‘Festival of Lessons and Carols’ set for live performances Dec. 11-12

Simpson College holiday tradition offered both in-person and online

“Festival of Lessons and Carols,” the Simpson College holiday tradition featuring Scripture readings and holiday hymns, premieres Saturday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. CST inside Smith Chapel with a second performance scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 12 at 2 p.m.

Held virtually in 2020, “Festival of Lessons and Carols” welcomes the return of in-person audiences in 2021 while embracing the benefits of online viewing.

Sunday’s performance will be available via live video stream beginning at 2 p.m. at facebook.com/SimpsonCollege/live. Those planning to attend in-person can reserve their seat by registering for free tickets at simpson.edu/LessonsCarols. Masks will be required for those attending a service in Smith Chapel, in accordance with campus policy.

Simpson College students perform at Lessons and Carols in 2017.
Following a virtual-only performance in 2020, “Lessons and Carols” will hold live performances on Dec. 11 and Dec. 12, 2021. Pictured is the 2017 performance of “Lessons and Carols.”

“We are so excited to again open the chapel doors and welcome our friends and family for this one-of-a-kind tradition,” Simpson College Chaplain Mara Bailey said. “Gathering together as a community creates a powerful connection, one many people crave as we return to normal. This year’s performance will bring some light to what has been a dark time for many.”

“Festival of Lessons and Carols” is a time-honored Simpson College holiday custom dating back to the 1970s. The performance features the Simpson College Choir and is modeled after the traditional English Christmas celebration, “A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.”


About Simpson College
Simpson College is a private, liberal arts college located in Iowa with campuses in Indianola, West Des Moines and online. Founded in 1860, the college has 1,078 undergraduate and graduate students. Simpson offers 75 majors, minors and programs in addition to three graduate programs. Outside of the classroom, Simpson is a member of the NCAA Division III American Rivers Conference, hosts eight Greek houses on campus and sponsors many extracurricular options for student involvement.

Contact Information
Bryan Geelan, marketing communication director
Direct: 515-961-1608
Email: bryan.geelan@simpson.edu