The St. Olaf Christmas Festival
“A New Song of Grace and Truth”
Steven Amundson leads the Massed Choirs and St. Olaf Orchestra.
For many people, over several generations, the celebration of the Advent – Christmas – Epiphany season begins with the annual St. Olaf Christmas Festival, a century-old tradition of the college.
1912
begun as a musical program for the college community, planned and directed by F. Melius Christiansen, founder of the St. Olaf Music Department.
12,000
guests will attend the Festival concerts and special events.
500
student musicians will participate as members of the five Choirs and Orchestra.
2019 Performances
Participating Ensembles
Each group participates individually and as part of a Massed Ensemble. Anton Armstrong ’78 is Artistic Director of the Festival and Conductor of the St. Olaf Choir. Tesfa Wondemagegnehu is conductor of the Chapel Choir and Viking Chorus. Therees Tkach Hibbard conducts the Manitou Singers. James E. Bobb leads the St. Olaf Cantorei.
The St. Olaf Orchestra, regarded as one of the finest collegiate orchestras in the United States, is conducted by Steven Amundson.
Visual Designer of the Festival is Christie Hawkins. Matthew Marohl is College Pastor and also serves on the artistic team.
Find out More
Learn more about music at St. Olaf CollegeSt. Olaf Christmas Festival in the News
Musical moments
Audio and video downloads of Christmas Festival now available
Christmas Festival brings 'a message the world wants and needs to hear'
Behind the Scenes of Christmas Festival: Visual Design
St. Olaf chef gives TV viewers a taste of Christmas Festival
St. Olaf celebrates the season with annual Christmas Festival
