Holiday Magic All Month Long at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts

From “The Nutcracker” and festive choral and orchestral concerts to a rockin’ Buddy Holly holiday bash, the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts is alive with seasonal spirit all December long. Whether your holiday style is classical, jazzy, or full-on rockabilly, the Prairie Center is offering a lineup designed to delight audiences of all ages.

Guests attending December performances are encouraged to allow extra time for parking due to ongoing construction and anticipated high attendance.

“We’ve filled the month with spectacular holiday shows,” said Eddie Sugarman, assistant director of Schaumburg’s Cultural Services Department. “It’s the perfect moment to step away from the rush of the season and enjoy a magical performance in our beautiful theater.”

• “The Nutcracker”: The 30th anniversary production of “The Nutcracker” runs through Dec. 14, as Schaumburg Dance Ensemble once again brings this definitive holiday classic to life. Featuring a spectacular cast of more than 130 professional and student dancers, Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet invites audiences of all ages into Clara’s enchanting world. “The Nutcracker” is sponsored by Schaumburg Bank & Trust. Tickets $35-$53.

• “Jingle Bell Swing”: At 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 17, keep the holiday cheer swinging with “Jingle Bell Swing,” a high-energy concert from the new Schaumburg Youth Jazz Orchestra. This festive performance blends timeless jazz standards, sparkling seasonal classics, and spontaneous holiday jams, all delivered with an irresistible Yuletide groove. Tickets $5-$9.

• “A Holly Jolly Christmas”: 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 19, get ready for “A Holly Jolly Christmas,” a nostalgic, feel-good celebration brimming with vintage charm. Internationally acclaimed musician and actor Zachary Stevenson delivers the rockabilly sound of Buddy Holly in a lively mix of classic holiday tunes and golden oldies. He’s joined by Chicago’s own vocal trio, The Lovettes, for a rockin’ seasonal special packed with retro flair and joyful holiday energy. Tickets $55-$60.

• “Presto! Holiday Concert”: Round out the festivities at 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, with the annual “Presto! Holiday Concert.” The award-winning Schaumburg Youth Symphony and Concert Orchestras join forces with the singers of the Schaumburg Choral Program for this heartwarming program of classical favorites, holiday pops, and contemporary seasonal works. Tickets $25-$35.

Full show details and tickets are available at prairiecenter.org or by calling (847) 895-3600.

Programming at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts is presented by the Village of Schaumburg. The Prairie Center is at 201 Schaumburg Court, in Schaumburg.