AdventFest

Sunday, December 1 | After Worship

Join us for AdventFest on Sunday, December 1, and make your own Advent wreath! We will supply pine branches, candles, and all the materials—you just need to supply the creativity. There will also be activities for kids and holiday snacks. Even if you don’t think of yourself as “crafty,” this will be a fun event with something for everyone!

New this year: We’re kicking off our Grateful Gathering series by celebrating all things Education! During AdventFest, we’ll share a brief video highlighting the ministry’s impact and honor the incredible volunteers who make it all possible.

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Clara & The Nutcracker

Sunday, December 8 | 1:30 PM

In collaboration with talented musicians from the Manhattan School of Music, Harmony In Motion presents Clara & the Nutcracker – A Christmas Story through Music. Experience a free afternoon of music and holiday magic at Riverside, perfect for children and families! Enjoy inspiring performances by emerging young musicians, unique compositions, and festive activities in a concert designed to ignite a love of music in New York’s young people. This special event features live classical, jazz, and contemporary music, along with short demonstrations of the instruments and styles you’ll experience. Perfect for children up to middle school, this experience promises to bring holiday joy to all.

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MCD’s The Nutcracker

Performances Run December 13-15

Join us for The Nutcracker, a beloved holiday classic presented by Mooney/Cooley Dance and The Riverside Church! After receiving the gift of a beloved nutcracker from her Uncle Drosselmeyer, the magic of this timeless ballet begins! Dolls come to life, battles ensue, and Clara travels through the Land of the Snowflakes to meet the Sugarplum Fairy and her guests in the Land of the Sweets. Featuring local young dancers alongside a cast of seasoned professionals, this family-friendly ballet is sure to get you in the holiday spirit!

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Maranatha Christmas Celebration with a Purpose

Saturday, December 14 | 6:00 PM

Come celebrate the season with us at the Maranatha Annual Christmas Celebration with a Purpose! Enjoy a festive evening filled with delicious dinner, live entertainment, DJ music, dancing, carol singing, and great fellowship in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Toy and Book Drive: In partnership with Social Services and the Food Pantry, we will be collecting new toys and books for children in need.

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Candlelight Carol Festival

Sunday, December 15 | 4:00 PM

This longstanding tradition has become an essential part of Christmas in New York City. This service of music and light combines carillon, organ, harp, and all the choirs of The Riverside Church, culminating in a ritual sharing of candlelight illuminating the nave. The Candlelight Carol Festival will take place in person at The Riverside Church in the City of New York and is also viewable anywhere in the world via livestream. Musical prelude begins at 3:00 PM.

New this year! After the concert, join us for a festive buffet dinner. Proceeds from the dinner will support Riverside’s social services programs.

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Give & Serve this Holiday Season

There are many ways to let your light shine by contributing to Riverside’s programs and ministries this holiday season. Whether through volunteering your time, making a tribute gift, or supporting a specific initiative, your generosity will have a lasting impact on our community and the lives we touch.

Let Your Light Shine