Hays Symphony to Present Free Holiday Concert with Toy Drive
The annual "Poinsettia Pops" performance will feature orchestral holiday arrangements and support local Toys For Tots efforts.
HAYS, Kan. — The Hays Symphony will present its annual "Poinsettia Pops" holiday concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the Fort Hays State University campus, featuring beloved orchestral arrangements including "Carol of the Bells," "Greensleeves," and Leroy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride." The free concert, sponsored by Midwest Energy with support from the Riley Family Foundation and Robert E. Browning Foundation, will partner with Toys For Tots to collect new, unwrapped toys and gifts for local families in need, with donations accepted in the performing arts center lobby before the show begins. Music Director Benjamin Cline emphasized the concert's community importance, stating it "marks the start of the holiday season for our community" while maintaining the Symphony's mission to provide accessible live music to Ellis County residents and beyond. The evening will conclude with a post-concert reception sponsored by Great Plains Dermatology, and free tickets are available at hayssymphony.org.