Elkhart Historical Society’s 2026 Christmas Candlelight Services at St. John the Baptist Chapel
Celebrate the wonder of the Christmas season with the Elkhart Historical Society’s 36th annual Candlelight Service titled, “Christmas at Valley Forge” on December 5. The historic St. John the Baptist Chapel in Elkhart will glow with candlelight as we gather for this treasured holiday tradition. Choose from services at 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m., or 8:00 p.m. Each service lasts approximately one hour.
Let the music and story of the season fill your heart. The program will feature Marcy Brooks on keyboard and organ, narrator Mark Anderson, vocalists Jay, Megan and Olson Drake and cellist Diana Rai. Come enjoy their inspiring performances amid the soft candlelight and timeless beauty of the stone chapel atop Elkhart Hill.
Reservations are required, so gather your family and friends and call early! Reservations may be made by calling 217-947-2238 and will be accepted in the order received. The reservation line is open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Members may begin calling on October 26, and reservations open to the general public on October 28. Admission is $15 per person. Reservation forms can be found by going to our website elkharthistoricalsociety.org.
Turn your visit into a festive day in Elkhart by pairing the service with a delicious meal. For lunch reservations only at the Wild Hare Café, please call 217-947-2100. For dinner reservations at Oma’s Kitchen and Bierhaus, visit elkhartstation.com. Dining reservations should be made directly with the restaurant. Since each service lasts approximately one hour, we recommend making dinner reservations for after your service. If you plan to eat beforehand, please arrive at the chapel at least 15 minutes before your service begins. As you plan your holiday outing, kindly remember that there are no restrooms at the chapel.
