The Oldest And Very First Singing Christmas Tree In The Country Is Here In Mississippi

If you’re looking for a unique, magical activity to add to your seasonal itinerary, we’ve got the perfect one – the Singing Christmas Tree. The joyful display includes dozens of singers, who are standing on a 35’ Christmas tree-shaped platform. A Jackson tradition for decades, the Singing Christmas Tree is always the 1st weekend in December, which means it’s quickly approaching. Read on for all the details so you don’t miss this festive event.

A longtime favorite, Belhaven University’s Singing Christmas Tree is heading into its 91st year!

Always held during the first weekend in December, the 2023 Singing Christmas Tree concert takes place on December 1 and 2.

Truly a site to see, the Singing Christmas Tree has been named “one of the top 20 events in the Southeast.”

Throughout the years, it’s been recognized by countless publications, including Southern Living.

Each year, it brings thousands of people to the university.

The festive favorite began back in 1933, making it North America’s oldest singing Christmas tree.

Over the years, the “tree” has grown to include 100 singers, who are strategically positioned on a 35’ tall wooden and metal tree-shaped structure.

The Singing Christmas Tree starts off by performing a variety of popular Christmas carols, such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”

The second portion of the concert is devoted to celebrating the true reason for the season - the birth of Jesus Christ.

There’s more to the Singing Christmas Tree than great music, though.

In addition to lights synchronized to the music, the performers wear white robes with reflective collars and tiara, which amplify the visual impact of the tree.

Though many upgrades have been made throughout the years, a few things have remained the same, such as the concert concluding with an honored soloist performing “O Holy Night.”

Another tradition includes artificial snowfall during "White Christmas."

The Singing Christmas Tree is made up of current and past students as well as faculty and staff.

Family members of students, alumni, faculty, and staff are also eligible to be a part of the Singing Christmas Tree.

Watch Belhaven University’s Singing Christmas Tree performance in this video from Belhaven University:

Remember, this year's Singing Christmas Tree concerts are on December 1 and 2. Admission is complimentary. For more information on the Singing Christmas Tree, visit its website for the current schedule. You can also call the Music Department at (601) 974-6494.

Have you ever been to the Singing Christmas Tree in Mississippi? If so, what do you think? If you know of another wonderful festive event tell us all about it in the comments section.