From seasonal stage productions to live music and concerts, Wilmington knows how to put on a holiday show. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night, a family tradition or an excuse to dress up and toast the season, here’s your guide to the most magical shows happening this November and December.
Thalian Center for the Performing Arts
One of the oldest theaters in the country, Thalian Hall keeps Wilmington’s performing arts traditions alive year after year, and the holidays are when it really shines. Here’s what’s on stage this season:
"Brian Whitted’s A Very Merry Christmas" (Nov. 28 at 7 p.m.; Nov. 29 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Nov. 30 at 2 p.m.)
A brilliant pianist, conductor and musical director, Whitted has performed on Broadway, toured internationally and collab-ed with some of the biggest names in entertainment. Expect a smooth, soulful evening of holiday standards – best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand.
"A Christmas Carol" (Dec. 1 at 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.)
The National Touring Company reimagines Ebenezer Scrooge’s story in a production that balances tradition with spectacle, featuring period costumes, elaborate staging and a rich musical score.
"Seán Heely’s A Celtic Christmas" (Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m.)
Led by award-winning fiddler Seán Heely, this performance blends Irish and Scottish fiddle, dance and song in a joyful celebration of Celtic heritage. You’ll hear everything from lively jigs and reels to ancient carols and stirring ballads.
"The Nutcracker" (Dec. 5 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Dec. 6 at 10 a.m.)
Performed by the NY Ballet for Young Audiences, this version offers a whimsical, colorful take on the holiday favorite. With Tchaikovsky’s score and plenty of family-friendly magic, it’s perfect for introducing little ones to the ballet.
“Ebenezer! A Musical Christmas Carol” (Select dates from Dec. 11-21 at 2 p.m. or 7 p.m.)
North Carolina playwright Frank P. Trimble remixes Dickens’ classic with comedy and a mix of musical styles – including rock, country, gospel and even polka!
“Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” (Select dates from Dec. 11-21 at 3 p.m. or 7 p.m.)
Christmas goes intergalactic in this campy, sci-fi comedy where Martians kidnap Santa Claus and chaos follows. With out-of-this-world humor and plenty of festive cheer, It’s wacky in all the right ways.
"It’s a Wonderful Life" (Dec. 22 at 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.)
See the digitally remastered film on the big screen and relive the moment that gave us, “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings.” It’s a local holiday tradition you won’t want to miss.
New Year’s Eve Gala (Dec. 31 at 6 p.m.)
Ring in 2026 with cocktails, dancing, desserts, karaoke and a live performance of “Rock of Ages” by Opera House Theatre Company. With several available ticket options, you can make NYE as laid-back or lively as you want.
Bonus: Take a Behind-the-Scenes Tour
For a peek behind the curtain, schedule a docent-led tour of the lobby, auditorium, balcony and stage. You’ll get a firsthand look at the history and architecture that make Thalian Hall one of Wilmington’s gems.
Make it a Night Out
Before the show, grab tapas and light bites at Dram Yard or Circa 1922, both within walking distance. For a nightcap, head to The Blind Elephant or Bourgie Nights, an intimate venue offering live music and craft cocktails on select Fridays and Saturdays.
Be sure to make a pit stop along the Wilmington Riverwalk to take in the holiday lights, too. Watch hundreds of drones light up the sky on Dec. 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 7:30 p.m., or book Wilmington Water Tours’ Holiday Lights River Cruise to take in the festive sights all season long.
For even more holiday happenings in Wilmington, check out this Holidays on Water blog.
The Wilson Center
For grand productions and Broadway-caliber performances, the Wilson Center is a can’t-miss. From symphonies to seasonal concerts, the lineup has a little something for everyone:
"Mannheim Steamroller Christmas" (Nov. 20 at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.)
Rock, classical and festive flair collide at this longtime crowd favorite. As the lights dim, GRAMMY winner Chip Davis pairs Christmas hits with multimedia magic in an unforgettable Christmas spectacle.
"RAIN: A Beatles Christmas" (Nov. 25 and 26 at 7 p.m.)
