On Saturday night, guests at the Disneyland Resort for the annual Candlelight Ceremony were treated to the narration of Chris Pratt. Known for his roles in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, the Jurassic World franchise, and also Parks & Recreation, Pratt brought his personality and passion to the role of narrator. As he shared the story of Christmas, he brought his humorous improvisation to the narration. A couple of times he explained what he was reading for those in attendance. At one point even paraphrasing the story that he was reading.
The Candlelight Ceremony is celebrating it’s 60th anniversary this year. Each year a celebrity narrator joins a large choir, orchestra, handbells, fanfare trumpeters, and soloists in front of the Train Station in Town Square to share the story of Christmas. This is a rich tradition that dates all the back to 1958 and Walt Disney.
The Candlelight Procession and Ceremony includes the following songs:
Candlelight Processional Songs (2018):
- Deck the Halls
- O Little Town of Bethlehem
- O Come All Ye Faithful
- O Come, O Come Emmanuel
- God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
- Here We Come A Caroling
- Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Candlelight Ceremony Songs (2018):
- Sing Praise to Him, Our Lord
- The First Noel
- Away in a Manger
- He is Born
- Angels We Have Heard on High
- What Child is This
- We Three Kings
- Sing Noel
- Silent Night
- Joy to the World
- Hallelujah Chorus
All of the Candlelight Ceremony musicians are conducted by Nancy Sulahian.
The Candlelight Ceremony generally takes place at the Disneyland Resort during the first weekend in December. On both Saturday night and Sunday night there are two presentations of this beautiful ceremony. It is a legacy that is the kick off of Christmas for many that participate and attend.
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