BEREA — Berea College will present its annual Celebration of Christmas concert Friday and Saturday evenings at Union Church, marking a significant change for the traditionally ticketed event: this year’s performances are completely free and open to the public.
The concerts, featuring Berea College’s instrumental and vocal ensembles, will begin at 7:30 p.m. both nights, with prelude music starting at 7 p.m. The event represents one of Berea’s most beloved holiday traditions, drawing audiences from across the region for seasonal favorites and festive classics.
Free Admission, First-Come Seating
In a departure from previous years when reservations were required, the 2025 concerts will operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Overflow seating will be available in the Union Church Community Room to accommodate all attendees.
“Although this event is traditionally ticketed, this year’s concert is completely FREE and open to everyone,” according to promotional materials from Visit Berea.
The change makes the concert more accessible to families and community members who might not have secured advance tickets in previous years, when seating was limited and reservations filled quickly.
Live Streaming Available
For those unable to attend in person, both concerts will be broadcast live online at vimeo.com/bereacollegemusic, extending the reach of the performance beyond Union Church’s walls.
The live stream option provides access for community members who may have mobility challenges, scheduling conflicts, or prefer to enjoy the concert from home.
A Berea Tradition
The Celebration of Christmas concert showcases the talents of Berea College Music Department students in a program that blends instrumental and vocal performances. The concert typically features the college’s choir, instrumental ensembles, and soloists performing both traditional carols and contemporary seasonal music.
Berea College, founded in 1855, maintains a strong commitment to the arts as part of its liberal arts curriculum. The Music Department offers comprehensive programs in vocal and instrumental performance, music education, and music theory.
The annual Christmas concert serves as both a showcase for student musicians and a gift to the community, marking the beginning of the holiday season in Berea.
Part of a Full Weekend
The Celebration of Christmas concerts anchor a weekend packed with holiday events in Berea. Friday evening also features the first annual Winter Night Market at Berea Friends Meeting House from 6 to 9 p.m., showcasing more than 30 local artisans and small businesses.
Saturday brings the 39th Annual Berea Christmas Parade at 6 p.m., preceded by Christmas on Main Street festivities from 3 to 6 p.m. The Spotlight Playhouse presents two holiday productions throughout the weekend: The Bluegrass Players’ “Little Women: Christmas at the March House” and Spotlight Acting School’s “‘Twas the Week After Christmas.”
The Appalachian Flatfooting Frolic continues at Berea College throughout the weekend, offering dance instruction and traditional square dancing.
Planning Your Visit
Union Church is located at 200 Prospect Street in Berea, within walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants. Free parking is available, though early arrival is recommended given the first-come seating policy and the concert’s popularity.
The 30-minute prelude beginning at 7 p.m. offers attendees an opportunity to settle in and enjoy additional music before the main program begins at 7:30 p.m.