Glen Burtnik’s XMAS XTRAVAGANZA: 20th Anniversary

Glen Burtnik’s Xmas Xtravaganza charity event is celebrating its 20th Anniversary at Count Basie on Friday, December 18th. Born at a small club in New Jersey in the late 80’s, this annual holiday concert has grown larger each year, evolving into a tradition not to be missed. It features a colorful cast of characters which changes from year to year, but in the past has included such luminaries as Patty Smyth, John McEnroe, Phoebe Snow, Marshall Crenshaw, The Patti Smith Band, Billy J. Kramer, Fred Schneider (B 52’s), Jill Sobule, Idina Menzel, Jeffrey Gaines, Freedy Johnston, Steve Augeri (Journey), Dan Bern, John Waite, Curtis Stigers, STYX, Mary Lee Kortes, Deborah Harry, and Willie Nile, among others. Shows have been sold out for the past eight years running.

All performers are volunteer and all net proceeds go to benefit area food banks and other charitable organizations. Audience members are encouraged to contribute warm clothes, new toys, and canned food for those less fortunate. The Xmas Xtravaganza charity event starts at 7:30 on Friday, December 18. Ticket prices range from $20 to $45. Click here to purchase tickets.