Just before Christmas, on Dec. 21, Martina McBride blew through the Windy City on her The Joy of Christmas holiday tour with a sold-out concert at the Chicago Theatre. In total, the tour played 16 cities and featured Martina singing Christmas songs backed by a 12-piece band, as well as a few surprises.

At each tour stop, Martina performed "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch," while the classic Dr. Seuss story, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, was read by an athlete or other local celebrity. For the final show, Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher made a special appearance to read the story and play the Grinch. Others who played the part during the tour included Green Bay Packer Jordy Nelson, Pittsburgh Steeler Brett Keisel and tv personality Storme Warren.

"I had so much fun this year bringing back The Joy Of Christmas," said Martina. "I felt like I was spreading the Christmas spirit to so many people! We are already booking dates for next year and I can't wait to do it all again!"

Martina is currently enjoying a quick break for the holidays, but will begin 2013 in full swing. Starting Jan. 18, she will hit the road as the special guest on George Strait's The Cowboy Rides Away Tour.