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

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>

TD Garden

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

CeCe Winans - Christmas with CeCe Winans

CeCe Winans is scheduled to perform in Boston on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at the Boch Center Wang Theatre. The concert is titled "Christmas with CeCe Winans" and will feature her sisters, Angie and Debbie Winans. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/tickets/CeCe-Winans-Wang-Theater-At-The-Boch-Center-Boston-MA/7265618/">https://eventschaser.com/tickets/CeCe-Winans-Wang-Theater-At-The-Boch-Center-Boston-MA/7265618/</a>

Boston Bruins vs. Edmonton Oilers

Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion

Garrison Keillor is performing a Christmas-themed version of A Prairie Home Companion in Boston on December 18, 2025. The show is part of a 50th-anniversary tour, featuring familiar cast members and musical director Rich Dworsky.&nbsp; Boston show details:&nbsp; <ul><li>What: A Prairie Home Companion Christmas</li><li>Where: Boch Center - Wang Theatre, 270 Tremont Street</li><li>When: Thursday, December 18, 2025&nbsp;</li></ul>History of the show in Boston Before his retirement from the public radio version of the show in 2016, Keillor had a long history of performing in the Boston area, including at Tanglewood in Lenox, Massachusetts. His last live broadcast from Tanglewood occurred in June 2016.&nbsp; About the radio show The original public radio program A Prairie Home Companion ran from 1974 to 2016. After Keillor's retirement, Chris Thile took over hosting duties, and the show was renamed Live from Here. In 2017, Minnesota Public Radio severed ties with Keillor over allegations of inappropriate behavior, and the organization stopped distributing reruns of the original Prairie Home Companion. However, Keillor continues to perform touring stage shows under the name A Prairie Home Companion. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Garrison-Keillors-A-Prairie-Home-Companion-Wang-Theater-At-The-Boch-Center-Boston-MA/7285199/">https://eventschaser.com/tickets/Garrison-Keillors-A-Prairie-Home-Companion-Wang-Theater-At-The-Boch-Center-Boston-MA/7285199/</a>

Disney On Ice: Frozen & Encanto

Get ready for a magical winter outing in Boston as Disney On Ice: Frozen &amp; Encanto glides into town at Agganis Arena. This enchanting ice show brings together the beloved worlds of Frozen and Encanto, inviting families into a dazzling spectacle of music, movement and storytelling. Experience memorable songs, vibrant costumes and high‑flying skating artistry as characters from both films bring their journeys and magic to life on ice. Whether you're introducing young ones to their first live show or revisiting favorite moments from Disney’s iconic films, this event promises to deliver joy, wonder and heartwarming moments. With its immersive design and family‑friendly charm, the performance makes for a perfect holiday‑season outing in Boston—an experience where the whole crowd can sing along, cheer together and share in the enchantment. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/disney-on-ice/?city=Boston">https://eventschaser.com/disney-on-ice/?city=Boston</a>

Agganis Arena

Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat

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

Brett Eldredge: Glow Live

Get ready for a festive and unforgettable night in Boston as country star Brett Eldredge brings his “Glow Live” show to the Wang Theatre at the Boch Center on December 19 &amp; 20, 2025. The holiday‑themed production features Eldredge’s shimmering vocals and full‑band arrangements, blending his original seasonal songs from albums such as Merry Christmas (Welcome to the Family) with beloved winter classics. Expect a warm, lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season without losing the polished country performance fans know and love. Whether you’ve followed Eldredge’s career or are just joining his festive tradition, this Boston show is positioned as a standout holiday concert—perfect for couples, friends or family outings in the heart of the city. Tickets available @ <a href="https://eventschaser.com/brett-eldredge/">https://eventschaser.com/brett-eldredge/</a>

Boston Bruins vs. Vancouver Canucks

Boston Bruins vs. Ottawa Senators

Boston Celtics vs. Indiana Pacers

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

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

Boston Ballet: The Nutcracker

Holiday Pops at Boston Symphony Hall

José Mateo Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker

Boston Bruins vs. Utah Mammoth

A Very Motown Christmas

The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

CeCe Winans - Christmas with CeCe Winans

Boston Bruins vs. Edmonton Oilers

Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion

Disney On Ice: Frozen & Encanto

Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat

Brett Eldredge: Glow Live

Boston Bruins vs. Vancouver Canucks

Boston Bruins vs. Ottawa Senators

Boston Celtics vs. Indiana Pacers

tn

Experiences

Boston Ballet: The Nutcracker

Holiday Pops at Boston Symphony Hall

José Mateo Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker

Boston Bruins vs. Utah Mammoth

A Very Motown Christmas

The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

CeCe Winans - Christmas with CeCe Winans

Boston Bruins vs. Edmonton Oilers

Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion

Disney On Ice: Frozen & Encanto

Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat

Brett Eldredge: Glow Live

Boston Bruins vs. Vancouver Canucks

Boston Bruins vs. Ottawa Senators

Boston Celtics vs. Indiana Pacers

Brett Eldredge: Glow Live