’s Day Show

When: December 6, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $35 - $40

We’re keeping the tradition alive with a Special Solo Performance. That’s right folks, Nicholas David and a Grand Piano. There probably will be a couple of scarfs, two pairs of glasses, a bunch of necklaces, multiple feathers in a hat, a few stories in between songs, Nicholas Davidesque interpretations of some classic tunes that take you to a different time and place, and a whole heck of a lot of soul!

Karla Bonoff & Livingston Taylor: Home for the Holidays

When: December 7 - 8, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $60-75

Karla Bonoff has been described as one of the finest singer/songwriters of her generation. In late 2020 Karla released Silent Night, her first collection of holiday music, to wide acclaim, including a prominent listing on the New York Times Best New Holiday Albums of the Year. In 2021 Karla added two new songs to her holiday collection including a duet with the legendary Michael McDonald. Livingston Taylor picked up his first guitar at the age of thirteen, which began a more than fifty-year career that has encompassed performance, songwriting, and teaching.

A Snow Kiss: An Improvised Holiday Romance Movie

When: December 7 - 9, 2023

Where: Strike Theater, 824 18th Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418

Costs: $12

Turn on that fireplace, hang that mistletoe, and enjoy all the fake soap snowflakes of the season at Strike Theater this December as jorts! and friends take on the timeless tradition of holiday romance movies as seen on the Hallmark Channel, Lifetime, and Netflix - and improvises a brand new one right in front of your eyes! You’ll see it all - a chill in the air! An old flame! Unsolicited advice from a bell ringer! A baking competition where the stakes are HIGH! A fake European country that ends with “aria”! A long lost identical cousin! That hunky firefighter/small business owner/single dad from your hometown who you just happen to run into while you’re FRAZZLED! And, of course, a man with a big white beard who may or may not be Santa!

Handel’s Messiah

When: December 8 - 9, 2023

Where: Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $15 - $116

It is the season for holiday traditions, especially those as magnificent and memorable as Handel’s Messiah. British conductor Christopher Warren-Green has achieved more than 50 years of world-class conducting engagements around the world. He and the Orchestra come together, joined by heavenly voices, for this glorious December gathering.

The Blenders Holiday Soul Tour

When: December 8 - 10, 2023

Where: Pantages Theatre, 710 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Cost: $52

Originally from Fargo, North Dakota, The Blenders relocated in 1994 and are proud to call Minneapolis their home ever since. They have been touring the U.S. for over 30 years with their unique style of vocal, harmony-based music. They have appeared with such acts as Jay Leno, Howie Mandel, Savage Garden, Blues Traveler, Chicago, The Righteous Brothers, Lou Rawls, Chuck Berry and many more. They have appeared on a variety of national and regional television shows including The Arsenio Hall Show (FOX), The Today Show on NBC, Crook and Chase (TNN) and WGN. Radio performances have included WGN and National Public Radio, to name a few.

It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play

When: December 8 – 23, 2023

Where: The Saint Paul Hotel, 350 Market St., St. Paul, MN 55102

Cost: $115-135

It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, performed at The Saint Paul Hotel, presents playwright Joe Landry’s acclaimed take on the classic 1946 Frank Capra film, It’s a Wonderful Life. The shows are accompanied by a three-course luncheon for afternoon performances and a three-course dinner for evening performances.

Dinner for One

When: December 8 - 31, 2023

Where: Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408

Cost: Pay-as-you-can

Both as an 18-minute silent-style film and in live performance, Lauri Wylie's 1934 sketch comedy has become staple viewing around Christmas and New Year's Eve across much of Europe. The tradition has now leapt across the pond. "Dinner for One" is centered on an eccentric lady named Miss Sophie who has outlived her four closest friends. She invites them to a multi-course dinner anyway to mark her 90th birthday. James, Miss Sophie's butler, obliges his mistress and brings the ghosts of Sir Toby, Admiral von Schneider, Mr. Pomeroy and Mr. Winterbottom to life as he downs more and more spirits. Jungle Theater artistic director Christina Baldwin guides in this antic slapstick romp that recalls skits by Red Skelton and Lucille Ball.

