Top holiday shows to see in New York on Broadway and beyond

Check out our list of Broadway and Off-Broadway holiday shows — including plays, musicals, concerts, operas, and more — to get you in the festive spirit.

It's the most wonderful time of the year, because holiday theatre is back for the season. As festive decorations start to line the streets of New York, many marquees will light up with the names of Christmas shows and holiday spectaculars that are only playing for a few months.

Get yourself and your family in the festive spirit with these shows, many of which give fresh twists to beloved tales you know and love, like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol. Many productions of timeless tales also put fresh spins on them, making for an unforgettable holiday outing.

Get tickets to holiday shows on New York Theatre Guide.

Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes

One of New York's most iconic holiday shows, The Radio City Christmas Spectacular has been celebrating the season for nearly 90 years. The Rockettes perform in their signature precision dancing style as reindeer, Santa Clauses, tourists, and, in perhaps the most famous number, toy soldiers. Classic Christmas tunes come together with modern elements, like a 3D-simulated sleigh flight through the city with Santa and a tale of two young boys trying to find the perfect gift for their sister. Whether you've never seen the Spectacular or go every year, this New York holiday tradition is sure to get you in the spirit.

Check back for information on The Radio City Christmas Spectacular tickets.

Nutcracker Rouge

This is one holiday special that's just for the adults. Nutcracker Rouge is a sexy take on the classic tale of The Nutcracker, performed by Company XIV. The company has performed Nutcracker Rouge to acclaim since 2013, and the show includes a mix of burlesque, opera, and circus entertainment in its reimagining of Clara, the Nutcracker, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and more. Audiences are immersed into the sensual side of the Land of Sweets, and the experience includes cocktails, champagne, and treats.

Get Nutcracker Rouge tickets now.

The Magic Flute

The Magic Flute returns as The Metropolitan Opera's special holiday presentation for families. See the story of a noble prince, equipped with a flute that can charm anyone, as he goes on a quest to save a princess. At just an hour long, performed in English, and filled with plenty of whimsical stagecraft, this musical fairytale will charm anyone of any age.

Check back for information on The Magic Flute tickets on New York Theatre Guide.

Shoshana Bean at the Apollo

For one night only, on December 4, the Tony and Grammy Award-nominated Broadway star returns to the Apollo Theater with her beloved holiday concert. Bean, known for shows including Wicked, Waitress, and the current Off-Broadway hit Hell's Kitchen, takes the stage with special guests to perform holiday hits and ring in the festive season with joy and music.

Get Shoshana Bean at the Apollo tickets now.

A Christmas Carol: The Musical

Ever wanted to hear Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future sing? Then see A Christmas Carol: The Musical, back in New York for its 15th year. The story of how the miser Ebenezer Scrooge changes his ways on Christmas Eve remains the same, but it's now set to festive original music.

Get A Christmas Carol: The Musical tickets now.

An Axemas Story

Love Christmas trees? An Axemas Story won't leave you pining. Everyone's excited for Christmastime in Tree Town, but everyone's on edge because trees keep disappearing, and they suspect Farmer Todd has something to do with it. Can a tiny tree and the mayor's daughter solve the mystery before the annual Christmas pageant?

Get An Axemas Story tickets now.