See Hear Do: Holly Jolly Holiday Happenings

There’s a reason why a third of a million people (reportedly) visit Glittering Lights annually. The drive through the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, surrounded by more than five million LED bulbs in colorful, sparkling ensembles screams, “Christmas is here!” If you spring for the Santa Tram tickets, you’ll get the bonus of meeting St. Nick himself, enjoying cold weather snacks and drinks, and posing for family photos in front of the lights. It certainly beats driving around the neighborhood judging the neighbors’ roof lights.

Nevada Ballet Theatre’s rendition of the beloved holiday classic (deservedly) gets lots of love around this time of year. But, there are other equally endearing productions to attend in the valley — like this year’s performance from the pre-professional Las Vegas Ballet Company. Those looking for a classic take on Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet will find it here, without the hassle of huge crowds.

Contemporary West Dance Theatre’s "Holiday Spectacular" is for those who love the athleticism and grace of modern dance, and the traditional music and themes of the winter holidays. With only a two-day run, the event is a rare gift, wrapped up and topped with a bow.

Cassio's proclamation of "Reputation, reputation, reputation! Oh I have lost my reputation!" might have been written in 1603, but it could just as easily be said after attending Shotspeare's 2023 production of Othello. Racous, interactive, and booze-infused is the name of the game for this Vegas Shakespearean staple, which features five local actors and enough alcohol to fill the Vegas Theatre Company's auditorium.

Don’t be fooled by the jazz hands — Opera Las Vegas’ "Holiday on Broadway" revue is more than simply an ode to showbiz. It’s also an homage to Christmas on the Great White Way that goes back decades. Songs from White Christmas, Holiday Inn, A Christmas Story, and (if we’re lucky) Annie will surely be on the setlist, all sung by the next generation of Vegas-based vocalists. Don’t shuffle ball change too slowly to this one, since seating is limited and will likely fill up fast.

With our American idea of Christmas being so strong this time of year, it can be easy to overlook how other countries and cultures celebrate their own winter holidays. That's what A December to Remember is here for, to help increase Las Vegans' awareness of traditional festive practices from around the globe. In addition to the physical exhibit, the Museum also offers performances by Broadway in the Hood and El Dorado High School. Take this as your excuse to get away from the hustle of gift-buying and focus on the more grounded aspects of the year-end holidays.