I have special memories of my parents taking us to Drury Lane Theatre to see A Christmas Carol every year. It was a cherished holiday theater tradition to enjoy the festive decorations in the theater lobby and feel-good message of the performance. So I was excited that they invited us to go this holiday season!
The Drury Lane Theatre Holiday Experience
It’s definitely worth getting to the theater early to enjoy the festive decor. You won’t want to miss the large Christmas tree in the lobby.
You can also book Brunch with Santa on Fridays and Saturdays and Dinner with Santa on select Wednesdays. On those days, Santa is available for photographs next to the Christmas tree, so check out those dates on their website here. There is also a classic red mailbox where you can drop letters to Santa. I hung out with the big guy for a while before the show and we had a good time.
There are plenty of food options available at Drury Lane. Outside food is not allowed, but you can purchase concessions at the stand in the lobby.
You can also make reservations at Lucille Restaurant, which has several holiday options including brunch and dinner with Santa, breakfast and brunch with carolers, and holiday tea times.
There’s a decked-out bar next to the restaurant as well.
About A Christmas Carol
Set in Victorian-era London, Charles Dickensβ A Christmas Carol tells the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the spirited ghosts that visit him one fateful Christmas Eve hoping to persuade him to change his miserly ways.
We love the story of A Christmas Carol for many reasons, but mostly because of the lesson learned. The performance explains that Ebenezer had choices in the past that affected his attitude in the present. If he continued living his life the way he has been, his actions and words would have negative consequences for so many around him. However, he could turn things around and treat people kindly and generously, and as a result have a positive impact on the world. It’s a great message for everyone!
The actors do a wonderful job maintaining the tradition of A Christmas Carol and put their hearts into it. We really enjoyed the performance and it still brings tears to my eyes.
Age Recommendations and Notes
His former business partner’s ghost, Jacob Marley, appears to Ebenezer on Christmas Eve to warn him that he will be visited by three spirits that night. The ghost character can be scary for young children. There were children around 5 years old and younger that were upset by the ghost shaking his chains and wailing so we wanted to mention it, but you know your child best. Other than Jacob Marley, the grim reaper appears in the background, which is more ominous than frightening. He doesn’t speak and remains in the dark background.
- Please also note that there is fog and some flashing lights during the performance.
- Drury Lane Theatre provides booster seats for little ones to help them see the stage, which is great.
Performance Details and Tickets
A Christmas Carol is on stage November 29 – December 28, 2024 at Drury Lane Theater. The runtime is 1 hour and 10 minutes and does not have an intermission. Tickets range from $44-$69 and can be purchased via the Drury Lane Theatre website or by calling (630) 530-0111.
About Drury Lane
For over seven decades, Drury Lane has been a treasured destination in Chicagoland’s cultural landscape. This premier venue in Oakbrook Terrace combines Broadway-caliber theatre with exceptional dining and events, creating unforgettable experiences for every guest. From world-class productions to celebrated Sunday brunches, Drury Lane continues to be a place where memories are made and stories come to life.
Drury Lane Theatre
100 Drury Lane
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Box Office: (630) 530-0111
