Candy Caning and Caroling Brighten the Season in North Reading

The North Reading High School band and chorus are spreading holiday cheer by candy caning and caroling. Can't think of the perfect present for someone this year? Have their yard decorated with candy canes, or sponsor caroling at their next event.

This is the fourth year the North Reading Music Department has offered candy caning. Pay $20 to have a neighbor or friend's yard decorated. The candy canes will be put out at night and stay for 24-48 hours. 

"The candy caning is one of our largest fundraisers in the performing arts department. Students can earn most, if not all, of their monies toward our Spring trip each year selling candy canes. And neighborhoods seem to love it," Allison Kane said. "Neighborhoods start 'candy cane wars' with one another sending them back and forth from house to house. Its a great way to treat a neighbor or friend and support the students at North Reading High School."

For more details or to order candy canes, contact parent volunteer Ms. Gonzalas at 978-360-2151 or place an order online.

Another way to benefit a loved one and the music department at the same time is to have band and chorus members perform at a holiday party or event. Performances are available between Dec. 7-9 and Dec. 14-16. Students will perform, for 20 minutes, songs like Silent Night, O Tannenbaum and Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer. A $50 donation is recommended.

"We have been doing this for more than 14 years, that is how long I have been teaching here in North Reading. It is a tradition that started several years before that," Director of Bands Eric Forman said. "We have several return customers that we play their parties every year and are a highlight of the party and season for them. The students really enjoy using their music as a gift to the community and have a good time together as a group performing."

Call Forman at 978-664-7800x 308 or email eforman@north-reading.k12.ma.us to schedule a time. 

Proceeds raised from both fundraisers will go toward the band and chorus’ spring trip to New York City.