A Cornucopia of Options: What to Do in Orange County During the 2025 Holiday Season
- Culture OC Staff
- 10 hours ago
- 19 min read
Performances, exhibitions, holiday festivals and more are in store for the culturally curious in our 2025 holiday guide.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year once again. The holidays are officially upon us!
As family and friends prepare to reunite, aren’t you wondering what to do these holidays, besides shopping and checking out gaudy light displays? Here’s a look at some of the best O.C. holiday offerings in the areas of dance, theater, visual arts, culture, and classical, world/jazz and popular music, brought to you by Culture OC’s talented team of arts and culture writers.
We appreciate your interest and support during this, our third holiday season together. May you and yours enjoy the best of times, and happy holidays from all of us at Culture OC!
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Theater
When it comes to holiday-themed shows at Orange County theaters, there’s a decided if-it’s-not-broke-don’t-fix-it mentality. Several of the shows on local stages, such as the Maverick Theater’s “Santa Claus Conquers the Martians,” and Stages Theatre’s production of “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play,” at the Brea Curtis, are nearing 20 years, and there’s always a few Ebenezer Scrooge sightings this time of year.
While some could argue that wheeling out familiar chestnuts speaks to a lack of adventurous programming, a counter to that argument is that there is something about these shows that speaks to audiences year after year. Whether rooted in nostalgia or the life-affirming, light-pushing-back-the-darkness message so many share, there’s a reason that the tried-and-true keep returning.
That doesn’t mean there aren’t some new twists here and there among the familiar, and following are two shows that reflect that, as well as the most iconic O.C. holiday show of all. – Joel Beers
‘A Christmas Carol,’ South Coast Repertory
When: Nov. 30-Dec. 24
Where: South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Admission: $42 - $114
Contact: 714-708-5555; scr.org
The longest continuing holiday-related production in the county celebrates its 45th year, and while there are always new faces among the ensemble, particularly in the 16 child actors pulled from SCR’s Youth Conservancy who rotate each year, the principals are embedded in the show’s history. Director Hisa Takakuwa, in her fifth year at the helm, acted or assistant directed in 28 previous seasons. SCR founding member Richard Doyle, who took over as Scrooge five years ago following Hal Landon’s legendary 40-year run, is appearing in his 40th production. And longtime fans of the show will instantly recognize many of the faces on stage.
That familiarity is amplified by everything that surrounds the actors, including the elements that imbue it with so much theatricality, including the lighting, set, sound and costume designs
But the real secret sauce in this phenomenally successful show is found in Jerry Patch’s endearing, and enduring, adaptation of Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella, the heartwarming tale of a miser whose long dark night of the soul reawakens the shared humanity that had been buried beneath decades of selfishness and cynicism.
‘Scrooge! The Musical,’ Chance Theater
When: Nov. 28-Dec. 21
Where: Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim
Admission: $12 - $42
Contact: 888-455-4212; chancetheater.com
While adaptations of Dickens’ classic story are never far from local stages this time of year, far rarer is this 1992 musical adaptation, which is itself adapted from the 1970 film of the same name. Leslie Bricusse earned an Academy Award nomination for the film score, and leaned heavily on it for the stage adaptation.
The musical numbers tend to provide an overall lighter feel than straight play adaptations, yet also allow the inner thoughts of characters to be expressed, such as the solo numbers of Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and Scrooge.
This is the first time that Chance Theatre has tackled the musical, and with that theater’s proven track record of crushing musicals, there’s little reason to doubt that this James Michael McHale-directed production won’t (wait for it …) sing.
‘A Snow White Christmas’
When: Dec. 6-28
Where: Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Admission: $42-$89
Contact: (949) 497-2787; lagunaplayhouse.com
This panto, or pantomime, is derived from the British musical theater tradition of goosing up a well-known fairy tale with singing, dancing, slapstick comedy, stock characters and contemporary references. This all-ages panto, courtesy of Lythgoe Family Productions, includes everything from puppets and Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars tunes to audience interaction, such as a wicked queen to boo and hiss at, all guided by Muddles the Jester. After a 10-year hiatus, it returns to the Laguna Playhouse.
