Our favorite fa- around the holidays, besides fa-la-la-la-la? Family. It’s a time to sip eggnog, shop for gifts, and enjoy joyous entertainment that only the colder months can bring. Not only through the viewing of Christmas lights, either, but also the best family friendly holiday events! The world’s most talented performers come together every holiday season to put on festive seasonal shows — some of which have been in place for decades or even a century.
You may have heard about Radio City Christmas Spectacular, the legendary New York City show that attracts more than two million people each year. It’s not just about the Rockettes and their high kicks either (although that’s a big part of it!), but also feeling the magic of the season. Are you prepared to have your eyes filled with wonder, belly rich with hot chocolate, and joy infiltrating your soul? All with your friends, partner, or children by your side? Check out these family friendly holiday events to continue traditions or make new ones with the people you love.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
It wouldn’t be Christmas in the Big Apple without the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, a nearly century-old tradition that enchants nearly every generation. Held at Radio City Music Hall since 1933, it’s one of the best family friendly holiday events featuring the Rockettes at their finest. With their signature high kicks and holiday routines, plus classic scenes like the “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and the “Living Nativity,” this performance is filled with festive spirit and grandeur from start to finish. Whether you’re seeing Radio City Christmas Spectacular for the first, second, or even the tenth time!
Elf the Musical
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” If you remember this line from the iconic 2003 film, you’ll love that they took it literally for the stage adaptation! Elf the Musical is a nostalgia-filled journey through Buddy the Elf’s trip to New York City. From meeting his biological father (“World’s Greatest Dad”) to falling hard for Jovie (“A Christmas Song”) and trying to save Christmas (“Nobody Cares About Santa”), every scene is better in song. And there may even be times that Buddy wants you to sing along! From your TV to the stage, Elf the Musical is one of the best family friendly holiday events to invoke nostalgia and new traditions.
Cirque du Soleil Twas the Night Before
Described as “a festive flurry of love and cheer created especially for families,” Cirque du Soleil Twas the Night Before is a high-flying adventure for all ages. The only thing more limitless than your holiday wishes? The heights at which these acrobats soar through the sky — with aerial hoops, candy-colored backdrops, Christmas-inspired costumes and more. When you’re not watching the acrobatics, it’s impossible not to notice the dancing snowmen and candy canes. And it’s as adorable as it sounds! Watch your favorite Christmas poem come to life with these family friendly holiday events that are sure to become a tradition for you and your children.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
The Grinch lives everywhere during the holidays — in books, on TV, maybe even on our Spotify playlist. “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” is such a bop, right? Now, he’s making yet another appearance on the stage in How The Grinch Stole Christmas, and it’s one of the best family friendly holiday events you could imagine. Except for a few minor tweaks and a lot more songs, it’s basically the same Dr. Seuss story you know and love. The Grinch hates Christmas, meets a sweet little girl named Cindy Lou, and reaches peak evil before discovering the error of his ways. He’s like a modern Mr. Scrooge, and we love him for it! This beloved show is currently playing in dozens of cities, so don’t forget your How the Grinch Stole Christmas tickets!
The Nutcracker
Looking for a sophisticated way to spend the festive season? Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker is always a solid choice — a timeless holiday ballet that enchants audiences with its magical journey through the Land of Sweets. Clara’s adventure, accompanied by toy soldiers, dancing snowflakes, and the Sugar Plum Fairy, is a stunning production that never falters in breathtaking choreography, vivid lighting, or lessons about the beauty of life. And they’re all wrapped into a single ballet that’s become a Christmas tradition for millions of families worldwide. Ready to become one of them?
A Christmas Carol
Based on Charles Dickens’ famous novel, the stage adaptation of A Christmas Carol has become a holiday tradition as beloved as “elf on the shelf” or a White Elephant exchange. It follows the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future — each one more frightening than the next.
As he reflects on his selfish ways and how they’re affecting those around him, Scrooge begins to open his heart and rediscover the power of kindness, generosity, and redemption. Who wouldn’t want to teach these lessons to their children, especially during the most wonderful time of the year? However, we’d only recommend it to those 13 and up, as certain scenes may be frightening!
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
Two Cirque shows during the same holiday season? Why not? There’s plenty of acrobatics to go around, especially when Cirque Dreams Holidaze dims the lights and prepares to dazzle. It’s described as a “whimsical, Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus artistry into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family.” And even so, you’ll still be wide-eyed and shocked in the best ways when these performers take the stage. Everyone makes an appearance — from ice skaters and snowmen to Santa — and you’ll be blown away by their flexibility and festive spirit during every performance.
