by Kevin Dicciani

Holiday cheer abounded last Friday at Chestnut Hill College’s annual Carol Night as audience members young and old listened to Christmas carols, reveled in an unexpected snowfall, and enjoyed a visit from Santa Claus.

CBS3 anchor Janelle Burrell emceed the event, held on Dec. 6 in the rotunda of St. Joseph Hall. Burrell, who anchors “Eyewitness News” in the morning and at noon, addressed the audience of more than 200 from the Bishop’s staircase amid Christmas trees and garland and lights.

“Nobody does Christmas like Chestnut Hill College,” Burrell said.

As per tradition, the College’s musical groups — its jazz, string, and wind ensembles and the Hill Singers — performed festive songs throughout the evening. Guests from the College community and neighboring towns sang along to the music, filling the rotunda with melodies inseparable from the holiday season. 

After the performances, Santa Claus took the stage and led the crowd in singing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” As they sang, artificial snow drifted down from the rafters, blanketing the rotunda in a gleaming white. Children then had the opportunity to meet with Santa and tell him what they want for Christmas.

“Through music and friendship, our long-held tradition of Carol Night is a celebration of the Christmas spirit,” said Kathleen McCloskey, SSJ, an assistant professor of music and the chair of the College’s music department.