The Ornaments started in 2005 as a group of friends who wanted to play the music of the greatest holiday special ever produced — Charles Schulz’s A Charlie Brown Christmas, scored by the immortal Vince Guaraldi. Two decades later, their annual shows have become a holiday tradition of their own: the classic record played live
Join us Friday, December 11, for an intimate evening with Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter Dan Rodriguez, bringing his warm, soulful brand of Americana to the historic Bend Theater stage. What to Expect Dan's live shows are built for listening — heartfelt storytelling, rich acoustic arrangements, and a voice that fills a room without needing to shout. Blending his
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer & Frosty The Snowman (1964 NR / 1969 G) December 12 - 11AM Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer tells the heartwarming story of Rudolph, a young reindeer born with a glowing red nose that makes him an outcast among his peers. Determined to find acceptance, Rudolph sets off on an adventure where
With Special Guests Robin Pluer, Chris Hanson, Lynda Lee & Tim Rebers! The World's Original Rockestra is trading in its usual setlist for sleigh bells. Joe 2.0 — the electrified string quartet (two violins, viola, cello) plus drums that's spent over a decade proving a string section can rock as hard as any guitar —
Polar Express (2004 G) December 13 - 2PM The Polar Express follows a young boy who begins to question the existence of Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. Just as he is settling into bed, a mysterious train called the Polar Express arrives outside his home, inviting him on an unforgettable journey to the North Pole.
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989 PG-13) December 17 - 7PM National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a hilarious holiday comedy that follows Clark Griswold as he attempts to create the perfect traditional Christmas for his wife, Ellen, and their two children. Determined to make the holiday special, Clark goes all out with extravagant decorations, a towering
Cherry Poppin' Daddies bring their WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen to The Bend Theater on Friday, December 18 — a holiday radio broadcast beamed straight out of 1944, big-band swing from the double-platinum "Zoot Suit Riot" band, with a Tiki torch lit underneath. Doors 6:30 PM, show 7:30 PM.
White Christmas (1954 NR) December 19 - 11AM White Christmas is a beloved holiday musical starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen. The story follows two former Army buddies who have become successful entertainers and join forces with a talented sister act to put on a Christmas show at a charming Vermont inn.
The WhiskeyBelles bring their annual holiday show back to The Bend Theater on Saturday, December 19, 2026.
A Christmas Story (1983 PG) December 20th - 2PM A Christmas Story is a beloved holiday comedy set in 1940s Indiana that follows young Ralphie Parker as he eagerly counts down the days until Christmas. More than anything, Ralphie wants a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle, but everyone he tells warns
The Grinch (2018 - PG) December 21st - 7PM The Grinch is a charming animated holiday comedy that brings Dr. Seuss’s beloved Christmas story to life with colorful animation, humor, and heart. The film follows the Grinch, a grouchy green creature who lives in a secluded cave on Mount Crumpit with his loyal dog, Max.
It's a Wonderful Life (1946 NR) December 22nd - 1PM It’s a Wonderful Life is a beloved Christmas classic that tells the inspiring story of George Bailey, a kindhearted man who has spent his life sacrificing his own dreams to help others in his hometown of Bedford Falls. From a young age, George hopes to
Elf (2003 PG) December 22nd - 7PM Elf is a heartwarming Christmas comedy starring Will Ferrell as Buddy, a human who accidentally crawls into Santa’s sack as a baby and is transported to the North Pole. Raised by Santa’s elves, Buddy grows up believing he is one of them, despite being much taller and less
Milwaukee's own Chicken Wire Empire bring their road-tested bluegrass — fresh off Growing Pains, a new album featuring Jerry Douglas and Kyle Tuttle — to The Bend for one night only. Saturday, December 26, 2026. Doors 6:30 PM, show 7:30 PM.
The nation's longest-touring Dave Matthews tribute brings the jams and sing-along choruses to The Bend Theater — one night only, Dec 30.
Sponsored by Shooting Star Travels When he was six years old, Chris Barnes already knew he wanted to be a stand-up comedian. In 1980, he made his first appearance on stage at Sardino’s, a local nite club in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Ever since then, this native Milwaukeean has been making his mark on the comedy scene
Get ready to rock with Separate Ways: A Journey Experience, a tribute to one of the most influential rock bands of the 1980s — JOURNEY! Featuring powerful vocals, exceptional musicianship, and the unmistakable sound of arena rock, Separate Ways brings Journey’s legendary music to life in an electrifying live concert experience. With a passion for
Celebrating 25 years together, Copper Box is an award-winning Wisconsin band, launching its anniversary year with a special concert packed with infectious energy, exceptional musicianship, and a sound that defies musical boundaries. Known for blending American and European roots, folk, rock, blues, and jazz, Copper Box transforms every performance into a joyful celebration of music
Morning Train is a Milwaukee-based tribute band dedicated to celebrating the music and legacy of legendary singer-songwriter John Prine. Known for his heartfelt storytelling, clever wit, and timeless melodies, Prine left an enduring mark on American folk, country, and roots music. Morning Train honors his remarkable songwriting and distinctive style, bringing his music to life
Get ready for a night of soulful blues, funky grooves, and high-energy live music as The Jimmys take the stage! Led by award-winning Hammond B-3 organist, vocalist, and songwriter Jimmy Voegeli, The Jimmys have built a reputation as one of the Midwest’s standout blues and R&B bands. Blending blues, roots rock, old-school R&B, and funk
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