After a one-year concert hiatus, St. Joseph’s Cathedral in San Jose is again hosting an in-person “Season of Hope,” a series of free music and dance performances that will run through Dec. 23.

Each night features a different group performing from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the magnificent cathedral building, which opened in 1877 and was fully restored in the late 1980s.

“We are back in person celebrating 25 years,” said Sharon Miller, director of Cathedral Social Ministries for Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County. “Last year we provided a virtual Season of Hope.”

The arts and community groups — many are returning favorites — donate their time. Concerts are free, but contributions to support the church’s food, shelter, medical care and job search programs are welcome.

Attendees must wear masks and show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test from the past 72 hours. All of the performers will be vaccinated, Miller said.

“Our volunteers will be at the cathedral at 7 p.m. to check vaccine status and welcome people into the cathedral,” she said.

The multicultural series kicked off Sunday with the San Jose State University Choraliers. The rest of the lineup includes:

Dec. 13: San Jose Symphonic Choir

Dec. 14: Castillero Middle School

Dec. 15: Bellarmine College Preparatory

Dec. 16: CA Philharmonic Youth Orchestra

Dec. 18: San Jose Youth Symphony

Dec. 19: TBA

Dec. 20: Cathedral Pipe Organ performance

Dec. 21: San Jose Youth Chamber Orchestra

Dec. 22: Ballet Folklórico Guerrero de Guadalupe

Dec. 23: Harpers Hall Celtic Harps

Details: St. Joseph’s Basilica is located at 80 S. Market St., San Jose.

Source: www.mercurynews.com