Seattle Christmas concerts fill the city’s stages with holiday music, dance, and beloved seasonal performances throughout the season. From classic Christmas concerts to Nutcracker productions and live holiday shows, these are some of the best performances to see across Seattle in 2026.
The Best Christmas Shows in Seattle This Season
From Christmas concerts and choral performances to dance productions and holiday shows, these are the Seattle Christmas performances to put on your 2026 holiday calendar.
1. Handel’s Messiah — Seattle
The Seattle Symphony and Chorale team up for an inspiring performance of Handel's legendary choral masterpiece inside Benaroya Hall. Dynamic vocal soloists bring dramatic depth to classical sacred movements and triumphant soaring solos. This iconic Hallelujah chorus fills the auditorium with impressive acoustic power and emotional resonance. Masterful organ accompaniment complements the full orchestra to create an uplifting symphonic event. Music lovers flock to this production each December to enjoy timeless classical mastery.
- Dates: Thursday, December 17th; Saturday, December 19th; Sunday, December 20th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 200 University St, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Underground garage at Benaroya Hall accessible from 2nd Ave
- Website: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/en/concerttickets/calendar/2026-2027/26messiah
Insider Tip: Pre-order intermission drinks at the lobby bar before the concert starts to avoid waiting in long lines during the break.
2. A Festival of Lessons & Carols — Seattle
The Northwest Boychoir takes the stage to deliver a moving holiday program rooted in traditional choral arrangements. Scriptural readings interweave with delicate ensemble singing and traditional audience carols inside the main concert hall. Young vocal talent brings incredible precision and purity of tone to classic nativity compositions. The reverent atmosphere offers a peaceful pause amid the general bustle of the holiday season. It stands out as one of the region's most beloved vocal traditions.
- Dates: Monday, December 21st, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 200 University St, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Benaroya Hall garage parking available with direct elevator access
- Website: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/en/concerttickets/calendar/2026-2027/26lessonscarols
Insider Tip: Select balcony center seats for the best balanced acoustic blend of the choir and organ.
3. Elf in Concert with the Seattle Symphony — Seattle
A live symphony orchestra performs the complete movie score alongside a full screening of the popular holiday comedy. Audience members follow Buddy the Elf's humorous journey to New York as live instruments amplify every joke. Vibrant orchestral arrangements bring fresh energy to the lighthearted cinematic soundtrack. This event offers a fun blend of classical musicianship and popular pop culture entertainment. Families can experience a favorite comedy film through a dynamic symphonic lens.
- Dates: Wednesday, December 9th; Saturday, December 12th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 200 University St, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid parking garage attached to Benaroya Hall
- Website: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/en/concerttickets/calendar/2026-2027/26elf
Insider Tip: Wear your favorite ugly sweater or elf costume to join in on the casual, festive audience spirit.
4. Holiday Pops with Megan Hilty — Seattle
Broadway powerhouse Megan Hilty joins the Seattle Symphony to deliver a fun lineup of seasonal standards. Spirited carols and lush swing arrangements showcase the singer's incredible vocal range and stage charm. Dynamic conductor leadership guides the full orchestra through rich symphonic backings of classic winter tunes. This concert balances Broadway theatrical glamour with warm, nostalgic holiday sentiment. It offers a lively night out for theater fans and music enthusiasts alike.
- Dates: December 4th through December 6th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 200 University St, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site Benaroya Hall underground parking structure
- Website: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/en/concerttickets/calendar/2026-2027/26pops2
Insider Tip: Check out the third floor lobby windows during intermission for fantastic night views of the Seattle waterfront.
5. The Snowman at the Seattle Symphony — Seattle
The classic animated film comes to life as live orchestral music accompanies the young boy's whimsical journey to the North Pole. Pre-concert craft stations in the grand lobby keep children entertained long before the main event begins. Dedicated neuro-inclusive resources ensure a supportive and welcoming environment for neurodivergent audience members. This brief fifty minute running time provides an ideal movie concert setup for elementary aged kids. Charming animation and soaring orchestral melodies create a memorable outing for young families.
- Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 200 University St, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Direct underground garage access at Benaroya Hall
- Website: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/en/concerttickets/calendar/2026-2027/26fam2
Insider Tip: Visit the sensory checkout station in the lobby early to secure noise reducing headphones or fidget toys for your child.
