By Ryan Leeds
December in New York means more than Broadway blockbusters and holiday spectaculars—though if you want to watch the Rockettes kick in perfect formation for its 100th anniversary, we won’t stop you. (Actually, we might join.)
The city’s best cabaret artists, jazz musicians, and solo performers are also taking the stage this month, offering smart and surprising takes on the holidays. Here are six intimate performances worth seeking out.
Justin Vivian Bond: Crushed Ice! at Joe’s Pub
The New Yorker describes this sui generis performer as “the best cabaret performer of their generation.” Those who have seen a Bond show can expect wit, dry humor, lots of philosophizing, and songs. (Take our word for it, Bond’s Marianne Faithfull tribute was one for the ages.) Crushed Ice! promises to “make the dark times more bearable.” That’s a present we all could use.
- Joe’s Pub, 425 Lafayette Street, New York City
- December 10-21, 2025
Fran Lebowitz at Carnegie Hall
Tickets to see one of New York’s most recognizable (and unapologetically opinionated) figures will be an early gift for those lucky enough to score seats. Legendary raconteur Fran Lebowitz makes her Carnegie Hall debut for one night only to dispense thoughts on the world and answer audience questions in a Q&A that’s bound to go off the rails.
- Carnegie Hall’s Stern Auditorium, 881 Seventh Avenue
- December 12, 2025
Holiday jazz at the Red Pavilion
Step into the hip, sexy Asian Neo-Noir nightclub that has all of Bushwick, Brooklyn buzzing. Featuring jazz, cabaret, and special performances, Red Pavilion celebrates the season with two offerings:
- Victor Lin Trio: The Music of A Charlie Brown Christmas, December 16, 2025
- Ghibli Dreams and Nutcracker Holiday Jazz, December 18 and 20, 2025
- The Red Pavilion, 1241 Flushing Avenue, Brooklyn
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Norm Lewis: Christmas Lives Here at 54 Below
Tony and Emmy nominee Norm Lewis returns for his yearly tradition of spreading holiday cheer with another residency at 54 Below. Richard Jay-Alexander directs the Broadway heavy hitter with accompaniment on piano, bass, and drums. Expect more wholesome mirth with less Scandal.
- 54 Below, 254 West 54th Street, New York City
- December 18-24, 2025
Taylor Mac: Holiday Sauce at Town Hall
Mac has never been one for subtlety. Why start now? The New York Times calls the show “a perfect pick-me-up for those with an intolerance to the season’s usual high-fructose content.” Mac, whose preferred pronoun is “Judy,” wraps their holiday tour in New York City. Machine Dazzle performs alongside Mac and provides eye-popping costumes. Embrace Mac’s wild creativity with some grown-up fun.
- The Town Hall, 123 West 43rd Street, New York City
- December 19, 2025
Have another minute? Discover more holiday shows
