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Christmas at the Corner » Celebrating 30 Years: 1995-2025

Celebrating 30 Years: 1995-2025

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Now in its 30th year, Christmas at the Corner is one of Mater Dei’s most beloved traditions. Founded in 1995 by Fr. Steve Sallot ’72, former Rector and Chaplain, this festive evening brings the entire Monarch community together for a joyful celebration of faith, art, and community. CLICK HERE to read an article about the event featured in OC Catholic in 2023. Experience the magic of the season with crafts, delicious food, a Living Nativity, and performances from every corner of the Performing Arts Department, including choir, dance, theatre, and instrumental ensembles. 

This year's event will take place on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 5 p.m. in the Grotto.

 

As we celebrate both the 30th anniversary of Christmas at the Corner and Mater Dei’s 75th Anniversary, this year’s event promises to be an unforgettable evening of honor, glory, and love.


While admission is FREE, we invite all guests to share in the spirit of generosity by participating in our Giving Tree in support of Campus Ministry’s Annual Christmas Outreach. Your generosity helps brighten the holidays for families in need across our community. See Christmas Outreach link below for more information.

 

HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN THIS YEAR'S EVENT:

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR VENDOR
Sign up to exhibit as a vendor at our Christmas Bazaar. It's a great opportunity to showcase your small business to our Mater Dei community.
MINI MONARCH LIVE NATIVITY CLINIC & PERFORMANCE
Future Monarchs in grades K - 8 can sign up to attend a workshop with our MD Theatre and Dance Programs to be a part of the cast for our Living Nativity as actors or dancers:
  • Actors: Grades 1- 8 (perform as sheep, shepherds or Magi in the Nativity)
  • Dancers: Grades K-6 (perform as dancing angels in the Nativity)
  • Clinic is Sunday, December 7 from 12:30 to 4 p.m. in the Little Theatre at Mater Dei.
  • Performance is at 6 p.m. in the Grotto
  • See flyer link below for more information. 
CHRISTMAS OUTREACH: GIVING TREE
The Christmas Outreach is from December 1 - 12 and supports of a number of charitable organizations with toys and gift cards to help local families in need.  We will need YOUR help to gather donations through our Giving Tree Program!
  • Trees with special "wish" ornaments will be on display in the Grotto starting December 1. 
  • Wish ornaments will display the desired item and age of the recipient. 
  • Scan the code on your ornament and complete the digital sign up form to help us track who is shopping for wishes. 
  • Purchase and bring your "wish gift(s)" to our collection tables at Christmas at the Corner on December 7. 
PRE-PURCHASE FOOD AND BEVERAGES
Food and beverages will be available for sale at the event, but you consider pre-purchasing your meals using the link below. 
HAVE QUESTIONS OR NEED MORE INFORMATION?