A Holiday Tradition

Are you ready for the holidays? Maybe you're feeling drained from Black Friday shopping last week? Well, if you're looking for something to restore your holiday cheer you're in luck. This Saturday, December 1st is Wolf Trap's Annual Holiday Sing-A-Long! (That's right folks, this year's Holiday Sing-A-Long is on a Saturday.)

What is the Holiday Sing-A-Long? It's a longtime Wolf Trap tradition and the only non-summer event that takes place at the Filene Center. Every year "The President's Own" United States Marine Band comes and leads the audience and community choirs in holiday carols. This year's USMB Director is Captain Michelle A. Rakers, who will be joined by Sing-A-Long Leaders SSgt Sara Dell'Omo and  GySgt Kevin Bennear.

These very talented musicians and vocalists are joined onstage by over 400 local choir members. The singers come from churches, school groups, Girl Scout troops, and everywhere in between. Together these choirs and the USMB lead the thousands of patrons gathered at the Filene Center in joyous song.

So how much does this event cost? The Holiday Sing-A-Long is FREE! Bring a toy or book for the Toys for Tots truck collecting donations at the gates and we can call it even. Toys for Tots is a wonderful foundation that has participated with us for many years. We encourage you all to join in the holiday spirit by bringing along a new, unwrapped toy to donate on your way into the theatre. Also, don't forget to bring a bell to ring during "Jingle Bells" and a candle to light during the closing song "Silent Night."

Okay, so I saved the best part for last. If the United States Marine Band, the local choirs, Toys for Tots, and holiday cheer weren't enough to convince you to come, what about THREE magical guests? Can you guess who they are? One has four legs, one has no legs, and the other has a jiggling belly... So maybe those weren't the best clues but I'm sure you figured out that they're Rudolph, Frosty, and Santa! They're very busy this time of year but they love coming to the Holiday Sing-A-Long and are dying to see you all there too.

A few last things to know before you get here, the Holiday Sing-A-Long is this SATURDAY; dress warmly and comfortably (Santa hats make great ear warmers); parking is free as always but limited so be sure to come early; and of course, don't forget a jingling bell, a candle, your unwrapped toys and books for Toys for Tots, and your best singing voice.

We can't wait to see you here! Happy Holidays!