The Golden Triangle Singers will bring holiday cheer to Columbus with a festive community performance on Thursday at 4:30 p.m. at Annunciation Catholic Church. The event is free and open to the public, with a suggested donation of $15.

This year’s concert is presented by Belle Fleur Garden Club, Northwood Garden Club, Galaxy Garden Club, and Columbus Garden Club. The collaboration marks a step forward from last year’s inaugural program, which was hosted solely by Belle Fleur. Choir member and social media coordinator Andrea “Andi” Turner said the enthusiasm from last year’s audience inspired the groups to expand the event. “They enjoyed it so much – they wanted us to come back,” she said.

Turner said organizers expect a higher turnout this year thanks to greater outreach, including social media promotion and local media coverage. The 4:30 p.m. start time, selected by the presenting garden clubs, may be unusual for a concert, but Turner said it serves an important purpose. “It’s helpful for older community members who want to get out while it’s still light,” she said.

The performance will feature mostly traditional Christmas music familiar to many listeners, including “Deck the Halls,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” and the lively mashup “Christmas in Three Minutes.” Contemporary touches include “Where Are You, Christmas?” from “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Turner will perform a solo of “O Holy Night,” and the program includes a piano duet as well. “It’s a good blend – mostly the classics people love, with a few fun surprises,” she said.

The choir typically ranges from 30 to 50 members, and nearly the entire group will be performing this year. “It’s exciting because it’s going to be a fuller, richer sound,” Turner said. “We love singing this music, and it’s really fun to share it with the community. Seeing the joy on people’s faces makes it all worth it.”

The presenting garden clubs play an active role in hosting the event. Last year they organized a post-concert reception with refreshments, and they have handled printing and distributing promotional materials around town. “They’ve been incredibly supportive,” Turner said.

The Golden Triangle Singers hope the concert becomes an anticipated yearly tradition. Turner added that the group is always eager to welcome new members.

“We are open to all who would like to join us in or around the Golden Triangle,” said Turner. “We have members from Columbus, Starkville, West Point, Amory, and have even had people participate from Lamar County, Alabama.”

Audition information for the spring semester will be posted in mid-January on the choir’s Facebook and Instagram pages under “Golden Triangle Singers.”

“The holidays are about joy and connection,” Turner said. “We hope this concert gives people a beautiful start to the season.”