[2] Houston Chronicle critic Joey Guerra called the concert "a joy — equal parts Nutcracker fantasia, holiday pageant and TV variety show".

[5] MusicRow's Sherod Robertson remarked that Carey's inclusion of her children "added a personal touch to the concert, emphasizing the themes of love and togetherness central to the holiday season".

[10] In The Boston Globe, Victoria Wasylak wrote that Carey's "sparkling five-octave vocal range allowed her to claim the title "Queen of Christmas".

"[14] Fort Worth Star-Telegram contributor Stefan Stevenson suggested her "vaunted vocals, while still smooth and powerful, seemed muted at times, as if she was struggling with a throat issue of some kind.

[10] Ho thought the tightness of her clothing and wearing of high-heeled shoes contributed to a lack of energy;[14] Wasylak suggested a cold might explain why she occasionally seemed less inspired than the audience.

[11] Robertson said Carey established a connection with the audience by "sharing personal anecdotes about the holiday season and expressing her gratitude for their unwavering support over the years".