12/1–21
A Very Phoenix Xmas 9
We look forward to the name of this cheeky variety show at the Phoenix Theatre every year almost as much as the heretical skits themselves. So we won’t keep you waiting any longer: “Flashing Through the Snow.” phoenixtheatre.org
12/1–26
A Christmas Carol
There is, perhaps, no more traditional holiday show in the city. Maybe that’s why the Indiana Repertory Theatre packs people in year after year to see Charles Dickens’s classic. irtlive.com
12/1–1/4
Christmas at the Zoo
Wednesdays through Sundays, the Indianapolis Zoo beams a light show that puts the jellyfish’s version to shame. Santa will be on hand. indianapoliszoo.com
12/1–1/19
Jingle Rails
Scoff if you must, but the Eiteljorg Museum’s giant, snow-dusted model-train exhibit is a marvel. Just be sure to explain to your kids that there’s some artistic license in mixing Indy landmarks (Monument Circle) with scenes of the American West. eiteljorg.org
12/5
Big Band Holidays
Of all the names swinging through town this month for holiday shows, Wynton Marsalis is the biggest. His Jazz at Lincoln Center ensemble will perform at the Palladium. thecenterfortheperformingarts.com
12/6
Carol of Homes
Half home tour, half choral concert, this event in Zionsville invites the public into six thoroughly decorated houses where the Zionsville Community High School show choirs will perform. zchoirs.com
12/10
Roving Cinema: Holiday Cult Classics
If you’re expecting to see A Christmas Story, you may be in for a surprise. While Santa makes a stop at this annual holiday party at Sun King Brewing, the film selection (this year, Caddyshack) sometimes strays a long way from the genre. sunkingbrewing.com
12/10–13
A Swingin’ Christmas
For the finger-snapping crowd, the Columbia Club will host a trio of regulars from New York’s Birdland club—Jim Caruso, Klea Blackhurst, and Billy Stritch—to croon jazzy versions of holiday songs. thecabaret.org
12/16–20
Elf the Musical
Made famous on the big screen by Will Ferrell, this touring Broadway show at the Murat Theatre tells the story of Buddy, a human raised by elves who returns to New York City and must give some of his renowned Christmas cheer to his father, his half-brother, and the rest of the city that doesn’t believe in Santa. broadwayacrossamerica.com
12/19
Handel’s Messiah
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra box office must whisper a little “Hallelujah” every year when this crowd-pleaser comes around. Eric Stark will conduct at what is sure to be a packed Palladium. indianapolissymphony.org
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