Celtic Woman Christmas Symphony Tour 2023

When: December 9, 2023

Where: Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd., Prior Lake, MN 55372

Cost: Starting at $39

Celebrate the holiday season with these multi-Platinum Irish singing sensations! The all-female ensemble will perform their favorite Yuletide songs. Prepare for an enchanting and festive evening filled with mesmerizing music and holiday cheer.

Merry and Bright with Charles Lazarus

When: December 10, 2023

Where: Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $12 - $78

Give your holidays a boost of big, brassy joy in a performance by Minnesota Orchestra trumpeter Charles Lazarus and his dazzling ensemble, including the fabulous Lazarus Brass. A holiday tradition created by our own trumpeter extraordinaire Charles Lazarus, this concert brings the exuberance of brass to swing arrangements of carols, soulful gospel tunes and boppy pop favorites. Joined by powerhouse vocalists and his high-energy ensemble, Lazarus brings renewed brilliance to beloved classics. (Note: the Minnesota Orchestra does not perform on this program.)

Holiday Swingin’! A Kat Edmonson Christmas

When: December 11, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $35 - $40

Kat Edmonson is an award-winning songwriter and singer “with an equal foothold in jazz, cabaret and vintage cosmopolitanism pop” (The New York Times). Kat will perform swingin’ Yuletide favorites such as “Jingle Bell Rock,” “O Christmas Tree,” and “Let It Snow” as part of her festive show, Holiday Swingin’! A Kat Edmonson Christmas.

Merry Christmas from José James feat. Christian Sands

When: December 12 - 13, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $35-55

Have yourself a soulful little Christmas with smooth-as-silk crooner José James, the crown prince of new-jack jazz. An R&B-steeped singer who’s as effective evoking Billie Holiday as Bill Withers, José James returns with his first holiday project that imbues classic songs of the season with the warmth of a roaring fireplace in winter, captured on his new album Merry Christmas From José James.

Christmas With a Whole Lotta of Soul

When: December 13 - 14, 2023

Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, 501 West 78th Street, Chanhassen, MN 55317

Cost: $44 - $64

Ginger Commodore and friends brings you a program of Christmas classics and originals, remixed and reframed as R&B, soul, funk and gospel – Christmas…With a Whole Lot of Soul! Classic holiday tunes like “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” “My Favorite Things,” “This Christmas,” “Mary, Did You Know?,” “Let It Snow” and more! Plus some band originals laced with R&B stylings, jazz riffs and gospel harmonies.

Southside Aces: Christmas in New Orleans

When: December 14, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $15 - $20

The Southside Aces have been playing holiday shows for twenty years. They play favorites, lesser-knowns, even originals! When you put holiday tunes through the New Orleans jazz filter, you make Yuletide haters love, and lovers love more!

Holiday Blues Show Cornbread & Friends

When: December 14 - 15, 2023

Where: The Hook and Ladder Theater, 3010 Minnehaha Ave Minneapolis, MN 55406

Cost: $15 - $20

The Hook and Ladder Theater is proud to again host this very special, intimate Holiday Blues Show with the one and only Cornbread Harris and Friends. Please join us as we celebrate the holidays with a 94 year old living legend, James Samuel ‘Cornbread’ Harris, Sr.

Rhythm Street Movement: Who Brought the Humbug?

When: Weekends December 14 - 17, 2023

Where: Cowles Center, 528 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $35-$75

Ricci Milan and the artists of Rhythm Street Movement return to The Cowles Center with Who Brought the Humbug? this holiday season!

Join us for a fun, funky, funny holiday show that the whole family can enjoy. Live music paired with amazing tap dance and a unique mix of comedy, drama, and mystery is sure to make an ­­­evening to remember.

