For the 73^rd year in a row, Grant Hall will be ringing with the sounds of the season as the Engineering Society of Queen’s University hosts the Festival of Cheer.

The event is an opportunity for students and members of the Kingston community to come together, sing holiday music, listen to unique musical groups and spread holiday cheer.

Formerly the Festival of Carols, event co-ordinator Rebecca Wytsma says the change was made to reflect the diversity of the programming. This year the Queen’s Muslim Student Association, Queen’s Hillel and the Anglican Church, among others, will bring their own unique sounds and stories to the celebration.

The youth in the community will also be represented this year by the Young Choristers.

“It’s important to us to spread holiday cheer and bring the community and students together,” says Wytsma. “It is very important to keep this tradition going.”

Queen’s University Chaplain Kate Johnson is helping with the event this year and says it’s positive in many ways.

“The students have always provided the leadership and dedication to ensure this has been a tradition for 73 years," she says. "It’s such an amazing and joyful event that welcomes everyone with open arms. It’s wonderful.”

The event is running on Sunday, Nov. 25 at 7:30 pm at Grant Hall. Donations to the food bank are welcome and everyone is invited to stay afterwards for refreshments.

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