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Dance
As the holiday season approaches, Orange County’s stages once again turn to “The Nutcracker,” a cornerstone of the ballet world and a major artistic and economic anchor for companies everywhere. Local productions are consistently strong, and the fact that American Ballet Theatre has chosen Orange County for its annual staging speaks to the region’s longstanding support for dance. Including these performances in a holiday roundup feels essential – they shape the rhythm of the season for dancers and audiences alike. But they are only part of the story. From celebrations of Mexican holiday customs to programs shaped by nationally recognized contemporary choreographers, this year’s calendar also highlights the range of work taking place on Southern California stages. Below are several performances that approach movement, culture and storytelling in distinct ways this winter. – Kaitlin Wright
'The Nutcracker'
Anaheim Ballet
Where: City National Grove of Anaheim, 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim
When: 7 p.m. Nov. 28-29 and 2 p.m. Nov. 29
Cost: Starting at $39.60
Contact: anaheimballet.org/nutcracker
Festival Ballet Theatre
Where: Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine
When: Various times, Dec. 7-24
Cost: Starting at $54
Contact: festivalballet.org
American Ballet Theatre
Where: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
When: Various times, Dec. 12-22
Cost: Starting at $32.77
Contact: 714-556-2787, scfta.org
“The Nutcracker” returns to stages across Orange County this December, a yearly ritual as familiar as decorated trees and holiday lights. Companies large and small offer their interpretations of Clara, the Nutcracker and the Land of Sweets, reminding audiences why Tchaikovsky’s ballet endures as one of the season’s most recognizable traditions. For some, it’s a cherished family outing, for others, it’s an introduction to live ballet. Below are just three of many productions in the area.
A.I.M by Kyle Abraham
When: 8 p.m. Dec. 13
Where: Carpenter Performing Arts Center, 6200 E. Atherton St., Long Beach
Cost: $38.75 - $68.75
Contact: 562-985-7000, carpenterarts.org
A.I.M by Kyle Abraham offers a look at contemporary dance shaped by one of the most influential choreographers working today. Abraham, a MacArthur Fellow known for blending concert dance and social history, leads a company that is recognized for work that explores identity and memory through movement. The upcoming program at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center features three pieces: Jermaine Spivey’s new work “In the act of undoing,” which examines how performers build and unbuild patterns of connection; Abraham’s 2014 piece “The Gettin’,” set to music by Robert Glasper and rooted in themes drawn from Max Roach’s “Freedom Now Suite” and “Dearest Home,” a 2017 work that reflects on longing and personal histories. Together, the selections offer audiences a window into the breadth of A.I.M’s repertory and the questions that continue to shape Abraham’s choreography.
‘Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico’
When: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec 14
Cost: $33-$78
Contact: muscocenter.org
Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico” brings the richness of Mexican holiday traditions to the Musco Center stage through music, dance and storytelling that have been part of seasonal celebrations for generations. Named after a well-known Andalusian Christmas carol, the production features Mariachi Garibaldi, a Southern California ensemble recognized for its work in preserving regional mariachi styles, and Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande, a 30-member ensemble led by Miguel Peña and made up of alumni from the folklorico program at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, the only folklorico dance major in the United States. Together, they guide audiences through customs such as posadas, the community processions that reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, and villancicos, the Spanish-language carols sung throughout the season. The program offers a window into the cultural traditions that shape Christmas festivities in Mexico, weaving music and movement into an accessible, family-friendly experience.
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Visual Arts
‘Tis the season once again for Orange County museums, galleries and art centers to celebrate the holidays! Expect your favorite local venue to spruce itself up with holiday lights, good cheer and winter wonderland decorations. Some will offer special family-oriented events or host salon-style exhibitions for artists and their friends, such as the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art’s six-day “ArtStart” event, beginning Saturday, Dec. 6.
Here are a handful of holiday highlights, from the north, through the central to the south of the county. – Richard Chang
MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER
Where: 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton
When: Various times, see below
Cost: $20-$35 each for Marleena Barber, the Dardens and “The Tipsy Elf”; “IllumiNITE” is $10 adults, $5 for kids 13 and older, free for ages 12 and younger; the Muck Holiday Festival is free
Contact: (714) 738-6595; themuck.org
The Muckenthaler Cultural Center, aka “the Muck,” is hosting a number of concerts and events for the holidays. Vocalist Marleena Barber will sing from her new holiday album, “Once Upon a December,” at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30. On Dec. 7 from 4-8 p.m., the Jewish Community Foundation of Orange County will partner with other groups to present “IllumiNITE,” a Hannukah festival of art, music and culture.
