More people attended the Quota Club's 46th annual Festival of Carols than last year because of the weather, said organizer Isabelle Butters.

About 600 people per performance filled Grace United to capacity, where they listened to 10 groups per performance kick off the Christmas season in Weyburn.

"Our attendance depends on the weather we have," said Butters. "If there is ice on the sidewalks or it is cold, our attendance numbers will decrease. But the weather was beautiful this year. I didn't see any more room for those standing at the back."

The Quota Club has made the event a Weyburn tradition since its founding in 1954.

"We started it because there was nothing like it in Weyburn," Butters said. "Many cities have had similar festivals, but few have had them continue without interruption for this length of time."

When organizing the first festival, the Quota Club viewed the festival as a community service.

This year, 500 performers took the stage to entertain the assembled crowd and celebrate Christmas.

"Without the support of the local choirs, teachers and churches, this event would not have become the tradition it is," said Butters. "A lot of work goes into each performance and the audience was very appreciative of their efforts."

Performing at the festival is as much a tradition as attending it.

"There are at least four Quotarians who were born and raised in Weyburn who sang in the festival when they were in school," said Butters. "Now they help to organize the event."