UPDATE: The holiday season is upon us, and music lovers are in for a treat with 11 classical concerts set to deliver joy and warmth throughout December 2025. These events promise to be the perfect gift for those seeking festive cheer through live performances.
The San Francisco Symphony will kick off the celebrations at Davies Symphony Hall, featuring a lineup that includes Handel’s “Messiah” on December 5-6, followed by a “Deck the Hall” concert on December 7. Notable highlights include “A Charlie Brown Christmas” on December 21-22 and a special presentation of “Peter and the Wolf” narrated by Joshua Dela Cruz on December 14. Tickets range from $24.50 and can be purchased at sfsymphony.org.
In San Jose, the “Holiday Spectacular” concert will take place at the California Theatre on December 6 at 7:30 p.m. and December 7 at 2:30 p.m.. This event features the SSJ Chorale and New Ballet, promising an exciting mix of carols and popular songs. Prices range from $35 to $115; more details are available at symphonysanjose.org.
The beloved all-women ensemble, Kitka, is celebrating its 45th season with a winter tour showcasing their new album “Kolo.” Concerts will be held in multiple locations, including Belvedere, Santa Cruz, and San Francisco, from December 6 to December 21. Ticket prices are between $27.50 and $55; visit kitka.org for more information.
Don’t miss the “Irish Christmas in America” performance on December 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore. This captivating show blends music, dance, and storytelling celebrating Irish culture, with tickets priced from $25 to $55; details can be found at livermorearts.org.
The American Bach Soloists will present their esteemed performance of “Messiah” at Grace Cathedral on December 11-12 at 7:30 p.m.. Conducted by Jeffrey Thomas, this celebrated tradition is a must-see, with tickets ranging from $25 to $135; more details at americanbach.org.
In collaboration with the New Century Chamber Orchestra, the San Francisco Girls Chorus will perform “In Winter’s Glow” on December 11 at the 1st Church UCC Berkeley and on December 12 at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Tiburon. Tickets are priced between $35 and $80; visit ncco.org for more information.
The iconic holiday ballet, “The San Jose Nutcracker”, will be presented by New Ballet and Symphony San Jose from December 13-23 at the California Theater, featuring innovative choreography. Tickets are available from $26.50 to $31.50; check symphonysanjose.org for details.
The Soweto Gospel Choir is set to return to Zellerbach Hall at UC Berkeley on December 14 at 3 p.m. for an uplifting holiday concert filled with gospel songs and spirituals. Prices range from $15 to $120; more information is available at calperformances.org.
The Oakland Symphony will host its annual holiday concert, “Let Us Break Bread Together”, featuring music director Kedrick Armstrong on December 14 at 4 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre. Tickets range from $25 to $92; visit oaklandsymphony.org for details.
Finally, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus will perform “Holiday Spectacular: Home for the Holidays” on December 20 at Zellerbach Hall and on December 24 at Davies Symphony Hall. This beloved event is sure to uplift spirits, with tickets from $30 to $105; find details at cityboxoffice.com.
This holiday season, indulge in the magic of live classical music and create unforgettable memories with friends and family. Don’t miss out on these incredible performances happening throughout the Bay Area!