The Dardens will serve up their annual holiday concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11. The resident Electric Company Theater will bring back “The Tipsy Elf” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18. And on Dec. 21, the Muck will host its free annual Muck Holiday Festival, with family friendly activities, live music, food and drinks, art workshops for kids, and an arts and crafts sale.
Original hand-drawn images by Chuck Jones of the Grinch, prepared for "How the Grinch Stole Christmas."
Images courtesy of Hilbert Museum
‘Happy Holidays: Selections from the Hilbert Christmas Collection’
Where: Hilbert Museum of California Art, 167 N. Atchison St., Orange
When: Through Jan. 11, 2026
Cost: Free (with reservation)
Contact: 714-516-5880 or hilbertmuseum.org
The Hilbert Museum is presenting “Happy Holidays: Selections from the Hilbert Christmas Collection,” which includes holiday paintings, prints, illustrations, vintage Christmas card designs, and movie and TV art. Artists include Norman Rockwell, Chuck Jones, Ralph Hulett, Gladys Brown Edwards and Greg Hildebrand. Original cells and artwork from Disney’s “Mickey’s Christmas Carol” and Jones’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” will be on display.
Six other exhibitions will be on view as well.
During Winter Fantasy on the Sawdust Art Festival grounds: PHOTO 1: Artists sell their own creations. PHOTO 2: Marionette puppet shows delight children. PHOTO 3: A glassblower offers a live demonstration. PHOTO 4: Art workshops allow visitors to create their own art. PHOTO 5: The Sawdust Art Festival grounds will be decorated for the holidays. Photos courtesy of Sawdust Art Festival
SAWDUST ART FESTIVAL’S 35TH ANNUAL WINTER FANTASY
Where: 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
When: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Fridays-Sundays through Dec. 21
Cost: $12 adults, $10 for seniors, $5 for children 6-12 years old, free for children 5 and younger
Contact: (949) 494-3030 or sawdustsartfestival.org
The Sawdust Art Festival is presenting its 35th annual Winter Fantasy show, offering unique, handcrafted items by nearly 200 local and national artists. Three stages will play host to live music and community performances each day. Santa will be present from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily for photos, and there will be live art demos, marionette puppet shows, art classes, daily snow flurries and tasty holiday treats and beverages.
Decorations light up the grounds of the Mission San Juan Capistrano during Capistrano Nights this holiday season. Photos courtesy of Mission San Juan Capistrano
CAPISTRANO LIGHTS
When: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Dec. 19-30
Where: Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano
Cost: $20 adults, $17 seniors, $14 for children 5-11, and free for children 4 and younger
Contact: (949) 234-1300 or capistranolights.com
Capistrano Lights returns to the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano this holiday season with a nightly musical tree lighting at 5:05 p.m., Charles Dickens-era carolers, a large-scale nativity scene in the Ruins of the Great Stone Church (circa 1806), selfies with Santa (through Dec. 23), live holiday performances and a light tunnel featuring over 20,000 lights. The schedule has been adjusted this year to incorporate the mission’s 250th anniversary celebrations, beginning in early 2026.
Children’s activities will include craft workshops and a daily hunt for Sullivan the Elf and his best friend Poppy. The historic galleries will remain open until 6:30 p.m. nightly.
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Culture
The holidays are here in various forms — from wintry wonderlands to decorative boat competitions. There are even some Christmas-themed pirate adventures for families looking for a fun night out. – Jessica Peralta
Winter Fest OC creates a winter wonderland with a lineup of live entertainment and activities at the OC Fair & Event Center through Jan. 4. Photo courtesy of Winter Fest OC
Winter Fest OC
When: Select dates Nov. 28 through Jan. 4
Where: OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Cost: Tickets start at $25.75, add-ons start at $5.60, parking is $12
Contact: winterfestoc.com
Back for its 11th year, Winter Fest OC features live bands, nightly tree lighting, holiday performances, real snow and ice, and things to do for all ages. Families can partake in meet-and-greet photo ops with characters like Yowie the Yeti, Ice Princess, Jack Frost and Snowflake stilt walkers. At 5:45 p.m., characters gather for a Nightly Tree Lighting Celebration, including music and falling snow.
