Celebrate Advent and Christmas with ACNA Holiday Events
The sun had started to set a little bit earlier, and in my part of the country, a cold snap is in the wind, too. These are sure reminders that the world’s calendar year is nearly over, anticipating an explosion of holiday festivity just before the finish line. The Christian Year, on the other hand, is preparing to anticipate the Advent of our Lord with a season of prayerful reflection.
Somewhere between these worlds of tinsel and sacred time, Anglican congregations are preparing to keep Advent and Christmas well. After all, we Anglicans have a reputation to uphold! So Anglican Compass is excited to showcase a variety of holiday-themed events hosted by churches across the Anglican Church in North America. We hope these events will inspire, bless, and connect our congregations. Whether you’re looking to participate or bring new traditions to your own parish, you’re sure to find something meaningful here.
Sponsored
Check out what’s happening around the province and consider submitting your own church’s event to our Events Page!
Advent Wreath Workshops
Creating an Advent wreath is a beloved way to mark the weeks leading up to Christmas. Whether for families or individuals, these workshops provide the supplies, guidance, and community spirit to help participants prepare their hearts and homes for Christ’s arrival. See how these churches are doing it!
- St. Andrew’s Mt. Pleasant Advent Wreath Workshop
- St. Peter’s Advent Wreath Making
- All Saints Pawleys Island Family Advent Wreath Workshop
Handel’s Messiah & other Musical Performances
This can be a terrific time of year to enjoy a live concert of spiritual and uplifting music that’s fitting for the season! We found several concerts being hosted by churches, including seasonal favorites like Christmas carols and Handel’s Messiah. Handel’s Messiah is a timeless masterpiece celebrating the life of Christ. These events provide both reflective and celebratory experiences for attendees:
- Advent Quiet & Handel’s Messiah
- Christmas with the Astralis Chamber Ensemble
- The Falls Church Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along
Lessons & Carols
Speaking of music, the cherished Anglican tradition of Nine Lessons & Carols blends Scripture readings with classic carols, telling the story of salvation and the birth of Christ. Consider attending one of these beautifully crafted services, or perhaps encourage your church to host your own. This classic Anglican tradition is a great way to invite friends and neighbors out of the holiday hustle and bustle to recall the true reason for the season.
Curious about this tradition? Read our Rookie Anglican Guide to Nine Lessons and Carols.
Festive and Family-Friendly Events
There’s no shortage of creative ways to celebrate the season! These events are perfect for gathering families and communities around the light of Christ:
- Saint Nicholas Festival
A lively celebration with crafts, treats, and a focus on the real Saint Nicholas. - Christmas Market
Shop for holiday treasures while enjoying festive food and music. - Kids Christmas Camp
A Christ-centered holiday camp filled with fun activities for children. - St. Peter’s Christmas Caroling \
Bring the joy of Christmas to others with caroling and fellowship.
Christmas Worship Services
Of course, it’s always best to keep the “mass” in Christmas, whether it’s Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Here’s a church that’s going to celebrate confirmations on Christmas morning!
Get Inspired and Share Your Events
These events offer a variety of ideas for celebrating Advent and Christmas in your own community. I have a feeling these are only scratching the surface! I invite you to explore the full list on our Events Page and don’t forget to share your parish’s upcoming holiday events using our Events Submission Form.
Wishing you a blessed Advent season from Anglican Compass!
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