Celebrate the season with Beatles hits and holiday crowd-pleasers. Whether you’re coming with family, friends or just your inner Beatles fan, you’re in for a fun, nostalgic evening.
“75 Years in Harmony – The Wilmington Choral Society” (Dec. 3 at 7 p.m.)
The Wilmington Choral Society marks 75 years with a concert full of hymns, ensemble arrangements and holiday classics that feel like home.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” (Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.)
See Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the Peanuts gang in a heartwarming stage adaptation of the beloved TV special.
City Ballet’s "The Nutcracker" (Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.)
Follow Clara and the Nutcracker on their magical journey with live music from the City Ballet Orchestra and Cape Fear Chorale. For an extra-special night, book a VIP opera box and enjoy top-shelf wines, complimentary drinks and the best view in the house.
"Holiday Pops Concert: NC Symphony" (Dec. 11 at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.)
Warm up your vocal cords and sing along as the North Carolina Symphony performs popular carols and holiday songs. It’s a festive, feel-good concert that brings the community together every year.
"La Nueva Generación: A Mariachi Christmas" (Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m.)
Add some Latin flair to your holiday with mariachi music and fresh takes you won’t find anywhere else. ¡Viva el mariachi!
“Michael Feinstein: Holiday Show” (Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m.)
Known as “The Ambassador of the Great American Songbook,” Feinstein takes the stage with timeless standards, Gershwin favorites and warm holiday melodies. Expect hits like “White Christmas Overture,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” “Winter Wonderland” and more.
"The Muppet Christmas Carol with WSO" (Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.)
Watch Dickens’ tale – and all your favorite Muppets – come to life on the big screen, with the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra performing the film’s score live.
Make it a Night Out
Grab dinner nearby at Marina Grill or Sugo Italian Steakhouse for waterfront views and seasonal menus. Then, head to Whiskey Tango Foxtrot for hand-crafted cocktails and live music on select evenings, or Savorez for bold, Latin-inspired desserts.
Kenan Auditorium
On the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) campus, Kenan Auditorium brings even more variety to Wilmington’s holiday lineup:
"NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet" (Nov. 12 at 7 p.m.)
This international production features a world-class cast, hand-crafted European sets and charming puppetry. If you’ve never seen this version before, now’s the perfect time to make it a new tradition!
"Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas" (Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
This tribute blends John Denver’s signature folk sound with holiday favorites for a night that feels straight out of the ‘70s.
"Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico" (Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m.)
Performed by Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and Ballet Folklórico del Río Grande, this vibrant show combines music, dance and storytelling for a joyful celebration of Mexican holiday traditions.
"The JOHNNYSWIM Christmas Show" (Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m.)
Amanda Sudano and Abner Ramirez share their soulful harmonies and storytelling in this intimate concert, mixing original songs with classic holiday favorites.
“A Christmas Carol” (Dec. 19 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 20 at 2:30 p.m.)
Experience “A Christmas Carol” like never before with a youth dance adaptation presented by GAFA Studios, adding fresh energy to Dickens’ timeless story of generosity and redemption.
Insider tip: Since Kenan Auditorium is on campus, you can park for free in nearby university lots. Arrive early to find a good spot and enjoy a short walk around campus before the show.
Make it a Night Out
Swing by JohnnyLuke’s Kitchen Bar for Southern comfort food and craft beer, or enjoy fresh seafood at Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar, a local favorite since 1970. Then, try the iconic hot cocoa at Blue Surf Cafe, with flavors like peppermint, peanut butter, raspberry and more.
Know Before You Go
Holiday performances are among Wilmington’s most cherished traditions, and many sell out fast. Check each venue’s calendar for up-to-date showtimes and ticket info, as well as any bag or security policies. Most websites also include accessibility information and parking recommendations near the venue.
From Thalian Hall to the Wilson Center, these performances are perfect for holiday getaways and hometown traditions alike. Whether you’re clapping along to “A Celtic Christmas,” marveling at “The Nutcracker” or singing to your favorite carols, Wilmington offers countless ways to make the holidays merry, musical and memorable.
For even more festive activities in Wilmington and its three island beaches, check out this Holidays on Water page.