6. The Strings: Holiday String-Along — Seattle
Musicians from the Seattle Symphony introduce toddlers and preschoolers to the string instrument family through interactive festive singalongs. Short thirty minute performances keep little ones active and engaged without pushing past short attention spans. The lobby opens early with hands-on instrument discovery tables, cozy reading nooks, and percussion play areas. Sensory amenities like noise canceling headphones, wobble cushions, and a designated quiet entrance ensure a low stress outing for sensitive listeners. It offers a gentle, kid focused first step into live symphonic music during the holiday season.
- Dates: Friday, December 11th & Saturday, December 12th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: 200 University St, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid garage parking attached to Benaroya Hall with direct elevator lobby access
- Website: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/en/concerttickets/calendar/2026-2027/26tt2
Insider Tip: Arrive thirty minutes before showtime so your toddlers can bang on real instruments in the percussion play area before taking their seats.
7. George Balanchine's The Nutcracker — Seattle
Pacific Northwest Ballet presents their iconic seasonal favorite on the grand stage of McCaw Hall. Audiences journey from a festive theater lobby right into a fabulous world brought to life by Tchaikovsky's legendary musical score. Every performance features the full live accompaniment of the PNB Orchestra alongside world class dance talent. Brilliant costumes, intricate set pieces, and elegant lighting design create an enchanting experience for viewers of all ages. It remains an absolute cornerstone of winter traditions for performing arts lovers across the Puget Sound region.
- Dates: November 27th through December 27th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer St, Seattle, WA 98109
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Parking is available at the Mercer Street Garage across from McCaw Hall, or at the 5th Avenue North Garage.
- Website: https://www.mccawhall.com/events/detail/the-nutcracker-2026
Insider Tip: Make a dinner reservation at Prelude inside the venue prior to curtain call so you can enjoy a full meal without worrying about finding table space in nearby lower Queen Anne restaurants.
8. Candlelight Christmas Classics — Seattle
Immerse yourself in a serene acoustic performance surrounded entirely by hundreds of flickering candles. The Range Ensemble string quartet interprets timeless holiday arrangements within the striking architectural backdrop of the central library. This sixty minute program gracefully weaves between classical masterpieces like "Carol of the Bells" and modern pop favorites such as "Last Christmas." Soft warm illumination creates a cozy intimate atmosphere that feels miles away from the hectic holiday rush. It offers a sophisticated cultural sanctuary for acoustic music enthusiasts seeking something unique.
- Dates: Friday, December 18th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Seattle Public Library - Central Library, 1000 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
- Kid-Friendly: Yes (Ages 8 and up; under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site parking garage available beneath the Central Library with access on 4th Avenue.
- Website: https://feverup.com/m/711891
Insider Tip: Program sets frequently feature instrumental takes on animated soundtracks like Frozen alongside classical arrangements, making it fun to test your music trivia skills as the quartet plays.
9. Straight No Chaser Making Spirits Bright — Seattle
Photo Credit: Straight No Chaser | Ashley White
Nine talented vocalists take the stage to deliver electrifying a cappella interpretations of traditional and contemporary seasonal tracks. This acclaimed ensemble seamlessly blends complex vocal harmonies with lighthearted stage banter throughout their performance. Guests experience sheer vocal power completely unsupported by background instrumentation or backing tracks. Their high energy show appeals across multiple generations of music lovers visiting downtown. It stands out as a joyful alternative to standard dramatic theater productions during the winter months.
- Dates: Thursday, November 19th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Paramount Theatre, 911 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Nearby pay garages available including the 7th & Pike Garage and Washington State Convention Center Garage.
- Website: https://www.bandsintown.com/e/108404149
Insider Tip: Take time to wander through the upper lobby levels of the historic theater to admire the intricate 1920s gold leaf ceilings and grand chandeliers.
10. NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet — Seattle
International ballet performers join forces with gravity defying acrobats in this ambitious touring extravaganza. Oversized handcrafted puppets and vibrant painted backdrops sweep audience members into a spectacular fantasy land set to classical compositions. Classical footwork gracefully alternates with impressive circus maneuvers across every scene of the show. Convenient matinee and evening options make fitting this grand production into busy schedules simple. It serves as a wonderful introduction to live theatrical arts for younger family members seeing their first ballet.
