Lone Star College-Montgomery Announces Holiday Benefit Concert and Tree Lighting Events

Lone Star College-Montgomery is preparing to host its annual Holiday Benefit Concert on Dec. 3 and a community tree lighting celebration on Dec. 4, Community Impact reported.

The two-day series of events aims to bring families from Conroe, The Woodlands, and surrounding areas to the campus for seasonal activities and live performances. Beyond the festivities, the college uses these gatherings to support local nonprofit work and showcase student achievement in the arts.

Musical performances benefit Angel Reach

The Holiday Benefit Concert will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 3, in the Mainstage Theatre located in Building D. The program is expected to run for approximately 90 minutes and will feature four distinct musical ensembles alongside performances from the college’s dance department.

The featured musical groups include the Chamber Choir, a vocal ensemble selected through auditions, and the Concert Choir, which brings together both students and community members. The instrumental lineup features the Montgomery Chamber Orchestra and the Symphonic Band.

For the students involved, the evening serves as a significant academic milestone. Michael Walsh, Dean of Instruction for the Creative Arts and Education Division, noted that the concert acts as a capstone performance for the semester.

“Beyond the music, it’s about bringing our community together for a wonderful night of entertainment that directly supports a meaningful cause,” Walsh said. Michael Walsh

The concert also functions as a fundraiser. Each year, the college selects a nonprofit to receive the proceeds from ticket sales, which typically total around $2,500. This year, the beneficiary is Angel Reach, a Conroe-based organization that supports young adults transitioning out of the foster care system.

Previous recipients of these funds include Guitars 4 Vets and Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Because the Mainstage Theatre holds roughly 325 people and the event historically sells out, organizers recommend reserving tickets early through the Lone Star College-Montgomery performing arts website.

Family activities at the Maverick Merry & Bright event

The celebrations continue on Friday, Dec. 4, with the Maverick Merry & Bright Holiday Tree Lighting. This free event begins at 5:30 p.m. outside Building C, with the official lighting of the tree scheduled for 6:30 p.m.

The college has planned several activities intended for families and community members, including:

Photos with Santa Claus
Live musical performances by college students
Food trucks and hot chocolate
Holiday crafts and a festive movie
A scholarship raffle benefiting Lone Star College-Montgomery students

Connecting the community through the arts

The college uses these events to bridge the gap between academic instruction and community engagement. Musical participation at Lone Star College-Montgomery is not restricted to enrolled students; community members of various ages and backgrounds can join the college’s various ensembles.

Walsh highlighted the intergenerational nature of these programs, recalling a jazz ensemble that included musicians ranging from 16 to 80 years old. He noted that the college’s mission extends beyond providing workforce certifications and education.

“We provide the community not just with education and skills and certifications so that they can join the workforce, but we also provide the community with entertainment opportunities,” Walsh said.

By hosting these public events, the college intends to encourage more residents from the Conroe and The Woodlands areas to visit the campus, whether to attend future performances or to participate in the arts themselves.

Holiday event details

Event	Date & Time	Location	Admission
Holiday Benefit Concert	Dec. 3, 7 p.m.	Mainstage Theatre, Building D	Tickets required
Maverick Merry & Bright	Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m.	Outside Building C	Free

Common questions about the holiday celebrations

Where can I buy tickets for the holiday concert?
Tickets are available through the Lone Star College-Montgomery performing arts website. Attendees are encouraged to book early as the 325-seat theater typically reaches capacity.

Which organization is receiving the concert proceeds?
All ticket proceeds from the Dec. 3 concert will benefit Angel Reach, a local nonprofit that assists young adults transitioning out of foster care.

Are there activities for children at the tree lighting?
Yes. The Dec. 4 event includes children’s activities, holiday crafts, a festive movie, and photos with Santa Claus.