Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra: Good Tidings! Holiday Concert
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Artistic rendering โ€“ Event may differ

Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra: Good Tidings! Holiday Concert

Get into the holiday spirit with the Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra's 'Good Tidings!' concert. This beloved family event features a spectacular performance of Francis Poulenc's 'Gloria' by the orchestra and renowned university choirs. Enjoy festive songs from the film 'Home Alone', traditional carols, and a special sing-along that will fill the air with cheer. A visit from Santa Claus adds to the magic, making it an unforgettable start to the holiday season.

What to Expect

Holiday concert featuring symphony orchestra and multiple choirs

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ โ€“ Get tickets
  • Parking: Parking garage entrances and street parking on Oregon Street should be accessed from Goodwin Avenue due to construction and street closures.
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Other Christmas Events Near Champaign

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families, holiday enthusiasts, classical music lovers

Vibe

Festive, joyful, elegant

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (3/5)

Weather Sensitivity

None

Special Events & Promotions

  • A visit from Santa Claus
  • Christmas carol sing-along

Tags

concertsclassical musicfamily friendlyholiday entertainmentfestive foodcommunity celebrationholiday traditionseasonal activitiesChristmas showlive entertainment

Location

Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
Champaign, IL

Event Details

Duration

Approx. 2 hours (includes intermission)

Ages

Family-friendly

Timed Entry

No

Featured Performers

  • Stephen Alltop
  • Emily Birsan
  • University of Illinois Meredith Chamber Singers
  • University of Illinois Oratorio Society
  • Central Illinois Youth Chorus

Organizer

Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra

Food & Drink

Bottled water allowed

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to find parking, as access to the Oregon Street parking garage and street parking may be affected by construction. Use Goodwin Avenue for access.
  • Consider purchasing tickets in advance, as this is a popular family event and a favorite for kicking off the holiday season.
  • Check the Krannert Center's website for the most up-to-date information on prohibited items, as backpacks, large bags, food, and beverages (other than bottled water) are not allowed in the concert hall.
  • This concert is ideal for families with children, offering a joyful and engaging experience with familiar holiday tunes and a sing-along.
  • The event features a mix of classical holiday pieces and popular film music, offering something for every musical taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the program for the 'Good Tidings!' concert?

The concert includes works like J. S. Bach's 'Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme', Francis Poulenc's 'Gloria', John Williams' songs from 'Home Alone', Leroy Anderson's 'Sleigh Ride', and a Christmas carol sing-along, concluding with Handel's 'Hallelujah Chorus'.

Who will be performing at the concert?

The concert features the Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Stephen Alltop, with soprano Emily Birsan. They will be joined by the University of Illinois Meredith Chamber Singers, the University of Illinois Oratorio Society, and the Central Illinois Youth Chorus.

Is this event suitable for children?

Yes, this is a beloved family event designed to be enjoyable for music lovers of all ages, featuring uplifting songs and a visit from Santa Claus.

Where is the concert held and what are the parking arrangements?

The concert is held at the Foellinger Great Hall, Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. Due to construction, access to parking on Oregon Street should be from Goodwin Avenue.

What is the ticket price for the 'Good Tidings!' concert?

Ticket prices vary: standard tickets are $45, senior/retired U of I faculty and staff tickets are $40, and youth/student tickets are $10.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 30, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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