Must-See Holiday Shows Along the Scenic Byway this Season

The holiday season is a time for family and friends, and one of the best ways to enjoy being together is to catch a festive show! The towns and cities along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway are full of fantastic performance venues and we’ve pulled together a list of just a few of the “must-see” holiday shows available this season. And remember, tickets to any of these performances would also make excellent gifts!

‘Tis the Season

Join History Alive at the House of the Seven Gables the first two weekends of December for this charming and festive play-with-music. ‘Tis the Season is a celebration of New England’s winter traditions from before Christmas was a Holiday.

Address: 115 Derby Street, Salem

A Christmas Carol

A long-standing North Shore tradition! You have to see A Christmas Carol at the North Shore Music Theater at least once, but many locals go every year. This original adaptation is based on Charles Dickens’ classic novella and features dazzling special effects and traditional Christmas songs. They offer shows all December long, so visit the North Shore Music Theater’s website to secure your seats.

Address: 54 Dunham Road, Beverly

The Nutcracker

For many, going to see a performance of The Nutcracker is a must during the holiday season, and this year you have a few different options when driving along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway. Both the Lynn Auditorium and The Cabot have shows available this year with two very talented New England based ballet companies. You can even enjoy a lovely Nutcracker Show + Brunch at Blue Ocean Music Hall if you’re looking for a unique twist on the experience.

Addresses:

Lynn Auditorium, 3 City Hall Square, Lynn

The Cabot, 286 Cabot St, Beverly

Blue Ocean Music Hall, 4 Oceanfront, Salisbury

Cinderella in December: A Frozen Fairytale Panto

Come celebrate the holidays with everyone’s favorite soot-stained step-sister, as Cinderella shows her selfish, scroogey step-siblings the true meaning of Christmas, falls in love with a charming prince, and melts a lot of frozen hearts along the way! Get ready to cheer the goodies, boo the baddies, sing some carols and sling some snowballs as Theater in the Open and The Firehouse Center for the Arts present Cinderella in December: A Frozen Fairytale Panto!

Address: 1 Market Square, Newburyport

Dinner and a show, a match made in heaven! If you want some options to consider, check out our blog post on 10 High-End Dining Options Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway.