Select dates December 6 - 24. Who could have predicted on that snowy Christmas Eve in 1983, when the operator of a vintage movie theater in Chicago decided to show two old holiday movies and sing a few Christmas carols during the intermission, that more than four decades later the Music Box Christmas Show would become a weeks-long extravaganza that grows more popular with each passing year? People from all around Chicagoland have made this terrific, old-fashioned event part of their family’s holiday tradition.

Each year, holiday revelers are greeted by none other than Santa Claus, live and in person. Santa welcomes the audience and, accompanied by Music Box organist Dennis Scott, leads them in the singing of the most cherished Christmas carols of all time. The lyrics are projected onto the theater’s screen so no one misses a chance to sing their hearts out. Then the audience sits back and enjoys a Christmas movie classic.

Time: See web site for times

Cost: From $10 for kids under 13

Ages: All ages