Photo by Jay Blakesberg

In this month’s cover story, we highlight just a handful of the Christmas concerts that take place in New Orleans in December. There are more than we can list here, so check the listings at OffBeat. com for the full rundown. Here are some of the highlights:

Starting December 1, the Christmas concerts in the St. Louis Cathedral return. These free shows start at 6 p.m. and feature jazz, gospel and classical artists performing the season’s favorite spirituals. The series opens with a performance by Irvin Mayfield, and highlights include the Mahalia Jackson Gospel Choir (De 8), Tom McDermott and Connie Jones (Dec. 9), Franklin Avenue BC Ministry (Dec. 15), John Boutte (Dec. 16) and the Gospel Divas, Rev. Lois Dejean and Company (Dec. 21). Go the FQFI.org for the complete schedule.

More secular or mixed celebrations will take place in some of the clubs. On December 5, Tipitina’s hosts Bill Summers and Jazsalsa’s Holiday Showcase. December 6, the House of Blues presents Christmas with Aaron Neville and his Quintet featuring Charles Neville, then on December 11, the Soul Rebels and DJ Soul Sister play the Soul Glo Christmas Jam at Tipitina’s. On December 15, another radio station Christmas show’s at the House of Blues, this time “The Night The B Stole Christmas” featuring Cobra Starship, Iyaz and more.

On December 17, Spencer Bohren returns to Snug Harbor for his 12th annual Christmas Concert with family and musical friends, then on December 18, Tipitina’s hosts Flow Tribe’s “Christmas Crunktacular” with the Revivalists.

Unfortunately, we’ll miss Marva Wright’s Christmas night celebration this year, but Benny Grunch and the Bunch will answer the Christmas night call, playing “The 12 Yats of Christmas” at the Rock ’n’ Bowl December 25.