Carols in the Square: A Century-Old Shrewsbury Tradition

Have you ever wondered what makes Shrewsbury’s Christmas truly special? Discover the century-old tradition that brings thousands together each year, transforming The Square into a magical realm of festive harmony.

As the crisp December air settles over Shrewsbury’s cobblestone streets, a familiar warmth begins to spread through the hearts of its residents. The twinkling lights adorning the Tudor-style buildings cast a magical glow, and the aroma of mulled wine and mince pies wafts through the air. It’s that time of year again when the historic market town comes alive with the sound of festive melodies echoing across The Square. For generations, Shrewsbury’s ‘Carols in the Square’ has been the cornerstone of yuletide celebrations, a cherished tradition that has withstood the test of time and continues to captivate the community year after year.

The roots of Carols in the Square stretch back to the early 20th century, when Shrewsbury, like many towns across Britain, sought to foster a sense of unity and joy during the Christmas season. While the exact date of the first official gathering remains shrouded in the mists of time, local historians agree that the tradition began to take shape in the years following World War I.

In those early days, the event was a modest affair, with a handful of local choirs and brass bands coming together to lead townspeople in song. The Square, with its central location and historic significance, was the natural choice for this communal celebration. As the years passed, the gathering grew in both size and stature, becoming an integral part of Shrewsbury’s festive calendar.

During World War II, Carols in the Square took on a new significance. Despite the hardships and blackouts, Shrewsbury’s residents were determined to keep the tradition alive. Candles replaced electric lights, and the songs took on a poignant quality, offering solace and hope to a community faced with uncertainty. It was during these challenging times that the event truly cemented its place in the hearts of Salopians.

The post-war years saw Carols in the Square flourish. As Shrewsbury rebuilt and grew, so too did this cherished tradition. The 1950s and 60s brought technological advancements, with the introduction of proper sound systems allowing the carols to be heard more clearly across The Square. Local businesses began to get involved, providing refreshments and adding to the festive atmosphere.

A significant milestone in the event’s history came in the late 20th century when BBC Radio Shropshire began broadcasting the carols live. This development not only expanded the audience but also allowed those unable to attend in person to participate from the comfort of their homes. The radio broadcast has since become an integral part of the celebration, connecting Salopians across the county and beyond.

Today, Carols in the Square stands as a celebration of Shrewsbury’s enduring community spirit. The event, now managed by Shrewsbury Town Council, attracts thousands of participants each year, transforming The Square into a sea of smiling faces and twinkling lights.

The heart of the event remains the music. The Shrewsbury Male Voice Choir, a stalwart presence for decades, leads the crowds in renditions of classic Christmas carols. Their rich harmonies, accompanied by the Shrewsbury Brass Band, create a soundscape that transports listeners to Christmases past. From ‘Hark the Herald Angels’ to ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’, the repertoire is a mix of beloved favourites that have stood the test of time.

In recent years, technology has once again transformed Carols in the Square. The event is now live-streamed, allowing people from around the world to join in the festivities. As Charles Denscombe from Microvideo, the company responsible for the streaming, notes, “We are one of the few towns globally to live stream an outside carol concert. It brings together Salopians from around the world and shows Shrewsbury as a traditional town that also embraces modern communication technology to promote itself”.

The impact of Carols in the Square extends beyond The Square itself. The event has become a catalyst for wider festive celebrations throughout Shrewsbury. Local shops and the Market Hall extend their opening hours, creating a vibrant evening atmosphere. The Market Hall, in particular, has embraced the spirit of the occasion, offering live music and complimentary festive treats to visitors.

Carols in the Square is more than just an annual event; it’s a thread in the fabric of Shrewsbury’s identity. For many residents, it marks the true beginning of the Christmas season, a moment when the community comes together to share in the joy and warmth of the festive spirit.

For generations of Salopians, attending Carols in the Square has become a cherished family tradition. Grandparents who once attended as children now bring their grandchildren, passing down the experience and creating new memories. The event serves as a touchstone, connecting the past and present in a tangible way.

In an age of increasing digitalisation and individualism, Carols in the Square stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of community. For one evening, differences are set aside as voices join in harmony, creating a sense of unity and belonging that resonates long after the last note has faded.

Over the years, Carols in the Square has also become an opportunity for charitable giving. Collection buckets circulate through the crowd, with proceeds going to local causes. This aspect of the event embodies the spirit of Christmas, encouraging generosity and compassion within the community.

The true magic of Carols in the Square lies in the personal stories and memories it has created over the decades. Long-time residents of Shrewsbury often speak fondly of their experiences:

• Margaret Thompson, 85, recalls, “I remember coming here as a little girl during the war. Even with the blackout, we’d gather and sing softly. It felt like a act of defiance, a way of keeping our spirits up during those dark times.”
• John Davies, a member of the Shrewsbury Male Voice Choir for over 40 years, shares, “There’s nothing quite like the moment when thousands of voices join together. It still gives me goosebumps every year.”
• Sarah Lewis, a relative newcomer to Shrewsbury, adds, “When I first moved here, Carols in the Square was how I truly felt welcomed into the community. Now, it’s not Christmas until I’ve stood in The Square, singing along with my neighbours.”

As Carols in the Square approaches its centenary, the tradition shows no signs of waning. The event held on Wednesday, 18th December 2024, was as magical as ever. The Square was once again filled with the sound of carols, as the community came together to celebrate the season.

The organisers continue to innovate, ensuring that the event remains relevant for new generations while maintaining its traditional charm. The live broadcast on BBC Radio Shropshire and the global live stream mean that even those who can’t be physically present can still be part of this special Shrewsbury tradition.

In a world of rapid change, Shrewsbury’s Carols in the Square stands as a beacon of continuity, a link to our shared past, and a celebration of community spirit. As the years pass, the faces in The Square may change, but the heart of the event remains the same: a moment of unity, joy, and reflection as the year draws to a close.

From its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved annual event, Carols in the Square has become more than just a gathering; it’s a living, breathing part of Shrewsbury’s heritage. It embodies the warmth and spirit of this historic market town, bringing light to the darkest days of winter and hope for the year to come.

As the last notes of ‘Silent Night’ fade into the crisp December air, and the crowds slowly disperse, there’s a sense that something magical has occurred. For in those moments of shared song, the people of Shrewsbury are not just celebrating Christmas; they’re celebrating each other, their town, and a tradition that has stood the test of time. Long may it continue to ring out across The Square, a symbol of the lasting power of community and the simple joy of raising our voices together in song.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8

Bob Lynn / 19-Dec-2024