The holidays are about celebrating and giving, so why not check out an event that does both? Generosity meets live music through the Letters to Santa charity event. For 24 hours spanning from Dec. 19 to 20, experience an all-day and all-night marathon of big names in music and comedy at Constellation, a venue in Chicago’s Roscoe Village neighborhood. In tandem with Poverty Alleviation Charities, 100% of the proceeds go to families living in poverty. Gifts and money are hand-delivered to these families on Christmas day, a tradition in place since 1995.

Live in-person music performers for the Letters to Santa event include Bobby, Holly and The Ricketts, Bonnie “Prince” Billy, David Pajo, Doloroso, Jeff Tweedy, Nina Nastasia, Sally Timms and Jon Langford, Sammy and Spencer Tweedy, The Blisters, The Footlight District and Ty Segall. The 24-hour marathon also features a live virtual performance by Dave Grohl, and a virtual performance by Sofia Mia. For a special treat, attendees can get an add-on where Chicago music legend Steve Albini cooks and hand delivers a meal to donors’ seats. 

For a live, in-person viewing of this music extravaganza at Roscoe Village’s Constellation, purchase tickets at 24hourmarathon.org. Make sure to check out the 24-hour event starting on the evening of Dec. 19 and ending on Dec. 20. Virtual attendance is free, though the website lists a suggested donation of $20. 

Location: Constellation

Address: 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago

Doors Open: 5:30 p.m. (5:00 p.m. with the Early Access ticket add-on)

Show Time: 6:00 p.m. on Dec. 19 (lasts 24 hours)

Ticket Price: $75-$200 (all proceeds go to charity)

Age: Recommended 17+ (under 17 requires parent/guardian accompaniment)

Photo credit: Matt Matasci