From beloved classics and musical celebrations to family-friendly spectacles, discover the can’t-miss holiday shows that make this time of year in The Bend feel truly magical. Whether you're planning a cozy date night or a memorable outing with the whole crew, this guide will help you unwrap the very best of South Bend’s seasonal entertainment.
Holiday Shows at the Morris Performing Arts Center
The Bergamot - A South Shore Christmas - Nov. 28 | 7:30 p.m.
From timeless Christmas classics to their signature original songs, The Bergamot promises a setlist that will uplift your spirits and leave you feeling the joy of the season. After the whirlwind of Thanksgiving and Black Friday, treat yourself to a night of heartwarming melodies and moments that will make this Christmas season truly special. Buy Tickets
The Nutcracker - Dec. 6 | 2 & 7 p.m., Dec. 7 | 2 p.m.
Southold Dance Theater and Artistic Director, Calin Radulescu, present their 44th year of The Nutcracker as they celebrate 50 years of Excellence in Dance! Southold’s Nutcracker story has the Studebaker family home at its heart. Experience this timeless family classic ballet, following Marie and her Nutcracker from a Party to an epic battle, and concluding with a journey through the dreamy land of sweets, featuring beautiful dances and glittering costumes, all set against stunning scenery depicting historic South Bend landmarks. Join us for an undeniably magical local tradition! Buy Tickets
Home for the Holidays - Dec. 13 | 7:30 p.m., Dec. 14 | 2:30 p.m.
South Bend's favorite holiday tradition returns with Music Director Alastair Willis and the Symphony for Home for the Holidays. A spectacular program of cherished Christmas carols and memorable seasonal tunes that bring joy to all, featuring Uzima! and soprano Anne Slovin. The perfect gift for the whole family. Buy tickets
Straight No Chaser - Holday Road - Dec. 17 | 7:30 p.m.
Straight No Chaser is back at the Morris with Christmas hits and fan favorites. It's sure to be a night to remember. Buy Tickets
Experiences at the South Bend Civic Theatre
Breakfast with Santa and Friends - Dec. 6 |9:30 a.m., Dec. 13 | 9:30 a.m. & 12 p.m.
Enjoy a fun-filled character breakfast buffet with a wide variety of traditional breakfast favorites provided by Metro Diner. Meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, Elsa, Olaf, and many other North Pole pals. Throughout the breakfast, enjoy a performance by the CIVIC Youth Company, participate in a fun craft led by Elsa, and meet some of your favorite characters from the Holiday Season! Buy Tickets
Celebrate the Holidays at the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center
A Tribute to Motown Christmas - Dec. 13 | 7:30 p.m.
Get ready to groove into the season with A Tribute to Motown Christmas. This concert blends the magic of the holidays with the unmistakable soulful sounds of Motown. Buy Tickets.
Apollo's Fire: Praetorius Christmas Vespers - Dec. 16 | 7:30 p.m.
Grammy-winning ensemble Apollo's Fire extends the center's Yuletide season of celebrations with "Praetorius Christmas Vespers," a luminous recreation of a 17th-century German holiday celebration. Encounter all the warmth and heart of the most wonderful time of the year in this time capsule of a concert. Imagine being transported to a candlelit cathedral, filled with the sounds of joy, reverence, and wonder. Buy Tickets.
Events Around The Bend
Celebration for a King
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Freshwater Fury: Great Lakes Shipwrecks
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National Theatre Live: Mrs. Warren’s Profession (2025)
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Notre Dame Women's Basketball vs. Louisville
Join Notre Dame Women's Basketball as they take on Louisville at Purcell Pavilion.
Rockne: Life & Legacy
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South Bend Farmers Market
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Weapons (2025)
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Yoga in the Greenhouse at Potawatomi Conservatories
Surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful plants, you’ll practice yoga the iconic Potawatomi…
Zoo Winter Days 2026
The Zoo is open every Saturday and Sunday from January 3 through March 15 from 11 am to 4 pm for…
Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
Professor Pfinklepfunder's $1 Sunday Films Directed by Gurinder Chadha With Parminder Nagra, Keira…
Cheers Open Jam Open Mic with the Nicole London Acoustic Project, Every Sunday from 4PM to 8PM
Come Join us for a fun filled Sunday Afteroon at Cheers Bar and Grill, for Cheers Open Jam Open Mic…
From the Mountain Top to the Movement: Carrying the Vision Forward
To celebrate the 40th Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 19, local leaders are hosting a variety of…
Irish Music Session
Join us every Monday as local musicians gather 'round the Hearth to play traditional Irish music.
IU vs Miami Watch Party
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January Green Drinks
We will sit at tables made from repurposed wine presses in a building that is an exciting example of…
Old-Timey Music Session
Join us at Fid's as local musicians gather around the Hearth to play Old-Timey Music!
Almost Famous (2000)
Gender and Rock Directed by Cameron Crowe With Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson Rated R…
Fitness Bootcamp
Get moving every Wednesday from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Howard Park! Fitness Bootcamp features…
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Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue & More. Beginner's lesson of 30 minutes @7 PM, followed by open…
Pinhook Painters
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The Cellar Wine Bar and Kitchen 4th Anniversary Party
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The Music Village Community Jam
Enjoy acoustic jams with The Music Village Community Jammers, every Wednesday evening from 6-8 PM at…
Trivia at Manny's!
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8 Women (2002)
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Notre Dame Women's Basketball vs. Miami
Join Notre Dame Women's Basketball as they take on Miami at Purcell Pavilion.
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2nd Annual Adult Book Fair
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7th Annual Chili Cook-off/Dessert Auction Fundraiser
7th Annual Chili Cook-off/Dessert Auction Fundraiser -- You are invited to a special "sweet and…
Crochet with Cats!
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