San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra’s “A Christmas Festival” Brings Holiday Magic

The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra is set to spread holiday cheer with its annual concert, “A Christmas Festival,” on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. at the California Theatre of the Performing Arts in San Bernardino. The festive program, led by Music Director Anthony Parnther, promises a joyous mix of seasonal favorites and enchanting performances.

A Program of Holiday Classics

The orchestra’s repertoire will include timeless pieces like Mykola Leontovych’s “Carol of the Bells,” Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas,” Mel Tormé’s “The Christmas Song,” and Walter Kent’s “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Other highlights include James Lord Pierpont’s “Jingle Bells,” Ruben Studdard’s “I Need an Angel,” Franz Gruber’s “Silent Night, Holy Night,” Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” Luther Vandross’s “With a Christmas Heart,” and Richard Rodgers’s “My Favorite Things.”

The event will also feature vocalists Jamie Carganilla, Maiya Sykes, and Drew Tablak, along with a dynamic lineup of cirque performers. Joining them are the choir from Apple Valley’s Granite Hills High School, directed by Shane Churchill, and dancers from A.B. Miller High School Conservatory of Dance, led by Aisha Bardge and Nicole Robinson.

The concert will conclude with a spirited audience sing-along, a moment that Parnther describes as the highlight of the annual performance. “Seeing everyone on their feet raising their voices in song last year brought a tear to my eye,” Parnther said in a statement. “I anticipate it will do the same this year.”

Pre-Concert Festivities and Community Giving

Before the main event, the Dickens Carolers from the Inland Valley Repertory Theatre will serenade attendees in the lobby starting at 2 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys to donate to the Children’s Fund of San Bernardino, adding a spirit of giving to the celebration.

Tickets and Venue Details

Tickets for “A Christmas Festival” range from $20 to $100 and can be purchased at sanbernardinosymphony.org or by calling 909-381-5388, Monday through Friday. Discounts are available for students and active military personnel, with tickets priced at $15.

The California Theatre of the Performing Arts is located at 562 W. Fourth St., San Bernardino. Complimentary, lighted parking is available across from the theater with access from E Street.

Debut of the San Bernardino Youth Symphony Orchestra

On Monday, Dec. 15, the newly established San Bernardino Youth Symphony Orchestra will hold its inaugural performance at 3 p.m. at the San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium, located at 701 S. Mount Vernon Ave. Tickets for this concert are $10 and can be purchased at sanbernardinosymphony.org or the door.

Celebrate the season with the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra and experience an unforgettable day of music, community, and holiday spirit.