Looking to get out and enjoy some live music this holiday season? We’ve compiled a diverse collection of interesting, inspiring and entertaining shows you might want to check out.

ECLECTIC

Electric Christmas: Bastille, Robert Delong, Cold War Kids, Saint Motel, Marian Hill - Dec. 9, 7 p.m. | Memorial Auditorium

This is the third year of this event and the first year it will be held at Memorial Auditorium, featuring a variety of indie-rock and pop acts. Ticket prices range from $30 to $55.

Christmas In The Well Benefit Concert - Dec. 19, 7 p.m. | Brickhouse Gallery

A performance featuring music by baroque-pop trio Joseph In The Well, guest musicians and dancers. Proceeds go to support a musical instrument drive for the Sacramento public schools.

Winter Solstice Rock Poultice with Honyock, Bellygunner, The Royal Jelly and Be Brave Bold Robot - Dec. 21, 9 p.m. | The Press Club

An impressive four band-bill of top notch local tallent and a vague promise of a Santa appearance - what's not to love?

 

CLASSICAL

Songs of the Season 2015 - Dec. 5, 7 p.m. | Pioneer Congregational United Church of Christ

You'll leave this concert humming your favorite song or carol after hearing an evening of both jubilant secular and joyous sacred music. CapRadio's Donna Apidone is your on-stage emcee for the concert featuring a 35-voice choir and 23-piece orchestra.  

Sacramento Ballet’s Nutty Nutcracker - Dec. 10, 7 p.m. | Community Center Theater

A silly twist on a holiday classic on Ugly Sweater night.  For a preview, listen to co-artistic director Ron Cunningham's conversation with Beth Ruyak on Insight about this humorous production.

ZEHN: A Vox Christmas - Dec. 12, 7 p.m. | Dixon United Methodist Church and Dec. 13, 5 p.m. | Beatnik Studios and Dec. 18, 7 p.m. | Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

The 10th anniversary of this women's choral program opens with a Christmas celebration of ancient choral works paired with new music from modern composors. 

A Chanticleer Christmas - Dec. 16, 8 p.m. | Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

Sacred and secular choral works performed by the critically acclaimed and local favorite male vocal ensemble.

 

JAZZ

Matt Wilson Christmas Tree-O - Dec. 2 - 5, 8 p.m. | Mondavi Center

Acclaimed drummer Matt Wilson offers his quirky take on holiday favorites during this multi-night run in the Mondavi's Vanderhoef Studio Theatre. 

Pink Martini featuring Storm Large - Dec. 6, 7 p.m. | Mondavi Center

There are only two kinds of people: Those who've never heard of Pink Martini and those who love Pink Martini.  Both groups are sure to enjoy this holiday treat.  And be sure to catch NPR's Joy To The World - A Holiday in Pink, feature Pink Martini on Wednesday, Dec. 23rd at 7 p.m.

 

ROOTS

Holiday Fan Jam, Featuring Maddie and Tae - Dec. 5, 7 p.m. | Ace of Spades

An evening of country-pop with the witty Maddie and Tae. While skewering gender stereotypes and calling out inequality in the music industry isn’t a traditional holiday activity, this will still be a fun event.

Hepcat Holiday Concert with Peter Petty and The Midown Moxies - Dec. 23, 7 p.m. | Harlows

With a swinging seven-piece orchestra led by Peter Petty and performances by burlesque bombshells the Midtown Moxies this event promises to be an exciting night of yuletide cheers. The band will be playing Christmas covers by Louis Armstrong, James Brown, Cab Calloway Ray Charles, Bing Crosby and more. 

 

View more holiday events in our Community Calendar.

View our holiday music specials here.