Dallas Holiday Concerts: 9 Must‑See Performances this December

From the soaring strains of “Jingle Bells” to the nostalgic hum of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” Dallas offers a festive lineup of concerts and shows that will get you in the holiday spirit. Below is a curated list of nine standout performances happening this December.

• Dallas Symphony Orchestra – Christmas Pops (Dec. 3‑22)
  Experience the beloved tradition at the Meyerson Ballroom, where world‑class musicians deliver holiday classics and carols. Highlights include an appearance by Old Saint Nick and a magical “snow” effect. Families can enjoy a kid‑friendly version on Dec. 4, featuring pre‑concert activities. Other shows: the “Big Brassy Christmas & Organ Extravaganza” (Dec. 14), showcasing brass, percussion, and the Lay Family Concert Organ; and “Hollywood Holidays” (Dec. 17‑18), featuring iconic holiday film soundtracks. Purchase tickets here.
• Reliant Lights Your Holidays (Dec. 4)
  Join a free holiday celebration in the Dallas Arts District. The AT&T Performing Arts Center hosts a concert with tributes to arena rock and the late Latina icon Selena, plus kid‑crafts and dazzling holiday lights. Santa will be in attendance. Learn more here.
• The Nutcracker (Dec. 9‑12)
  Watch Clara’s magical journey at Moody Performance Hall. Ballet enthusiasts can savor Tchaikovsky’s score, including the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.” Purchase tickets here.
• The Elf on the Shelf: The Musical (Dec. 11)
  Catch this family‑friendly musical at 2 p.m. or 6 p.m. on Dec. 11. The show offers behind‑the‑scenes fun, vibrant backdrops, and joyful songs. VIP packages include photo opportunities with the elves. Purchase tickets and view COVID protocols here.
• She & Him: Christmas Party (Dec. 11)
  Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward celebrate the 10th anniversary of their holiday album with a cozy performance at SMU’s McFarlin Memorial Auditorium. Enjoy their renditions of “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” and “Silver Bells.” Grab sushi at Oishii on SMU Blvd. before the show. Purchase tickets here.
• Trans‑Siberian Orchestra (Dec. 11)
  The 60‑piece ensemble performs a rock‑orchestra mash‑up of holiday favorites at the American Airlines Center, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the 1996 album “Christmas Eve and Other Stories.” Highlights include “O Holy Night,” “The Silent Nutcracker,” and “Carol of the Bells.” Pre‑or post‑concert drinks are available at Happiest Hour. Purchase tickets here.
• Robert Earl Keen – The Road to Christmas (Dec. 15)
  Enjoy an all‑ages country evening at House of Blues. Keen is joined by Waylon Payne and Brent Cobb. Relish a fresh burger and cold beer before the show. Purchase tickets and review COVID protocols here.
• LeAnn Rimes – Home for the Holidays (Dec. 17)
  The Grammy‑winning artist returns to her hometown for a one‑night concert at the Winspear Opera House, featuring holiday hits and Rimes’ signature style. Purchase tickets here.
• Lightwire Theater – A Very Electric Christmas (Dec. 18)
  Experience a 60‑minute puppet show starring Max, a bird who ends up in the North Pole. Lightwire’s electroluminescent puppeteers blend dance, theatrics, and holiday music. The performance takes place in Strauss Square. Purchase tickets here.

For a complete list of holiday concerts, click here.