- Dates: Sunday, November 22nd, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: The Moore Theatre, 1932 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Street parking and nearby garage structures available along 2nd Avenue and Stewart Street.
- Website: https://www.stgpresents.org/events/nutcracker-magical-christmas-ballet/
Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for the towering puppet characters that step directly onto the stage, as their custom mechanical structures allow for shockingly realistic movement.
11. A John Waters Christmas — Seattle
Cult cinema icon John Waters brings his razor sharp comedic monologue to the stage for an unapologetically funny night out. This fast moving stand up routine pokes lighthearted fun at commercial consumerism, strange gift traditions, and quirky winter customs. Fans of edgy satire will appreciate their wild storytelling and clever observational humor delivered throughout the monologue. The theater setting guarantees every audience member takes in the sharp wit clearly. It promises an irreverent evening designed specifically for grown ups looking for unconventional entertainment.
- Dates: Wednesday, December 2nd, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: The Neptune Theatre, 1303 NE 45th St, Seattle, WA 98105
- Kid-Friendly: No (Recommended for adult audiences)
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Paid parking lots available in the University District along Brooklyn Ave NE and 15th Ave NE.
- Website: https://www.stgpresents.org/events/a-john-waters-christmas/
Insider Tip: Explore the surrounding University District beforehand to discover unique vintage record shops and indie bookstores that fit the event's offbeat aesthetic.
12. Choir! Choir! Choir! Un-Silent Night — Seattle
This innovative concert concept completely breaks down the traditional barrier separating audience members from stage artists. Musical directors Daveed Goldman and Nobu Adilman coach the entire room into harmony using famous pop melodies and seasonal anthems. Attendees spend the night laughing, learning vocal parts, and belting out classic tracks as one unified vocal choir. Absolutely no formal singing practice or sheet music reading ability is necessary to take part. It creates a powerful feeling of community connection that leaves participants buzzing long after the final note.
- Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: The Moore Theatre, 1932 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Pay garages and lot parking located within walking distance along 2nd and 3rd Avenues.
- Website: https://www.stgpresents.org/events/choir-choir-choir/
Insider Tip: Embrace the spirit of the event by wearing your most outrageous ugly sweater, as the show directors routinely interact with enthusiastic crowd members wearing bold outfits.
13. A Drag Queen Christmas — Seattle
Nationally recognized drag artists storm the historic Moore Theatre stage for an over the top evening of high fashion, sharp lip syncs, and side splitting comedic numbers. This nationwide tour combines campy seasonal antics with impressive stage dance routines. Performers showcase custom holiday outfits that fuse pop culture satire with stunning aesthetic artistry. High tempo music arrangements keep the venue pulsing with energy from the very opening act. It serves as a fabulous adult night out packed with theatrical flair, humor, and endless glamour.
- Dates: Monday, December 7th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: The Moore Theatre, 1932 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: No (Best suited for mature audiences)
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Public garages located near 2nd Ave and Virginia St.
- Website: https://www.stgpresents.org/events/a-drag-queen-christmas/
Insider Tip: Grab balcony seats if you want a clear perspective of the full stage layout, allowing you to catch every detailed costume change and complex dance movement.
14. The Hip Hop Nutcracker — Seattle
Modern street dance styles blend effortlessly with classical orchestral arrangements in this thrilling adaptation of a legendary story. A talented lineup featuring breakdancers, a live violinist, a DJ, and hip hop pioneer Kurtis Blow, brings incredible stage presence. Vibrant digital artwork projects contemporary urban backdrops that shift the tale's location straight to New York City. Popping and locking choreography replaces traditional ballet movements while remaining deeply respectful to Tchaikovsky's original score. It presents an energetic theatrical narrative that captivates younger generations and seasoned arts patrons alike.
- Dates: Friday, December 11th & Saturday, December 12th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: The Moore Theatre, 1932 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Commercial parking garages available nearby throughout downtown Seattle.
- Website: https://www.stgpresents.org/events/hip-hop-nutcracker-featuring-kurtis-blow/
Insider Tip: Listen closely to the live violinist who performs directly alongside the DJ, seamlessly blending acoustic string melodies into heavy contemporary hip hop beats.
