Illustration by Andrew Skwish

Nov. 24: Vienna Boys’ Choir
If you like perfect soprano hymns come Christmas-time—and really, who doesn’t?—this classic concert by the adorable Austrians needs to be on your must list this winter. $27 to $83. Chicago Symphony Hall, cso.org

Dec. 1: Chicago Children’s Choir
A family trek to Elmhurst is oh so worth it for the chance to hear these cherubic singers cover timeless carols like “Winter Wonderland” and “Let It Snow.” $12 to $65. Bethel United Church of Christ, ccchoir.org

Dec. 1 and 2: Windy City Gay Chorus and Aria
The dual Windy City Performing Arts choirs come together to sing for families—in all their forms—at this multifaith celebration. $20. Senn Hall, windycitysings.org

Dec. 4 and 5: Chanticleer
The men of this Grammy-winning a cappella troupe have no shortage of time-honored tunes—just check out their 12 Christmas albums. $39 to $56. Fourth Presbyterian Church, chanticleer.org

Dec. 8: Wicker Park Choral Singers
The hipster haven decks the halls with its own volunteer choir (beards not required to attend). Free. Wicker Park Lutheran Church, wickerparksings.org

Dec. 8: Holiday Pops
As if Old Town doesn’t have enough attractions, it’s the only place to hear the plucky Pops and their lively renditions of seasonal songs. $20. St. Michael’s Church, holidaypopschicago.com

Dec. 12: Kol Zimrah Choir
Light the menorah early on the fourth night—this local Jewish group swings through the city to perform traditional and contemporary Hanukkah melodies. $25. Union League Club, kolzimrah.org

Dec. 13: Chicago Chamber Choir Historic
German carols (think “Stille Nacht”) take center stage as this group continues its Christmas Around the World tour, though expect some English and Latin lyrics to pop up as well. $20. St. Matthias Parish, chicagochamberchoir.org

Dec. 16: Apollo Chorus of Chicago
O come, all ye faithful, to the Apollo Chorus’s re-creation of Handel’s Messiah, the famous two-hour oratorio that beautifully translates scripture into song. $45 to $55. Harris Theater, apollochorus.org

Dec. 19: Canterbury Carollers
It’s only pre-1870 songs on ye olde set list for this Victorian-dressing ensemble, but don’t worry—“Jingle Bells” and “O Holy Night” still make the cut. Free. Christkindlmarket, canterburycarollers.com

 

Illustration: Andrew Skwish