Atlanta Christmas concerts bring the city’s stages to life, from the Fox Theatre to Atlanta Symphony Hall and neighborhood venues across the metro area. From timeless holiday music to Nutcracker productions and live Christmas shows, these are the top Christmas performances in Atlanta worth adding to your 2026 plans.
The Best Christmas Shows in Atlanta This Season
From orchestral concerts and Christmas musical performances to ballet and holiday theater, these are the Atlanta Christmas performances to see in 2026.
1. A Christmas Carol at Alliance Theatre — Atlanta
A Christmas Carol at the Alliance Theatre is one of Atlanta's most treasured holiday theater traditions, returning this season as a festive staple for families across the city. This acclaimed adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic tale follows Ebenezer Scrooge on a transformative journey guided by three spirits, brought to life through stunning visuals and live music. Richly imagined and masterfully directed, this Atlanta Christmas show delivers a powerful story of redemption, compassion, and the true meaning of the season. It’s perfect for audiences of all ages.
- Dates: November 14th, 2026 – December 27th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Alliance Theatre, 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Pet Friendly: No
- Parking: Paid
- Website: alliancetheatre.org
Insider Tip: Arrive early to soak in the festive atmosphere of the theatre before the show and consider making it a full evening out in Midtown Atlanta.
2. Pentatonix Christmas in the City Tour — Atlanta
The Grammy Award winning vocal ensemble Pentatonix brings their Christmas in the City Tour to State Farm Arena in downtown Atlanta. The quintet delivers a cappella renditions of beloved holiday carols, modern seasonal tracks, and original seasonal compositions. Utilizing zero instruments, the group creates rich soundscapes through human vocals, beatboxing, and tight harmonies accompanied by visual stage effects. The show provides a joyful, family friendly outing in the city's central entertainment district.
- Dates: Thursday, December 10th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: State Farm Arena, 1 State Farm Drive, Atlanta, GA 30303
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site parking at the Centennial Deck, Sapphire Deck, or Ruby Deck, with pre-booked parking advised
- Website: https://go.seated.com/tour-events/0e2c6abf-4e56-4a39-8341-9a38b7160754
Insider Tip: Ride MARTA directly to the GWCC/CNN Center Station, which opens right next to the arena entrance for seamless transit access.
3. Christmas with the ASO — Atlanta
Classical music patrons gather annually inside Atlanta Symphony Hall to experience one of the region's most celebrated orchestral traditions. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra joins forces with massive choral ensembles to present timeless holiday arrangements. Guest vocal groups including the Morehouse College Glee Club and Spivey Hall Children's Choir lend incredible depth to traditional carols throughout the concert. Audience members are invited to participate in festive sing along segments interspersed between rich orchestral movements. The powerful combination of symphonic instrumentation and soaring harmony delivers a truly elevated seasonal performance for all ages.
- Dates: Thursday, December 10th through Sunday, December 13th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid parking is available in the Woodruff Arts Center Garage attached to the venue.
- Website: https://www.aso.org/events/detail/christmas-with-the-aso-5
Insider Tip: Book seats along the lower balcony loge to enjoy direct acoustic clarity without having the stage floor lights obstruct your view of the massive choir setup.
4. NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet — Augusta
The historic Miller Theater hosts an internationally acclaimed production that blends European classical dance with impressive theatrical acrobatics. Vibrant handcrafted backdrops and whimsical props set the stage for world class dancers to bring Tchaikovsky's famous composition to life. Local youth dancers from Augusta's Free Movement Dance Studio perform side by side with the professional touring cast. The ornate interior of this restored 1930s venue adds a layer of vintage charm to the entire spectacle. It offers a spectacular evening of classic storytelling that captivates long time ballet enthusiasts and first time theatergoers alike.
- Dates: Friday, November 20th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 708 Broad St, Augusta, GA 30901
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Metered street parking along Broad Street and paid public garages within walking distance.
- Website: https://nutcracker.com/buy-tickets/augusta-ga/
Insider Tip: Take a few minutes before showtime to view the historic architectural photography display on the mezzanine level documenting the venue's multi-million dollar restoration.
5. Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker — Atlanta
The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre provides a breathtaking backdrop for Atlanta Ballet’s modern visual reimagining of a timeless holiday tale. Dazzling digital projections, oversized stage sets, and intricate costume designs create a continuous flow of lively stage environments. Every single movement is set to Tchaikovsky’s famous score, performed live by the dedicated Atlanta Ballet Orchestra. Dynamic choreography keeps the momentum swift, guiding viewers from enchanted snowstorms to elaborate fantasy realms. It stands out as a premier cultural production that defines the local winter arts season.
- Dates: December 5th through December 26th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30339
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site parking deck available at the venue ($20 per car, cashless).
- Website: https://www.cobbenergycentre.com/events/detail/the-nutcracker-2026
Insider Tip: Pre-order your intermission refreshments at the main lobby bar before the show starts to completely bypass the long lines during the 20 minute break.
6. Glenn Miller Orchestra — Atlanta
Big band enthusiasts and romantics can step back in time as world-famous musicians bring timeless swing era classics back to the stage. Eighteen talented performers and singers revive unforgettable hits like In the Mood, Moonlight Serenade, and Chattanooga Choo Choo. The legendary ensemble preserves the distinctive sound that defined the height of the 1930s and 1940s dance band era. This performance offers an unforgettable evening for anyone who loves vintage jazz and classic orchestration.
- Dates: Thursday, January 14th, 2027
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30339
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid on-site parking deck available at the venue (paid, cashless).
- Website: https://www.cobbenergycentre.com/events/detail/glenn-miller-orchestra
Insider Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the upscale lounge atmosphere and specialized drink offerings at the venue's Skyline Lounge before taking your seats.
7. Love Actually Live in Concert — Atlanta
Audiences can experience a contemporary holiday film favorite in an entirely new way with a live orchestra performing the score on stage. Craig Armstrong's evocative musical compositions synchronize seamlessly with the big screen projection of London's intertwining romantic stories. This fan-favorite movie features an all-star ensemble cast including Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, and Colin Firth navigating the twists and turns of affection. Viewers share in the laughs, charm, and emotional depth of a modern seasonal classic brought vividly to life.
- Dates: Friday, November 27th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30339
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid on-site parking deck available at the venue.
- Website: https://www.cobbenergycentre.com/events/detail/love-actually
Insider Tip: Check the venue's prohibited items list before arrival to ensure a smooth security screening process at the doors.
8. Straight No Chaser's Making Spirits Bright — Atlanta
Photo Credit: Straight No Chaser | Ashley White
Nine exceptional vocalists take center stage to deliver electrifying a cappella arrangements of traditional and contemporary seasonal hits. This renowned ensemble blends complex vocal harmonies with witty stage banter without any backing instrumentation. Listeners experience pure vocal power echoing through the historic architectural masterpiece of downtown's premier performance venue. Their performance provides a joyful break from standard theatrical holiday plays. It stands out as a vibrant musical celebration that appeals across multiple generations of concertgoers.
- Dates: Tuesday, December 22nd, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Nearby commercial parking decks and paid street parking options surrounding Peachtree Street.
- Website: https://www.bandsintown.com/e/108404212
Insider Tip: Take time to admire the ornate Moroccan style decor and grand staircases in the theater lobby before finding your seats.
9. ASO presents Handel's Messiah — Atlanta
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Chorus invite local families to gather for an inspiring Old World holiday tradition. Acclaimed vocalists fill the grand concert hall with powerful renditions of Part 1 of Handel's majestic masterpiece. The performance also features J.S. Bach's serene cantata, Sheep May Safely Graze, adding delicate acoustic balance to the program. Audience members join together as the roof raising Hallelujah Chorus echoes through the hall. This concert serves as a magnificent classical anchor for the local performing arts calendar.
- Dates: Thursday, December 17th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid parking garage attached to the Woodruff Arts Center.
- Website: https://www.aso.org/events/detail/handels-messiah-2
Insider Tip: Plan to arrive early to enjoy the holiday decorations in the shared arts center courtyard before entering the auditorium doors.
10. ASO presents Sounds of the Season — Atlanta
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra guides listeners on a joyful musical journey filled with warmth and international holiday melodies. This family friendly program combines sparkling orchestral arrangements with beloved carols designed for audience participation. Assistant conductor Finan Jones leads the ensemble through pieces that truly capture the heartfelt spirit of winter celebrations. The cheerful atmosphere encourages multi-generational families to build lasting memories together through song. It offers a delightful mid-winter musical escape for community members of all ages.
