The Elmhurst College Festival of Lessons and Carols draws together the campus and community to open a joyful and spiritual season.

This year’s celebration of the tradition will take place on Friday, December 2, in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel. The College will offer two performances of the celebration, at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., to accommodate the popularity of the event.

The Festival of Lessons and Carols is an Elmhurst College tradition that bridges the season of Advent and Christmastide. Held since 1961, the Festival consists of nine Scriptural readings that tell the story of the birth of the Messiah, interspersed with choral music. The Elmhurst College Concert Choir will perform time-honored songs to accompany each reading and set the holiday mood.

The event is free and all are welcome. The 7:00 p.m. ceremony will be livestreamed, at bluejaytv.com.