Photo Credit: Visit Long Beach
From Broadway productions and The Nutcracker to holiday concerts and choral performances, the Los Angeles Christmas shows in 2026 will excite everyone in attendance! Whether you're planning a family outing or a night at the theater, these seasonal performances are among the city's most popular holiday traditions. Browse our guide to the best holiday shows LA has to offer for the 2026 season.
The Best Los Angeles Christmas Shows This Season
Plan your holiday entertainment with the best Christmas performances in Los Angeles, including ballet, concerts, theater, and seasonal productions for 2026.
1. Catalyst Candlelight Christmas — Long Beach
Performed entirely without instruments, Camerata's Catalyst Chamber ensemble delivers a fully a cappella holiday concert across three intimate Southern California church venues over the first weekend of December. The program features warm seasonal classics, including "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas", performed by some of the region's most accomplished vocal professionals in the close, candlelit atmosphere of historic sanctuaries. This Long Beach performance at St. Cornelius Catholic Church on December 4th opens the three night run before the ensemble travels to Palos Verdes Estates and Culver City.
- Dates: December 4th-6th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: St. Cornelius Catholic Church, 5500 E Wardlow Rd, Long Beach, CA 90808 (Performance #1) - St. Francis, 2200 Vía Rosa, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Performance #2) - Culver City, venue details TBA (Performance #3)
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No
- Parking: Free on-site church parking and street parking available
- Website: https://longbeachcameratasingers.org/
Insider Tip: Check the official website before attending the Culver City performance since their venue location is still to be announced.
2. Long Beach Camerata Singers Handel's Messiah — Long Beach
Now in its 18th consecutive year, this Long Beach tradition brings Handel's Messiah to life inside Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church with period instrument accompaniment from the Tesserae Baroque Ensemble and four professional soloists. It stands as the city's only professional production of the complete Messiah, drawing more than 700 audience members annually to one of the most focused classical performances on the Southern California holiday calendar. Their single night format makes it genuinely worth planning around.
- Dates: Tuesday, December 22nd, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church, 5195 E Stearns St, Long Beach, CA 90815
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No
- Parking: Free on-site church parking and street parking available
- Website: https://longbeachcameratasingers.org/
Insider Tip: This is a one night only performance, so secure tickets early, as the 700 seat venue fills quickly for Long Beach's only professional Messiah production.
3. Los Angeles Ballet's The Nutcracker — Los Angeles
Join young Clara and the Nutcracker Prince as they battle the Mouse King and travel to the Palace of the Dolls. This unique production weaves traditional ballet storytelling with iconic Southern California landmarks, ranging from a Spanish mansion in Hancock Park to the snowy slopes of Big Bear. Audiences will love recognizing familiar local sights alongside Tchaikovsky's unforgettable classic score. At the Dolby Theatre performances, the music is brought to life live by the Los Angeles Ballet Orchestra.
- Dates: December 11th through December 27th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Dolby Theatre, 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site parking structure available under Ovation Hollywood
- Website: https://www.losangelesballet.org/2026-2027-season/the-nutcracker
Insider Tip: If you have sensory sensitive family members, secure tickets for the December 26th matinee, where lighting levels are softened and sound volumes are kept low for a comfortable theater environment.
4. Home Alone in Concert — Los Angeles
Watch Kevin McCallister defend his family home on the big screen in this beloved comedy classic. Renowned composer John Williams charming score is performed live to picture by a full orchestra. Hosted inside the acoustically acclaimed Walt Disney Concert Hall, this screening offers a grand cinematic experience. It's a fantastic way for families to kick off the holiday season together through film and music.
- Dates: Friday, November 27th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes (Ages 2 and up)
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Parking garage beneath Walt Disney Concert Hall accessible from 2nd Street or Lower Grand Avenue
- Website: https://www.laphil.com/events/instances/1py8126p/2026-11-27/home-alone-in-concert-nov-27
Insider Tip: Enter the parking structure via Lower Grand Avenue to bypass heavy congestion along 1st and Grand right before showtime.
5. Elf in Concert — Los Angeles
Follow Buddy the Elf on his hilarious journey from the North Pole to Manhattan in search of his father. Relive every funny moment on a massive screen inside Walt Disney Concert Hall. John Debney's wonderful musical score is played live to picture by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. This high energy presentation is guaranteed to spread Christmas cheer to audiences of all ages.
