November 11 – December 21, 2204
Various Locations
In 2024, Southern Ontario’s Holiday Concerts scene is set to dazzle with a mix of traditional and contemporary performances that celebrate the season. Major cities like Toronto, Hamilton, and London will host a variety of holiday concerts ranging from grand symphonies to intimate choral performances. The Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s annual Holiday Pops concert is a highlight, featuring a blend of classic carols, popular holiday songs, and orchestral arrangements that evoke the spirit of the season. Similarly, Hamilton’s FirstOntario Concert Hall will come alive with performances by the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, offering audiences a chance to enjoy holiday concerts in a grand setting.
Smaller towns and communities across Southern Ontario will also host their own Holiday Concerts, showcasing local talent and unique regional traditions. Choirs, local bands, and solo performers will take to stages in venues such as churches, community centers, and outdoor markets, bringing a cozy, heartfelt charm to the holiday season. Events like the Guelph Concert Band’s Christmas Celebration and the Stratford Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Concert are perfect examples of how these smaller, community-focused events capture the warmth and joy of the holidays, providing residents and visitors alike with memorable holiday concerts.
2024 Holiday Concerts
November 22 – 24, 2024
Bach Christmas Oratorio
Jeanne Lamon Hall, Trinity-St. Paul’s Centre, Toronto
tafelmusik.org/concerts-events/concerts/bach-christmas-oratorio
Ring in the Yuletide season with a jubilant burst of music by Bach. Last performed by Tafelmusik in 2015, Bach’s Christmas Oratorio bears the unmistakable hallmark of the composer’s genius.
November 27 – 39, 2024
Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker: Land of Sweets
Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto
www.tso.ca/concerts-and-events/events/tchaikovskys-the-nutcracker-land-of-sweets
Toronto Symphony Orchestra open the doors to the holiday season with a journey to the Land of Sweets in Act II of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker.
December 1, 2024
The Kingdom Choir
Meridian Arts Centre, George Weston Recital Hall
tolive.com/Event-Details-Page/reference/The-Kingdom-Choir-2024
The Kingdom Choir returns with a special Christmas offering of soulful renditions of traditional gospel classics and popular contemporary music mixed with their own inspirational versions of holiday works.
December 3 – 4, 2024
Toronto Mendelssohn Choir’s Festival of Carols
Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, Toronto
www.tmchoir.org/event/festival-of-carols-2024
Celebrate the season with one of Toronto’s favourite holiday traditions with the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. Sing-A-Long to your favourite holiday classics led by Maestro Jean-Sébastien Vallée.
December 5 – 8, 2024
TSO presents Elf in Concert (FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA)
Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto
www.tso.ca/concerts-and-events/events/elf-in-concert
This holiday season Buddy travels to New York—with a live symphony orchestra! Celebrate the film’s 20th anniversary and experience John Debney’s wonderful score as the full film plays on the big screen.
December 10 – 12, 2024
TSO Holiday Pops
Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto
www.tso.ca/concerts-and-events/events/tso-holiday-pops
Gather the whole family for a celebration of the season with an upbeat jazzy twist! Led by Jeff Tyzik and featuring the smooth vocals of Toronto’s own Denzal Sinclaire, an enchanting evening of festive music, delightful carols, and classic holiday tunes performed by world-class musicians. This festive concert is sure to get you into the holiday spirit faster than you can say, “Fa la la!”
December 13, 2024
Friday Night Jazz
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
www.ripleys.com/attractions/ripleys-aquarium-of-canada/events/jazz-night
Explore the waters of the world at Friday Night Jazz at the Aquarium! With a live jazz band playing all the classics as you sip your drink of choice under the sea, a night of musical adventure awaits.
December 16, 2024
The Irish Tenors: A Family Christmas
The Danforth Music Hall, Toronto
www.ticketmaster.ca/the-irish-tenors-a-family-christmas-toronto-ontario-12-16-2024/event/100060F09C7F1233
Bringing their signature blend of traditional Irish music and festive favourites, the Tenors deliver an enchanting performance filled with timeless carols and holiday classics.
December 17 – 22, 2024
TSO Presents Messiah
Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto
www.tso.ca/concerts-and-events/events/messiah
Jean-Sébastien Vallée leads the TSO and the vibrant voices of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir along with four outstanding soloists in a resplendent rendition of Handel’s beloved oratorio. Gather friends and family for Toronto’s grand musical holiday tradition — a majestic performance that will leave you singing “Hallelujah!”
