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Best 2014 Holiday Concerts In Minnesota

Tired of the usual outing to see "The Nutcracker" every year? Well, 2014 is a good year to skip the ballet - it'll be around again in 2015. In Minnesota, there is an abundance of fun and entertaining musical productions this year that will put you in the holiday spirit, and even help you start a new and fun tradition. Try a rock concert this year or a unique visual performance that puts a new spin on a holiday concert. Have some fun and enjoy one of these professional and fantastic holiday concerts this year.

Orpheum Theatre
The Orpheum Theatre in downtown Minneapolis. (credit: George Heinrich)

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
Orpheum Theatre
910 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 339-7007
www.hennepintheartretrust.org

Date: Dec. 7, 2014

One of the most popular and entertaining shows each holiday season is the Mannheim Steamroller concert. An award-winning performance that is currently celebrating 30 years of remarkable talent, Mannheim Steamroller comes to Minneapolis on its annual tour to pump up the city for Christmas. Grammy-winning composer Chip Davis leads the celebration of music and special effects that has been mesmerizing audiences for decades.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra
(credit: Trans-Siberian Orchestra)

Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Xcel Energy Center
199 W. Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55102
(651) 265-4800
www.xcelenergycenter.com

Date: Dec. 30, 2014

A fun and popular rock-opera performance, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra provides an extremely entertaining holiday show. Stopping in Minnesota on its world tour, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra is performing its 2014 show, "The Christmas Attic." This show is a revamped version of the story of a Christmas angel sent to earth to leave behind a gift. The performance is magical and will be one loved by all ages and demographics.

A Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant Christmas
Target Center
600 1st Ave. N.
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 673-1600
www.targetcenter.com

Date: Dec. 13, 2014

Two of the most popular and inspirational Christian performers are coming to the Target Center to wish Minnesota a blessed Christmas. Accompanied by a full symphony orchestra, Grant and Smith will be performing holiday favorites, original music and joyful Christmas cheer. Get ready to feel inspired and loved as these award-winning performers team up to spread the joy of the reason for the season. The performance will be only one night but the spirit of the performance will last all season long.

Related: Best Music Venues In The Twin Cities

Orchestra Hall Lockout
(credit: CBS)

Minnesota Boy Choir Annual Holiday Concert
Orchestra Hall
1111 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(651) 292-3219
www.boychoir.org

Date: Dec. 21, 2014

The Minnesota Boy Choir is a non-profit organization that supports the community and provides a positive environment for the local youth. Based in St. Paul, the choir meets throughout the week to help build confidence and character while teaching music and art to the community. Boys ages 7 to 18 are organized into singing groups and meet to rehearse throughout the week. The holiday concert at Orchestra Hall is a free event to help encourage and support this diverse group of young men through participation and donation. Learn more about the choir before or after the concert and enjoy some talented young performers while you are there.

Jingle Ball
Xcel Energy Center
199 W. Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55102
(651) 265-4800
www.xcelenergycenter.com

Date: Dec. 8, 2014

The Jingle Ball is an annual holiday concert series that started as a music festival in Los Angeles, Calif. and has become a national sensation every year. With a line-up of popular music acts, Jingle Ball attracts concert-goers and those that enjoy popular music. The line-up is typically acts that receive radio play and have won music awards for top-selling records. This year, the Jingle Ball welcomes Ariana Grande, Rita Ora, Iggy Azalea and Demi Lovato for starters. Tickets sell out every year so make plans to attend this ultra-popular event early.

Related: Best Independent Movie Theaters In Minnesota

Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for the last 10 years. Her hobbies include exercising, driving kids around, watching Minnesota sports, and reading self-help literature. Examiner.com.

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