via Wikimedia Commons
Despite originally being conceived as an Easter composition, George Frideric Handel’s three-part oratorio – charting Christ’s birth, persecution, and resurrection – has been thoroughly co-opted by Christmas, and all the better. Austin Symphony Orchestra and Chorus Austin combine forces to perform the three-hour work in its entirety, including the Hallelujah chorus, a forever banger. But you’re gonna need sustenance – show up early to sample on-site vendors Jojo Bakery (cookies and burgers), Grandpa’s Glizzys (hot dogs), Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Trianon Coffee – and look out for photo opportunities to make it a night to remember. – Kimberley Jones