Halloween is over, and there’s a chill in the air. As the holiday season swiftly approaches, now is the perfect time to plan for holiday fun.
It’s music that warms our hearts and brings us close in the chilly winter months, and what better way to celebrate the holidays than with local musical events the whole family can enjoy? We’ve rounded up a handful of merry performances just on the horizon.
Click on the headlines for more information or to get your tickets!
Holiday Light Parade in Kennett Square
Friday, November 24 at 6 p.m.
Head into downtown Kennett to kick off the holiday season. The Kennett High School Band will showcase their booming talent as the town comes together to watch a parade of dancers, light-adorned tractors, and Mr. & Mrs. Claus.
Longwood Christmas Performances
Monday, November 27 - Thursday, December 21 at 7 and 8 p.m. (select nights)
The world-renowned garden in our backyard is set to host local choirs and musicians for a musical series in the ballroom of the conservatory. Free with admission, these special concerts are held back to back most weeknights leading up to Christmas. This year you can check out locals like Turks Head Brass Quartet (11/30), the Chester County Choral Society (12/19) and the Chancel Choir of the First Presbyterian Church (12/21).
“Holiday Cheer” at Uptown!
Friday, December 1 at 5 p.m. and Sunday, December 3 at 2 p.m.
Presented by the West Chester Studio for the Performing Arts, this night of holiday cheer at Uptown!’s Knauer Performing Arts Center includes a mix of old-fashioned tunes and lively modern R&B and Pop songs performed by youngsters from the WC Studio’s many theater classes. Tickets are just $15 for adults, $8 for children and $10 for seniors.
QVC West Chester Christmas Parade
Friday, December 1 at 7:15 p.m.
Bigger, bolder and more spectacular every year, this annual parade showcases over 20 high school and university marching bands, some of which travel all day to participate. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the triumphant sounds and spirit these bands create than this powerful live experience. The parade is free, but it fills up fast - find your spot early and hold on tight. Head to the historic Courthouse after the parade to see which band is crowned Grand Champion.
WCU School of Music 96th Annual Holiday program
Saturday, December 2 from 3 - 4 p.m.
The talented students of West Chester University’s School of Music, including a few Greensleeves teachers, will put on an hour-long set of holiday music. All of the school’s choirs will perform as well as an expanded version of the chamber orchestra and the beloved Criterions Jazz Ensemble. At just $12 per ticket, it’s an affordable afternoon outing for the whole family. Seats are selling quickly so head to the university’s online box office to reserve yours today.
The Nutcracker by Brandywine Ballet
Friday, December 8 - Sunday, December 17 (select days and times)
Enjoy the enduring beauty of Tchaikovsky’s powerful score while watching fairy tale brought to life through dance. This local tradition takes place in Emile K. Asplundh Concert Hall on the WCU campus, and sell-outs are likely. At $25, $35, and $45, these tickets make a lovely holiday treat for the little music-lover in your life.
We Kids Rock, Holiday Show at Kennett Flash
Saturday, December 16 at 11:30 a.m.
The always-entertaining We Kids Rock brings a mix of originals and fun covers to audiences of all ages. They play music in a spectrum of genres including rock & roll, R&B, punk, ska, and country. At this special daytime event, We Kids Rock will play a mix of seasonal favorites, sure to delight the whole family. Tickets are $10-14 and will likely sell out.
Nothing conveys the spirit of the holidays quite like music. We hope you have the opportunity to make some merry memories at these wonderful family-friendly music events. Maybe we’ll see you there!
