For about four decades, the Celebrate Christmas Concert has been more than just a musical performance—it’s a cornerstone of how we as a community celebrate tradition. This event has historically been a dazzling display of student artistry and excellence that ushers in the holiday season for thousands across Southern California. This year, the event will make a historic on-campus debut, being held at Azusa Pacific University’s Felix Event Center.
This year’s concert promises to be a homecoming in every sense of the word. After nearly 40 years of being hosted at off-campus venues, the concert’s debut on APU grounds marks a symbolic full circle—bringing the heart of APU’s musical and spiritual celebration back to where it all began.
Since its inception in 1985, Celebrate Christmas has grown from a small local concert to a full-scale production that draws crowds from across Southern California. What began as a simple gathering of student musicians has evolved into a multi-ensemble celebration, featuring APU’s acclaimed choirs, orchestra, jazz band, and soloists.
“The concert blends beloved holiday classics with sacred music, culminating in a powerful musical retelling of the Nativity story,” said Brian Sidders, director of APU’s Men’s Chorale.
With its uplifting messages and professional-caliber performances, it is no wonder that families and alumni return year after year.
The decision to host the 40th anniversary concert on campus is both practical and symbolic. The Felix Event Center, typically home to Cougar Athletics and campus-wide gatherings, will be transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, sounds, and sacred storytelling. For students and faculty, the move represents a unique opportunity to share their gifts in the very heart of the APU community.
At the heart of Celebrate Christmas is the extraordinary talent and dedication of APU’s music students. Months of preparation go into each performance, with rehearsals starting as early as September. From the soaring harmonies of the University Choir and Orchestra to the soulful rhythms of the Jazz Ensemble, every note is a clear testament to the students’ artistry and faith.
Celebrate Christmas 2025 will take place on Saturday, December 6, with performances at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the Felix Event Center on APU’s West Campus. Tickets are now available and can be purchased online at apu.edu/celebratechristmas. Given the significance of this year’s event and the new on-campus location, early ticket reservations are strongly encouraged.
Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a longtime fan, this year’s concert offers a rare opportunity to witness a beloved tradition in a new light—rooted in the past, alive in the present, and looking forward to the future.
In a world that often feels hurried and fragmented, Celebrate Christmas offers something rare: a moment of pause, a gathering of hearts, and a reminder of the story that changed everything. It’s a space where music becomes ministry, and where the APU community—students, alumni, faculty, and neighbors—come together in harmony.
As the 40th annual Celebrate Christmas approaches, one thing is clear: this isn’t only a concert. It is a legacy—and this year, that legacy comes home.