For those looking for photos with Santa, the Forest of Lights sets the scene through Dec. 24. The Santa Photo Package lets guests take a photo with Santa for $19.99, including priority line, digital download and one 8 by 10-inch printed photo. A separate line is available for those who want to take photos for free with Santa on their own devices.
For the first two hours every evening, guests can purchase sample-sized portions of winter treats for $5 as part of the $5 Festive Flavors Menu. The menu includes tacos, hot dogs, pizza, popcorn, fresh-baked cookies, churros and more.
Live bands and community performers will entertain throughout the season. Performers include Bruno Mars tribute band 24K Magic on Dec. 11, Journey tribute band
DSB on Dec. 18, ‘80s cover band Flashback Heart Attack on Jan. 2 and more.
Pirates Take Christmas
When: Through Dec. 30
Where: Pirates Dinner Adventure, 7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park
Cost: $70.95 per adult, $43.95 per child for standard seating, including dinner and show
Contact: (714) 690-1497, piratesdinneradventure.com
Pirates Dinner Adventure’s annual holiday overlay, Pirates Take Christmas, has set sail in Buena Park with pirates, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, sword fights, aerial acrobatics, stunts, competition and plenty of holiday cheer. Even though the theme is holiday, the storyline is a new adventure. Adult entrees include roasted chicken, gluten-free chicken, vegetarian and vegan options.
PHOTO 1: The Pet Project Foundation hosts its annual Santa Paws event on Dec. 13 and 14. PHOTO 2: Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching hosts annual Boat Rides with Santa. PHOTO 3: Boat Parade of Lights is back Dec. 12-14. PHOTO 4: Happy Harbor Days light up Dana Point Harbor. Photos courtesy Dana Point Harbor
Holidays at the Harbor
When: Through Jan. 4
Where: Dana Point Harbor, 34571 Golden Lantern, Dana Point
Cost: Free, with ticket fees or donations for some activities
Contact: danapointharbor.com
Happy Harbor Days lights up Dana Point Harbor through Jan. 4 with themed light exhibits, including a giant whale, illuminated 60-foot-tall palms and the Merry Kiss Me arch.
The holiday light display includes more than 700,000 LED lights. The 50th Annual Boat Parade of Lights is back Dec. 12-14.
The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. each night near the Wharf with the theme “Golden Jubilee — Carol of the Boats.” Participating boaters can decorate their vessels for a chance to win cash prizes under different award categories — including Best Use of Theme, People’s Choice, Supervisor’s Cup and Mayor’s Cup. The public can watch the parade from the boardwalk and parkscapes.
Harbor After Dark on Friday, Dec. 5 includes food and drink specials, plus extended shopping hours until 7:30 p.m. on the Wharf, and a live musical performance.
Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching hosts annual Boat Rides with Santa on Dec. 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Guests can take photos with Santa and his helpers for a $5 donation, with proceeds benefiting Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay. Reservations are required.
The Pet Project Foundation hosts its annual Santa Paws event on Dec. 13 and 14, off Island Way and Dana Drive near the Richard Henry Dana Jr. statue. Pet photos with Santa and the Dana Point Harbor VW Bus are available for a $15 donation, with proceeds benefiting the Pet Project Foundation.
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Classical Music
Of all the holidays, Christmas is the most closely associated with musical things. There’s practically a set playlist, and classical composers (including the famous Anonymous) have been writing Christmas music for hundreds of years. Orange County is always well served at this time of year, including by community groups and church choirs. Below, I’ve chosen three of the bigger events, but check your local listings as well. – Timothy Mangan
Holiday Organ Spectacular
When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9
Where: Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Cost: $39 - $105
Contact: pacificsymphony.org
The Pacific Symphony’s annual Holiday Organ Spectacular gives audiences a welcome chance to hear the magnificent William J. Gillespie Concert Organ, 4,322 pipes strong. The widely travelled organist Todd Smith, head of the organ department at the Cleveland Institute of Music, is in the driver’s seat this year and joined by members of the symphony, including concertmaster Dennis Kim and trumpeter Barry Perkins, the latter serving as host. Music by Bach, Schubert, Handel and Widor is sprinkled into a program of traditional carols (some with opportunities to sing along) and popular fare.
