A John Waters Christmas LIVE at Baltimore Soundstage

About John Waters

John Waters is Baltimore's most beloved provocateur — filmmaker, author, artist, and stand-up raconteur. Known as the "Pope of Trash," Waters built his legendary career directing cult classics like Pink Flamingos, Hairspray, Cry-Baby, and Serial Mom. His films celebrate the outsider, the outrageous, and the gloriously weird, and his live performances are no different.

A John Waters Christmas is an annual holiday tradition that has become one of the most anticipated events of the season for fans across the country. Waters takes the stage alone with nothing but his wit, his stories, and his singular perspective on the holidays — delivering a monologue that is equal parts memoir, comedy, and cultural commentary.

Expect filthy holiday stories, sharp observations on pop culture, and the kind of twisted festive cheer that only John Waters can deliver. This is Christmas as it was meant to be celebrated — with laughter, irreverence, and a healthy dose of bad taste.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2026

Doors: 7:00 PM EST

Show Time: 8:00 PM EST

Venue: Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Place, Baltimore, MD 21202

Age Restriction: 18+ event. Year passes not accepted.

About the Venue

Baltimore Soundstage is one of Baltimore's premier live entertainment venues, located at 124 Market Place in the heart of the Inner Harbor area. The venue has a capacity of approximately 1,000 guests and offers a flexible standing-room floor with elevated viewing areas along the sides and back.

The Soundstage is known for its excellent acoustics, intimate atmosphere, and top-notch production values. The venue features multiple bars, a spacious main floor, and a layout that keeps fans close to the action regardless of where they stand. It's the kind of room where every show feels like a special event.

Parking is available in nearby garages and surface lots throughout the Inner Harbor area. The venue is accessible via public transit, with several MTA bus routes stopping nearby. Doors open at 7:00 PM, so arrive early to grab a drink and find your spot before the show begins at 8:00 PM.

What to Expect

A John Waters Christmas is a solo performance — just John Waters, a microphone, and an audience ready to have their holiday sensibilities delightfully corrupted. The show is a monologue-style performance where Waters shares stories, observations, and holiday-themed musings that are guaranteed to make you laugh and possibly blush.

This is not a traditional holiday show. Waters brings his trademark irreverence to the season, celebrating Christmas in the most gloriously inappropriate way possible. The show typically runs 90 minutes to two hours, and every year brings new material alongside beloved recurring themes.

Note that this is an 18+ event, and year passes will not be accepted. This is a homecoming of sorts — Waters performing in his beloved Baltimore just two days before Christmas, making it one of the most special stops on his annual tour.

Ticket Information

Price Range: $72 – $150 (fees included)

Official tickets are available through Ticketmaster. Resale tickets are available through VividSeats with prices starting at $72 and 62+ tickets remaining.

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All sales are final. Show times subject to change. Valid photo ID may be required for entry.