Many people are buying into the growing trend of simplifying and reinventing their holiday traditions. By scaling back on lavish gift-giving, labor-intensive meal preparations, and elaborate decorative touches, many are making time for meaningful visits with friends and family and creating memorable experiences.
If you are among the new wave and want to spend quality time with your loved ones during this hectic period, here’s a suggestion: The DuPage Symphony Orchestra (DSO) will present Holiday Magic, its annual celebration of the season, at 2:30PM and 4:30PM on Sunday, December 15, at North Central College’s Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Avenue, Naperville. Tickets are $5-24 and may be purchased on DSO’s website at dupagesymphony.org.
Running only an hour in length, the concert is much shorter than standard symphony performances that highlight classical masterpieces. But don’t worry! Holiday Magic is packed with an array of lively songs and international selections that will “warm your heart and lift your spirits.” The repertoire includes favorite carols, movie medleys, and pieces from Tchaikovsky.
“These concerts are designed with families in mind—they feature familiar holiday tunes and provide a wonderful way to introduce children to symphonic music,” said Mari Ullrick, DSO’s strategic director of operations and engagement. “The program also offers a glimpse into how different cultures celebrate the season, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all ages. Ultimately, we hope it plants the seeds for a lifelong love of music by showing how exciting and accessible the symphony can be.”
While it has not been officially announced, rumor has it that a jolly, red-clad celeb just might make a guest appearance and conduct a song or two while checking on the naughty-or-nice status of the musicians. The décor in the state-of-the-art music venue further adds to the event’s spirit. “There’s a unique magic in hearing live music in the perfect acoustics of Wentz Hall.” Ullrick continues, “The symphony surrounds you, making you feel part of something bigger than yourself—something timeless and deeply moving, reminding us of the shared rhythms that connect us all.”
Holiday Magic – 2:30PM and 4:30PM Sunday, December 15 / Wentz Concert Hall – 171 E. Chicago Ave. Naperville / $5-24 (Purchase online at dupagesymphony.org)
