Submitted by Rachel Schemmerling
(November 15, 2026) — Are you looking for a special New England Christmas, where familiar traditions, festive gatherings, and the warmth of community make the season memorable? Look no further. This December, the Congregational Church in Killingworth invites families, friends, and neighbors from Killingworth and surrounding towns to share in a season filled with Christmas cheer, music, beautiful decorations, and cherished traditions. From the excitement of the annual Christmas Fair to the beauty of a sanctuary filled with poinsettias, the delight of children reenacting the Nativity, and the peaceful glow of a candlelit Christmas Eve, there are many opportunities to celebrate the season together.
Christmas Fair — December 5, 2026, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The holiday season gets off to a festive start with the church’s beloved annual Christmas Fair, a wonderful tradition that brings together neighbors and friends for a day of shopping, seasonal treats, and good old-fashioned Christmas cheer. Visitors will find beautiful wreaths and seasonal arrangements, handmade creations, unique gifts, and special treasures perfect for holiday giving. The ever-popular cookie sale features an irresistible assortment of homemade Christmas cookies, sold by the pound and lovingly packaged by the church’s cheerful volunteer elves.
The Fair also features a silent auction filled with gift certificates, artwork, decorative items, and other delightful finds. Take a break from shopping to enjoy lunch, visit with friends, and soak up the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, picking up a wreath for your front door, or simply enjoying a little holiday spirit, the Christmas Fair is a wonderful way to begin the season. Bring the whole family and make a day of it!
Poinsettia Sunday — December 13, 2026, 10:00 a.m. Worship Service
Few sights capture the beauty of Christmas quite like a church sanctuary filled with brilliant red poinsettias, twinkling lights, and festive decorations. On December 13, 2026 the Congregational Church in Killingworth will celebrate Poinsettia Sunday during its 10 a.m. worship service. These beautiful Christmas flowers, traditionally given in honor or memory of loved ones, help transform the historic sanctuary into a breathtaking setting for the season.
Christmas poinsettias are available to order for $12.99 each, with delivery to the church for Poinsettia Sunday on December 13, 2026. Everyone is warmly invited to attend worship and enjoy the beauty of the decorated sanctuary.
Come Sing Christmas — December 13, 2026, 3:00 p.m.
What would Christmas be without the music we all know and love? Everyone is invited to Come Sing Christmas, a joyful afternoon of favorite Christmas carols, familiar melodies, and the simple pleasure of singing together.
This free, family-friendly gathering is for all ages and all voices. You don’t have to be a choir member or even a particularly good singer. Just bring your Christmas spirit and enjoy the music! With the sounds of bells, beloved carols, and warm holiday refreshments, it’s an opportunity to slow down, share a little joy, and celebrate the season with friends, family, and neighbors. Whether you’re young or young at heart, there’s something special about singing the songs of Christmas together. All are welcome.
Children’s Christmas Pageant — December 20, 2026, 10:00 a.m. Worship Service
One of the most heartwarming traditions of the Christmas season comes to life on Sunday, December 20, when the children of the Congregational Church in Killingworth present the Christmas story during the 10 a.m. worship service. With children portraying Mary, Joseph, shepherds, angels, and other familiar figures, the annual Christmas Pageant brings the story of the Nativity to life in a way that is both touching and memorable.
There is something especially endearing about seeing the Christmas story through the eyes of children, complete with the excitement, innocence, and occasional unexpected moments that make a children’s pageant so delightful. Families, grandparents, friends, and neighbors are warmly invited to enjoy this cherished tradition and share in the joy and wonder of Christmas.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service — December 24, 2026, 7:00 p.m.
As Christmas Eve arrives and the excitement of the season gives way to a quieter kind of wonder, the Congregational Church in Killingworth welcomes the community to its traditional Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.
There is a timeless beauty in gathering inside the historic church on Christmas Eve, surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight, the sounds of familiar Christmas music, and the warmth of family and friends.
This meaningful service offers a peaceful moment to reflect on the true spirit of Christmas, celebrate the birth of Christ, and share in a cherished holiday tradition. For many families, attending a candlelight service is one of the most treasured moments of the season, a beautiful way to welcome Christmas together.
Whether you attend church regularly, are visiting family for the holidays, or are simply looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Christmas Eve, you are warmly invited.
A Place for Everyone This Christmas
For generations, the Congregational Church in Killingworth has been a gathering place for worship, friendship, and community life. During the Christmas season, the historic church on the hill becomes an especially welcoming place to reconnect with neighbors, create family memories, and enjoy the traditions that make this time of year so special. All five celebrations welcome the community, and everyone is encouraged to join in the spirit of the season.
The Congregational Church in Killingworth is located at 273 Route 81 in Killingworth. For more information, visit www.killingworthchurch.org or call 860-663-1789. Come celebrate the season, share the joy, and make Christmas memories with your family and neighbors!
