Hammond's 1928 movie palace is going all in on Christmas this year. The Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts in downtown Hammond has four holiday shows on its 2026 calendar, from a brand-new Scrooge to a pajama night with Santa.

A Christmas Carol, Nov. 13-21

The season opens with the world premiere of Tommy Jamerson's new adaptation of the Dickens classic, directed by the Columbia's artistic director, Jim Winter. Evening shows are at 7 p.m. Nov. 13 and 20, with 2 p.m. matinees Nov. 14, 15 and 21. Tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for students and children.

Southeastern's Big Band Christmas, Dec. 3

This annual tradition starts in the lobby at 6 p.m. with decorations, carolers, Santa Claus and free hot cocoa from Candlestick Bakery. Then the crowd heads into Hainkel Hall for live big band holiday music at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students and children.

The Polar Express, Dec. 4

Same lobby party, different main event: the theater invites everyone to come in pajamas, meet Santa and then watch The Polar Express on the big screen at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and children.

The Nutcracker, Dec. 11-13

The Hammond Ballet Company brings its Nutcracker home to the Columbia with a mix of professional dancers and local talent. Shows are at 7 p.m. Dec. 11 and 12 and 2 p.m. Dec. 13. Tickets are $45 for adults and $25 for students and children.

Getting tickets

The theater is at 220 E. Thomas St. and is owned and run by Southeastern Louisiana University. Buy tickets online, in person or by calling the box office at 985-549-2787, open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Phone orders carry a $3 fee, and all sales are final. Outside regular hours, the box office opens an hour before each show.

Photo courtesy of Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts.