All performances are free and open to the public.
The Christmas Candlelight Service is a community tradition that began in 1942, inaugurated by Cathedral Choir director Dr. Mabel Oieson. The Cathedral of the Ozarks is decorated for the season with dozens of poinsettias, white lights, wreaths, and green boughs that create a festive atmosphere. Each year the audience is filled to capacity with visitors from Bella Vista, Fayetteville, Springdale, and Oklahoma. Early arrivers are greeted by a traditional organ and brass prelude at 7 p.m. The Cathedral Choir, directed by Paul Smith, then presents a variety of Christmas choral selections that tell the story of the Christ Child, ranging in style from familiar Christmas melodies to African music. The musical selections are interspersed with Christmas reflections and Scripture readings.