- Dates: Wednesday, December 23rd, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid parking garage attached to the Woodruff Arts Center.
- Website: https://www.aso.org/events/detail/sounds-of-the-season-2
Insider Tip: Purchase your tickets well in advance as this popular annual program routinely fills up during peak holiday week scheduling.
11. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas — Atlanta
Grammy Award winner Chip Davis brings America’s favorite contemporary holiday concert tradition back to the concert stage. Fifteen talented musicians utilize over twenty distinct instruments to generate their signature blend of rock infused classical arrangements. Dazzling multimedia projections wrap around the stage elements to create an immersive visual and auditory spectacle. Their high tech production captures the magic of the season inside a historic and intimate theater setting. It remains an unmissable destination for modern holiday music enthusiasts.
- Dates: Saturday, November 14th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Commercial parking garages and paid lots available along Peachtree Street.
- Website: https://www.foxtheatre.org/events/detail/mannheim-steamroller-christmas
Insider Tip: Upgrade your evening with Marquee Club access to enjoy exclusive lounge spaces and private bars before the performance begins.
12. Cirque du Soleil Twas The Night Before... — Atlanta
World class acrobats and performers deliver an exhilarating interpretation of the classic seasonal poem through breathtaking physical feats. This high octane production focuses on the core virtues of generosity and friendship while maintaining a playful family friendly tone. As Cirque du Soleil's first ever holiday show, it combines whimsical characters with heart pounding stunts and custom musical styling. Audiences are treated to a whirlwind of cheerful performance art designed to establish new family traditions. The dazzling staging transforms the grand theater into an agile winter wonderland.
- Dates: December 2nd through December 13th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Surrounding paid downtown parking decks and surface lots.
- Website: https://www.foxtheatre.org/events/detail/twas-the-night-before-2026
Insider Tip: Doors open one hour before curtain call, giving guests plenty of time to find their seats without missing the opening acrobatic sequences.
13. The Hip Hop Nutcracker — Atlanta
Urban dance choreography meets classical Tchaikovsky compositions in a holiday mash-up directed by Jennifer Weber. A powerhouse crew of all star breakdancers is joined on stage by a live DJ, an acoustic violinist, and founding hip hop pioneer Kurtis Blow. The opening set kicks off an inspiring contemporary narrative celebrating community, love, and seasonal joy. Popping and locking replace traditional ballet steps while remaining deeply respectful of the original orchestral score. It provides a fresh theatrical experience that thrills audiences of all generations.
- Dates: Saturday, December 26th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Public parking decks located within a short walking distance of the venue.
- Website: https://www.foxtheatre.org/events/detail/the-hip-hop-nutcracker-1
Insider Tip: Listen closely to the live violinist who blends classical string melodies directly into heavy urban drum beats throughout the show.
14. Candlelight Christmas Classics — Decatur
A professional string quartet performs intimate seasonal tribute arrangements surrounded by hundreds of flickering LED candles. This sixty-minute program features classical interpretations alongside modern holiday film favorites and pop hits. Stately Gothic architecture provides a stunning acoustic backdrop for timeless melodies like Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Carol of the Bells. The gentle glow creates an ambient retreat away from the bustling winter shopping rush. It delivers a sophisticated multi-sensory musical sanctuary for acoustic music lovers.
- Dates: Friday, December 18th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 205 Sycamore St, Decatur, GA 30030
- Kid-Friendly: Yes (Ages 8 and up; under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Street parking and public parking decks located around downtown Decatur.
- Website: https://feverup.com/m/618531
Insider Tip: Doors open one hour before the performance begins, and seating within each purchased zone is handled on a first come, first served basis.
15. Candlelight Christmas Carols on Strings — Decatur
Musicians from the Listeso String Quartet interpret historic holiday carols inside a peaceful historic chapel illuminated by soft candlelight. The soothing program weaves through centuries of traditional religious and secular winter arrangements. Guests experience unamplified acoustic strings that highlight the structural beauty of classic hymns like "O Holy Night" and "Silent Night." The warm atmospheric glow offers a tranquil space for reflection during the hectic holiday season. It presents a charming cultural evening designed for devotees of traditional string music.
