A Heartwarming, Festive and Musical Start to the Season in the Village

Carlsbad Village was filled with music, energy, and holiday spirit during our Musical Kickoff to the Holidays on Friday evening. Families, neighbors, and visitors gathered as the Fountain Parking Lot transformed into a warm and lively seasonal venue, complete with hot cocoa, cookies, and a full lineup of student performers who brought the night to life.

The celebration showcased an extraordinary range of talent from across Carlsbad Unified School District. The evening opened with a beautiful vocal solo performance by Abbey Zavala and continued with standout performances by the Carlsbad High School Holiday Jazz Band, Aviara Oaks Middle School Jazz Band, Valley Middle School Chamber Orchestra, Carlsbad High School MelloLadies, Carlsbad High School Carolers, Sage Creek High School Jazz Combo, the Carlsbad Unified Mariachi Club, the Sage Creek High School Cello Trio, and the Carlsbad Tri-M Orchestra, before closing with a final set by the Carlsbad High School Holiday Jazz Band. Each group brought its own unique style and spirit, creating a night filled with joyful music and heartfelt community pride.

We extend our gratitude to all the students, directors, and families whose dedication made these performances possible.We’re also grateful to our friends at Barons Market and Better Buzz Coffee for keeping everyone warm, fed, and cheerful throughout the evening.

A special note of appreciation goes to the Carlsbad Educational Foundation (CEF). CEF is truly the financial backbone of the music programs that performed on Friday, providing essential yearly support that allows schools to hire coaches, repair instruments, and purchase new ones. Their ongoing commitment helps ensure that Carlsbad students continue to have meaningful access to high-quality music education. If you felt inspired by the talent on display, we encourage you to consider a donation to CEF, whose work enriches music, science, technology, and scholarship opportunities throughout the Carlsbad Unified School District.

It was a wonderful night in the Village, one that reflected the creativity, togetherness, and holiday cheer that makes downtown Carlsbad such a special place. We are grateful to everyone who joined us in kicking off the season in true community spirit!