Cincinnati Holiday Carols | News, Weather, Sports, Breaking News

Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, August 26th 2025 at 22:07 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Holiday Carols Light Up Downtown – A Night of Community, Tradition, and Giving

This year’s holiday carols event promises to be a heart‑warming reminder that the festive season is as much about community as it is about celebration. Scheduled for December 9th at the Downtown Community Center, the evening will feature a star‑studded lineup of local performers, a generous donation drive, and a host of festive activities that have become a cherished part of the city’s holiday traditions.

A Long‑Standing Tradition

The Holiday Carols event began in 2015 as a small gathering of local volunteers who wanted to bring a sense of joy to a neighborhood that was increasingly disconnected from the spirit of the season. Over the past eight years, the event has grown into a citywide staple, drawing crowds of nearly 2,000 every year. In its latest edition, the organizers—led by the Downtown Community Center’s volunteer board—have teamed up with local businesses and non‑profits to broaden the event’s impact.

“We’ve always wanted to do more than just sing,” says Emily Foster, the director of community outreach for the Center. “This year, we’ve made sure that every dollar raised goes directly to a local charity that supports families in need during the holidays.”

A Star‑Studded Lineup

At the heart of the evening’s program is a carefully curated set of carols performed by some of the city’s most talented local musicians. Highlights include:

The City High School Choir – Guided by Ms. Sarah Johnson, the choir will perform a mix of classic and contemporary holiday tunes. The choir’s director notes that the group has been rehearsing for six weeks, preparing a setlist that showcases both traditional carols and new songs that reflect the city’s diverse cultural heritage. (See the High School’s page for a preview of the songs and a link to the choir’s social media for behind‑the‑scenes updates.)
The Downtown Jazz Ensemble – This small group will bring a jazzy twist to familiar favorites like “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night.” Their set includes a surprise instrumental rendition of “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” which is sure to get the crowd singing along.
The “Christmas Carols for Children” Group – A local non‑profit that brings the magic of the holidays to children with special needs. Their performance will feature both choir and instrumental pieces, underscoring the group’s mission of inclusivity and joy.
The Community Band – A volunteer band that plays at local events for over a decade, the band will close the program with “O Holy Night,” accompanied by a choir of adult volunteers.

In addition to the musical performances, the event will showcase a Christmas Carol Competition between the City High School and the local middle school. The competition will be judged by a panel of local musicians and community leaders, with the winning group receiving a donation to their school’s music program.

Giving Back to the Community

The Holiday Carols event is more than just a concert—it’s a platform for community giving. The Center has partnered with the City Food Bank to set up a donation drive at the venue. Attendees will be invited to contribute canned goods, non‑perishable foods, and monetary donations that will go directly to families who need help stocking their holiday tables. Local businesses—including the popular café “Brew & Mistletoe,” the bookstore “Pages of Joy,” and the hardware store “Mighty Hammer”—have pledged matching donations for every dollar raised at the event.

“We’re excited to partner with the Food Bank for this cause,” says the Food Bank’s director, Mark Reynolds. “It’s not just about food—it’s about ensuring families feel the love and support that the holiday season embodies.”

Family‑Friendly Festivities

The Holiday Carols event is designed to be a family‑friendly affair. In addition to the musical performances, the Downtown Community Center will host a Carving Workshop for children, led by local artist and teacher Lisa Nguyen. Kids will learn how to carve Christmas ornaments and bring home a small, hand‑crafted piece of holiday cheer.

For those looking to enjoy some holiday treats, local bakery Sweet Traditions will set up a kiosk offering gingerbread cookies, hot chocolate, and specialty pastries. The bakery’s owner, Mr. Antonio Ramirez, says that the proceeds from sales will also be donated to the Food Bank.

The event will conclude with a Holiday Lights Ceremony—a tradition that began in 2018 when the Center lit a giant star on its main façade. Attendees are invited to walk the “Lights Trail” in the park, where local artisans display handcrafted ornaments and holiday décor.

How to Attend

Tickets are free, but registration is required to ensure a safe and orderly event. Visitors can sign up online at the Downtown Community Center’s website. The center encourages early registration as spots are limited and the event is expected to draw a large crowd.

The venue is wheelchair accessible, with ample parking available at the nearby city library. In addition to the main concert hall, the Center has set up a “Quiet Corner” for guests who wish to listen to recordings of the carols without the bustle of the crowd.

Looking Ahead

The Holiday Carols event has become more than just a seasonal highlight; it’s an embodiment of the city’s values: generosity, inclusivity, and a deep appreciation for the arts. “When people come together to celebrate and give back, we create memories that last a lifetime,” Foster reflects. “That is the real magic of this event.”

The Downtown Community Center invites all residents and visitors to join in the celebration of the holiday season. Whether you’re a music lover, a volunteer, or simply someone who wants to share a moment of joy with neighbors, the Holiday Carols event offers a perfect blend of celebration and service.

For more details on the event, including the full schedule, donation guidelines, and volunteer opportunities, visit the Downtown Community Center’s official page or contact the event coordinator at 555‑123‑4567. Let’s come together to sing, give, and create a holiday season that brightens everyone’s lives.

Read the Full Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati Article at:
[ https://local12.com/community/holiday-carols ]

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