A Wassail tradition returns with a sampler of holiday songs performed by Wrensong on the Mezzanine following the Horse & Carriage Parade around the Green.

Wrensong is an a cappella choral group from Vermont’s Upper Valley that focuses on the vocal treasures of the Renaissance. Their repertoire ranges from the secular to the religious, and concerts often include narration aimed at giving audiences a context for listening with understanding. For the holiday program, singers present a mix of songs – some simple, some familiar, some more complex, and some sing-along.

Wrensong’s 2025 holiday program traces the enduring human impulse to celebrate light, hope, and renewal through song.

Beginning with the rousing 13th-century processional chant Alle Psallite, they explore the rich tapestry of sacred and seasonal music across the ages. They include the exquisite 15th-century carol There Is No Rose of Swych Vertu and the luminous O Magnum Mysterium by Jacobus Clemens non Papa, as well as hymns honoring the Virgin Mary by William Byrd and Tomás Luis de Victoria, reflecting the deep reverence of the Renaissance.

The lively traditional spiritual Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow, the beautiful shape-note style carol Bethlehem by 18th century American composer William Billings, and beloved Christmas carols express the warmth and vitality of community celebration. Music honoring Hanukkah and the winter solstice broadens the lens of festivity and reflection.

The program concludes with timeless popular favorites — Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire and Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! — reminding us that, across centuries and traditions, music continues to bring joy, comfort, and shared meaning to the season.

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Free and open to the public. Seating is limited; first-come, first-seated.