The Holidays with Canadian Brass
When: 8 p.m. Dec. 10
Where: Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Cost: $26 - $171
Contact: philharmonicsociety.org
The Pacific Symphony’s annual Holiday Organ Spectacular gives audiences a welcome chance to hear the magnificent William J. Gillespie Concert Organ, 4,322 pipes strong. The widely travelled organist Todd Smith, head of the organ department at the Cleveland Institute of Music, is in the driver’s seat this year and joined by members of the symphony, including concertmaster Dennis Kim and trumpeter Barry Perkins, the latter serving as host. Music by Bach, Schubert, Handel and Widor is sprinkled into a program of traditional carols (some with opportunities to sing along) and popular fare.
‘Tis the Season!’
When: 5 p.m. Dec. 21, 7 p.m. Dec. 22
Where: Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Cost: $52 - $156
Contact: pacificchorale.org
The Grammy-winning Pacific Chorale is typically our busiest musical ensemble during the holiday season and this year is no exception. Their biggest event – “Tis the Season!” – is so popular it’s offered twice. Conductor Robert Istad and the Chorale are joined by members of the Pacific Symphony, an organist and the Southern California Children’s Chorus for a slate of usual favorites and more. The Chorale also offers two Carols by Candlelight concerts (8 p.m. Dec. 6 and 10, at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Newport Beach) and, with the Pacific Symphony, a complete performance of Handel’s “Messiah” (3 p.m. Dec. 7, at Segerstrom Concert Hall).
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Popular Music
When the holidays roll around, everything gets a little more cheery. From twinkling lights to festive foods, it’s a season filled with warmth, love and community. One of the biggest ways to celebrate is with holiday music and family-oriented events that draw us together. This year, these experiences include magical performances that capture that end-of-year joy and remind us what makes December so special. So gather together, sing along to some of your favorite holiday tunes and enjoy being in the company of those who mean the most to you. – Ashley Ryan
MAGIC, MOONLIGHT & MISTLETOE
When: 8 p.m. Dec. 10
Where: Grove of Anaheim, 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim
Cost: $59.40 to $131.95
Contact: groveofanaheim.com
The Magic & Moonlight Tour is getting a festive update for the holiday season in this performance by a prominent musical collective. Started by New York City pianist Scott Bradlee more than a decade ago, Postmodern Jukebox covers today’s pop hits, reimagining them with timeless vintage arrangements that sound like moments from the past – think jazz, swing, Motown and doo-wop vibes. A troupe of world-class singers, musicians and dancers will take to the stage for the holiday iteration of the tour, performing songs by artists like Chappell Roan, Guns N’ Roses, Bruno Mars and the Spice Girls, along with a selection of beloved holiday tunes. Just like a jukebox musical, this intriguing format allows guests to take a step back in time, relive classic music and embrace a sense of nostalgia, all while enjoying the spirit of the Christmas season.
DISNEY ON ICE
When: Dec. 11-15
Where: Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim
Cost: $39.45 and up; additional $65 for optional Character Experience ticket
Contact: hondacenter.com
In the latest Disney on Ice show, “Let’s Dance!,” classic characters Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Donald and Goofy serve as DJs mixing up songs from Disney’s most defining films as well as modern favorites, including “Wish,” “Frozen 2” and “Moana” as well as “The Lion King” and “The Little Mermaid.” Turning vibrant songs into colorful worlds that come to life on the ice, the state-of-the-art performance features professional figure skating, cutting-edge acrobatics, intricate costumes and special effects to fully immerse guests in the stories. Those who purchase the additional Character Experience ticket can enjoy games, crafts and a sing-a-long with Anna and Else before the event. Or arrive early for Goofy’s Ho-Ho Holiday Sing-Along preshow that is included in every ticket.
JESSICA VOSK: SLEIGH
When: 8 p.m. Dec. 17
Where: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Cost: $44 and up
Contact: scfta.org
Expect to be dazzled by powerhouse performer Jessica Vosk during her holiday showcase, “Sleigh.” Accompanied by an eight-piece band, the singer and actress, who is best known for her Broadway portrayal of Elphaba in “Wicked” during the show’s 15th anniversary run, will draw from her holiday album of the same name, released in November 2024. During the show, hear classic renditions of songs like “Let It Snow” and “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” as well as covers like Ariana Grande’s “Santa Tell Me” or Dolly Parton’s “Hard Candy Christmas” and maybe even an original number. With dynamic storytelling and a decidedly charismatic stage presence, Vosk will lead a show full of joyous energy, perfectly encapsulating the holiday season.
