From dazzling dance to festive comedy and a ballet classic, the holiday season is taking center stage in Downtown El Cajon. The Magnolia has four holiday performances lined up through November and December.

Each one brings its own kind of cheer, from high-energy choreography to clean, family-friendly laughs and a timeless Christmas tradition. Pick your favorite, or catch them all.

Derek Hough: Dance for the Holidays

Four-time Emmy Award-winning dancer and “Dancing with the Stars” judge Derek Hough returns to The Magnolia with a team of phenomenal dancers.

They bring beloved Christmas songs to life with professional choreography and elaborate stage designs. Expect a high-energy celebration of the season, told entirely through movement.

📆 Friday, November 13, 2026 | 7 PM – 8 PM
🎟️ Grab your tickets here

Demetri Martin: Standup Comedy for Christmas

Award-winning comedian Demetri Martin is bringing holiday laughs to San Diego on his first Christmas-themed comedy tour. Expect clever humor, festive storytelling, and live music.

The night also puts a spotlight on his newly released album on limited-edition live vinyl. His comedy is clean and family-friendly, so it’s a laugh-out-loud night for all ages.

📆 Saturday, November 28, 2026 | 6 PM – 8 PM
🎟️ Grab your tickets here

San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus: “Jingle Travelog”

The San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus takes a holiday concert series around the world with “Jingle Travelog.” The program celebrates the season through choral performances, community spirit, and cultural traditions.

Broadway singer Eden Espinosa joins as a special guest, adding powerful vocals and an extra touch of holiday spirit. There are two performances, so you can pick the day that works for you.

📆 Saturday, December 12 – Sunday, December 13, 2026 | 7 PM – 5 PM
🎟️ Grab your tickets here

San Diego Ballet: Celebrate the Nutcracker

San Diego Ballet returns with “The Nutcracker,” featuring more than 100 beautifully costumed dancers, whimsical set designs, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.

Sugarplum fairies, leaping Cossacks, and flurries of snowflakes swirl across the stage as Clara’s journey comes to life. It’s a holiday tradition to share with loved ones, with three performances over one weekend.

📆 Saturday, December 19 – Sunday, December 20, 2026 | 4 PM – 2 PM
🎟️ Grab your tickets here: Saturday | Sunday

See you there!

Pick your favorite, or make a whole December of it. Whichever performance you choose, The Magnolia has a way to make the season feel a little brighter.

📍 210 E Main St, El Cajon
ℹ️ Check out more upcoming shows here

See you there, San Diego!