Denver Center For Performing Arts

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Holiday Performing Arts

Don't miss these wonderful holiday shows in Denver during the year's most festive season! These old favorites and new classics are perfect for planning a winter trip around.
Bring the family and start (or carry on) a Denver holiday tradition.

Holiday Performing Arts & Film

'A Christmas Carol'

WHEN: Nov. 21–Dec. 28, 2025
WHERE: Wolf Theatre

Essential to the holiday season in Denver, "A Christmas Carol" is a joyous and opulent musical adaptation for the whole family that traces money-hoarding curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge’s triumphant overnight journey to redemption. Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, the DCPA Theatre Company’s production is “a splendidly festive tradition” (BroadwayWorld) that illuminates the meaning of the holiday season in a way that has resonated for generations.

Camp Christmas

WHEN: Nov. 21–Dec. 28, 2025
WHERE: Stanley Marketplace
See Stanley Marketplace turn into a dazzling, joy-filled holiday destination as Camp Christmas makes its triumphant return to its original location. Look for three themed pop-up bars, dazzling decor, a scavenger hunt, free visits with Santa and more. New this year is a Camp Christmas Express experience (Nov. 21–Dec. 24, 2025), designed to lift your holiday spirits in 15 minutes or less as you walk through a series of interactive stations. 

'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York'

WHEN: Nov. 28–29, 2025
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex

Celebrate the modern holiday classic "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" like never before! The event features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live by the Colorado Symphony as the film is screened for your enjoyment. Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) loses track of his family at the airport and mistakenly gets on a plane headed for New York City. Now alone in the Big Apple, Kevin discovers that the Sticky Bandits (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) are on the loose, and only he can stop them from robbing a toy store just before Christmas.

'Stocking Stuffers'

WHEN: Nov. 28–Dec. 21, 2025
WHERE: 1100 Miners Alley, Golden
From the outrageously funny minds behind "The Great American Trailer Park Musical" comes a brand-new, adults-only holiday comedy! This sharp, side-splitting musical is the perfect antidote to the overly sweet holiday fare — packed with heart, a healthy dose of irreverence and songs you'll be humming all season long. It's big laughs with a holiday twist, and we can't wait for you to be the first to see it.

'Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet'

WHEN: Nov. 29, 2025
WHERE: Paramount Theatre

Share the joy of "Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet" with family and friends. Give the gift of a spectacular holiday experience featuring an international cast, whimsical puppetry and opulent costumes and sets, hand-crafted by the finest artisans of Europe. Go back to a simpler time and make memories your family will cherish forever. 

'A Drag Queen Christmas' (ages 18+ only)

WHEN: Nov. 29, 2025
WHERE: Buell Theatre

Murray & Peter Present “A Drag Queen Christmas” hosted by Nina West. It’s the longest-running drag tour in America. Get ready for your favorite queens performing live on stage. We’ve got Onya Nurve, Shea Coulee, Jewels Sparkles, Crystal Methyd, Suzie Toot, Bosco and Lydia B. Kollins. Ages: 18 & Over

Colorado Ballet: 'The Nutcracker'

WHEN: Nov. 29–Dec. 28, 2025
WHERE: Ellie Caulkins Opera House

The beloved holiday favorite returns in a dazzling production like no one's ever seen, featuring all-new sets and costumes created especially for Colorado Ballet. A sellout every year, this magical tale of Clara, the Nutcracker and the Mouse King is going to be dreamier than ever.

'It’s a Wonderful Life': A Live Radio Play

WHEN: Nov. 29–Dec. 28, 2025
WHERE: 1100 Miners Alley, Golden

Step into a 1940s radio studio where the play is brought to life before your eyes — complete with vintage microphones, live sound effects and a cast playing dozens of characters. It's nostalgic, theatrical, and full of heartwarming charm. A timeless story told in a fresh, inventive way.

Joy to the World! A Sacred Celebration

WHEN: Dec. 1 & 2, 2025
WHERE: Newman Center for the Performing Arts

Experience the magic of Christmas with Grammy-nominated violinist Jenny Oaks Baker in a heartwarming, Christ-centered holiday show featuring world-renowned mezzo soprano Angela Brower. Enjoy captivating and cherished Christmas carols arranged by Emmy Award-winning composer Kurt Bestor, an inspiring script by New York Times best-selling author Jason F. Wright and moving narration and powerful vocals by baritone Preston Yates. With vibrant performances from the Cornerstone Chorale & Orchestra, Littleton Youth Ballet and Celtic Steps, this unforgettable show is sure to fill your season with joy, reverence, and festive cheer!

