It’s no secret that the holiday spirit is everywhere right now. With December finally here and only 23 days (and counting!) left until Christmas, stores around town are filled to the brim with decorations, ornaments and wrapping paper of all varieties. Many different traditions are kept by families all around the world, from decorating the Christmas tree to stringing lights on their homes, but one tradition that seems to be almost completely forgotten is caroling. Many have never even experienced it firsthand.

  “I’ve never had carolers at my house. My grandpa would always see them coming and walk out the door saying he’s not interested,” commented senior Ciera Beasley. “I think it is meaningless unless you’re with friends and can actually feel the joy and get into the spirit, then it’s nice.”

  Despite the incredible lack of carolers in the area, the McPherson Community still tries to kindle the fire of that tradition.

  On December 1st, the 38th annual carol-along was held at the McPherson Opera House. Students from the MHS Orchestra volunteered to join in on some of the caroling too, playing their instruments alongside the McPherson Community Brass Choir, Church of the Brethren Handbell Ensemble, Elyria Christian High School Choir, Men in Harmony Barbershop Chorus, and other children’s musical groups.

  Many McPherson citizens of all different ages and backgrounds gathered together to join in on the holiday spirit, including senior citizen Dee Talbott. “I love it!” She exclaimed. “This is only my second year going, but it’s just amazing. I love Christmas.”

  Whether the entire town goes caroling or not, the tradition will hopefully remain. After all, in the words of Buddy the Elf, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!”