Christmas concerts, Ugly Sweater party bring holiday magic to Arcada Theatre

The Arcada Theatre in downtown St. Charles has a stacked lineup of concerts and special events to get you in the Christmas spirit.

From heartwarming concerts featuring beloved Christmas classics to interactive holiday experiences, there’s something for everyone at this historic venue.

Get ready to rock with Luminare Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 14. A former Mannheim Steamroller keyboardist is the leader for this show that brings a fusion of holiday classics and symphonic rock. The sound is a combination of Mannheim Steamroller’s holiday classics and Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s high energy rock. The performance includes a light show and a story woven through the music. Appropriate for all ages.

The kids will love Breakfast with Santa from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 15 and 21. Indulge in breakfast at Rock ‘N Ravioli before visiting with Santa in the theatre. The event will have music, holiday characters, and photo opportunities, and each child will receive a special gift. Adults and children ages 12 and older are $40, and children ages 2-11 are $30.

The Buddy Rich Big Band Machine’s A Groovy Christmas is at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15. The 15-piece band will perform groovy, swinging Christmas favorites. This show is appropriate for all ages, and Santa could even make an appearance.

The Club Arcada Speakeasy presents a holiday lunch and show with Tony Ocean and Bill Serritella on Dec. 18. The entertainers will perform holiday songs and the timeless music of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Lunch, which is from noon to 1 p.m., features chicken Vesuvio, grilled veggies, salad, and dessert. The live entertainment is from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The cost is $45 per person.

On Sunday, Dec. 22, bring the whole family to have Lunch with the Grinch at 1 p.m. at Rock ‘N Ravioli. Kids can make their own ornaments, decorate trees, and take photos with the Grinch. The lunch includes cheeseburger sliders, tater tots, chicken strips, veggies, mocktails, and delicious desserts. Cost is $35 per person.

Rock ‘N Ravioli’s Ugly Sweater & Karaoke Party kicks off at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21. Rock your favorite holiday sweater while belting out your favorite tunes for a chance for win prizes. Light bites and festive cocktails will be served. The cover charge is $10.

If you can’t catch Trans-Siberian Orchestra in person this year, check out Christmas Wizards on Sunday, Dec. 22. Enjoy a spectacular light show, a live choir, snow machines, and more set to the music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Christmas Wizards will also perform classic holiday favorites.

For more information on these events or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.arcadalive.com.