GENERAL INFORMATION
Each year, since 1959, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has funded a free, live holiday celebration at The Music Center’s Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on December 24. Produced by TMC Arts, the arts programming division of The Music Center, the program features community-based and professional ensembles, bands, troupes and companies that represent the diverse cultures and traditions of the county.
The event is slated to broadcast live on local public television, with a rebroadcast on December 25. It’s also livestreamed and shared on social media platforms. Thousands attend in person, while hundreds of thousands across Southern California watch the broadcast from home.
The 66th Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration will take place on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at The Music Center’s Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown Los Angeles. The event is free and open to the public. Parking is also free of charge.
WHO CAN APPLY?
Performing arts groups from across Los Angeles County are invited to apply for the opportunity to perform in this iconic and festive county-wide celebration.
Applicants must meet all of the eligibility requirements below:
- Your group must be based in Los Angeles County and able to provide proof.
- Performances must fall into one (or more) of the following categories: Music, Dance, Musical Theatre, Circus Arts, or Vocal Arts.
- Performances must be appropriate for all ages.
- The group leader—the person who will serve as the main point of contact with The Music Center—must be 18 years or older.
HOW ARE GROUPS SELECTED?
All applications are evaluated based on two main criteria:
Artistic Excellence
As demonstrated in the work sample submitted with your application.- Suitability for the Holiday Celebration - Performances should be:
- A good fit for a multicultural, multi-denominational program
- Secular content is welcome, and performances do not need to reference Christmas or any specific holiday. We welcome diverse expressions of culture, community, and joy.
- Scaled appropriately for a large stage and venue
- Family-friendly and suitable for an all-ages audience
*Groups that have never performed in the Holiday Celebration are strongly encouraged to apply.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
To be considered for the Holiday Celebration, applicants must complete all required fields and submit the materials listed below. Selections are made based solely on the submitted materials. No late or incomplete applications will be reviewed.
All materials must be submitted digitally through the application form. We do not accept hard copies, emails, CDs, or DVDs.
1. Work Sample (Video)
This is the most important part of your application. We’re looking for a clear, unedited recording of your group performing live.
Your work sample must meet the following requirements:
- One (1) video only
- Unedited (no montages, cuts, or excerpts)
- Live performance (not a studio recording or music video)
- No longer than three (3) minutes
- Recorded within the past three (3) years
A video of the piece you'd like to perform at the Holiday Celebration is preferred, but this is not required. Choose a sample that gives a sense of what you are proposing (if it’s different) and most importantly, one that shows your group at its best.
Don’t worry too much about the video’s technical quality (lighting, camera angles, etc.). What matters is your performance, not your production. We want to see your group’s energy, talent, and style in action!
2. Group Photo
Please include one photo of your group that meets these requirements:
- Taken within the past 12 months
- High-resolution and in focus (300dpi recommended)
- Original digital image (no screenshots, scanned prints, or video stills)
WHAT TO EXPECT IF SELECTED
If your group is selected to perform in the 66th Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration, here’s what you can expect:
Performance & Rehearsal Commitments
- You will have a performance slot between approximately 4–6 minutes, depending on the overall Holiday Celebration program needs.
- Your group may be asked to adjust your piece to meet broadcast timing requirements.
- You’ll be scheduled for the following MANDATORY REHEARSALS at The Music Center:
- A one-hour rehearsal on Saturday, December 6, 2025 OR Sunday, December 7, 2025
- An on-stage spacing or soundcheck on either December 21, 22, OR 23, depending on the needs of the program
- An evening on-stage run-through on December 23, 2025
- Exact dates and times for each rehearsal will be assigned by The Music Center team and shared with you in advance. All assigned rehearsals are required.
Media & Promotion Opportunities
- Your group may be featured in a short documentary-style video as part of pre-show promotion and for presentation during the live show.
- You’ll be encouraged to engage with The Music Center on social media to help promote the event and share your participation.
Group Leader Responsibilities
- Maintaining timely communication with The Music Center team (within 72 hours);
- Completing all required financial and production paperwork within 2 weeks of notification of selection;
- Distributing tickets to parents/guardians of performers under age 18 (tickets provided by The Music Center); and
- Ensuring all performers submit a signed media release within 4 weeks of notification of selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m having trouble filling out my application. Can I get help?
If you need technical assistance with your application, please contact SurveyMonkey Apply here. If you have questions regarding the Holiday Celebration or any of the application requirements, please email holidaycelebration@musiccenter.org.
Can I drop off or mail my printed application?
No. We only accept completed online applications through SurveyMonkey. Application and supporting materials that are printed and mailed or submitted by any means other than through the online process will not be considered for the Holiday Celebration.
Can I apply if myself or my group is not based in Los Angeles County?
No. The L.A. County Holiday Celebration is a celebration of the artistic diversity of Los Angeles County. Given that geographical focus and the source of funding, groups that apply must be based in Los Angeles County.
How do I confirm the district of Los Angeles County in which my group is based?