Christmas with the Celts

WHEN: Dec. 2, 2025
WHERE: Paramount Theatre

Currently celebrating 14 years of successful national touring, Christmas with the Celts performs a wonderful blend of timeless ancient Irish Christmas carols and lively Irish dance, accompanied by modern contemporary songs, all with Irish instrumentation. An Irish Christmas would not be complete without the unpredictable Irish jokes (craic) and banter that occurs between band members and the audience every year, and the always crowd-pleasing fiery Irish dancers.

Dr. Seuss' 'How The Grinch Stole Christmas!' The Musical

WHEN: Dec. 3–7, 2025
WHERE: Buell Theatre

"The Grinch" broke box office records for two consecutive years on Broadway during its holiday engagements at the St. James and Hilton theaters in New York. Since then, more than 2.1 million theater-goers across America have been delighted by this heart-warming holiday musical, which The New York Times praised as “100 times better than any bedtime story” and the Gannett papers hailed as “A genius of a show! A total delight for both kids and adults."

A Christmas Nightmare: Burlesque & Aerial Tribute to 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' (ages 18+ only)

WHEN: Dec. 5–7, 2025
WHERE: The Clocktower Cabaret

For years, "Nightmare" has celebrated the darkly enchanting universe of Tim Burton. Now, the Clocktower Cabaret is unwrapping a reimagined holiday experience dedicated to the film that blurs the line between Halloween and Christmas. Expect a hauntingly festive mix of burlesque, aerial and variety acts inspired by Jack, Sally, Zero and the whole delightfully macabre crew of Halloween Town.

'Granny Dances to Holiday Drum'

WHEN: Dec. 6–21, 2025
WHERE: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance
Now in its 34th year, celebrate the magic of the season through dance, music and spoken word as Cleo Parker Robinson Dance explores holiday traditions from around the world! Guided by the Three Angels of the Rainbow, Granny visits Africa, the Americas, Mexico, Asia, and the Caribbean to celebrate the joy of holiday times! 

'A Charlie Brown Christmas - LIVE!'

WHEN: Dec. 6 & 7, 2025
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex

Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus, Lucy, Sally and Schroeder are coming to Boettcher Concert Hall to bring this holiday classic to life! With live actors, an animated backdrop and Vince Guaraldi’s timeless music performed live by the Colorado Symphony, this is a beloved holiday performance you won’t want to miss, celebrating the 60th Anniversary of "A Charlie Brown Christmas." 

A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin: 'Home Alone' 35th Anniversary

WHEN: Dec. 9, 2025
WHERE: Paramount Theatre
Celebrate the 35th anniversary of the timeless holiday classic "Home Alone," followed by an exclusive live moderated interview with the one and only Macaulay Culkin. That's right, the star who brought Kevin McCallister to life will be joining us for a one-of-a-kind event that you won't want to miss! Hear about his experiences on set, his favorite memories from filming, and his take on why this movie has become such a beloved holiday classic.

'Holidays at the Hideaway Hotel'

WHEN: Dec. 11–21, 2025
WHERE: Wonderbound
A new Garrett Ammon black comedy about the holidays run amok. Think Wes Anderson meets the Coen Brothers meets David Lynch. Featuring an eclectic soundtrack performed live by the legendary Erik Deutsch (The Black Crowes) and an all-star band, this production delivers a holiday experience like no other.

Stories On Stage: Making Merry

WHEN: Dec. 12, 2025
WHERE: Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities
Celebrating their 25th season, Stories on Stage presents renowned actors performing dynamic and entertaining short stories. This event features GerRee Hinshaw and Jamie Horton.

The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show

WHEN: Dec. 12, 2025
WHERE: Paramount Theatre
The greatest holiday show south of the North Pole is back with another new wintertide wonder! Award-winning comedy icons, writers, actors and drag queen powerhouses BenDeLaCreme & Jinkx Monsoon come to town with the wildly successful, internationally acclaimed show. You never know what unexpected sleigh ride these queens have in store.

Ballet Ariel: 'Little Women' and 'The Nutcracker Suite'

WHEN: Dec. 12–14, 2025
WHERE: 470 S. Allison St., Lakewood
Ballet Ariel brings beauty and charm, family and community to the holiday season with a duo of ballets. See original productions of "Little Women," accompanied by live music by Gossamer Winds, and "The Nutcracker Suite."

