The music of Christmas carols will be in the air on Sunday, Dec. 5, as Quota International of Weyburn hosts the 46th annual Festival of Carols.

The festival features 18 groups altogether in two sessions, at 2 and 7 p.m., both at Grace United Church. There is no charge to attend the festival, but volunteers from the Quota Club will have plates at the door for donations.

The proceeds from the silver collection will go towards Quota's project of supporting a hearing dog, for which they advanced $4,000 earlier this year to help pay for the training of a dog, said Isabelle Butters.

All 30 members of Quota will be involved in the festival in some way, she said, noting entries are up for this year's festival.

"It's up from 15 groups last year, and I think that's a very positive note. It's nice to see the schools who are entered this year," said Butters.

The signing group from Estevan, Signature, will be back again, as will the Lions Community Band under conductor Judy Holyer.

Both afternoon and evening sessions will begin with carol singing, led by Miss Butters, and the Quota Chorus, conducted by June Fletcher.

In the afternoon, the schedule of groups includes St. Dominic Savio Grade 1, Assiniboia Park grades 1-3, Signature, Souris School Choir grades 3-6, Rotary Club, Haig School grades 3-4, St. Michael Jr. High Choir, Men of Grace United and Variations.

The evening session will be led off by the Community Band, followed by Assiniboia Park Gr. 4, Haig School grade 5-6 choir, Octavius Singers, Free Methodist Choir, Assiniboia Park Choir, Grace United Chancel Choir, Weyburn Comprehensive School Choir and St. Vincent de Paul Church Choir.