Holiday Concerts: Handel’s Messiah

When: December 14 - 17, 2023

Where: Ordway Center for the Preforming Arts 345 Washington St, St Paul, MN 55102

Cost: $5-$55

Celebrate the holidays with one of classical music’s most beloved traditions and join the SPCO for our extremely popular annual performances of George Frideric Handel’s Messiah. Dmitry Sinkovsky and the SPCO will be joined by an all-star roster of vocal soloists and renowned vocal ensemble The Singers in what is sure to be a wonderful musical experience for the whole family this holiday season.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

When: December 15, 2023

Where: Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $56-76

The world’s favorite holiday tradition for over 35 years! Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis creates a show filled to the brim with classic carols and original songs performed by award winning musical talent. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas is embellished with enough lights and dazzling multimedia effects to create a Christmas sensation straight out of the North Pole.

Trailer Trash's "Trashy Little Xmas"

When: December 15 - 16, 2023

Where: The Hook and Ladder Theater, 3010 Minnehaha Ave Minneapolis, MN 55406

Cost: $30-35

Honky-tonk legends Trailer Trash kick-off the holiday season with their very popular Trashy Little XMAS Show with a 2-night stand at The Hook. For decades, Trailer Trash’s Trashy Little Xmas Show has been a seasonal stand-out, selling out venues around the state and providing the perfect accompaniment to the holiday hoopla with a cheerful blend of irreverent holiday music.

North Country Christmas Featuring Kat Perkins

When: December 15 - 17, 2023

Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, 501 West 78th Street, Chanhassen, MN 55317

Cost: $44 - $64

Christmas is Kat Perkins' favorite time of year! A Kat Perkins Christmas is an incredible blend of traditional Christmas songs with Kat's modern spin. She incorporates her audience in fun crowd participation holiday songs and even features an up and coming young star at each venue. Together she has created a fun, rockin show to celebrate the holidays filled with great music, laughter and even her own original Christmas songs! It's a must see all ages opportunity to bring the entire family!

Frozen in Concert

When: December 15 - 17, 2023

Where: Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $50 - $107

Fearless optimist Anna sets off on an epic journey—teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven—to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom. Watch the magic unfold on the big screen as the Minnesota Orchestra performs the score live. You don’t want to let this one go!

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy

When: December 16 – 23, 2023

Where: State Theater, 805 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55402

Cost: $19 - $129

Minnesota Dance Theatre’s beloved holiday tradition returns to the State Theatre with Loyce Houlton’s imaginative choreography, Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, and the thrilling dancers of the MDT company and school. Featuring the 44-piece Nutcracker Orchestra conducted by Philip Brunelle, this spectacular dream fantasy creates magical memories for generations to share.

Terry Fator: A Very Terry Christmas

When: December 17, 2023

Where: Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd., Prior Lake, MN 55372

Cost: Starting at $29

Celebrate the joy of the season and enjoy a night of comedy, singing, celebrity impersonations and ventriloquism with “America’s Got Talent” champion Terry Fator. Join Fator and your favorite puppet characters
like Maynard Thompkins (The world’s greatest Elvis impersonator who performs “Blue Christmas”) and Winston the Impersonating Turtle for what’s sure to be a fun and entertaining night!

A Holiday Evening With Kristin Chenoweth

When: December 18, 2023

Where: Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: LIMITED AVAILABILITY. Contact Box Office for more information

She’s funny, engaging, and as vibrant as they come. Broadway darling Kristin Chenoweth’s talents are seemingly unending: Emmy- and Tony Award-winning actress and singer, star of stage and screen, comedienne
extraordinaire, consummate performer. With so much pizzazz, it’s easy to see why she’s as immensely “Popular” as one of her trademark songs. Chenoweth returns to Orchestra Hall in this glittering night of entertainment featuring new arrangements of holiday favorites.

The Peterson Family - Twas the Jam Before Christmas

When: December 18 - 19, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $30-40

Often referred to as Minnesota’s First Family of Music, The Peterson Family are musicians and singers, and have been performing locally, nationally, and internationally for many years; playing with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, Bob Dylan, Prince, and Kenny Loggins. They were inducted into the Midwest Music Hall of Fame and collectively have 100 gold and platinum records.