December 20 – 21, 2024
Handel Messiah
Koerner Hall, TELUS Centre for Performance and Learning
tafelmusik.org/concerts-events/concerts/handel-messiah-24
Handel’s Messiah makes the season even brighter. It just wouldn’t be the holiday season without Tafelmusik’s Messiah! Messiah’s core message of good will, hope, and humanity resounds as eloquently today as its premiere in 1742.
December 21, 2024
CHOIR! CHOIR! CHOIR!
Massey Hall, Toronto
masseyhall.mhrth.com/tickets/ccc-unsilent-night-2
Choir! Choir! Choir! has added a Family Matinee of “Un-Silent Night”. Bring the whole family for this joy filled sing-a-long.
December 22, 2024
Sing-A-long Messiah
Massey Hall, Toronto
tafelmusik.org/concerts-events/concerts/sing-along-messiah-24
It’s the first Sing-Along in the newly renovated Massey Hall, and you can be among the 2,000 audience members gathered to “raise the roof” in Handel’s bracing choruses.
December 31, 2024
BRAVISSIMO! NEW YEAR’S AT THE OPERA
Roy Thomson Hall, Toronto
roythomsonhall.mhrth.com/tickets/bravissimo-24
A glamorous New Year’s Eve for seasoned and budding opera lovers alike.
December 21, 2024
Beaches Jazz Festival presents Soul of Motown Christmas Special
Georgian Theatre, Barrie
tprocob.ticketpro.ca/en/pages/cob_Soul_of_Motown
Beaches International Jazz Festival presents a gift like no other – the Soul of Motown Christmas Special. Get ready to be transported to an era of soulful melodies, iconic voices, and timeless classics that continue to move hearts and feet.
December 6, 2024
Friday Folk Night
Sanderson Hall, St. Paul’s United Church
www.bramptonfolk.ca/friday_folk/reserve_tickets.html
Brampton Folk Club presents A Canadian Christmas featuring the fiddle and step dance group The Fitzgeralds.
December 6, 2024
Wonderful World of Christmas
Rose Mainstage, Brampton
bit.ly/3Yb3lkr
Featuring internationally acclaimed Elvis Tribute Stylist Steve Michaels, this spectacular showcases timeless songs and cherished holiday favourites.
December 7, 2024
Christmas at the Rose
Rose Mainstage, Brampton
bit.ly/3WvP6FO
Embrace the festive spirit and your favourite holiday hits performed live.
December 11, 2024
The Celtic Tenors: A Celtic Christmas
Rose Mainstage, Brampton
bit.ly/4bSDL7e
From classic carols like O Holy Night to beloved Celtic holiday favourites, this beautiful blend of Irish roots, classical training, and polished, magnificent music is the can’t-miss concert of the holiday season.
December 14, 2024
The Rose Orchestra: Yule Sing
Rose Mainstage, Brampton
bit.ly/3WtSRvj
Brampton Children’s Chorus and St. Roch Chorale share their holiday favourites to kick off the holiday season.
December 21, 2024
A Next Generation Leahy Christmas
Rose Mainstage, Brampton
bit.ly/4cLDhAW
From Celtic roots to diverse genres, such as fiddle, cello, French accordion, singing, piano, and step-dancing, their dynamic live shows captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
December 8, 2024 | 4pm
Burlington Symphony Orchestra: A Christmas Spectacular
Burlington Performing Arts Centre
burlingtonpac.ca/events/bso-a-christmas-spectacular
A full-length holiday program featuring seasonal favourites, an audience sing-a-long and a special guest direct from The North Pole.
December 14, 2024
CHOIR! CHOIR! CHOIR!
Un-Silent Night: An EPIC Holiday Sing-A-long!
Burlington Performing Arts Centre
burlingtonpac.ca/events/choir-choir-choir-unsilent-night
Choir! Choir! Choir! is a fully interactive, participatory show that turns the audience into performers.