- Dates: Thursday, December 17th & Friday December 18th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 205 Sycamore St, Decatur, GA 30030
- Kid-Friendly: Yes (Ages 8 and up; under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Downtown Decatur public garages and metered street spaces nearby.
- Website: https://feverup.com/m/368413
Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure optimal seating within your ticket zone, as late entry is strictly prohibited once the concert starts.
16. A Magical Cirque Christmas — Sandy Springs
Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center hosts an evening of acrobatic displays during the holidays just north of downtown Atlanta. The touring production combines high flying aerial stunts, balance acts, and comical stage performances set to live renditions of classic Christmas songs. Performers execute intricate physical choreography alongside mind bending illusions and interactive comedy routines. This multi-disciplinary show offers a vibrant, family friendly theatrical outing suitable for all age groups. Its location at City Springs gives suburban families and city residents easy access to top-tier touring circus arts close to home.
- Dates: Saturday, November 21st, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Byers Theatre at Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, GA 30328
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site underground parking deck available at City Springs
- Website: https://www.magicalcirquechristmas.com/
Insider Tip: Arrive early to explore the outdoor plaza at City Springs, where seasonal light installations and local dining spots surround the theater complex.
17. A Magical Cirque Christmas — Savannah
Historic Savannah Civic Center’s Johnny Mercer Theatre hosts this holiday circus showcase in Coastal Georgia. International circus talent takes the stage to present soaring balance acts, aerial maneuvers, and interactive magic routines. Upbeat musical numbers frame each performance, maintaining a lively and engaging pace from start to finish. This family friendly show delivers plenty of holiday humor, Christmas costumes, and athletic talent for audiences of all ages. Its central downtown location makes it an ideal evening stop for families exploring the city’s holiday illuminations.
- Dates: Thursday, November 19th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Johnny Mercer Theatre at Savannah Civic Center, 301 W Oglethorpe Ave, Savannah, GA 31401
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site civic center parking lot and nearby municipal garages on Liberty Street
- Website: https://www.magicalcirquechristmas.com/
Insider Tip: Walk two blocks east after the performance to enjoy dessert along Bull Street in Savannah's illuminated historic district.
Tips for Attending Christmas Shows in Atlanta
- Book early: Popular Christmas shows in Atlanta sell out weeks, if not months, in advance. The closer to Christmas, the harder it becomes to get seats.
- Consider weekday matinees: Weekday afternoon performances often have better seat availability and lower prices than weekend evening shows.
- Check for family discounts: Many venues offer family packages, student rush tickets, or matinee pricing that can significantly reduce the cost of attending with kids.
- Arrive early for the venue experience: Many of Atlanta's historic theaters are beautifully decorated for the holidays. Build in extra time before curtain to enjoy the lobby and architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Atlanta Christmas shows this season.
When do Atlanta Christmas shows start?
Most Christmas shows in Atlanta begin running in late November or early December and continue through Christmas Eve or early January. The most popular productions, including The Nutcracker, typically open the weekend after Thanksgiving.
How much do Christmas shows in Atlanta cost?
Ticket prices vary widely. Family friendly productions and community choir concerts can start under $20, while marquee ballet and symphony performances at major venues can run $75 to $300 or more. Check individual listings for pricing.
Are Christmas shows in Atlanta kid friendly?
Most holiday productions are family friendly, especially The Nutcracker, holiday pops concerts, and family stage shows. Weekend matinees are often the most family oriented. Check individual listings for age recommendations.
Do I need to book Atlanta Christmas show tickets in advance?
Yes! The most popular Christmas shows in Atlanta sell out weeks, if not months, in advance, particularly for the final weekends before Christmas. Book as early as you can for the best seat selection and pricing.
My can I add my event to this guide?
We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!
Plan Your Complete Atlanta Christmas Experience
Atlanta's Christmas shows are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to Atlanta Christmas lights and Christmas markets in Atlanta to find even more Atlanta Christmas activities to enjoy this holiday season. Whether you're a local or visiting for the holidays, our Atlanta Christmas guide has you covered.