Visit https://appcenter.gis.lacounty.gov/districtlocator/ to locate which the County Supervisorial District your group is based. Enter the address in the format required to locate your County Supervisorial District number. If you are unable to access the website, call (213) 972-3099. Please be sure to enter a street address and not a P.O. Box. We are unable to verify the district without a street address.
As a group, we also ask that you estimate the County Supervisorial District in which the majority of your members reside and the County Supervisorial District in which your group most often performs. If your group performs in more than one district of Los Angeles County, check mark each district in the application. Visit the link below for a County district map:
http://file.lacounty.gov/SDSInter/lac/1043452_BasicColorMap.pdf
Are performers compensated for their participation in the Holiday Celebration?
Yes, all participating groups receive honorariums. Honorariums will be determined upon selection and based upon factors including the group’s size, and performance union affiliations (if any).
What if I am a member of a performance union?
We do accept AFM Local 47 Musicians and members of 4-A (SAG-AFTRA, AEA, AGVA, AGMA). All union members are required to show proof of membership and complete agreements and financial documents that are separate from those of the group.
As this is a limited budget production, The Music Center approves only a limited number of union- affiliated members for this program. Please have a full understanding of how many union performers you might have for the performance when completing the application.
My act involves elaborate sets/props/costumes. Is that okay?
Possibly. Performers are required to furnish all necessary props pieces and costumes. Given the fast-moving nature of the Holiday Celebration, we cannot allow any major scenic elements. The Music Center reserves the right to require alterations to props and costumes.
Am I allowed to submit for more than one group?
If you are the group leader for more than one artist group, you may submit up to two (2) unique applications. However, submitting multiple applications for the same group is not allowed.
I want to have a joint performance with another group, should we combine our application?
Yes, if you are proposing a collaboration with another group you would need to submit one (1) joint application.
If my group is chosen to participate, can I bring my family and friends to the show?
Friends and family are encouraged to reserve tickets ahead of time and/or come early to enter through the general entrance line. Given the high demand for seating and the number of performers that are a part of the program, we cannot guarantee seating for artists’ guests. Tickets will be issued in advance to parents of performers under the age of 18 only.
When will I hear back once my application is submitted?
Applications are due by July 18, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. We anticipate that all applicant groups will be notified of their application status via email in September. Selected applicants will submit a follow-up Artist Production Form that will be due approximately two weeks after notification. Performers will be asked to provide more detailed information at that time, including specific repertoire, composer and publishing information, costume information, lyric sheets, stage diagrams and approved union artist contact information.
66th Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration
GENERAL INFORMATION
Each year, since 1959, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has funded a free, live holiday celebration at The Music Center’s Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on December 24. Produced by TMC Arts, the arts programming division of The Music Center, the program features community-based and professional ensembles, bands, troupes and companies that represent the diverse cultures and traditions of the county.
The event is slated to broadcast live on local public television, with a rebroadcast on December 25. It’s also livestreamed and shared on social media platforms. Thousands attend in person, while hundreds of thousands across Southern California watch the broadcast from home.
The 66th Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration will take place on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at The Music Center’s Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown Los Angeles. The event is free and open to the public. Parking is also free of charge.
WHO CAN APPLY?
Performing arts groups from across Los Angeles County are invited to apply for the opportunity to perform in this iconic and festive county-wide celebration.
Applicants must meet all of the eligibility requirements below:
- Your group must be based in Los Angeles County and able to provide proof.
- Performances must fall into one (or more) of the following categories: Music, Dance, Musical Theatre, Circus Arts, or Vocal Arts.
- Performances must be appropriate for all ages.
- The group leader—the person who will serve as the main point of contact with The Music Center—must be 18 years or older.
HOW ARE GROUPS SELECTED?
All applications are evaluated based on two main criteria:
Artistic Excellence
As demonstrated in the work sample submitted with your application.- Suitability for the Holiday Celebration - Performances should be:
- A good fit for a multicultural, multi-denominational program
- Secular content is welcome, and performances do not need to reference Christmas or any specific holiday. We welcome diverse expressions of culture, community, and joy.
- Scaled appropriately for a large stage and venue
- Family-friendly and suitable for an all-ages audience
*Groups that have never performed in the Holiday Celebration are strongly encouraged to apply.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
To be considered for the Holiday Celebration, applicants must complete all required fields and submit the materials listed below. Selections are made based solely on the submitted materials. No late or incomplete applications will be reviewed.
All materials must be submitted digitally through the application form. We do not accept hard copies, emails, CDs, or DVDs.
1. Work Sample (Video)
This is the most important part of your application. We’re looking for a clear, unedited recording of your group performing live.
Your work sample must meet the following requirements:
- One (1) video only
- Unedited (no montages, cuts, or excerpts)
- Live performance (not a studio recording or music video)
- No longer than three (3) minutes
- Recorded within the past three (3) years
A video of the piece you'd like to perform at the Holiday Celebration is preferred, but this is not required. Choose a sample that gives a sense of what you are proposing (if it’s different) and most importantly, one that shows your group at its best.
