Christmas Music at The Basilica
In its 19th year, the annual holiday Concert for Charity features the Catholic University Chorus of over 130 singers accompanied by their Symphony Orchestra, as well as the Basilica Choir.
The concert, held at the Bacilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception packs music lovers into the basilica’s upper church pews to standing-room-only capacity, so plan on arriving early.
The concerts usually include vocal and instrumental pieces by famous composers such as Wagner and Bach.
The BNSIC is the patronal (guardian or protector) church for U.S. Catholics. The lower church was completed in 1926 and has been in use since, while the larger upper church was completed in the late 1950s. Visited by hundreds of thousands of the faithful a year, it’s a religious site for worship and pilgrimage.
During my recent visit on Sunday, I took a leisurely walk around the grounds and upper and crypt levels.
Starting outside, you can walk around the entire building, viewing the grounds, building and gardens.
The lower crypt level has numerous chapels, halls and prayer rooms, as well as many statues and several artifact displays including a gold metallic embroidered stole worn by Pope John XXIII.
The massive upper church included stained glass windows, many alcoves, and the tile covered dome ceiling. It’s also where main services and the concert are held.
Guided tours are offered daily, but it’s best to call for schedules.
Tours - Guided tours are offered Monday - Saturday - 9:00 a.m - 11:00 a.m., 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. as well as between 1:30 - 4:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Christmas Concert for Charity
National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
400 Michigan Ave., NE - Upper Church
Washington, DC (map it)
202-526-8300
Concert Date and Time - Friday, Dec. 7th, 7:30 p.m., but arrive early for a seat.
Tickets - Free, with donations being accepted for Providence Hospital’s Perry Family Health Center, helping provide healthcare for low-income DC residents.
Nearest Metro Subway Station - Brookland-CUA, Red line, then a 3-block walk, adjacent to the Catholic Univ. campus.
Parking - street and lot parking is available.
Images - Personal Collection
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