November 29, 2025 [Cornelius, North Carolina] – Members of NCYO’s Orchestra and Philhamonic braved the cold to welcome Santa, entertain festival goers, and ring in the holiday season as the opening act at Light Up Cornelius. The two ensembles came together to present classics such as Christmas with the Nutcracker, Sleigh Ride, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, and Christmas Sing-a-Long Medley featuring hymns such as O Come All Ye Faithful, Silent Night, and more. Festival goers even learned a little Christmas music history. The ensemble performed The Christmas Waltz, which was written for singer Frank Sinatra in 1954 and was the first Christmas waltz written. A waltz is a song written in 3/4 time, said NCYO director Eric Boruff. Midway through the performance Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in style in two Cornelius firetrucks. The pair were the epitome of holiday spirit dressed in their iconic matching red velvet and white fur trimmed suit and dress, respectively. Following NCYO’s performance, merry makers were treated to a tree lighting, pictures with Santa, and more.