International Ballet School's 'The Nutcracker'

WHEN: Dec. 13, 2025
WHERE: Newman Center for the Performing Arts
The International Youth Ballet is a pre-professional youth program that trains young dancers, from ages 5 to 18, to become professional ballet dancers. This is a truly unforgettable production, and fun for the whole family! Come experience the magic this holiday season!

'Elf' in Concert

WHEN: Dec. 22 & 23, 2025
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex

This holiday season, relive this heartwarming holiday classic on a giant screen as every note of John Debney’s wonderful score is played live to picture in "Elf" in Concert!

Ballet Ariel: 'Little Women' and 'The Nutcracker Suite'

WHEN: Dec. 27 & 28, 2025
WHERE: 1 E. Memorial Pkwy., Northglenn
Ballet Ariel brings beauty and charm, family and community to the holiday season with a duo of ballets. See original productions of "Little Women," accompanied by live music by Gossamer Winds, and "The Nutcracker Suite."

 

Holiday Concerts & Music

A Holiday Evening with Ingrid Michaelson

WHEN: Nov. 30, 2025
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex

GRAMMY®- and Emmy®-nominated singer-songwriter/composer Ingrid Michaelson performs her biggest hits, songs from her acclaimed holiday album, Ingrid Michaelson’s "Songs For The Season," and selections from her latest studio album "For The Dreamers." In addition to her own gold and platinum hits “The Way I Am,” “Girls Chase Boys” and “You & I,” Michaelson has received critical acclaim writing for the stage (“The Notebook The Musical”) and screen (Hulu’s "Tiny Beautiful Things" and "Little Fires Everywhere"), making this a perfect kickoff to the holiday season.

Celtic Woman: White Christmas Symphony Tour

WHEN: Dec. 4, 2025
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex

Celebrate the holiday season with the celestial voices of multi-platinum Irish singing sensation Celtic Woman with your Colorado Symphony. Prepare for an enchanting and festive evening featuring music from the all-female ensemble’s most favorite Yuletide songs performed by them over the years.

Yuletide on Broadway

WHEN: Dec. 6, 2025
WHERE: Trinity United Methodist Church

Enjoy a holiday organ celebration with music from three organists. Admission is free, but freewill offerings are appreciated. There will be a reception in the Fellowship Hall at 6:00 pm with cookies and warm drinks provided by the Trinity youth group, and the program will commence at 7:00 p.m.

Silent Nights: Kantorei at the Holidays

WHEN: Dec. 6, 2025
WHERE: First Plymouth UCC

International guitar virtuoso and composer and Colorado native Aaron Larget-Caplan joins Kantorei in holiday performances featuring seasonal selections written for guitar and choir, including works by composer/guitarist Jeffrey Van made famous for his work with the Dale Warland Singers.

'A Holiday Adventure'

WHEN: Dec. 6, 2025
WHERE: St Timothy's Church, Centennial

Explore joy and connection this December! It’s the holiday season, and you’re in control with the world premiere of "A Holiday Adventure" by Stratus Chamber Orchestra’s Music Director Adam Torres. Alongside this choose-your-own-adventure story, you’ll celebrate the season with other holiday classics and festive singalongs with the orchestra. Hands-on music activities and crafts will be available before the performance for the young and young at heart.

'Holiday Hits for the Nice List'

WHEN: Dec. 6, 2025
WHERE: St. Philip Lutheran Church, Littleton

The all-volunteer Golden Eagle Concert Band, under the direction of Principal Conductor, Ilse Reardon, will offer up a delightful mix of classic carols, jazzy favorites and heartwarming medleys, perfect for all ages. Highlights will include 'Sleigh Ride,' "The Night Before Christmas,' 'The Polar Express' and selections from 'Home Alone.' Admission is free to the community; a suggested donation of $10 per person is appreciated at each concert location.

 

Denver Jazz Orchestra Holiday Show

WHEN: Dec. 7, 2025; 4:30–6:00 p.m.7:00–8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Dazzle

Join the Denver Jazz Orchestra for its annual Dazzle Holiday Concert! Featuring swinging versions of some of your holiday favorites as well as a few Latin interpretations of the great seasonal carols. This one always sells out, so make your reservations early! Eary and late shows. 

The Steve Denny Quintet: Songs of Winter

WHEN: Dec. 7 & 14, 2025
WHERE: Nocturne

Nocturne is delighted to welcome pianist, composer and bandleader Steve Denny back as he performs two sets of music that evoke the feeling and energy of early winter. An exquisitely emotive and multifaceted pianist, Steve is an artist who creates indelible musical portraits through masterful virtuosity and touch. Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, he has applied his expansive versatility as a pianist, composer and educator to the realms of jazz, classical, R&B, gospel and beyond. Steve was one of five finalists for the prestigious Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition in 2012 and 2015, and as a member of the University of Northern Colorado’s Lab Band I, received a Downbeat Magazine award in 2008. 

