A Festive Season of Celebrated Performances: Irvine Barclay Theatre

Irvine Barclay Theatre, a premier destination for performing arts in Orange County, continues its fall season with a selection of holiday events the whole family will enjoy.

Christmas with The 5 Browns
Sunday, Dec. 1 at 4 p.m.
Celebrate the season with The 5 Browns, a Juilliard-trained sibling piano quintet known for their dynamic holiday arrangements. Dubbed the “Fab Five” by People magazine in 2002, the quintet has since performed worldwide, including at Carnegie Hall and the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing. With eight albums topping the Billboard classical music charts, their holiday concert promises an unforgettable experience. Tickets start at $34.

Big Band Holiday - Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Ekep Nkwelle & Robbie Lee
Thursday, Dec. 5 at 8 p.m.
Get in the holiday spirit with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO), joined by vocalists Ekep Nkwelle and Robbie Lee. Led by JLCO trombonist Chris Crenshaw, the evening will feature soulful renditions of seasonal favorites, playful improvisations, and storytelling. (Note: Wynton Marsalis will not appear in this performance.) Tickets start at $34.

The Nutcracker by Festival Ballet Theatre
Dec. 7–24, various times
A holiday tradition, Festival Ballet Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker enchants audiences with stunning scenery and exquisite costumes. Journey with Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and more as they bring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score to life. Choreographed by Artistic Director Salwa Rizkalla, this magical production features world-renowned guest artists and talented local dancers. Tickets start at $54.

The Holidays with Canadian Brass
Thursday, Dec. 12 at 8 p.m.
An Orange County favorite, Canadian Brass returns with seasonal favorites and holiday classics. Presented by the Philharmonic Society of Orange County, this concert features talented musicians, including Chuck Daellenbach (tuba) and Joe Burgstaller (trumpet). Tickets start at $42.

The King’s Singers
Friday, Dec. 13 at 8 p.m.
The King’s Singers, celebrated for their remarkable a cappella harmonies, perform festive pieces from their travels around the world, including Disney classics and holiday standards like “Silent Night” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” Tickets start at $34.

For tickets or more information on any of these performances, visit Irvine Barclay Theatre at 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, California 92612, near UC Irvine. Tickets are available at thebarclay.org or by calling (949) 854-4646.

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade: 116 Years of Holiday Magic, Lights, and Cheer

The 116th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade returns, lighting up Newport Harbor from December 18-22 with its festive theme, "Christmas Across the Decades." Acclaimed director and Newport Beach native McG will serve as the Grand Marshal on opening night, bringing his hometown pride and cinematic flair to this beloved OC tradition. Known for works like The O.C., Charlie’s Angels, and Terminator Salvation, McG’s career spans genres and showcases Newport’s unique charm, making him the perfect host for this iconic event.

Kicking off nightly at 6:30 p.m., the parade will showcase over 100 boats adorned in dazzling holiday decor, featuring pyrotechnics, synchronized lights, moving displays, and live performances along the 14-mile route. The parade offers nearly 50 viewing spots, ensuring spectacular views from all around the harbor.

Each night brings a special Grand Marshal:

• Wednesday, Dec. 18: McG - Opening night with Hollywood’s own McG.
• Thursday, Dec. 19: Olive Crest - Honoring Olive Crest’s mission to protect and empower children and families in need.
• Friday, Dec. 20: First Responders - Applauding the bravery and service of our local Fire and Police departments.
• Saturday, Dec. 21: Holiday Classics Night - Celebrate with live holiday music, featuring a Bruno Mars cover band.
• Sunday, Dec. 22: Corona del Mar High School Drum Line - Energizing the evening with festive beats from this celebrated drumline.

Join the celebration on opening night, December 18, at Marina Park (1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach) – the largest viewing area along the route. The event features an exciting lineup from 4:00 p.m., including an opening ceremony, holiday market with over 35 vendors, entertainment, photo ops, and activities for the whole family. Fireworks will kick off at 6:15 p.m., followed by the parade at 6:45 p.m. Admission is free.

For event details and a parade route map, visit christmasboatparade.com.

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