A Christmas Carol
Audiences experience a theatrical and music-filled adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic holiday story. Directed by Alicia Gibson and adapted by Charles Pasternak, the production brings new music and seasonal warmth to downtown Santa Cruz. The performance runs approximately 95 minutes with no intermission.
Dec 3 – Dec 24, 2026
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Plan Your Visit
Ages
All ages (recommended for ages 6+)
Neighborhood
Downtown Santa Cruz
Location
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets only from Santa Cruz Shakespeare, because tickets from third-party resellers may be counterfeit and can be refused at the door without a refund.
- The show runs 95 minutes with no intermission, so take care of restroom breaks before curtain.
- Head to the Veterans Memorial Hall on Front Street downtown, not the Grove in DeLaveaga Park where the summer festival is held.
- If your holiday schedule is tight, Christmas Eve has three performances, including a morning show, and the evening show that day closes the run.
- If you'd rather book by phone, call the SCS box office, which is open Tuesday through Friday afternoons.
Special Events & Promotions
- Preview performance on Thursday, December 3, then opening night on Friday, December 4.
- Christmas Eve has three performances, including a morning show, and the evening show closes the run.
- Student Matinees for school groups are now booking.
- Winter Stage Camp: Carol Magic runs December 21–23 for ages 6–11 and 11–17 and is booked separately.
- New this year: the production returns with new music.
Links & Contact
Run by Santa Cruz Shakespeare
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the show suitable for children?
Yes. A Christmas Carol is a holiday tradition for the whole family, told as a theatrical, music-filled adaptation of the Dickens story.
How long is the performance?
It runs 95 minutes with no intermission.
Who is behind this production?
Charles Pasternak adapted it, Alicia Gibson directs, and Luke Shepherd handles music direction. Santa Cruz Shakespeare produces it.
How do I buy tickets safely?
Buy online from Santa Cruz Shakespeare or call the SCS box office, which is open Tuesday through Friday afternoons. SCS doesn't use third-party resellers, and resold tickets can be refused at the door.
Can teachers bring a class?
Yes. Student Matinees are now booking for A Christmas Carol.
Browse Christmas in Santa Cruz
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.