On Friday, December 5 at 7:00 p.m., the Turner Hall of Monroe will be turning back the hands of time to a period in the not-so-distant past when Christmas observances were much simpler and without the trappings of modern-day consumerism. This informal family-friendly program will feature the singing of carols of Germanic origin led by members of the Monroe Swiss Singers, as well as the sharing of memories and traditions of Christmases in Switzerland and Germany.

The highlight of the evening will be lighting, with real candles, a freshly-cut live evergreen tree, a custom that was common in many European and American households before the advent of electrity, commercialism and artificial trees. A focal point of many families' Christmases, the decorated Christmas tree had its origins in Germany, probably around the sixteenth century. Martin Luther, the German theologian who lived from 1483 - 1546, is generally credited with originating the use of lights on the tree...in the form of lit candles...in an attempt to describe to his wife and children the beauty of the snow-covered forest under a glittering star-lit sky.

Also included in the event will be the 3rd Annual Gingerbread House Contest. Entries are due at Turner Hall no later than Tuesday, November 30, and will be voted on at the Tree Lighting Event. An entry blank with complete rules is available here.

Hot cider and hot chocolate, along with special Christmas treats graciously provided by The Swiss Colony of Monroe, will round out the evening. There is no admission charge for the event, but free-will donations will be accepted for the Turner Hall of Monroe.

The Alpine Carol Sing & Tree Lighting, as well as other programs during 2010, is part of Turner Hall's on-going Swiss Heritage Series. More information on the Swiss Heritage Series is available here.