December 15, 2024
NATALIE MACMASTER and DONELL LEAHY
Burlington Performing Arts Centre
burlingtonpac.ca/events/natalie-macmaster-and-donell-leahy
A Celtic Family Christmas with Natalie MacMaster, Donnell Leahy and their seven children! Join the family and stellar band as they warmly invite you in to share their music, their unique way of life, and Christmas traditions that are still honoured and celebrated.
December 18, 2024
Handel’s Messiah
Burlington Performing Arts Centre
brottmusic.com/handels-messiah-2
Handel’s Messiah is a timeless masterpiece that has become a cherished holiday tradition — you know the infamous chorus; you can hum along with most of it — it is the King of the Christmas playlists and has left audiences spellbound for centuries.
December 20, 2024
A Very Charlie Brown Concert featuring Enchorus Children’s Choir
Burlington Performing Arts Centre
burlingtonpac.ca/events/charlie-brown
A Charlie Brown Christmas is an Emmy Award-winning holiday tradition enjoyed by children everywhere. The soundtrack composed by Vince Guaraldi is equally as magical as the film, especially hits such as “Christmas Time is Here.”
December 22, 2024
A Family Christmas with PAVLO & JOHN MCDERMOTT
The Burlington Performing Arts Centre
burlingtonpac.ca/events/pavlo-and-john-McDermott
Be part of a festive journey this holiday season with the enchanting collaboration of John McDermott and Pavlo, as they seamlessly transport you from the rich traditions of the Celts to the sun-kissed landscapes of the Mediterranean. Celebrate their shared passions for Irish, Scottish, Greek, Flamenco, Latin and Balkan influences, and prepare to witness an evening of unexpected and delightful holiday collaboration
December 29, 2024
Salute To Vienna
FirstOntario Concert Hall, Hamilton
www.hamilton-theatre.com/shows/firstontario-concert-hall/salute-to-vienna
Waltz into the golden era of Viennese music with Salute to Vienna, a New Year’s Eve celebration that welcomes in the new year in the most spectacular fashion, bringing together talented singers, orchestra members, and ballroom and ballet dancers.
November 28, 2024
A Very Merry Motown Christmas
Flato Markham Theatre, Markham
flatomarkhamtheatre.ca/Online/default.asp
This show brings the soulful sounds of Motown to the holiday season, offering a nostalgic and heartwarming experience.
November 29, 2024
The Wonderful World of Christmas – Graceland Edition
Flato Markham Theatre, Markham
flatomarkhamtheatre.ca/Online/default.asp
Featuring internationally acclaimed Elvis Tribute Stylist Steve Michaels, this spectacular showcases the timeless songs of Elvis Presley, along with his cherished holiday favourites.
November 30, 2024
Michael Kaeshammer: The Spirit of Christmas
Flato Markham Theatre, Markham
flatomarkhamtheatre.ca/Online/default.asp
Michael Kaeshammer isn’t so much a piano player as a piano whisperer, a master musician and songwriter able to coax dazzling, kaleidoscopic sounds from his instrument in a way few can rival.
December 6, 2024
Holly Cole: A Swinging Christmas
Flato Markham Theatre, Markham
flatomarkhamtheatre.ca/Online/default.asp
Holly Cole’s A Swinging Christmas brings fresh faces to well-worn standards, fan favourites and an eclectic selection of inspired holiday material.
December 7, 2024 | 8 pm
Kindred Spirits Orchestra: IMPRESSIONS OF THE SEA
Flato Markham Theatre, Markham
ksorchestra.ca/2024-2025-season/impressions-of-the-sea
A holiday classic, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker suite, including the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” and the Russian “Trepak”, before concluding with the well-known “Waltz of the Flowers.”
December 14, 2024
Pavlo & John McDermott: A Family Christmas
Flato Markham Theatre, Markham
flatomarkhamtheatre.ca/Online/default.asp
From the timeless traditions of the Celts to the sun-drenched Mediterranean vistas, experience the magical fusion of John McDermott’s exquisite tenor and Pavlo’s masterful guitar artistry.
December 18, 2024
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: A Celtic Family Christmas
Flato Markham Theatre, Markham
flatomarkhamtheatre.ca/Online/default.asp
Join the family and stellar band as they warmly invite you in to share their music, their unique way of life and Christmas traditions still honoured and celebrated.
