Who could have predicted on that snowy Christmas Eve in 1983, when the operator of a vintage movie theater in Chicago decided to show two old holiday movies and sing a few Christmas carols during the intermission, that four decades later the Music Box Christmas Show would become a weeks-long extravaganza that grows more popular with each passing year? People from all around Chicagoland have made this terrific, old-fashioned event part of their family’s holiday tradition. 

Each year, holiday revelers are greeted by none other than Santa Claus, live and in person. Santa welcomes the audience and, accompanied by Music Box organist Dennis Scott, leads them in the singing of the most cherished Christmas carols of all time. The lyrics are projected onto the theater’s screen so no one misses a chance to sing their hearts out. Then the audience sits back and enjoys a Christmas movie classic.

Some folks like to keep the music going and opt to see WHITE CHRISTMAS so they can sing the timeless lyrics of Irving Berlin along with Bing Crosby, Danny Kay and Rosemary Clooney. Others prefer to cheer for Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey and hiss Mr. Potter during a showing of the heart-warming IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE. And those truly filled with holiday spirit see BOTH films!  

If you and your family want to be part of the holiday fun, send a photo from past years at the Music Box Theatre with the names of those in the picture to Buck@musicboxtheatre.com and we will add you to the preshow slideshow on the big screen! Please include the Subject Line "Music Box Christmas Photos". Photos must be received by December 2nd, 2024.

For groups of 20 or more, please email our Groups & Membership Manager Claire Alden at Claire@musicboxtheatre.com or call 773-871-6607x6003.