11 Must-See Holiday Concerts in Bay Area This December!

UPDATE: The holiday season is officially here, and 11 classical concerts across the Bay Area are set to deliver joy and warmth throughout December 2025! These performances promise to create unforgettable moments for audiences of all ages.

DECEMBER 5-22: The San Francisco Symphony at Davies Symphony Hall is your go-to venue for a festive lineup. Highlights include Handel’s “Messiah” on December 5-6, a “Deck the Hall” concert on December 7, and a special performance of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” on December 21-22. Ticket prices range from $24.50 to $135. Visit sfsymphony.org for details.

DECEMBER 6: Symphony San Jose presents the “Holiday Spectacular” featuring the SSJ Chorale and New Ballet at California Theatre in San Jose. Expect to enjoy carols and a unique sing-along tribute titled “The 12 Days of Silicon Valley.” Tickets available for $35-$115.

DECEMBER 6-21: The acclaimed all-women vocal ensemble Kitka returns for their winter concert series spotlighting their new album “Kolo.” Expect enchanting performances across various Bay Area locations, including Santa Cruz and San Francisco. Tickets range from $27.50-$55. More information at kitka.org.

DECEMBER 8: Don’t miss “Irish Christmas in America,” a captivating night of Irish music and storytelling at Bankhead Theater in Livermore. This one-night-only event features a Gaelic rendition of “Silent Night” and more. Tickets priced between $25-$55.

DECEMBER 11-12: Experience Handel’s “Messiah” performed by the American Bach Soloists under conductor Jeffrey Thomas at the iconic Grace Cathedral in San Francisco. Tickets are available from $25-$135 at americanbach.org.

DECEMBER 11 & 12: The San Francisco Girls Chorus collaborates with the New Century Chamber Orchestra for “In Winter’s Glow,” featuring ethereal holiday music. Performances take place at various locations, with tickets priced from $35-$80.

DECEMBER 13-23: A new twist on the classic holiday ballet, “The San Jose Nutcracker,” features a collaboration between New Ballet and Symphony San Jose. Enjoy performances at California Theatre, with tickets ranging from $26.50-$31.50.

DECEMBER 14: The Soweto Gospel Choir returns to Cal Performances for a heartwarming concert. This uplifting event includes gospel songs and contemporary classics. Tickets are available from $15-$120.

DECEMBER 14: The Oakland Symphony’s annual holiday concert celebrates the season with music and tributes to Whitney Houston under the direction of Kedrick Armstrong. Tickets range from $25-$92.

DECEMBER 20 & 24: The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus presents “Holiday Spectacular: Home for the Holidays.” Tickets are available for $30-$105 at Zellerbach Hall and Davies Symphony Hall.

These concerts not only celebrate the joyous spirit of the season but also provide an opportunity for families and friends to connect over the joy of music. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this festive cultural experience. Reserve your tickets now and make your holiday season memorable!