Boston Ballet: The Nutcracker

Step into a world filled with happiness and wonder. Mikko Nissinen’s The Nutcracker mesmerizes audiences of all ages with its beloved characters, swoon-worthy sets, and unparalleled choreography. Join us for the first time or continue a holiday tradition and find out why Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker is the “gold standard” (The Boston Globe). The Story Join Clara Silberhaus one magical Christmas Eve as she travels to the Kingdom of the Sweets. Along the way, experience the excitement of the dancing bear, the growing Christmas tree, the battle with the mice, and the nutcracker who comes to life! The Nutcracker is based on the libretto by Alexandre Dumas père titled The Tale of the Nutcracker, which is adapted from E. T. A. Hoffmann’s story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King. The Dancing At Boston Ballet, The Nutcracker is so much more than a holiday show. This spectacular program includes some of the most captivating and exhilirating choreography in classical ballet. From the grand pas de deux and the enchanting snow scene to the high-flying Russian Troika, the ballet includes stunning performances from every single dancer on stage. It also includes exciting performances of 83 students from the Boston Ballet School. “The performance was exquisite. The dancers are impeccable. The orchestra played beautifully. The sets are stunning. Funny mice, great bear, cute kids—all part of the charm. The athleticism of the dancers is wonderful.” –Audience Member The Music P.I. Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker score is the backbone of the ballet and one of the world’s most beloved holiday soundtracks ever written. The memorable and magical score is performed brilliantly by the Boston Ballet Orchestra at every single performance, led by Music Director Mischa Santora. “There was no lack of strong emotion in the performance of the Boston Ballet Orchestra under the direction of Mischa Santora. The music was, as usual, superb.” – Critical Dance The History This version of the classic tale, created for Boston Ballet in 2012, is one of the largest productions the Company has ever created, incorporating exquisite scenery and dazzling costumes by acclaimed designer Robert Perdziola. Craftspeople from across the United States transformed his sketches into larger-than-life sets that range from calm, subtle colors in the Act I Party Scene to vibrant colors in Act II’s Kingdom of the Sweets. The production incorporates more than 350 beautifully intricate costumes, designed by Perdziola. The opulent sets and costumes were hand-painted and crafted right here in Massachusetts. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/?s=Boston+Ballet%3A+The+Nutcracker">https://eventschaser.com/?s=Boston+Ballet%3A+The+Nutcracker</a>

Citizens Bank Opera House

Holiday Pops at Boston Symphony Hall

Enjoy the magic of the season with Holiday Pops. Get cozy with classics like “Jingle Bells,” “The 12 Days of Christmas,” and “Sleigh Ride.” Featuring:<ul><li><a href="https://www.bso.org/profiles/boston-pops">Boston Pops</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bso.org/profiles/keith-lockhart">Keith Lockhart conductor</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bso.org/profiles/tanglewood-festival-chorus">Tanglewood Festival Chorus</a></li></ul>

Boston Symphony Hall

José Mateo Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker

José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s 37th Annual Production of The Nutcracker December 6-21, 2025 Strand Theatre | Dorchester, MA Choreographed by Founder and Artistic Director José Mateo and set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, JMBT’s The Nutcracker brings Clara’s dream world to life with festive sets, sumptuous costumes, and spectacular dancing. Over 100 children ages 6-18 join professional guest artists each year. JMBT’s The Nutcracker was recognized by Boston Magazine as “Best of Boston 2020 Best Family-Friendly Show.” Magical, thrilling, inspiring, and affordable, José Mateo’s The Nutcracker creates memories that will last a lifetime. Published in 1819, E.T.A. Hoffman’s Nutcracker and Mouse King was the source of inspiration for the first production of The Nutcracker ballet, set to Peter Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score by St. Petersburg’s Mariinsky Theatre in 1892. José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s version of what has become the most widely performed ballet in the world was choreographed in 1988 and continues to honor the classical tradition. It is presented in the company’s hallmark style characterized by simplicity and dynamism. Mateo’s Nutcracker has become a favorite New England tradition that conjures the beauty, magic and spirit of the holidays like no other. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/?s=Jose+Mateo+Ballet+Theatre%3A+The+Nutcracker+Boston">https://eventschaser.com/?s=Jose+Mateo+Ballet+Theatre%3A+The+Nutcracker+Boston</a>

