The Lehighton Boys and Girls Band will hold its annual Christmas concert at 2 p.m. on Dec. 14 at the Lehighton Boys and Girls Band Hall, 197 N. Sixth St., Lehighton.

This year’s concert theme is “What This Concert Needs is More Jingle Bells!” with several selections featuring or inspired by the festive tune “Jingle Bells.” The band consists of students from fourth through 12th grade.

The concert will kick off with Mariah Carey’s popular hit “All I Want for Christmas is You,” followed by “Deck the Halls with Chips and Salsa,” a lively Latin-inspired version of the classic “Deck the Halls.” This upbeat rendition is a favorite among the band members.

Next, the band will perform the timeless “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” arranged by Victor Lopez, featuring a trumpet solo by band member Molly Zacharias. This will be followed by the playful “Jingle Bell Polka,” complete with a catchy melody and countermelody.

The program continues with the beloved Christmas carol “O Little Town of Bethlehem” and the stirring hymn “O Come All Ye Faithful.”

No Christmas concert would be complete without a festive nod to Santa, so the band will perform a lively version of “Jolly Old Saint Nicholas.” The next selection, “All is Not Calm,” starts with a serene rendition of Silent Night, only to be interrupted by spontaneous bursts of “Jingle Bells” and “Jolly Old St. Nicholas.” This playful and unexpected piece is a crowd favorite.

The band will then perform “Nightmare on the Housetop,” a unique twist on “Up on the Housetop” written in a minor key. The eerie arrangement leaves the audience wondering if it’s meant for Christmas or Halloween.

Finally, the concert will conclude with a lively rendition of the classic “Jingle Bells,” arranged by Mike Story.

Admission is free, though donations are welcome and appreciated.

The band is under the direction of Bradly R. Cressley.

The Boys and Girls Band offers affordable music lessons on all band instruments. Those interested in lessons can contact the band at 610-377-1860.