“A Christmas Carol” at South Coast Repertory, Segerstrom Stage
Runs through December 24
Now in its 39th year, South Coast Repertory’s “A Christmas Carol,” by Charles Dickens, comes to life in this spectacular production adapted by Jerry Patch and directed by John-David Keller. Taking place in 19th century London, unforgettable characters like Tiny Tim, the Ghosts of Christmas and the star of the show, Ebenezer Scrooge, reveal the heartwarming story of Christmas. SCR.org
“Christmas at the Mission” Mission San Juan Capistrano
December 1
Celebrate the holidays at Mission San Juan Capistrano for the first-ever Christmas Tree Lighting on December 1 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Bring the family and enjoy a special reading of “The First Christmas,” Dickens carolers, an orchestra, mariachis, and yummy food options. The light program is at 7:15 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. Check the website for ticket info. MissionSJC.com
“Capistrano Lights” – Mission San Juan Capistrano
December 2 – January 6
Mission San Juan Capistrano will host a nightly tree lighting at 5:00 p.m. The new tradition continues with guests invited to the historic downtown district where plenty of shopping, dining and wine tastings are waiting. During the December weekends, families will have the chance to take selfies with Santa or Mrs. Claus in the Mission’s Sala building. Check website for times. MissionSJC.com
55th Annual Holiday Wassail Concert – Musco Center for the Arts, Chapman University
December 7-8
A beloved tradition continues through Chapman University’s College of Performing Arts with its magnificent Wassail Concert of holiday season favorites performed by the Chapman University Singers, University Choir and Women’s Choir along with music performed by The Chapman Orchestra. The December 8th package includes a festive pre-concert winter banquet with musicians and carolers prior to the concert in Wallace All Faiths Chapel. For tickets and times visit. chapman.edu/Events-COPA
Holiday Magic Show – Crean Mariners Branch Library, Newport Beach
December 8
The Crean Mariners Branch Library will ring in the holidays with family fun at a holiday magic show on December 8 at 3:00 p.m. Magician Mark Gibson, who holds the record of being the youngest magician to ever perform at the world-famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, will amaze audience members of all ages with magic, slight of hand and mind reading entertainment. Admission is free and seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. NewportBeachLibrary.org
“Nun That I Know Of: An Unconventional Convent Christmas”
December 8-9
Dec. 8 – Newport Harbor Lutheran Church, Newport Beach
Dec. 9 – St. Wilfrid of York Episcopal Church, Huntington Beach
The Orange County Women’s Chorus holiday concert is a “sister act” of music written, performed or inspired by nuns! Enjoy works by Mendelssohn, Poulenc, Cozzolani, Tavener, Szymko, and more, featuring a special appearance by cellist Karen Linkletter. The Women’s Chorus has been presenting seasons of familiar favorites and new revelations for 21 years. Visit the website for times and ticket prices. OCWomensChorus.org
“The Nutcracker” – Irvine Barclay Theatre
December 8-24
The cherished holiday classic, perfect for all ages, returns to The Barclay presented by the renowned Festival Ballet Theatre led by Artistic Director Salwa Rizkalla. The colorful scenery and dazzling costumes make the holiday tradition sparkle like new as the Sugar Plum Fairy, the heroine Clara and a cast of hundreds perform to Tchaikovsky’s magical score. Check the website for ticket prices and times. TheBarclay.org
December 14-17 & 20-23
“Cruise of Lights” – Huntington Harbor, Huntington Beach
The 56th annual Huntington Harbor Philharmonic “Cruise of Lights” offers 45-minute narrated boat tours through the sparkling waterways of Huntington Harbor, where both locals and visitors share the beauty of thousands of lights and animated displays on brightly decorated homes, docks, decks, and boats. For ticket prices and times, visit CruiseofLights.org. Proceeds benefit the Philharmonic Society of Orange County’s music education programs.
“A Legendary Christmas” Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Segerstrom Hall
December 29
Newly-anointed EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) winner and acclaimed singer/songwriter John Legend will be performing at Segerstrom Center in celebration of his first Christmas alum and 25-city tour. He will be performing classics from his album, “A Legendary Christmas,” such as “The Christmas Song,” “Please Come Home for Christmas,” “What Christmas Means to Me,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” SCFTA.org