Strand Theatre

Christmas with C.S. Lewis

Get ready for an unforgettable holiday experience in Boston with Christmas with C.S. Lewis. This evocative production places the audience in the home of famed author C.S. Lewis on Christmas Eve, as he hosts visiting Americans and reflects on his journey from myth‑lover to modern believer—sparking laughter, reflection and holiday warmth all around. Set in a beautifully intimate theatre environment, this show brings together storytelling, nostalgia and a sense of sacred wonder in equal measure. Whether you’re wrapping up your holiday calendar or looking for a thoughtful seasonal outing, this production offers something powerful: charm, emotion and a fresh perspective on traditions. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/?s=Christmas+with+C.S.+Lewis+Boston">https://eventschaser.com/?s=Christmas+with+C.S.+Lewis+Boston</a>

Roberts Studio Theatre at Boston Center For The Arts

Andrea Bocelli: North American 2025 Tour w/ Symphony Orchestra

Maestro Andrea Bocelli will perform live at TD Garden on Dec. 11 at 8:00PM. Tickets &amp; more info @&nbsp;<a href="https://eventschaser.com/andrea-bocelli/">https://eventschaser.com/andrea-bocelli/</a>

TD Garden

J.I.D. - God Does Like World Tours

Atlanta rapper and Platinum selling artist J.I.D will perform live at MGM Music Hall at Fenway Park on Dec. 12 at 8:00PM. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/tickets/J.I.D.-MGM-Music-Hall-at-Fenway-Park-Boston-MA/7353235/">https://eventschaser.com/tickets/J.I.D.-MGM-Music-Hall-at-Fenway-Park-Boston-MA/7353235/</a>

MGM Music Hall at Fenway Park

Machine Gun Kelly: Lost Americana 2025-26 Tour

Machine Gun Kelly /w special guest Julia Wolf will perform live at TD Garden, on Dec. 12 at 8:00PM. Tickets &amp; more info @&nbsp;<a href="https://eventschaser.com/machine-gun-kelly/">https://eventschaser.com/machine-gun-kelly/</a>

Whiskey Myers & Friends

Whiskey Myers will perform live at Orpheum Theatre on Dec. 13 at 7:00PM. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Whiskey-Myers-Orpheum-Theatre---Boston-Boston-MA/7291784/">https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Whiskey-Myers-Orpheum-Theatre---Boston-Boston-MA/7291784/</a>

Orpheum Theatre

Mix 104.1 Deck The Hall Ball: AJR and more!

AJR will perform live at Agganis Arena on Dec. 13 at 7:30PM. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Mix-104.1-Deck-The-Hall-Ball-AJR-Agganis-Arena-Boston-MA/7472470/">https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Mix-104.1-Deck-The-Hall-Ball-AJR-Agganis-Arena-Boston-MA/7472470/</a>

Agganis Arena

The Happy Fits Live In Concert

The Happy Fits will perform live at Citizens House Of Blues on Dec. 13 at 8:00PM Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/tickets/The-Happy-Fits-Citizens-House-Of-Blues---Boston-Boston-MA/7126874/">https://eventschaser.com/tickets/The-Happy-Fits-Citizens-House-Of-Blues---Boston-Boston-MA/7126874/</a>

