Festival of Carols: A Cherished Indianapolis Tradition of Music, Community, and Joy

Each December, the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir fills concert halls with the warmth of harmony and holiday spirit during its beloved Festival of Carols. For Artistic Director Dr. Eric Stark, the event represents far more than a performance—it’s a heartfelt gathering of community, tradition, and shared joy.

“What makes it special to me,” Stark reflects, “is the gathering together of singers and audience members each year to celebrate a time when our hearts are full. It feels like an extended family reunion. We look forward to being together.”

That spirit of connection has guided Festival of Carols from its modest beginnings to the full-scale concert production it is today. When Stark first joined the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir more than 20 years ago, the performances were held in churches with small instrumental ensembles. “It was still beautiful music and big audiences,” he recalls, “but over time, as demand grew, so did the scope of the concert.”

About 15 years ago, the Choir moved into larger venues like The Palladium in Carmel and added the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra to its annual performances. “We realized we were creating a full-scale concert that wouldn’t fit in churches anymore,” Stark says. “When the Palladium opened, we were one of the first groups to perform there. We thought, ‘Let’s make it even more special—let’s add an orchestra.’ And we’ve never looked back.”

Today, Festival of Carols has become a cornerstone of Indianapolis’ holiday season, known for its blend of timeless favorites and fresh surprises. “You’ll always hear the classics—‘O Come, All Ye Faithful,’ ‘Joy to the World,’ ‘Jingle Bells,’” Stark says. “It’s just not the holidays until you do. But we also include pieces that are new to people—something that tugs at the heartstrings, makes you laugh, or even surprises you.”

This year’s concert continues the Choir’s tradition of collaboration. Returning to the stage is Brazilian-born vocalist Bruno Sandes, whose charisma and rich voice captivated audiences last year. “He’s a phenomenal entertainer with a beautiful voice and a warm spirit,” says Stark. “He brings an energy that makes everyone feel even closer to the music.”

The program will also feature the Choir’s “Spotlight Choir” collaboration, which invites a local high school choir to share the stage. “They sing a few selections on their own and then join us and the orchestra for the final two pieces,” Stark explains. “You can see the wonder in their eyes—some of them might be in the Symphonic Choir one day. It’s a beautiful way to connect generations through music.”

Beyond the concert itself, this year’s Festival of Carols introduces a new experience for attendees: Walk & Talks with Samson, guided pre-show tours exploring the history and inclusivity of Carmel and the Palladium area. The walks offer an enriching prelude to the evening’s performances, deepening the sense of place and community that defines the event.

As for his favorite moment, Stark struggles to choose just one. “There are hundreds,” he admits with a smile. “Sometimes I know in rehearsal that a moment will be powerful, and other times it sneaks up on me during the show.”

One such moment comes near the concert’s end, just before the traditional Hallelujah Chorus. The choir performs “The Dream Isaiah Saw,” a piece that begins in near darkness, lit only by candlelight. “It’s a musical prayer for peace,” Stark describes. “It starts quietly, reflecting the prophecy that one day we’ll all learn to live with each other in harmony. By the end, the full orchestra and choir come together in this thrilling, powerful sound. It’s one of those moments that truly captures the hope of the season.”

From its humble beginnings to its grand, orchestral scale today, Festival of Carols continues to shine as a treasured Indianapolis tradition—uniting generations through music, memory, and the spirit of peace.

Tickets range from $37 to $64 and are available now at indychoir.org