The program has changed and grown since its beginning in the 1930s. Throughout the years, director of parent and alumni relations Jan Striepe said Christmas with Wartburg has continued to be the school's gift to Iowa.

While the first formal program evolved during the 1930s, Christmas with Wartburg wasn't originally offered to the community and only consisted of a candlelight service.

Dr. Conrad Becker, president of the college from 1945 to 1964, then suggested that the service be shared with the community.

The early program was held in Knights Gymnasium, according to Striepe. She said the event was originally titled Christmas at Wartburg.

"The name changed to Christmas with Wartburg when it was decided to travel off campus," Striepe explained.

Before the addition of off-campus performances, the program went through several changes. Three musical groups performed during the 1950s; faculty, staff and community members were responsible for performing in the 1970s.

"In the 1980s," Striepe said, "Christmas with Wartburg began to evolve as we know it today."

Striepe said that Phil Froiland, former director of Church Relations, took hold of the program under the guidance of President Vogel in the mid 80s. Froiland was a graduate of St. Olaf College, which Striepe said highlighted its Christmas program.

"Wartburg has brought its program up to that level," Striepe said. "Phil Froiland helped bring our program to the point where there was more demand for tickets than we could supply."

As Christmas with Wartburg grew during the 80s, it was taken to Waterloo for the first time. The program was held at West High Auditorium for two years before it was moved to Nazareth Church.

"Many people say that's their favorite place because it's a church," Striepe added.

Junior performer Jen Estling agreed that Nazareth is a great place to perform.

"I love singing there," she said.

When a Des Moines performance was added, Christmas with Wartburg was held at Plymouth Congregational. Striepe said the church were known for their good music and could accompany the band.

"The first year, I can still remember that we were so worried that we'd be embarrassed. What if only 50 people showed up?" Striepe said. "The church was filled. In fact, there was standing room only."

When space became a problem, Striepe said people asked if they could handle the Civic Center.

"We decided to do it," she said.

In 1990, Christmas with Wartburg was performed at the Des Moines Civic Center. Of 2,700 available seats, only 250 were empty.

"It was always Wartburg's gift to northeast Iowa," Striepe said. "Now it's our gift to Iowa."

This tradition highlights the Christmas season for many families and also the performers. Senior performer Ben Hertenstein shared the highlights of being involved in the program.

"It's been a big part of my life," he said. "I'm starting to recognize that I took it for granted."

Hertenstein said the program seemed to grow every year. He added that rehearsals even showed a high attendance.

"My favorite place to perform is the Civic Center," Hertenstein said. "When the congregation sings, you can feel the air move."

Some students, Striepe said, refer to the program as Christmas "in spite of" Wartburg.

Although the name and content has changed over time, Christmas with Wartburg has continued in the tradition of celebrating the holiday and has shares its music with many.

See photos of Christmas with Wartburg 1999 here!