From the festive energy of Leroy Anderson’s A Christmas Festival and Sleigh Ride to classics like Winter Wonderland, White Christmas, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the program moves easily between nostalgia and celebration. Alongside these well-known tunes are a few quieter moments, including I’ll Be Home for Christmas and a reflective setting of In the Bleak Midwinter, offering contrast and space within the evening.

This performance features guest conductor Gregory Robbins, Director of Orchestras at Ball State University. Known for his work across classical and pops settings, Robbins brings a flexible, audience-focused approach that fits naturally with this kind of program. The second half includes a narrated Nutcracker story, bringing Tchaikovsky’s music to life in a way that is especially engaging for families, followed by a holiday singalong. Designed to be welcoming and relaxed, Holiday Pops is about sharing music together and celebrating the season as a community.