Candlelight Christmas in Rockford

Every year the 1914 Rockford Methodist Church in the historic Village of Rockford hosts a Candlelight Christmas in Rockford.

Gena Poovey, professor of music at Limestone College in Gaffney, South Carolina, started the event in 1991. She returns every year to lead the music with her classically trained voice. The music lineup rotates, often including choral groups from Surry Community College and area high schools, as well as bluegrass and gospel groups.

Acoustics in the church are amazing, adding to the ambience of this traditional Christmas event. At the end of the night, guests receive hot cider and cookies.

Many attendees return every year. “They say they feel like, ‘We’ve done Rockford; now Christmas can begin,’” says Hannah Holyfield, president of the Rockford Preservation Society.

Because of limited parking, guests are asked to park at the Rockford Baptist Church parking lot and ride the shuttle van. Shuttle service begins at 6 p.m.

Each night, prior to the Candlelight Christmas program, two stores in the village are open for holiday shopping. Perlie Chic Boutique is a vintage home decor and clothing store, and the 1900 Post Office building serves as the Rockford Visitors Center and History Museum.

Here are the music lineups for 2023:

Thursday night:

• Dr. Gena Poovey, accompanied by Adam Rudisill
• Jade Kiger and Amy Honeycutt
• Wendy and Johnny Dearmin
• Surry Central High School Chorus directed by Angie Smith

Friday night:

• Dr. Gena Poovey, accompanied by Adam Rudisill
• Beth Cook, Noah Lindemann, Dr. Gena Poovey
• Marshall Brothers and High Road
• VOCE