Citizens House Of Blues

Kiss 108 Jingle Ball: Ed Sheeran, Laufey, & Myles Smith

Get ready, Boston—the festive spotlight is on with Kiss 108’s Jingle Ball at TD Garden, where pop sensation Ed Sheeran will headline a stacked holiday event. Joining him on stage are breakthrough artists Laufey and Myles Smith, delivering an evening rich in riffs, soul and sing‑along moments that capture the season’s energy. This line‑up isn’t just about big names—it’s a mix of chart‑toppers, rising voices and crowd‑moving melodies that’ll turn the TD Garden into a full‑on celebration. With Sheeran’s worldwide hits, Laufey’s signature style and Myles Smith’s dynamic presence, the night offers something for longtime fans and newcomers alike—set against the backdrop of holiday lights, big production and Boston’s music‑loving spirit. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Kiss-108-Jingle-Ball-Ed-Sheeran,-Laufey,-&amp;-Myles-Smith-TD-Garden-Boston-MA/7452204/">https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Kiss-108-Jingle-Ball-Ed-Sheeran,-Laufey,-&amp;-Myles-Smith-TD-Garden-Boston-MA/7452204/</a>

Alaska Thunderfuck 5000 - A Very Alaska Christmas Show

Get ready to sleigh the holidays—Alaska Thunderfuck 5000 brings the outrageous, high­glamour event A Very Alaska Christmas Show to Boston’s Big Night Live. Known for her bold drag persona, chart‑topping music and vibrant stage presence, Alaska will turn the evening into a festive playground of camp, glitter and holiday cheer unlike anything you’ve seen. Expect a show packed with signature vocal performances, comedic interludes and theatrical surprises all wrapped in a winter‑wonderland aesthetic infused with Alaska’s cosmic style. Whether you're a longtime fan or just looking to spice up your holiday season, this is one night that promises to deliver sparkle, sass and pure drag energy in the heart of Boston. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Alaska-Thunderfuck-5000---A-Very-Alaska-Christmas-Show-Big-Night-Live-Boston-MA/7473592/">https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Alaska-Thunderfuck-5000---A-Very-Alaska-Christmas-Show-Big-Night-Live-Boston-MA/7473592/</a>

Big Night Live

Boston Bruins vs. Utah Mammoth

Come cheer on the Bruins! Tickets &amp; more info @&nbsp;<a href="https://eventschaser.com/boston-bruins/">https://eventschaser.com/boston-bruins/</a>

A Very Motown Christmas

Get ready to step into a holiday celebration like no other—A Very Motown Christmas is coming to Boston, lighting up the stage at City Winery - Boston. With the rich, timeless sound of Motown classics as its foundation, this festive event brings together the spirit of the season and the energy of one of the most influential eras in music. Expect vocal harmonies, soulful rhythms and a setlist that will tap into nostalgia while keeping things fresh and celebratory. Held in a vibrant, intimate venue in the heart of Boston, this concert promises to be both lively and heart‑warming, perfect for a night out with friends, family or a special someone. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Motown movement or simply looking to infuse your holiday season with uplifting music and good vibes, this show delivers an experience that’s both fun and meaningful. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/tickets/A-Very-Motown-Christmas-City-Winery---Boston-Boston-MA/7493978/">https://eventschaser.com/tickets/A-Very-Motown-Christmas-City-Winery---Boston-Boston-MA/7493978/</a>

City Winery

The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

Get ready for a night of electric atmosphere and musical contrast as The Rock Orchestra presents By Candlelight at Boston’s Wang Theatre — a spell‑binding fusion of rock and classical. Under candlelit ambiance, this 14‑piece ensemble re‑imagines iconic rock and metal songs with orchestral finesse, transforming familiar riffs into lush, sweeping arrangements. The result: a high‑energy concert experience steeped in drama, elegance and sonic power. Set in the heart of Boston’s theatre district at the Boch Center, this performance invites fans of all genres—classical, rock, metal—to step into a world where strings meet distortion and tradition meets rebellion. Expect soaring cellos, bold percussion and an immersive environment that elevates the music into something otherworldly. Whether you're a longtime fan of rock or simply curious about an innovative live show, this concert promises to deliver a memorable evening. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/the-rock-orchestra-by-candlelight/">https://eventschaser.com/the-rock-orchestra-by-candlelight/</a>

Wang Theater At The Boch Center

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Kid-friendly events in Boston

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.

Where

tn

Experiences