Bria Skonberg: 'Jingle Bell Swing'

WHEN: Dec. 10, 2025
WHERE: Newman Center for the Performing Arts
Bria Skonberg, a singer, trumpeter,and songwriter, has been hailed as the “shining hope of hot jazz” and recognized as “one of the most versatile and imposing musicians of her generation.” A Juno Award winner, Bria is renowned for her unique blend of jazz, swing and modern influences. This December, Skonberg will bring her signature style to a special holiday show, "Jingle Bell Swing," performing seasonal favorites with her sextet.

Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats

WHEN: Dec. 10 & 11, 2025
WHERE: Mission Ballroom
Along with special guest Mavis Staples & Friends, the special holiday shows celebrate the tenth anniversary of their beloved, breakout 2015 self-titled debut album, "Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats." The vinyl reissue contains an additional album’s worth of never-before-heard demo recordings, offering a glimpse at the feverish weeks of inspiration that uncovered a new form of creative expression.

'A Colorado Christmas'

WHEN: Dec. 12–14, 2025
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex
The warm sounds of the holidays fill the hall with festive seasonal favorites featuring the Colorado Symphony Chorus and Colorado Children’s Chorale, all hosted by beloved Denver vocalist Devin DeSantis. This family-friendly event includes traditional carols, your new favorite winter tunes and a chance to sing along to your heart’s content! And you better not pout because Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to see who’s naughty and who’s nice in preparation for the big night! 

'Holiday Hits for the Nice List'

WHEN: Dec. 13, 2025
WHERE: Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church, Wheat Ridge

The all-volunteer Golden Eagle Concert Band, under the direction of Principal Conductor, Ilse Reardon, will offer up a delightful mix of classic carols, jazzy favorites and heartwarming medleys, perfect for all ages. Highlights will include 'Sleigh Ride,' "The Night Before Christmas,' 'The Polar Express' and selections from 'Home Alone.' Admission is free to the community; a suggested donation of $10 per person is appreciated at each concert location.

Holiday Brass

WHEN: Dec. 16, 2025
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex

Holiday Brass, one of Colorado’s favorite festive traditions, features the brilliance and power of the Colorado Symphony Brass section in a resounding program of seasonal ballads, carols and more! Whether from the vitality of the Renaissance, the glory of the Baroque, or the nostalgic jubilation in the music of Hollywood’s most popular Christmas movies, Holiday Brass brings boundless joy as it heralds the start of your holiday season. 

Handel's 'Messiah – Awakening'

WHEN: Dec. 19–21, 2025
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex

A storied holiday classic returns with a freshly enriched design to experience the beloved masterpiece, "Messiah." This innovative presentation is newly organized to present the narrative clearly while still maintaining the great musical traditions of this noble work.

Let it Glow! Holiday Pops

WHEN: Dec. 20, 2025
WHERE: Newman Center for the Performing Arts

Get ready to sparkle this season with Let It Glow—Symphony of the Rockies' dazzling holiday pops spectacular! Celebrate the warmth, wonder and whimsy of the holidays with a glittering evening of festive favorites, joyful surprises and symphonic showstoppers. Whether you're here for nostalgic classics, cinematic sparkle or toe-tapping holiday cheer, this concert brings the magic of the season to life.

Face Vocal Band: Rock The Halls

WHEN: Dec. 20, 2025
WHERE: Paramount Theatre

Jingle bells? Nah—we're bringing jingle rock! Face Vocal Band is back to Rock The Halls, delivering powerhouse vocals, holiday classics with a twist and energy that will have you on your feet. This isn't your average holiday concert—it's a full-on, a cappella rock party!

Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra: Swingin’ in the New Year

WHEN: Dec. 28, 2025
WHERE: Dazzle
Swingin' in the New Year with the CJRO small ensemble features vocalist Marion Powers and is part of a new monthly jazz series, the CJRO Sunday Night Sessions. Offered on the fourth Sunday of each month, each show offers a different theme and features some of the region's finest professional musicians.

A Night in Vienna

WHEN: Dec. 31, 2025
WHERE: Boettcher Concert Hall in the Denver Performing Arts Complex​
A Colorado cultural tradition returns, featuring your Colorado Symphony waltzing along with you into 2026! Start your celebration in style with this rousing presentation of polkas, waltzes and marches.

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