Music lovers of all ages, unite! The Houston Symphony’s 2025 holiday season promises to be a festive and inclusive celebration of music, tradition, and community.

Gary Ginstling, executive director and CEO of the Houston Symphony, said, "The holidays at the Houston Symphony are a time when Jones Hall is filled with joy and holiday cheer.” 

Happening November 28th-30th, classical music enthusiasts can sit back and delight in Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. The incredible Behzod Abduraimov tackles this iconic masterpiece filled with melodies you’ll recognize immediately. 

Next, enjoy the beloved sounds of Handel’s Messiah, December 5th-7th. Conducted by Patrick Quigley, this is the quintessential Christmas tradition and features the Houston Symphony chorus, directed by Anthony J. Maglione. 

If you love brass, the ‘Holiday Brass Spectacular’ runs December 6th and 7th and highlights classical tunes and other festive favorites. Or, get into the holiday spirit with a special 25th anniversary performance of Houston’s favorite holiday-music tradition, Very Merry Pops (December 11th, 13th, and 14th), including treasured carols, sing-a-longs, Broadway star Ali Stroker, and a special visit from Santa!  

Bring the kids to experience live music! On December 13th, the 45-minute ‘Oh, What Fun!’ holiday concert is designed specifically for children. Enjoy free hot cocoa, an instrument petting zoo, and a visit with Santa, too. 

For a more cultural experience, come and see José Hernández and his world-renowned, platinum-selling Mariachi Sol de México, performing your holiday favorites, mariachi style, on December 15th. 

Feeling jazzy? Internationally renowned jazz vocalist Tammy McCann will tickle your ears with her soulful, bluesy spin on beloved holiday classics on December 17th.

If you need a laugh, ‘Elf in Concert’ happens December 19th-21st. Here, concert goers can watch the movie on the big screen while the Houston Symphony plays the live soundtrack.

Once the busyness of December subsides, 2026 starts off with ‘A Nat King Cole New Year’ January 2nd-4th. Ring in the new year with romantic jazz standards like “Mona Lisa” and “L-O-V-E”, performed by guest vocalists and the phenomenal Houston Symphony Big Band. 

The Houston Symphony – all year long – aims to engage diverse audiences in Houston and beyond through its extraordinary musical performances. So, whether you’re a family seeking a memorable outing or you’re a long-time symphony aficionado wanting to revel in the classical tunes that make the holidays so special, the Houston Symphony offers a one-of-a-kind musical experience. 

Ginstling shared, “There truly is something for every taste and every age. We invite audiences to join us, make new memories, and share in the spirit of the season." 

Learn more about the Houston Symphony and purchase your tickets here.