- Dates: Saturday, November 28th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes (Ages 2 and up)
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site garage beneath Walt Disney Concert Hall
- Website: https://www.laphil.com/events/instances/11j63r3g/2026-11-28/elf-in-concert
Insider Tip: Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes early to clear security checkpoints smoothly and grab seasonal drinks at the hall's lobby bar.
6. Chanticleer — Los Angeles
This Grammy Award winning vocal ensemble returns to Southern California for a memorable evening of holiday music. The performance begins with a breathtaking candlelit chant procession that sets a reverent tone for the night. Their expansive repertoire spans centuries of classical carols, traditional sacred works, and joyful gospel arrangements. Listening to their seamless a cappella harmonies inside Walt Disney Concert Hall creates an unforgettable December memory.
- Dates: Wednesday, December 16th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Multi-level underground garage located beneath the venue
- Website: https://www.laphil.com/events/instances/6z04cm86/2026-12-16/chanticleer-3
Insider Tip: Seat selections on the Terrace Level offer exceptional visual angles for the opening candlelit entrance through the auditorium aisles.
7. Celebrating Christmas with Le Concert d’Astrée — Los Angeles
Early music specialist Emmanuelle Haïm leads the acclaimed choir and orchestra of Le Concert d’Astrée alongside the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The evening features Vivaldi’s joyous Gloria alongside his dynamic instrumental concertos. Listeners will also enjoy Corelli’s historic Christmas Concerto, originally written back in 1690. This rich program delivers an authentic and uplifting taste of classical Baroque music.
- Dates: Friday, December 18th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site parking garage beneath the hall
- Website: https://www.laphil.com/events/instances/3mrm7yp9/2026-12-18/celebrating-christmas-with-le-concert-d-astree
Insider Tip: Reserve your tickets early during the initial sales window on August 11th, as this rare international Baroque choir collaboration sells out rapidly.
8. Holiday Sing-Along at Walt Disney Concert Hall — Los Angeles, CA
Join hundreds of fellow music lovers for a joyful annual tradition in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Host Melissa Peterman leads the audience through a spirited lineup of favorite seasonal tunes. The musical backing includes a vibrant choir, a live jazz combo, and the venue’s iconic pipe organ. Songbooks are provided so attendees of all ages can easily follow along and sing out loud.
- Dates: Saturday, December 19th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes (Ages 2 and up)
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Underground garage on-site at Walt Disney Concert Hall
- Website: https://www.laphil.com/events/instances/eyd6hv8a/2026-12-19/holiday-sing-along-2026
Insider Tip: Songbooks are provided at the doors, so head inside as soon as doors open to find your seats and review the program.
9. Straight No Chaser: Making Spirits Bright Tour — Thousand Oaks, CA
The world renowned nine-member a cappella group brings their national holiday tour to Ventura County. Known for blending flawless vocal technique with lighthearted humor, their shows are engaging from start to finish. Audiences will hear clever re-imaginings of classic carols alongside energetic pop medleys. It's an entertaining night out that appeals to music fans of all generations.
- Dates: Sunday, November 15th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 2100 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Covered parking structure located directly at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza
- Website: https://www.bandsintown.com/e/108404141
Insider Tip: Park on the third level of the Civic Arts structure for direct access to the Fred Kavli Theatre main lobby doors.
10. LA Master Chorale: Carols for Kids — Los Angeles, CA
Crafted specifically for young listeners, this brisk one hour show introduces children to the joy of live choral music. The LA Master Chorale teams up with Youth Chorus LA to perform energetic renditions of classic holiday carols. Before the show begins, families can explore interactive crafts throughout the lobby area. Children can also pose for a souvenir photograph with Santa Claus right on site.
- Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Garage parking beneath Walt Disney Concert Hall
- Website: https://lamasterchorale.org/show-details/carols-for-kids26
Insider Tip: Doors for pre-show activities open early so arrive by 10:00 AM to meet Santa before the auditorium doors open for seating.
11. LA Master Chorale: Candy Canes, Carols and Cheer — Los Angeles, CA
Conducted by Grant Gershon, this festive afternoon showcase features 62 professional vocalists inside Walt Disney Concert Hall. The ensemble performs secular and sacred holiday works from around the globe, backed by piano and pipe organ. Attendees can expect rich musical textures that capture the warmth of the winter season. Their program even includes a special guest appearance by Santa Claus himself.
- Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Multi-level garage on-site
- Website: https://lamasterchorale.org/show-details/candy-canes-carols-and-cheer-the-master-chorale-salutes-the-holidays
Insider Tip: Consider combining this afternoon concert with a stroll through nearby Grand Park to view downtown holiday displays.
12. LA Master Chorale: A Journey of Joy - The Music of Las Posadas — Los Angeles, CA
This special concert brings Latin America’s 400-year-old Las Posadas tradition into the majestic sanctuary of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. Forty voices from the LA Master Chorale join forces with traditional mariachi musicians and piano. Together, they guide the audience through a rich musical story focused on community and hospitality. The vibrant rhythms and radiant choral textures offer a meaningful cultural celebration.
- Dates: Sunday, December 13th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 555 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Cathedral parking garage accessible from Hill Street or Temple Street
- Website: https://lamasterchorale.org/show-details/a-journey-of-joy-the-music-of-las-posadas
Insider Tip: Seating inside the cathedral plaza nave is on a first come, first served basis within designated ticketed sections. Arrive early to pick spots with optimal sight lines.
13. LA Master Chorale: Handel’s Messiah with Le Concert d’Astrée — Los Angeles, CA
This milestone concert pairs the LA Master Chorale with renowned French Baroque ensemble Le Concert d’Astrée. Conducted by Emmanuelle Haïm, this historic collaboration brings renewed energy to George Frideric Handel’s greatest masterwork. Four world class vocal soloists join the orchestra to deliver powerful recitatives and arias. Hearing the famous Hallelujah Chorus echo through Walt Disney Concert Hall is a truly inspiring experience.
- Dates: Monday, December 14th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site parking structure beneath Walt Disney Concert Hall
- Website: https://lamasterchorale.org/show-details/handels-messiah-with-le-concert-dastree
Insider Tip: Review the program text beforehand so young attendees can follow along with the three distinct narrative sections of the oratorio.
14. LA Master Chorale: The Great Messiah Sing-Along — Los Angeles, CA
Step out of your audience seat and become part of the choir as two thousand voices unite inside Walt Disney Concert Hall. Guided by conductor Grant Gershon and a live chamber orchestra, crowd members sing along to Handel's masterpiece. Songbooks are available in the lobby so everyone can follow the vocal scores effortlessly. It remains one of Southern California's most engaging and uplifting holiday traditions.
- Dates: Sunday, December 20th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Multi-level parking structure located beneath the hall
- Website: https://lamasterchorale.org/show-details/the-great-messiah-sing-along-two-thousand-voices-at-walt-disney-concert-hall
Insider Tip: Official vocal scores are available for purchase in the lobby if you don't bring your own sheet music from home.
15. The Nutcracker: Symphony of Lights — Los Angeles
A fresh reimagining of Tchaikovsky’s timeless classic arrives at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre this December. This production breathes new life into the traditional ballet by pairing classical choreography with a glowing, synchronized lighting experience. Audiences can expect brilliant staging, dynamic visual effects, and a festive atmosphere suitable for all ages. It offers an ideal holiday evening out for dance enthusiasts and families alike looking to start a new seasonal tradition.
- Dates: Thursday, December 10th & Friday, December 11th, 2026
- Admission: Paid
- Street Address: 4401 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90005
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site parking available and local street parking nearby
- Website: https://artisticspaceproductions.us/events/the-nutcracker-symphony-of-lights-wilshire-ebell-theatre-december-11-2026/?_gl=1*1el0alu*_up*MQ..*_ga*OTE4MjYzMTgxLjE3ODU4MjY1ODM.*_ga_S3TTX92BX3*czE3ODU4MjY1ODEkbzEkZzAkdDE3ODU4MjY1ODEkajYwJGwwJGgw
Insider Tip: Parking near the Ebell can get congested during December performance nights. Arrive at least 45 minutes prior to showtime to secure a spot in the main lot and grab a hot beverage at the concession bar before taking your seat.
