DeKalb | Holiday entertainment activities stretch from DeKalb to Chicago over winter break.

DeKalb

“Holiday Pops Concert: Winter Wonderland”

Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra has a great festive show 7 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Music Building’s Boutell Memorial Concert Hall.

“Many holiday favorites, including Haydn’s ‘Toy Symphony’ and a seasonal sing-along, are part of this traditional family concert,” according to KishOrchestra.org.

The holiday show is $10 for students and $15 for adults.

Egyptian Theatre

Employees of the Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. Second St., are not disappointing locals this month. The theater will feature the Christmas classic “It’s a Wonderful Life” 1 p.m. Dec. 14.

Tickets are $5 for students and seniors and $7 for adults.

Check out Sycamore/Rochelle Performing Arts Academy’s ballet “Christmas around the World” at 4 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Egyptian Theatre, too.

Chicago

“The Nutcracker”

One of my favorite Chicago holiday events is Joffrey Ballet’s annual rendition of “The Nutcracker.” Robert Joffrey directs this impressive ballet performance. The show is played live by a full orchestra. “The Nutcracker” plays until Dec. 28 at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Parkway in Chicago. Tickets are available at TicketMaster.com.

Macy’s and Daley Plaza

Another Chicago Christmas staple is observing the Macy’s windows. This is a tradition that began with Marshall Field’s 46 years ago. The Macy’s windows, 111 N. State St. in Chicago, depict a Christmas story every year. This year, the theme is “The Magic of Christmas.” Macy’s festivities last until Jan. 5, so don’t worry if you don’t have time until after New Year.

Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St. in Chicago, hosts Chicago’s 50-foot Christmas tree and Christkindlmarket, which are across the street from each other. This German holiday festival has a European village look and includes vendors selling hot chocolate, snacks and homemade gifts. The corner of Dearborn and Washington is where this fun festival and the Macy’s windows meet.