15. Victorian Christmas Festival: Jubilee Theater — Puyallup
Step inside the cozy Jubilee Theater for a diverse showcase of live musical acts performing throughout the festival weekend. Visitors can relax in comfortable seating while taking in smooth jazz sets, classical country tunes, and traditional carols. The indoor stage offers a wonderful spot to sit down and unwind between browsing vendor halls. Regional talent and community performers bring fantastic energy to this seasonal gathering. It adds an entertaining soundtrack to a fun filled day spent exploring the surrounding event grounds.
- Dates: Thursday, December 3rd through Sunday, December 6th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed (Included with festival entry)
- Street Address: Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98371
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Official event center parking lots surrounding the red/gold gates.
- Website: https://www.victorianchristmasfestival.com/show-features/jubilee-theater-schedule
Insider Tip: Check the daily performance board outside the theater doors to coordinate your indoor resting breaks with your favorite musical genres.
16. Victorian Christmas Festival: Festive Tunes — Puyallup
Talented Dickens Carolers outfitted in detailed period attire bring four part vocal harmonies right to the venue walkways. Their acoustic arrangements greet visitors as they move between artisan vendor booths each morning. Passersby are welcome to join in singing familiar melodies alongside the roving vocal ensemble. Traditional costuming and acoustic harmonies evoke the nostalgic feeling of historic celebrations. It adds an authentic touch of old world charm to the vibrant festival atmosphere.
- Dates: Thursday, December 3rd through Sunday, December 6th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed (Included with festival entry)
- Street Address: Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA 98371
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Official event center parking lots surrounding the red/gold gates.
- Website: https://www.victorianchristmasfestival.com/show-features/all-features
Insider Tip: Look out for the carolers during the early morning hours, when quieter building aisles allow their unamplified acoustic harmonies to ring out clearly.
17. The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show — Seattle
Comedy icons BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon return to Seattle with a spectacular theatrical performance filled with original musical numbers and sharp dialogue. This duo takes audience members on a wild story journey packed with outlandish gags and heartwarming notes on community. Lavish custom costuming and colorful stage sets enhance their hilarious narrative twists. Viewers can look forward to clever song parodies combined with rapid fire banter across the entire evening. It has solidified its status as an essential winter tradition for theater lovers seeking top tier camp entertainment.
- Dates: Monday, December 21st through Thursday, December 24th, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: The Moore Theatre, 1932 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
- Kid-Friendly: No (Recommended for mature audiences)
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: Nearby parking garages available on 2nd and 3rd Avenues.
- Website: https://www.stgpresents.org/events/the-jinkx-dela-holiday-show/
Insider Tip: Pay close attention to the lyrics in their original musical numbers, as the duo hides clever references to past tour storylines within the new songs.
18. International Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker — Bellevue
Eastside theatergoers can experience authentic European dance traditions right inside Meydenbauer Theatre. Ballet Master Vera Altunina guides an impressive ensemble of eighty performers including world class guest principal dancer Ana Sophia Scheller. Detailed handcrafted costumes add rich color and elegance to the classical stage setting. Their comprehensive production features intricate choreography, lighthearted character moments, and breathtaking solo routines. A comfortable runtime of under two hours makes it an ideal choice for introducing young ones to live dance art.
- Dates: December 11th through December 23rd, 2026
- Admission: Ticketed
- Street Address: Meydenbauer Theatre, 11100 NE 6th St, Bellevue, WA 98004
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Pet-Friendly: No (Service dogs only)
- Parking: On-site parking garage located at Meydenbauer Center.
- Website: https://www.ibtbellevue.com/nutcracker-dec-2026
Insider Tip: Purchase tickets directly through the official box office website to ensure authentic seat assignments while bypassing extra third party service charges.
Tips for Attending Christmas Shows in Seattle
- Book early: Popular Christmas shows in Seattle 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.
- Take transit downtown: Many Seattle theaters are near light rail and bus lines. Transit avoids downtown parking costs and traffic on busy show nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Seattle Christmas shows this season.
When do Seattle Christmas shows start?
Most Christmas shows in Seattle 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 Seattle Christmas performances 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 Seattle 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 Seattle Christmas show tickets in advance?
Yes! The most popular Christmas shows in Seattle 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!
Plan Your Complete Seattle Christmas Experience
Seattle's Christmas shows are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to Seattle Christmas lights, and Christmas markets and holiday shopping for more sensational things to do for Christmas in Seattle. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our Seattle Christmas guide has you covered.
