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Best Holiday & Christmas Shows from October 5 - December 5

in San Jose

Mannheim Steamroller at San Jose Center for Performing Arts

Mannheim Steamroller

With the release of Mannheim Steamroller's first holiday album 1984 came the kind of fame that made the act a veritable Christmas-time tradition. With founder and composer Chip Davis at the helm, the all-American music troupe continues to tour extensively, bringing Yuletide cheer to audiences throughout the US with a unique Neo-Classical take on popular carols and songs. It's no wonder that the Mannheim Steamroller is the top-selling Holiday Act of all time!

A John Waters Christmas at Rio Theatre

A John Waters Christmas

John Waters loves Christmas, and he wants you to know. The legendary cult-filmmaker takes to the stage with his traditional one-man monologue, extolling the virtues of everyone's favorite holiday, from offering advice on Christmas films and music to asking the important questions you've always wanted to be answered by the people's pervert, such as 'Is Santa erotic?'

Handel's Messiah at Bankhead Theater

Handel's Messiah

"Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people!" Join your city's orchestra for the good tidings of the beloved classic, Handel's Messiah, performed live. Undoubtedly one of the most fantastic and epic experiences of the Holiday season, it's impressive for all audiences, be it your first or fifth time!

Michael W. Smith at San Jose Civic

Michael W. Smith

Embrace the festive spirit with multi-platinum, Grammy, and Dove Award winner Michael W. Smith as he brings his enchanting 2024 Every Christmas tour to cities across the nation. This year, with Riley Clemmons as a very special guest, fans are in for a festive treat! Don't miss your chance to celebrate the holidays with Michael!

Grand Kyiv Ballet - The Nutcracker at Hammer Theatre

Grand Kyiv Ballet - The Nutcracker

The extremely talented dancers of Ukraine's Grand Kyiv Ballet are back on the stage in North America, performing Tchaikovsky's must-see holiday classic The Nutcracker! Originally written by E.T.A. Hoffmann, Tchaikovsky's masterpiece score to the world-famous ballet received its debut over 130 years ago, in 1892. A truly timeless work, an evening spent at a performance of this enchanting show is the perfect way to welcome in Christmas with the whole family!