For many years, Antioch Community High School hosts Holiday Cafe as a fundraiser for the fine arts department and entertainment for the community. This year, a new name, new location and new traditions will re-shape the winter program taking place Dec. 14 and 15.

The fine arts department made to accommodate parents and students during the busy “trip year.” A trip year is every other year when the ACHS fine arts department takes a group vacation during spring break to perform, learn and have fun. This year, the students are headed to New York in March. For now, however, the focus is on this winter event.

Holiday Lights, as the new program is called, involves performances from the band, orchestra, and drama students just like Holiday Cafe. This year, the entire student body will be invited to try out. Auditions will be held Monday, Nov. 18 after school.

As suggested by the name, the concert features songs from may different winter holidays, like Christmas and Hanukkah. Pieces may also be simply winter-themed like ¨Amid the Falling Snow,¨ or promoting peace like ¨Hope for Resolution.¨ Both of these songs will be performed by the choir.

In years past, Holiday Cafe has been a festively decorated event that took place in ACHS’ cafeteria, albeit somewhat crowded with tables and stages. For Holiday Lights, the concert will be moved to the auditorium, allowing the entire choir, band, and orchestra to perform together. There will also be more space for the audience, along with a better lighting and sound system.

During Holiday Cafe, finger food is served during the performances by students. At the new Holiday Lights, food will still be offered, but only after the concert in the commons to allow patrons to eat and talk freely.

To reserve your seat at Holiday Lights, contact fine arts department chair Wanda Teddy at  (847) 838-7161 or email her at [email protected]. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.