Park Slope's 'Jingle Bell Jamboree' Returns After 4-Year Hiatus

PARK SLOPE, BROOKLYN — An annual holiday singalong at Brooklyn's oldest church is back for the first time since the congregation started a nearly $10 million restoration of the historic building.

The "Jingle Bell Jamboree" will return to Old First Reformed Church on Carroll Street on Dec. 14, months after the 1891 church first reopened after repairing its ceilings, floors and pews earlier this year.

The $1.6 million in repairs came after Old First Reformed church suspended services in its "sanctuary" space in 2011 after realizing its ceiling might not be stable. The church is still working on another $8 million-worth of repairs to the historic building, which was designed by George L. Morse.

This year's jamboree will be the 16th time the concert has been held in the church. It will once again be led by founder and producer Ethan Schlesser, organizers said.

“I’m looking forward to all the fun and joy!" Schlesser said in a release by the Park Slope Civic Council. "Take a break from the holiday stress and come to the big show at Old First’s beautifully restored sanctuary. It’s a great way to be a part of the festive spirit!”

(Old First Reformed Church) The church's ceiling during the restoration.

Co-hosting with Schlesser will be Rev. Dr. Daniel Meeter, who is retiring next year. The concert will include a tribute to Meeter.

The concert will also include performances by Purelements: An Evolution in Dance, The St. Joseph High School Step Team, The Nine Pound Hammer Trio, The New Voices 8th grade chorus, The BCC Cabaret and The Brooklyn Community Chorus.

The grand finale, a performance of "The 12 Days of Christmas," will be performed by the entire audience.

The jamboree was first started as a way to "bring healing and the community together" after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. It has been running at Beth Elohim since Old First Reformed Church closed for repairs.

The Jamboree is sponsored by the Park Slope Civic Council, Park Slope Parents, Congregation Beth Elohim and Old First Reformed Church. There is a $10 suggested donation for the performance. The proceeds will go towards expenses and to the non-profit arts organizations participating in the concert, organizers said.

The concert will begin at 7 p.m. at the 729 Carroll Street building, found on the corner of Seventh Avenue.

(Old First Reformed Church) The church during the restoration.