The weekend right before Christmas is arguably the most festive and action-packed time in Cincinnati. While many holiday attractions run all season, this specific weekend—Friday, December 19th, to Sunday, December 21st, 2025—is your final chance for several major annual performances, unique concerts, and one-day special events.

Skip the generic holiday shopping and dive into these ten experiences that bring the season to a spectacular climax in the Queen City!

Friday, December 19: Acoustic Christmas & Premiere Dance

1. Over the Rhine: An Acoustic Christmas

  • What it is: The first night of a three-day engagement for the Cincinnati-based folk/Americana duo, Over the Rhine, performing their unique and intimate acoustic Christmas show.

  • Why it's unique: This is a special holiday tradition for local fans, offering a dedicated, non-touring performance that blends original songs and holiday favorites in a beautiful, historic venue. (Continues Saturday & Sunday)

  • Where: Memorial Hall OTR

2. David Choate's Hot Chocolate

  • What it is: The opening night of a special holiday performance presented by the Revolution Dance Theatre. This is a limited-run production that puts a modern, high-energy spin on holiday dance.

  • Why it's unique: A one-weekend-only performance that features contemporary dance and music, offering an alternative to the traditional Nutcracker. (Continues Saturday & Sunday)

  • Where: Aronoff Center for the Arts – Procter & Gamble Hall

3. Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

  • What it is: A single-night (or one of a very limited run) concert where a string quartet performs festive holiday carols, illuminated by hundreds of candles in a unique venue.

  • Why it's unique: This is a special, one-time-per-location experience that blends the elegance of classical music with the festive atmosphere of a major local brewery.

  • Where: Rhinegeist Brewery (Also has a final show on Sunday, Dec 21)

Saturday, December 20: Race, Rock, and Rhythm

4. Egg Nog Jog

  • What it is: A one-day, community fun run/walk event that encourages festive attire and holiday cheer, culminating in a celebration with egg nog and other treats.

  • Why it's unique: A dedicated, single-day community race on the final weekend before Christmas, providing a fun, active way to celebrate the holidays.

  • Where: Downtown Cincinnati (specific route)

5. Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone

  • What it is: A single-night concert featuring the iconic 60s British Invasion band Herman's Hermits, fronted by the original lead singer, Peter Noone, performing their hits.

  • Why it's unique: A dedicated, one-time performance by a major classic rock touring act.

  • Where: Ludlow Garage

6. Candlelight: Christmas Special Featuring “The Nutcracker” & More

  • What it is: A single-night concert where a string quartet performs pieces from The Nutcracker and other holiday favorites, illuminated by candlelight.

  • Why it's unique: A unique, non-ballet interpretation of the classic score, held in the solemn and beautiful setting of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

  • Where: National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (Final performance this weekend)

7. Elf The Musical JR. (Final Weekend)

  • What it is: The final performances of The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati's holiday production of the junior, one-hour version of the beloved Broadway musical.

  • Why it's unique: This is the last chance to see this specific, family-friendly production for the year before it closes its limited holiday run. (Continues Sunday)

  • Where: The Emery Theater

Sunday, December 21: Final Performances

8. Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) (Final Day)

  • What it is: The final day of the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company's hilarious, fast-paced theatrical send-up of every holiday classic imaginable.

  • Why it's unique: This is the absolute final performance of this specific annual production for the season, often featuring late-evening shows for a last-minute festive outing.

  • Where: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

9. The Nutcracker (Final Weekend Performances)

  • What it is: The final performances of the Cincinnati Ballet's annual, grand production of The Nutcracker.

  • Why it's unique: Although a recurring ballet, this is the very last chance to catch this specific year's performance run before it closes on December 28th. The Sunday matinee and evening shows are the final weekend slots.

  • Where: Music Hall

10. Over the Rhine: An Acoustic Christmas (Final Night)

  • What it is: The concluding performance of the band's three-day holiday engagement.

  • Why it's unique: The last opportunity to experience this unique, highly personal local holiday concert tradition for the year.

  • Where: Memorial Hall OTR