Sunday holiday shows on tap at Columbia area churches

This time of the year offers a special treat at area churches and worship centers, with special shows and programs to celebrate the holidays – from pageants and singing trees to live nativities and more.

We’ve pulled together five favorites.

Christmas Pageant

Celebrating its 28th year, First Baptist Church of Columbia’s pageant features 400 children and adults, the church’s 200-person choir and a full orchestra. In addition to performing holiday favorites such as “Jingle Bells” and “Oh Holy Night,” the show includes drama, dancing and elaborate costumes and sets such as converting the stage into the town of Bethlehem.

Sing-Along Messiah

Washington Street United Methodist began its Sing-Along Messiah in 2002. Conducted by Lillian Quackenbush, Sing-Along Messiah is comprised of a 20-member professional orchestra and a core choir with singers from seven area churches and professional singing groups. The more than 600 people who attend are invited to join in the singing as participants rather than an audience.

Singing Christmas Tree

This year will be the 25th anniversary of the 30-foot-tall Singing Christmas Tree at Shandon Baptist Church. The tree features 70,000 lights, more than 200 singers and an orchestra.

Christmas at the Barn

Lexington Baptist Church once again host Christmas at the Barn at Harmon’s Tree Farm in Gilbert. The family-friendly event features live Christmas music, a nativity – complete with live animals – a bonfire, hot chocolate, s’mores and hayrides.

Live Outdoor Nativity Drama

Living Springs Lutheran will host its 30-minute outdoor nativity dramatic presentation with live animals, characters and musical interludes. Attendees are invited to bring lawn chairs for the performances since it is not a walk-through or drive-through event. After the presentation, children can interact with the animals and characters. Hot chocolate and cider will be served.

This story was originally published December 8, 2015 at 4:38 PM.