Mayor Thomas M. Menino has announced the launch of the 9th Annual Mayor’s Holiday Special (www.MayorsHolidaySpecial.com), offering over 13,000 half-price tickets to more than 70 of the region’s most beloved holiday performances, dining deals, and gift ideas. The Mayor’s Holiday Special, created in partnership with non-profit ArtsBoston and Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB), is the go-to resource for the complete Greater Boston holiday experience.
“There’s no better time than the holidays to enjoy the Boston arts scene,” Mayor Menino said. “Whether you’re taking in the new sets and costumes at Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker… or tapping your toe along with the Holiday Pops, you’re sure to create a holiday memory you’ll cherish forever, and support local business at the same time.”
The holiday shows being offered at half-price include: Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas presented by Citi Performing Arts Center, Handel’s Messiah presented by Handel & Haydn Society and Boston Baroque, 10th Anniversary Christmas Celtic Sojourn, and many more. In addition to these holiday classics, MayorsHolidaySpecial.com also includes ½ price tickets to dozens of other powerful performances including shows by ArtsEmerson, Huntington Theatre Company and Blue Man Group.
“Attending a live performance is a fantastic way to get together with friends and family during the holidays,” said Catherine Peterson, Executive Director of ArtsBoston. “Taking time to enjoy the amazing array of live arts offerings in Boston allows you to share an experience that is totally special to our region. And every dollar spent at Mayor’sHolidaySpecial.com gets reinvested back into the local arts community helping sustain year-round arts programming for all to experience.”
A full calendar of free and low cost festivities is also featured along with a $10-off restaurant voucher. This year, Mayor’s Holiday Special is proud to partner with Faneuil Hall Marketplace to introduce the newest tradition this holiday season called Blink! featuring the music of the Holiday Pops, a 6-week state-of-the-art light and sound show launching November 17.
Since its inception, The Mayor’s Holiday Special has welcomed more than 90,000 people to holiday shows — enough to fill Symphony Hall 35 times – saving ticket buyers more than $5 million and reinvesting the same amount back into the arts community.
“We are thrilled to be able to continue to offer live performing arts experiences to Boston-area residents and visitors,” said Pat Moscaritolo, GBCVB President & CEO. “It is a great opportunity to bring friends and relatives, visiting for the holidays, to the City. Boston will be all dressed up and what better way to see the lights and enjoy the spirit of the holidays.”
The half-price ticket quantities are limited, and allotments change daily, so the public is encouraged to visit early and often. Stay up-to-date on added performances and special offers with email and social media alerts on twitter.com/artsboston and facebook.com/artsboston. The site includes a list of restaurants participating in the $10-off voucher program, and the details of voucher use.