52nd Annual Candlelight Festival of Lessons and Carols

Department of Music Free Concert Series

The Office of the Chaplaincy and the Department of Music will hold the 52nd annual Candlelight Festival of Lessons and Carols on Sun., Dec. 7, 2025, in the Chapel. Two services will be offered - one at 5 p.m. and one at 8 p.m. The University's Schola Cantorum will present new and familiar Christmas carols and anthems in the tradition of the "Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols" that was first held at King's College Chapel in Cambridge, England, on Christmas Eve 1918. The services conclude with the lighting of candles by the congregation and the singing of "Silent Night." Prelude music will begin 20 minutes before each service. 

This concert is offered as part of the Department of Music Free Concert Series 2025-26 Season. The Department of Music produces over 25 concerts annually featuring a broad range of styles and genres. Enjoy student recitals, faculty ensemble performances, and concerts created in collaboration with visiting artists.

Tickets are not required, and seating will be on a first come, first served basis until we reach capacity. Doors will open one hour before each service.