As a wise Elf once said, ‘The only way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear!’
With that in mind, we thought it right and proper to give a well-researched summary of the many Christmas Carol concerts taking place throughout the district this season. From paid concerts to free ones, carol events you can bring your recorder along to, meticulously rehearsed performances to the kind of concert where everyone joins in. There’s a huge selection to choose from and something for one and all!
Formal!
Settle in for an evening of carefully curated seasonal songs at Essex University’s Ivor Crew Lecture Hall to see Light in the Darkness performed by the University of Essex Choir. Hearing the choir in full song is certainly a powerful experience and there will be performances from Wivenhoe Youth Choir also!
Enjoy the atmospheric St James the Great Church on East Hill for the Candle-lit Christmas Carol Concert in aid of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. You’ll be welcomed with warming minced pies and mulled wine before settling into an evening of festive song and seasonal readings within this historical church.
Don’t miss the Essex Christmas Carol Concert in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund on 11th December held at the historic St Botolphs Church. Join for an outstanding evening of music performed by The Essex Yeomanry Band who will be performing a selection of Christmas favourites with a few carols thrown in for good measure! All funds raised are donated supporting the Army family.
FREE!
Enjoy some of the many FREE concerts taking place all across the District. Rowhedge pub Ye Olde Albion kicks off with Carols on the Quay with Wivenhoe’s Carols on the Quay following in hot pursuit the following weekend and also giving attendees to Sing to your hearts content from the scenic location of the River Colne at these riverside dwellings and maybe enjoy a warming tipple after! St Botolphs Church hosts, Make Room on 21st December – a Christmas carol service for everyone to enjoy ahead of the big day!
Carols in Pubs!
In the countryside of North Colchester you can have a festive sing song at the local pub with the Carols at the Shepherd & Dog! Back in the City of Colchester, The Victoria Inn, a multi-award winning real ale and cider pub will be hosting the Colne Endeavour Band. You’re encouraged to join in the singing, sup on your pint and donate to the fundraising cause!