16. A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong — Los Angeles
The multi-award winning theater troupe Mischief brings their signature brand of chaotic comedy to the Ahmanson Theatre for its North American premiere. Everything that can go wrong does as the fictional Cornley Amateur Drama Society attempts to stage the Ebenezer Scrooge classic. Expect collapsing sets, missed cues, and hilarious cast feuds from the creative minds behind The Play That Goes Wrong. This two hour twenty minute laugh fest provides a hilarious respite from traditional holiday theater offerings, making it one of the more refreshing things to do in Los Angeles at Christmas this season!
- Dates: December 12th, 2026 through January 10th, 2027
- Admission: Paid
- Street Address: 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site garage at The Music Center
- Website: https://www.centertheatregroup.org/shows-tickets/ahmanson/2026-27/christmas-carol-goes-wrong/
Insider Tip: If you want early access to tickets before general sales open in August, sign up for Center Theatre Group’s email alerts to receive priority access promo codes directly in your inbox.
17. NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet — Pasadena
The Pasadena Civic Auditorium hosts America's favorite holiday tradition featuring an international cast of world class dancers and acrobats. Towering puppets, hand sewn costumes, and breathtaking visual effects bring the Clara and Nutcracker story to life on a grand scale. Set to Tchaikovsky's timeless score, this large scale touring production delivers pure theatrical awesomeness for audience members of all generations. It's a spectacular afternoon or evening outing to kick off your family's seasonal celebrations.
- Dates: Friday, December 18th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 300 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Civic Center subterranean parking garage and nearby Plaza Paseo Colorado structure
- Website: https://nutcracker.com/buy-tickets/pasadena-ca/
Insider Tip: Pasadena Civic Auditorium is located near Plaza Paseo Colorado, making it easy to pair your show with dinner or shopping nearby. Parking in the structure right across from the venue fills quickly, so target the civic center subterranean garage instead.
18. NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet — Los Angeles
Experience North America’s largest Nutcracker tour as it lights up the historic Wiltern theatre in mid December. Featuring incredible gravity defying feats, stunning handcrafted sets, and puppetry, this show brings unmatched energy to the classic tale. Three separate showtimes on a single Saturday make it easy to fit into busy holiday schedules. Bring the whole family to revel in the timeless music and brilliant world class dancing.
- Dates: Saturday, December 19th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 3790 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Nearby paid lots and parking structures surrounding the venue
- Website: https://nutcracker.com/buy-tickets/los-angeles-ca/
Insider Tip: Taking the Metro B Line or D Line directly to the Wilshire/Western Station lets you exit right across the street from The Wiltern, saving you from navigating heavy Koreatown traffic and expensive valet lines.
Tips for Attending Christmas Shows in Los Angeles
- Book early: Popular Christmas shows in Los Angeles sell out weeks, if not months, in advance. The closer to Christmas, the harder it is 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 Los Angeles'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 Los Angeles shows this season.
When do Christmas shows start in Los Angeles?
Most Christmas shows in Los Angeles 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 cost in Los Angeles?
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 Los Angeles 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 to find the best kid-friendly holiday performances Los Angeles has to offer!
Do I need to book Christmas show tickets in advance?
Yes! The most popular Christmas shows in Los Angeles 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.
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!
Christmas Shows Worth the Drive from Los Angeles
Los Angeles isn't the only place worth visiting for Christmas shows this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own marquee holiday performances worth the trip.
Solvang, California — 2 Hours 20 Minutes from Los Angeles
Celebrate Solvang's Danish heritage during Solvang Julefest, where live holiday entertainment brings the village to life throughout the season. Listen to the Christmas Matters Holiday Carolers as they stroll downtown performing classic Christmas songs and then enjoy community concerts like the Santa Ynez Valley Wind Ensemble's annual holiday performance for a memorable Christmas getaway.
Santa Barbara, California — 1 Hour 45 Minutes from Los Angeles
Enjoy an unforgettable holiday performance in Santa Barbara, where An Irish Christmas brings spirited music, dance, and Celtic holiday traditions to the historic Lobero Theatre. Next, experience the glow of Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings, an intimate concert featuring beloved Christmas classics performed by string musicians in a candlelit setting.
Plan Your Complete Los Angeles Christmas Experience
Los Angeles's Christmas shows are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to Los Angeles Christmas lights, Christmas festivals and parades, Christmas markets and holiday shopping, and Christmas events in Los Angeles. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our Los Angeles Christmas guide has you covered.