December 8, 2024
The Strumbellas
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga
web.mississauga.ca/arts-and-culture/events/the-strumbellas?eventdate=2024-12-08T20%3A00%3A00&schedule=16335
A Canadian indie rock band known for their catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Their music blends folk, rock, and pop elements, creating anthemic and emotionally resonant songs that have garnered them multiple awards and a dedicated fan base.
December 15, 2024
Wonderful World of Christmas
Meadowvale Theatre, Mississauga
www.mississauga.ca/events-and-attractions/events-calendar/elvis-wonderful-world-of-christmas?eventdate=2024-12-15T14%3A00%3A00&schedule=16112
Celebrate the holiday season with an Elvis Christmas Tribute show infused with the iconic music of the King himself.
December 7, 2024
A NIAGARA CHRISTMAS: A Christmas Concert for Friends & Family
680 York Road, Niagara On The Lake
centralniagara.org/christmas
Heartwarming musical celebration bringing together loved ones for an enchanting evening of holiday melodies and festive cheer in the Niagara region.
December 7, 2024
Holly Cole, A Swinging Christmas
Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts
www.oakvillecentre.ca/whats-on/upcoming-events/holly-cole-a-swinging-christmas/
Holly Cole’s A Swinging Christmas brings fresh faces to well-worn standards, fan favourites and an eclectic selection of inspired holiday material.
December 12, 2024
The Fitzgeralds
Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts
www.oakvillecentre.ca/whats-on/upcoming-events/the-fitzgeralds
Each holiday seasons the Fitzgeralds, fiddling and step-dancing siblings, along with guest artists performs an engaging version of their nominated album, The Fitzgeralds – A Canadian Christmas!
December 31, 2024
Outerbridge Magic, Mysteries of the Keyhole House
Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts
www.oakvillecentre.ca/whats-on/upcoming-events/outerbridge-magic
A show filled with magic and illusions that will amaze and thrill audiences of all ages.
November 30, 2024
Yuletide Cheer 2024
Emmanuel United Church, 534 George St. N., Peterborough
www.peterboroughsingers.com/concerts/yuletide-cheer
The holiday season gets a kick start from Yuletide Cheer with the Peterborough Singers and guest musicians, Venabrass.
December 16, 2024
Handel’s Messiah 2024
Emmanuel United Church, Peterborough
www.eventbrite.ca/e/handels-messiah-2024-tickets-951049965047?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
December 13, 2024
Wonderful World of Christmas
Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts
tickets.rhcentre.ca/Online/default.asp
Featuring acclaimed Elvis Tribute Stylist Steve Michaels, this spectacular showcases the timeless songs of Elvis Presley, along with his cherished holiday, creating a nostalgic and spirited celebration.
December 21, 2024
RHCPA Presents – The RHPO’s The Sound of Music Sing-A-Long
Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts
rhpo.ca
Join the Richmond Hill Philharmonic Orchestra for an interactive sing-a-long.
December 14 – 15, 2024
NSO: Home For the Holidays
Partridge Hall, 250 St Paul St, St. Catharines
niagarasymphony.com/event/home-for-the-holidays
Niagara Symphony Orchestra’s festive concert tradition returns with holly and mistletoe, and sweet sugar plums. Regardless of where you’re from, come home for the holidays with the NSO and celebrate with the familiar sounds of the most enchanting season.
December 16 – 17, 2024
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: A Celtic Family Christmas
Partridge Hall, 250 St. Paul St.
lovestc.ca/event/a-celtic-family-christmas-with-natalie-macmaster-and-donnell-leahy
Join the family and stellar band as they warmly invite you in to share their music, their unique way of life, and Christmas traditions that are still honoured and celebrated.
December 23, 2024 | 2 pm & 7 pm
The Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas
FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, 250 St. Paul St.
lovestc.ca/event/the-music-of-a-charlie-brown-christmas-2
Enjoy the songs of the holidays with the classic soundtrack of this cherished family favourite.
Southern Ontario’s holiday concerts scene offers a diverse array of performances that capture the magic of the season. From classical orchestras and heartwarming choirs to festive pop and jazz shows, there’s a concert for every taste and tradition. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a family-friendly event or a sophisticated musical experience, these concerts provide a perfect way to celebrate the holidays. Embrace the joyful spirit of the season by attending one of these spectacular holiday concerts, and create lasting memories with your loved ones as the sounds of the holidays fill the air.
