Holiday arts and entertainment events in the Bay Area

The holiday season is upon us and between Christmas tree decorations, latke frying and family members flying into town, it can be overwhelming to try to choose which ensembles to listen to, movies to see, and productions of the “Nutcracker” to attend.

That’s where our Datebook critics come in. They’ve done the work for you with guides to some of the best music, theater, movies and more this holiday season.

Classical music

“I can hear the bells,” and also Bach, Mandel and a plethora of other classical performances in the area this December, including opera productions. Classical music criticJoshua Kosmanprovides a round-up of some of the best options.

From ‘Messiah’ onward, a cornucopia of holiday music around the bay

Where to enjoy Handel’s ‘Messiah’ this holiday season

Before and after ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ a dozen operas with cinematic roots

Dance

There’s not one or two, but six opportunities to experience the “Nutcracker” around the Bay Area, as well as a few other holiday-oriented dance performances.

Holiday dance: Time to get your sugar plum groove on

Entertainment

Best holiday ice skating spots in the Bay Area

‘Tis a guide to the Great Dickens Christmas Fair

Movies

Datebook film critics, including Mick LaSalle,provide a guide to a broad selection of holiday movies — and no, they’re not limited to Santa stories and“The Grinch.”

A guide to holiday movies: From ‘Green Book’ to ‘Roma,’ this season gets emotional

5 movies to look for this holiday season

Pop music

Get into the holiday spirit with an array ofjazz, pop, and soulperformances, compiled by Datebook pop music critic Aidin Vaziri.

Holiday music: Pop, jazz and soul concerts to make your season swing

Theater

Bay Area stages are covered in mistletoe this season. Check out what Datebook theater critic Lily Janiak has picked out themost anticipated holidayshows this year.

Noh, vampires, Taylor Mac and kosher comedy just part of holiday theater fare

  • Chronicle Staff