Photo by Lee Pellegrini
December 1, 2018—The music of the season ushers in the holidays at Boston College this weekend when the University Chorale and Symphony Orchestra present their annual “Christmas on the Heights” concerts.
Under the direction of conductor John Finney, performances will be held on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 at 8 p.m., and Dec. 2 at 2 p.m., in Trinity Chapel on Newton Campus. Contact the Robsham Theater Box Office or ext. 2-4002 for ticket information, prices, and purchase.
•Finney also will raise his baton on Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. to conduct members of the University Chorale in performance at St. Mary’s Chapel, during the Music at St. Mary’s Christmas Concert.
•Santa Claus is coming to town a few weeks early—on Dec. 4—to celebrate the Christmas tree lighting with BC revelers. Officiated by University President William P. Leahy, S.J., the ceremony on the Plaza at O’Neill Library will take place from 4-7 p.m., with caroling and performances by student groups, including the Heightsmen, Dynamics, Bostonians, Acoustics, Liturgy Arts Group, BC Bells, and BC Irish Dance. There will be Campus Activities Board giveaways, Christmas games—including a “Twelve Days of Christmas”-themed raffle—and a Christmas market. BC Dining Services will be on hand with treats, and hot chocolate will be available to warm the crowd.
•On Dec. 7, the School of Theology and Ministry presents Advent Lessons and Carols at 7 p.m. in St. Ignatius Church.
•The Alumni Association offers more merriment at the Cadigan Alumni Center with its popular seasonal celebration for alumni, their families, and friends: Winter Wonderland, on Dec. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Festivities include photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Christmas cookie decoration, musical performances, and a holiday puppet show, arts and crafts, visits with baby animals, and rides around campus on a horse-drawn carriage and a holiday train.
Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for boys and girls, ages six to 14, for donation to the Italian Home for Children.
Register for Winter Wonderland here; the cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12; there is no charge for children under age three.
•In conjunction with Winter Wonderland, Second Saturdays at the McMullen Museum of Art will feature a festive holiday celebration with activities from noon to 5 p.m. Visitors of all ages are welcome to tour the exhibitions, participate in arts and crafts and storytelling activities, and enjoy holiday-themed vocal performances, hot chocolate, and holiday treats.
•The weekend festivities continue on Dec. 9 with the Boston College Bands Christmas Festival. The family-friendly performance—which features the University Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band—will include traditional favorites, a sing-along, special appearances by members of BC bOp! and the “Screaming Eagles” Marching Band, and an instrument “petting zoo.” The event will be held at 3 p.m. at 300 Hammond Pond Parkway. The concert is free but attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for donation.
For more information and these events and their sponsorship, visit the University Calendar.
Rosanne Pellegrini | University Communications