The holidays in Boston just got a little more magical. The Boston Pops has unveiled its 2026 Holiday Pops season, and this year the beloved tradition is bigger than ever: 41 sparkling performances will fill Symphony Hall from December 3 to December 28, 2026, all led by the one and only Keith Lockhart, who has been waving the baton for this festive favorite since 1994.
Expect everything that makes Holiday Pops the soundtrack of the season in Boston: “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” set to the enchanting artwork of children’s book illustrator Jan Brett, Leroy Anderson’s joyful “Sleigh Ride,” a rousing audience sing-along, and of course, a visit from Santa Claus himself, all backed by the voices of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus, the Metropolitan Chorale, and the BSO x NEC Honors Children’s Chorus.
This season is made for families. The Sensory-Friendly Concert on December 5 at 10:30 a.m. welcomes people of any age with autism or sensory sensitivities in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The seven Kids’ Matinees (December 6, 12–13, 19–20, 23–24 at 11 a.m.) offer shorter programs with no intermission, holiday treats, photos with Santa, and free admission for children under 2. Theater lovers won’t want to miss the Holiday Pops Company Celebration on December 9 at 7:30 p.m., starring two-time Tony Award winner Sutton Foster.
The magic continues after Christmas with two presentations of Disney’s “The Muppet Christmas Carol” in Concert on December 27 and 28, and the celebration even travels to five venues across New England. Tickets are on sale now at bostonpops.org, by calling 888-266-1200, or at the Symphony Hall box office.
Photo: Hilary Scott / Boston Pops
