Attendees gathering around the piano for traditional caroling.
The Caroling Party in Austin marks its 40th year, evolving from a cookie decorating gathering to a cherished festive event. Attendees gather for music, food, and joy, celebrating deep connections and memories shared over the years, making it a highlight of the holiday season in the community.
In the heart of Austin, a cherished tradition has been blossoming for four decades, bringing warmth and holiday cheer to the community like no other event can. The story of the Caroling Party began in December 1984 and has since evolved into a joyful gathering that holds a special place in the hearts of its attendees.
What started as a simple cookie decorating party among friends and family in a cozy cottage in the Rosedale neighborhood soon transformed into a lively singing event. Guests quickly discovered that belting out familiar Christmas tunes was much more delightful than icing cookies, leading to the event’s successful metamorphosis. Over the years, as the party grew in participation and spirit, the name “Caroling Party” was adopted to better capture its essence.
As the years rolled by, the Caroling Party found itself in various locations, including a lively house on Palo Duro Road. Guests enjoyed throwing darts, sipping beer, and celebrating the festive season together. Fast forward to 2024, and the party took place in a charming one-story ranch-style house located in the Villages of Shady Hollow subdivision, which is perched south of Austin.
Among those who have graced the Caroling Party each year is Laurel Nelle. Having attended all 40 gatherings, Nelle reminisces about the changes the tradition has witnessed over time, particularly the diverse mix of songs that have graced the gathering. The event holds even more significance for Nelle and her wife, Karen Loveday, who tied the knot during the Caroling Party in 2016, with many friends attending as joyful witnesses.
As the doors opened to this year’s party, the scene was set with lovely decorations, featuring ornamental globes outside and sparkling white Christmas lights lining the fences. Inside, the air was filled with holiday cheer, thanks to an array of delicious treats. Attendees delighted in candied pecans, scrumptious cookies, fresh fruit, cheese platters, and tasty savory puffs, while sipping on a variety of beverages, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic.
With around 35 people in attendance this year, the ambiance was as warm and inviting as ever. At one point, a group of guests gathered around the piano, singing beloved carols together, reminiscent of decades gone by. Longtime attendee Chris Martinec reflected on how the Caroling Party has become a cherished habit, marking a special occasion each year to reconnect with friends, old and new.
While attendees no longer venture outside to go caroling, the comfort of being indoors encourages hearty conversations, delicious eating, and, of course, exuberant singing. Traditional carols filled the air, with favorites like “Silver Bells,” “Good King Wenceslas,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” creating a festive atmosphere. Over the years, as attendees have aged, the lyrics have taken on deeper meanings, emphasizing themes of love and connection.
Though the Caroling Party has seen changes, including the loss of founding attendee Bill Martinec in 2017, the spirit of togetherness remains undiminished. The lyrics “Through the years, we all will be together / If the fates allow” ring true as friendships have only grown stronger through the nostalgia and shared experiences. The evening of singing and merriment stretches late into the night, starting around 7 p.m. and often concluding around 1:30 a.m.
The Caroling Party has transformed over the years, shifting from raucous celebrations to more mellow, heartfelt gatherings among lifelong friends. Yet, the essence of joy and connection remains, and attendees continue to gather, celebrate, and find meaning in the music and memories shared together. The Caroling Party stands as a shining beacon of community, tradition, and love—a true testament to the magic of the holiday season in Austin.
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