The 51st annual Knife River Chorale's Christmas performances will be held this weekend in Hazen.

The chorale composed of 70 area vocalists and musicians will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday in the Hazen Elementary School gym.

The performance will open with a candle-lit rendition of familiar carols and the traditional reading of the Christmas story.

A backdrop of fresh evergreens sets the stage for the full choir performance directed by Dave Schoenrock.

The event is free and open to the public and a freewill offering will be taken.