Every year, the Lake Forest High School Music Department creates a night of amazing holiday music and cheer, and rounds it out with an amazing spaghetti dinner. Unfortunately, however, this will be the second year that COVID has halted the tradition.

Last year, the department held a Virtual Holiday Concert and collaborated with Chief’s Pub to provide a pick-up dinner option. 

Fortunately, in-person concerts have returned this year. However, the in-person spaghetti dinner is still not a feasible option, are partnering with Ferentino’s to provide a pick-up dinner option that will benefit the music programs. There will also be an auction sponsored by Applause with items including parking spaces, locker choice, and a coffee drink every day for 2nd semester.

Looking into the history of the event, Joan Smoron, a member of the original committee of moms that spearheaded the event, said her daughters were in the band when it started around 1987 or 1988. 

“We started it as a way to raise money, but it didn’t initially include the orchestra and choir. It was really just a lot of fun! All the moms cooked, and eventually we perfected our recipe. It was successful enough to keep going, and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves,” she said. “It’s amazing that it’s still going! Of course, it’s much more elaborate now, more modernized.” 

Throughout the years that LFHS has been hosting the event, thousands have enjoyed the festive atmosphere. Whether it be simply attending or participating as a musician, it is always a memorable night. 

“My favorite memory was definitely playing with flute choir!” LFHS band alum Lianna Wisneski said. “It was so fun walking around and playing all the music that we worked so hard on. My favorite piece was “Carol Of The Bells.” It was fun to hear all the other music that different groups had been working on all year that we wouldn’t have been able to hear otherwise.” 

As the event progressed throughout the years, it became increasingly popular, leading to the inclusion of both the band and choir. 

“It is such a great way for people to get a sprinkling of all we do. The Madrigals are singing in the cafeteria, and at the same time the Holiday Winds are serenading people coming through the door. I also love that all the concerts are on the same day, so I’m able to enjoy what the other programs have been working on!” choir accompanist Mrs. Natasha Mah said. 

This year, the music department  is thrilled to be back  performing in person. Even moreso, they are looking ahead to the future in hopes of reimplementing the historic in-person Spaghetti Dinner next year. 

“The Holiday Concerts and Spaghetti Dinner have always been a highlight of the holiday season and a fabulous opportunity to share the musical gifts of our wonderful students with the community. After the isolation of online learning, these shared experiences are more important than ever and music brings us together in a way few things can,” Kessler said.