Bucks County has long had a thriving arts scene, particularly during the holiday season. Several local theaters present festive family favorites in November and December, with this year’s shows including A Christmas Story and Miracle on 34th Street.

Holiday Family Shows in Bucks County

While there are several theaters across Bucks County, this list focuses exclusively on the ones offering family-forward shows and matinees for families who prefer an afternoon outing over a late night. Pick a performance and get in the holiday spirit with your family.

Bristol Riverside Theater

120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA 

Bristol Riverside Theatre is an award-winning professional theater located on the Delaware River in Bristol Borough. Since 1986, it has delighted audiences with an impressive mix of classic plays, contemporary works, and original productions. Known for its intimate setting and exceptional performances, BRT also offers concerts, special events, and educational programs that enrich the local arts community and make live theater accessible to all.

A Christmas Story: The Play – December 1, 2026–January 3, 2027
Follow Ralphie Parker as he embarks on a hilarious quest for the ultimate Christmas gift—a Red Ryder BB gun—while navigating family antics, childhood adventures, and the magic of the holiday season. Note: This show is recommended for ages 8 and up.

An American Christmas Songbook – December 15–22, 2026
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive concert featuring joyful carols and beloved Christmas favorites, from “Jingle Bells” to “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” performed by talented singers and musicians.

Bucks County Playhouse

70 S Main Street, New Hope, PA

The most iconic theater in Bucks County, the Bucks County Playhouse is known for its Broadway-caliber shows. Founded in 1939 in a former New Hope grist mill, it has welcomed many renowned performers, from Liza Minnelli to Grace Kelly. The Playhouse offers a full mainstage season—including family-friendly shows—along with education programs and outreach, supporting both new works and classic revivals. Before or after a shop, enjoy a bite to eat at The Deck, the Playhouse’s riverside restaurant and bar. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available.

Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn – November 19, 2026–January 3, 2027
Celebrate the holidays with this sparkling Broadway musical inspired by the beloved film. Follow a song-and-dance man who opens a Connecticut inn that operates only on holidays, with romance, show-stopping dances, and more than 20 Irving Berlin classics, including “White Christmas,” “Blue Skies,” and “Easter Parade.” Note: This show is recommended for ages 8 and up.

Newtown Theatre

120 N State Street, Newtown, PA

The Newtown Theatre is one of Bucks County’s most historic entertainment venues — and is believed to be the oldest continuously operating movie theater in the United States. Dating to 1831, the intimate 250-seat theater began as a community gathering hall before becoming a movie house in 1906. Today, the nonprofit venue offers a diverse lineup of classic and specialty films, concerts, comedy, family events, and live theater, including productions by the Newtown Arts Company. Recent renovations have added updated seating, accessibility improvements, concert lighting, and a high-definition LED video wall while preserving the theater’s historic character.

Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical – December 3–6, 2026
This Newtown Arts Company production brings the beloved holiday story to the stage, following single mother Doris Walker, her young daughter Susan, and a department-store Santa who may actually be the real Kris Kringle. Filled with humor, music, and holiday magic, the production is billed as “pure family entertainment.” 

Town and Country Players

4158 York Road, Buckingham, PA

Town and Country Players is a volunteer-driven, nonprofit community theater based in Buckingham Township, just outside of Doylestown. For over 70 years, the group has brought live performances to local audiences in a unique setting: a converted 18th century barn where seating is on both sides of the stage, similar to a theater-in-the-round.

Town and Country Players’ Holiday Show – December 4–6, 2026
Get into the holiday spirit with Town and Country Players’ festive cabaret-style concert, featuring beloved holiday favorites, Broadway-inspired songs, seasonal surprises, and a cast of longtime T&C favorites alongside new talent. The family-friendly show welcomes performers and audiences of all ages.

More Holiday Shows Near Bucks County

If you’re willing to travel a bit outside of Bucks County, there are several other theaters offering holiday shows this November and December.

Music Mountain Theatre

1483 NJ-179, Lambertville, NJ

Just across the Delaware River, Music Mountain Theatre is presenting A Christmas Carol throughout the holiday season, with performances Nov. 20–22, Nov. 27–29, Dec. 4–6 and Dec. 11–13. The classic Dickens tale follows Ebenezer Scrooge as he learns the true meaning of Christmas. The theater will also host a Holiday Concert Dec. 18–20.

Playcrafters of Skippack

2001 Store Road, Skippack, PA

The longtime community theater presents A Krampus Carol, a darker, comedic take on the classic Christmas story, Dec. 4–6. The production offers a festive twist for theatergoers looking for something a little different from the traditional holiday fare.

Roxey Ballet

2000 Pennington Road, Ewing, NJ

Bucks County-based Roxey Ballet brings its annual The Nutcracker to the stage Dec. 5–6 at TCNJ’s Kendall Hall in Ewing. The beloved holiday ballet follows Clara on a magical Christmas Eve adventure filled with dancing snowflakes, toy soldiers, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. The professional company is known for bringing classical and contemporary ballet to audiences throughout the region.

Steel River Playhouse

245 E High Street, Pottstown, PA

For another family-friendly option within driving distance, Steel River Playhouse presents Miracle on 34th Street, Dec. 4–6, bringing the beloved story of Kris Kringle, a skeptical department-store executive and a little girl who believes in Santa to the stage.

Before You Buy Tickets

For the best experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose age-appropriate shows. Consider your child’s age, attention span, and ability to sit through the length of the performance.
• Book early. You’ll have the best seat selection and may be able to score early-bird discounts.
• Follow your favorite theaters. Sign up for email newsletters and follow theaters on social media for special offers, ticket deals, and announcements.
• Bring a group. Some theaters offer discounted group rates, making a show a fun option for extended family or a group of friends.
• Ask about discounts. Child, military, senior, student, and other discounts may be available depending on the theater.
• Look into season subscriptions. If your family enjoys live theater, a season pass or subscription can offer significant savings.
• Ask about accessibility. If your child has sensory sensitivities or other needs, check with the theater about accommodations, sensory-friendly performances, or other accessibility options.

Start a New Family Tradition

If you’ve been looking for a new holiday tradition to share with your kids, an annual holiday show is a fun way to make the season feel special and create memories together. For more holiday happenings around Bucks County, check out the Bucks County Parent Holiday Guide.

Lead photo courtesy of Roxy Ballet