With Christmas just a few weeks away, the holiday season has taken over New York City. While the city at Christmas is definitely a place everyone has to see at least once, it can get overwhelming and annoying with all of the people around. For those that want to avoid the crowds or want a different scene for the holidays, here are some great music-related activities in the city.

The Classics

1. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular

It wouldn’t be Christmas without the annual Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes.  Every year, the Rockettes and Santa team up for this show at the Radio City Music Hall. This year the show has a new 3DLIVE scene. With the Rockettes dancing in front of the screen, they act as the heroines in this video game sequence helping to save Christmas.  The show will run through Jan. 2.

2. New York City Ballet – George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker

Based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King,” Balanchine’s The Nutcracker was first performed in 1954 and has become a New York City holiday staple since. Set to Tchaikovsky’s score, the ballet takes the audience through Marie’s adventures with the Prince. George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker runs through Dec. 3.

3. The New York Pops – John Pizzarelli and Jessica Molaskey Wish You a Swingin’ Christmas

Performing at Carnegie Hall on Dec. 16 and 17, the New York Pops will perform classic Christmas songs with John Pizzarelli and Jessica Molasky.  From the show’s title, it can be assumed that the songs will all be in the swing-style. With lively music and sing-along songs, it is definitely one holiday show that is a mainstay.

Visiting Acts

1. Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Despite what their name suggests, they do not hail from Siberia nor are they an orchestra, at least not in the typical sense. Most well known for their version of “Carol of the Bells,” this orchestra is a rock band that puts on a Christmas show and light show combined into one. They will be performing in Uniondale on Dec. 21 and Newark on the 22.

2. Ingrid Michaelson’s Holiday Hop

On Dec. 10, Michaelson will be performing at the Music Hall of Williamsburg in Brooklyn. While her holiday show is already sold out, this quirky singer-songwriter will be on tour this spring promoting her new album.  If unable to catch her live, give her “Winter Song” with Sara Bareilles a listen.

3. The Harry Potter Yule Ball

While many mourned this summer at the last Harry Potter film, fans will be happy to know that The Bell House in Brooklyn will be having their very own Yule Ball on December 17th. Musical acts include Harry and the Potters and Draco and the Malfoys, along with the Potter Puppet Pals and other guests. This is definitely an event any Harry Potter or Christmas fan won’t want to miss.