Nothing puts me in the Christmas spirit more than Christmas music. I find myself humming ‘Deck the Halls’, ‘Joy to the World’, ‘O Holy Night’ and ‘Happy Xmas’ as I go about my day. It may be my favorite thing about the season, and I don’t think there’s anything better than live, Christmas music events.
I’ve been looking for what’s coming up and found several that I hope to squeeze in. Here’s what I’ve found.
Christmas Caroling at the Menger
Travis Park Church invites everyone to join them for Christmas caroling at the Menger Hotel. Meet at the church and walk over to sing Christmas carols in the hotel lobby, and then enjoy hot chocolate and cookies together.
When: Friday, December 17 (5:40pm)
Where: Leave from Travis Park Church, 230 E Travis (or meet at the Menger, 204 Alamo Plaza at 6pm)
La Gran Posada
“San Fernando Cathedral will host its annual La Gran Posada… The public is invited to attend this event, one of the oldest Christmas traditions dating back to colonial times. It will start in Milam Park (across from Market Square), then winds its way to the cathedral, where the large crowd is welcomed with singing and a party.” Enjoy music with a Mariachi choir at the Cathedral, and a Piñata party for the kids.
When: Sunday, December 19 (6pm)
Where: Starts art Milam Park (across from Market Square) and ends at San Fernando Cathedral, 115 Main Plaza
Nine Lessons and Carols
You are invited to a "Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols in the style of King's College with the combined St. Mark's choirs. Join St. Mark's in the enduring and beloved Anglican tradition of King's College Cambridge shared by millions around the world since 1918 - readings, carols, hymns, and anthems telling of the promise of the Messiah and the birth of Jesus.”
When: Sunday, December 19 (5pm)
Where: St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 315 E Pecan
The Light of Hope Returning
“This holiday season, San Antonio Chamber Choir (SACC) will present The Light of Hope Returning, a concert-length ‘ceremony’ of folk carols featuring both classic Christmas settings as well as newly penned carols on Christmas, Winter Solstice, and New Year themes… The Children’s Chorus of San Antonio and a small ensemble of instrumentalists will join forces with SACC and soloist Allison Girvan for this special evening.”
When: Monday, December 20 (8pm)
Where: H-E-B Performance Hall, Tobin Center, 100 Auditorium Circle
Ken Slavin's Annual Swingin' Holiday Show
"Join jazz crooner Ken Slavin and his ace band as they welcome the happiest time of the year. You’ll enjoy swingin’ jazz classics and Christmas tunes, great food, frosty libations and holiday spirit! Ken’s polished vocals and showmanship have earned him an international fan base and critical acclaim. He has headlined as far north as Alaska and as far south as Mexico City – and enjoys radio airplay around the world."
When: Wednesday, December 22 (8pm)
Where: Sam's Burger Joint, 330 E Grayson
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis
“Do you remember the first time you heard the Christmas sounds of Mannheim Steamroller? You can again celebrate the holiday magic of Mannheim Steamroller in 2021 when they bring their annual holiday tour to fans throughout the country. While 2020 was the first year the group was unable to tour in 35 years, 2021 will reunite the #1 Christmas music artist in history with its legion of long-time fans. Experience the music that has become the hallmark of the holidays…”
When: Tuesday, December 28 (7:30pm)
Where: The Majestic Theatre, 224 E Houston
I hope you are able to make it to some of these holiday performances!
The Tubameister Christmas Concert
This fun holiday event is a must for Christmas music lovers! “Any and all tuba, euphonium, & baritone horn players are welcome to perform in the concert.” There’s a pre-show rehearsal at St. Johns Lutheran Church, followed by the concert at the Arneson River Theater on the Riverwalk. If you’re a player, join in. If you just love Christmas music, head over to the Arneson for this uplifting holiday event.
When: Saturday, December 18 (performer registration starts at 9:30am; rehearsal is at 10:30am; the concert is at noon)
Where: St Johns Lutheran Church, 502 E Nueva and the Arneson River Theater on the Riverwalk in La Villita
Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony
Treat a loved one to a holiday concert at the Majestic. “Accompanied by orchestra and a choir, Sarah decks the halls with show-stopping renditions of classics from the Christmas canon, along with personal holiday favorites and her greatest hits.”
When: Sunday, December 19 (7:30pm)
Where: The Majestic Theatre, 224 E Houston
Joy to the World: The Redeemer Christmas Concert
Is there anything more peaceful than experiencing live Christmas music in a church? Head over to Redeemer Presbyterian Church for their annual Christmas concert. “This year, the concert will feature both the Redeemer Choir and the Monte Vista String Quartet. We will sing and play classical favorites, traditional carols, as well as some modern songs to celebrate the coming of our Lord.”
When: Sunday, December 19 (7pm)
Where: Redeemer Presbyterian Church, 903 N St. Mary’s
Jane Gennarelli is co-editor of LNF Weekly. She also edits the Lavaca & Friends weekly arts and entertainment newsletter.
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