Don’t worry too much about the video’s technical quality (lighting, camera angles, etc.). What matters is your performance, not your production. We want to see your group’s energy, talent, and style in action!
2. Group Photo
Please include one photo of your group that meets these requirements:
- Taken within the past 12 months
- High-resolution and in focus (300dpi recommended)
- Original digital image (no screenshots, scanned prints, or video stills)
WHAT TO EXPECT IF SELECTED
If your group is selected to perform in the 66th Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration, here’s what you can expect:
Performance & Rehearsal Commitments
- You will have a performance slot between approximately 4–6 minutes, depending on the overall Holiday Celebration program needs.
- Your group may be asked to adjust your piece to meet broadcast timing requirements.
- You’ll be scheduled for the following MANDATORY REHEARSALS at The Music Center:
- A one-hour rehearsal on Saturday, December 6, 2025 OR Sunday, December 7, 2025
- An on-stage spacing or soundcheck on either December 21, 22, OR 23, depending on the needs of the program
- An evening on-stage run-through on December 23, 2025
- Exact dates and times for each rehearsal will be assigned by The Music Center team and shared with you in advance. All assigned rehearsals are required.
Media & Promotion Opportunities
- Your group may be featured in a short documentary-style video as part of pre-show promotion and for presentation during the live show.
- You’ll be encouraged to engage with The Music Center on social media to help promote the event and share your participation.
Group Leader Responsibilities
- Maintaining timely communication with The Music Center team (within 72 hours);
- Completing all required financial and production paperwork within 2 weeks of notification of selection;
- Distributing tickets to parents/guardians of performers under age 18 (tickets provided by The Music Center); and
- Ensuring all performers submit a signed media release within 4 weeks of notification of selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m having trouble filling out my application. Can I get help?
If you need technical assistance with your application, please contact SurveyMonkey Apply here. If you have questions regarding the Holiday Celebration or any of the application requirements, please email holidaycelebration@musiccenter.org.
Can I drop off or mail my printed application?
No. We only accept completed online applications through SurveyMonkey. Application and supporting materials that are printed and mailed or submitted by any means other than through the online process will not be considered for the Holiday Celebration.
Can I apply if myself or my group is not based in Los Angeles County?
No. The L.A. County Holiday Celebration is a celebration of the artistic diversity of Los Angeles County. Given that geographical focus and the source of funding, groups that apply must be based in Los Angeles County.
How do I confirm the district of Los Angeles County in which my group is based?
Visit https://appcenter.gis.lacounty.gov/districtlocator/ to locate which the County Supervisorial District your group is based. Enter the address in the format required to locate your County Supervisorial District number. If you are unable to access the website, call (213) 972-3099. Please be sure to enter a street address and not a P.O. Box. We are unable to verify the district without a street address.
As a group, we also ask that you estimate the County Supervisorial District in which the majority of your members reside and the County Supervisorial District in which your group most often performs. If your group performs in more than one district of Los Angeles County, check mark each district in the application. Visit the link below for a County district map:
http://file.lacounty.gov/SDSInter/lac/1043452_BasicColorMap.pdf
Are performers compensated for their participation in the Holiday Celebration?
Yes, all participating groups receive honorariums. Honorariums will be determined upon selection and based upon factors including the group’s size, and performance union affiliations (if any).
What if I am a member of a performance union?
We do accept AFM Local 47 Musicians and members of 4-A (SAG-AFTRA, AEA, AGVA, AGMA). All union members are required to show proof of membership and complete agreements and financial documents that are separate from those of the group.
As this is a limited budget production, The Music Center approves only a limited number of union- affiliated members for this program. Please have a full understanding of how many union performers you might have for the performance when completing the application.
My act involves elaborate sets/props/costumes. Is that okay?
Possibly. Performers are required to furnish all necessary props pieces and costumes. Given the fast-moving nature of the Holiday Celebration, we cannot allow any major scenic elements. The Music Center reserves the right to require alterations to props and costumes.
Am I allowed to submit for more than one group?
If you are the group leader for more than one artist group, you may submit up to two (2) unique applications. However, submitting multiple applications for the same group is not allowed.
I want to have a joint performance with another group, should we combine our application?
Yes, if you are proposing a collaboration with another group you would need to submit one (1) joint application.
If my group is chosen to participate, can I bring my family and friends to the show?
Friends and family are encouraged to reserve tickets ahead of time and/or come early to enter through the general entrance line. Given the high demand for seating and the number of performers that are a part of the program, we cannot guarantee seating for artists’ guests. Tickets will be issued in advance to parents of performers under the age of 18 only.
When will I hear back once my application is submitted?
Applications are due by July 18, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. We anticipate that all applicant groups will be notified of their application status via email in September. Selected applicants will submit a follow-up Artist Production Form that will be due approximately two weeks after notification. Performers will be asked to provide more detailed information at that time, including specific repertoire, composer and publishing information, costume information, lyric sheets, stage diagrams and approved union artist contact information.