Magic of Christmas
Visitors experience festive musical performances from the Portland Symphony Orchestra, the Magic of Christmas Chorus, the PSO Children’s Chorus, and special guests. Led by Music Director Eckart Preu and featuring organist James Kennerley, the concert presents a blend of nostalgic traditions, surprises, and seasonal holiday favorites.
What to Expect
Over 40-year Maine holiday tradition featuring the Portland Symphony Orchestra.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 2 hours including an intermission, except the family-friendly December 13, 11am performance, which is 60 minutes with no intermission.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Arts District
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Portland Symphony Orchestra
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday music fans
Vibe
Festive and nostalgic
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Tickets $28–$101 before fees. Adult, senior 65+, and child & student prices are available online. Groups of 10+ receive a discount; group sales are available by phone and in person. A per-ticket service fee is based on a percentage of the ticket price. – Get tickets
- Hours: Preview: 2pm on Friday, 12/11; family-friendly performance: 11am on Sunday, 12/13.
- Parking: Nearby parking is noted. Accessible parking for patrons with disability permits is available on both sides of Myrtle Street and on Congress Street in front of City Hall. Parking is in high demand; allow sufficient time to find a space.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in the Orchestra section and rear Grand Tier, with elevator access available to all levels.
- Pets: Service animals are welcome and must remain on a leash or harness.
Tips & Advice
- Leave extra time to find parking before the show, because spaces near Merrill Auditorium are in high demand in Portland.
- With young children, book the Sunday, December 13 morning show, which is a family-friendly 60-minute performance with no intermission.
- Buy accessible seats well in advance and tell the ticket agent your needs, because some shows have fewer accessible seats in the Orchestra due to production requirements.
- Bring a driver's license or credit card if you want an assisted listening headset, because staff hold one as a deposit.
- For a party of 10 or more, call or visit the PortTIX box office, because group discounts aren't available online.
Special Events & Promotions
- Preview performance on the afternoon of Friday, December 11.
- Family-friendly 60-minute performance with no intermission on the morning of Sunday, December 13.
- Group discount and flexible reservations for parties of 10 or more (by phone or in person only).
- Senior 65+ and child & student tickets are available online.
- Compose Your Own subscription: a flexible package of three or more PSO events.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who performs?
The Portland Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director Eckart Preu. James Kennerley plays organ, and the Magic of Christmas Chorus, the PSO Children's Chorus and special guests also perform.
How long is the concert?
About two hours, including an intermission. The family-friendly performance on Sunday, December 13 runs 60 minutes with no intermission.
Is there a performance for young children?
Yes. The Sunday, December 13 morning show is a family-friendly 60-minute performance with no intermission.
What accessibility services does Merrill Auditorium offer?
It has wheelchair seating in the Orchestra and the rear of the Grand Tier, lift-arm aisle seats and oversized seats. There are also assisted listening devices and an elevator to every floor. Sign-language interpreters are available with at least two weeks' notice.
Is there a discount for groups?
Yes. Groups of 10 or more get a ticket discount and flexible reservation options, booked by phone or in person only.
More Christmas Events Near Portland
More Christmas Events near Portland
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.