This year I experienced Christmas mid-western style.

My boyfriend's mother has been trying to convince the family to attend the Music Box theatre's Christmas special for years. I love old theatres, so she finally got her wish this year.

We drove from Racine, Wisconsin to Chicago to see White Christmas on the big screen.

Before the movie began Santa led a sing along.

The audience heartily sang along with the "No more George Bush" line, but "a penannt win for the Cubbies" sparked some debate. About half of the audience shouted "WHITE SOX" for that line!

Santa was accompanied by an elfin organist as he led us through "Silver Bells," "Jingle Bells," "White Christmas" and scores of other holiday favorites.

The whole experience was delightfully kitschy. I had never seen White Christmas before, but I was one of the few in the theatre that hadn't. Most of the audience sang along during the musical numbers!

Definitely check out the Music Box if you're ever in Chicago. Christmas aside, it was amazing to see an classic movie in an old timey movie theatre. They have a regular program of repatory films and musicals (Singing in the Rain is shown regularly) in addition to newer independent films.