Celtic Holiday Hooley

When: December 18 - 20, 2023

Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, 501 W 78th St, Chanhassen, MN 55317

Cost: $44 - $64

Returning by popular demand is Celtic Holiday Hooley! Come for some holiday family fun! This hosted variety show is a party for all ages with Irish music, stories, sketches, step dance, caroling and more. Beyond that, it’s wacky good fun for everyone with brief guest appearances from well-known holiday characters including The Grinch and yes, even Santa Claus! Presented by the O’Shea Irish Dancers (who appeared at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres in sold-out performances of Kickin’ It Irish.) Choreography and music by original Riverdancer, Cormac O’Sé, of Dublin.

Peabo Bryson & Haley Reinhart: Home for the Holidays

When: December 21 - 22, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $60-$75

Peabo Bryson has established a career as one of the premier male vocalists in contemporary music of the last quarter century. Possessing a beautifully rich, almost operatic voice, this two-time Grammy Award-winner has survived and prospered despite the passage of time and changes in popular musical trends. Haley Reinhart is a Chicago-born/Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter exudes an empowering level of charisma and confidence earned by a quiet, decade-long grind. Haley landed third place and became a fan favorite on season 10 of American Idol.

Christmas on the Prairie

When: December 21 - 23, 2023

Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, 501 West 78th Street, Chanhassen, MN 55317

Cost: $44 - $64

Back again, some of your favorite Minnesota musicians get together for a very special holiday collaboration. It’s a not-to-be-missed cornucopia of Christmas conviviality, the familiar and the fresh, the fond and the frivolous. Featuring singers extraordinaire Mary Jane Alm, Aimée Lee and Boyd Lee, Prairie Home Companion regulars Richard Kriehn, Gary Raynor, Joe Savage and Peter Johnson, plus special guest, Grammy Award-winning singer/guitarist Pat Donohue.

Christmas with Cantus

When: December 22, 2023

Where: Ordway Theater, 345 Washington St, St Paul, MN 55102

Cost: $25-$48

In Christmas with Cantus, Cantus weaves together three holiday stories with time-honored carols and new classics. Blending narration and song, the program features Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” and Christine Lê’s “The Hawai’i Snowman,” alongside Mark Twain’s “A Letter from Santa Claus,” offering an opportunity to reflect on the meaning and joy of the holiday season. Join Cantus for a beloved holiday tradition that the Star Tribune has deemed "as joyful a celebration of the season's spirit as any caroling party you're likely to attend this year."

Belfast Cowboys - Musical Mistletoe!

When: December 23, 2023

Where: The Hook and Ladder Theatre & Lounge, 3010 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406

Cost: $20-$25

The Belfast Cowboys, one of Minnesota's most popular bands, return with their special annual holiday show. We’ll have a holly jolly time as they help us celebrate the season. The band promises to incorporate rockin’ holiday tunes into their usual wide-array of Van Morrison and other rock songs. No matter if you’ve been naughty or nice, this party will entertain you and your guests.

A Swingin’ Christmas w/ The Andrew Walesch Big Band

When: December 23, 2023

Where: The Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

Cost: $35-$45

There’s no better place to be the night before Christmas Eve than at the Dakota with Andrew Walesch and his 18-piece big band. Ring in the holidays with the songs of Bennett, Sinatra, Bublé, Basie, and more.

An Andy and Bing Christmas

When: December 26 - 30, 2023

Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, 501 W 78th St, Chanhassen, MN 55317

Cost: $44 - $64

When people are asked what their favorite Christmas albums are, the vast majority of people mention two albums: The classic "Andy Williams Christmas Album" and Bing Crosby's "Merry Christmas" album. The songs are timeless and the treatments are a perfect reflection of the holiday season.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra

When: December 30, 2023

Where: Xcel Energy Center, 199 W Kellogg Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55102

Cost: $49.50 - $109.75

Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO), the multi-platinum, progressive rock group, announced its highly-anticipated Winter Tour will be back for 2023. For 2023, TSO brings a completely updated presentation of the unforgettable, multi-generational holiday tradition, “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve.” Over the course of the tour, TSO will visit 62 cities, delivering an impressive 104 performances before concluding on December 30.