Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
4 Birmingham holiday concerts you’ll love this season—Messiah, Muppets + more
Reading time: 3 minutes
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If the holidays had a soundtrack, the Alabama Symphony Orchestra would be behind it. This December, their concert lineup in Birmingham blends tradition, nostalgia and a dash of sparkle that makes every performance a celebration.
Whether you love carols, classics or Kermit the Frog, there’s a show for everyone.
Get the full list of performances below that are lighting up the Magic City this season.
1. Holiday POPS! for Kids & Famiies

Get ready to fa-la-la your way into the season. The ASO is pulling out all the stops for this festive spectacular, featuring beloved favorites and merry melodies.
With conductor Chris Confessore leading the way, you’ll hear catchy, toe-tapping tunes like “Sleigh Ride,” “White Christmas” and “Winter Wonderland.” But don’t just listen—join in during a spirited sing-along with classics like “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night.”
- When: Tuesday, Dec. 2 | 7PM
- Where: UAB’s Alys Stephens Center–Jemison Concert Hall
- Cost: General admission $25 | Students $15
- Tickets
2. Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol – Live in Concert

Birmingham, get ready for a sprinkle of Yuletide excitement—Muppet-style! On December 7, you’ll have the chance to watch “The Muppet Christmas Carol” on the big screen at the BJCC, while the talented ASO performs the full score live.
In this heartwarming tale, Kermit plays the lovably frazzled Bob Cratchit, Michael Caine is the grumpy Scrooge and the rest of the Muppets deliver laughs, chaos and good cheer.
- When: Sunday, Dec. 7 | 2:30PM
- Where: BJCC Concert Hall
- Cost: $31.50-$71.50
- Tickets
3. Handel’s Messiah with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra

The holidays wouldn’t be complete without this special tradition. The ASO and Chorus, led by Daniel Cho, are back at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center to perform “Handel’s Messiah,” and it’s as moving as it gets.
You’ll hear soprano Helen Huang, contralto Alissa Anderson, tenor David Tayloe and baritone Hadleigh Adams bring every note to life, from the triumphant “Hallelujah” chorus to the peaceful “He Shall Feed His Flock.”
Whether you’ve heard it countless times or this is your first, it’s sure to fill you with all the feels.
- When:
- Friday, Dec. 19 | 7PM
- Saturday, Dec. 20 | 2:30PM
- Where: UAB’s Alys Stephens Center–Jemison Concert Hall
- Cost: $12-$90
- Tickets
4. New Year’s Eve: Viennese Celebration

Grab your friends, raise a glass and step into 2026 with romance, joy and Old-World Vienna charm—Birmingham style. The ASO, led by Chris Confessore, brings back the cherished Viennese New Year Concert, inspired by the world-famous Vienna Philharmonic.
You’ll be swept off your feet by the waltzes of Johann Strauss Jr., lively polkas and timeless melodies you’ll be humming after the night ends.
Bonus: Joining the celebration is Soprano Laura Corina Sanders, whose stunning voice brings even more sparkle to the New Year.
- When: Wednesday, Dec. 31 | 6PM
- Where: UAB’s Alys Stephens Center–Jemison Concert Hall
- Cost: $39-$82
- Tickets
Experience the beauty of the season with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. See what’s on and reserve your tickets now.
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