For many people, over several generations, the celebration of the Advent – Christmas – Epiphany season begins with the annual St. Olaf Christmas Festival, a century-old tradition of the college. Over 12000 people attend the annual concerts performed by over 500 student musicians

This year’s festival opens with the world-premiere of Matthew Peterson’s Newborn Glimmer, performed by the St. Olaf Orchestra and conductor Steven Amundson. Newborn Glimmer for orchestra is a joint commission by St. Olaf College, James Madison University, and First Baptist Church San Antonio.