Your experience begins long before the first note. Find your perfect seat and explore information about parking, dining, accessibility and shopping to make your visit seamless and memorable.
Merry, Merry Chicago!
Dec 15-23, 2023
Overview
Symphony Center’s beloved tradition continues with members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performing familiar carols and festive holiday songs, including I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Winter Wonderland and Sleigh Ride. They are joined by the sensational Ashley Brown, who originated the title role of Mary Poppins on Broadway and has been celebrated as “the most versatile and noteworthy young talent on the Broadway stages” (Showbiz Chicago). Thomas Wilkins conducts this celebration guaranteed to inspire holiday cheer in listeners of all ages.
Recommended for ages 5 and up.
Program
Traditional, arr. Paul Campbell
A Christmas Celebration Overture
Gannon/Kent/Ram; arr. Reineke
I'll Be Home for Christmas
Pola/Wyle, arr. Kessler
It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Suppé
Overture to The Beautiful Galathea
arr. Stephenson
Joy to the World
Adam, arr. Clydesdale
O Holy Night!
Silvestri, arr. Brubaker
The Polar Express Suite
Smith Jr.
This Little Light of Mine
Raimi
Herald Angels
Offenbach
Overture to Orpheus in the Underworld
Bernard/Smith, arr. Berens
Winter Wonderland
Whatley/Schermerhorn, arr. Hamilton
I Believe
Anderson
Sleigh Ride
Arr. by Reineke; Orch. by Shoup
Holiday Hits Medley
Performers
Extras
Enhance your concert experience.
Special Merry, Merry Chicago! preconcert dining options
Enhance your concert experience by enjoying a seasonal three course holiday dinner for two with wine pairings at Forte. Or enjoy a roaring fireplace and sweeping views of Lake Michigan with a delectable two course holiday menu at the Thomas Club. Learn more »
Forte: Make a reservation | View menu
The Club: Make a reservation | View menu
Preconcert Event
On Sunday, December 17, the CSO Latino Alliance will host a preconcert networking event. Tickets required for entry. Learn more at CSO Latino Alliance »
Preconcert and Intermission Performances
Audience members can enjoy seasonal favorites preconcert and during intermission, when school and community ensembles perform throughout Symphony Center.
Postconcert Dining
For the month of December, Forte will be open postconcert for two hours after most concerts. Following matinee concerts on Fridays and Sundays, Forte will serve a selection of mezze and desserts alongside the bar menu. Following evening concerts on Fridays and Saturdays, Forte will serve beverages from the bar and limited snacks. View Forte’s December hours »
Sponsors & Partners
Media Partners
Discover more on Experience CSO
Thomas Wilkins looks forward to leading this season's Merry, Merry Chicago! concerts. “I can be funny or I can be professorial or I can be anecdotal. There is a constant communication with the audience."
Explore more
Broadway star Ashley Brown believes “there is something extra-special" about Merry, Merry Chicago! "It revolves around family, and I like to see all the families together, the grandparents and the kids. And everyone loves Christmas songs.”
Explore more
From "Home Alone" to "A Chanticleer Christmas" to "Merry, Merry Chicago!" Symphony Center will host an extensive lineup of events that capture the festive spirit of the holiday season.
Explore more