THE VANDALS 30TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FORMAL
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 20
Where: House of Blues, 400 W. Disney Way, Anaheim
Cost: $43.60 to $80.50
Contact: houseofblues.com
For a one-of-a-kind take on Christmas cheer, join The Vandals as they celebrate the 30th iteration of their holiday extravaganza. This milestone show is one of three performances this season (alongside stops in Ventura and at Pappy & Harriet’s out in Pioneer Town near Joshua Tree) and promises the punk rock band’s signature brand of “holiday havoc.” Expect to find the stage decked out in themed decor, from Christmas lights to oversize inflatables, as the band plays a set filled with fan-favorites and some rather irreverent seasonal tunes. True to form, the band dons its finest holiday attire while the crowd parallels the enthusiasm, dressing in reds and greens, Christmas sweaters and full costumes, from reindeer and snowmen to Santa himself. While this concert is decidedly niche compared to classic holiday concerts, it proves that festive can be fun no matter what the circumstances and that the holidays are just as punk rock as summertime festivals.
JAZZ AND WORLD Music
This season you’ll find a rich and diverse array of jazz and world music-influenced holiday concerts throughout Orange County, from the Celtic-infused tunes of piper Eric Rigler and a popular Black a cappella male quartet, to a spirited South African choir and one of America’s most popular mariachis. – Paul Hodgins
Fiesta Navidad
Where: Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
When: 8 p.m. Dec. 23
Cost: Tickets start at $38.42
Contact: 714-556-2787 or scfta.org
The popular Fiesta Navidad, featuring the Grammy-winning Mariachi Los Camperos, returns to Segerstrom Center in a vibrant concert that brings Mexican holiday traditions to life through music, dance, celebration and time-honored traditions. Since its founding in 1961, the Los Angeles–based Mariachi Los Camperos have performed at the Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Getty Center, among many other major venues. In 1964, they were the first mariachi ensemble to perform in Carnegie Hall, and they were featured on two of Linda Ronstadt’s albums.
Soweto Gospel Choir: ‘Peace’
Where: Musco Center for the Arts, 415 North Glassell St., Orange
When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9
Cost: $38-$78
Contact: 714-997-6812 or muscocenter.org
The multi-Grammy- and Emmy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir performs a joyful and energetic holiday concert that includes South African freedom songs, traditional spirituals and some familiar classics. The choir will also present its own unique arrangements of familiar songs made famous by Aretha Franklin, Harry Belafonte, Peter Gabriel, Kate Bush, Leonard Cohen and more.
Celtic Christmas With ‘Titanic’ Piper Eric Rigler & Dirk Freymuth
Where: Soka University Performing Arts Center, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo
When: 3 p.m. Dec. 7
Cost: $30-$70
Contact: 949-480-4278 or soka.edu/soka-performing-arts-center/tickets
You’ve probably enjoyed piper Eric Rigler through his work on “Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power,” “Outlander,” “Braveheart” and “Titanic.” Joined by accomplished guitarist Dirk Freymuth, the duo will perform an evening of Celtic holiday cheer filled with traditional Irish and Scottish melodies featured in their PBS special, “Celtic Journeys: Songs & Soundtracks.” Rigler will also draw heavily from his film and TV work, and you’ll hear plenty of music from the Christmas traditions of the British Isles, Ireland and other Celtic nations around Europe.
We Four Kings Holiday Show
Where: Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine
When: 8 p.m. Dec. 11
Cost: $39-$100
Contact: 949-854-4646 or thebarclay.org
This a cappella quartet performs clever and virtuosic arrangements of beloved Christmas carols and other popular music classics, from “Carol of the Bells” to “Jingle Bell Rock,” “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night.” You’ll also hear imaginative renditions of “The Nutcracker Suite,” “Mary Did You Know” and “Go Tell It on the Mountain.” Throughout the show, the performers share personal stories and usher in the holiday spirit with heartfelt reflections.
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