“You better watch out, you better not cry! You better not pout, I’m telling you why, Santa Claus is coming to town!”

Oh, there is no question about it; Santa’s arrival is just around the corner, and so is the annual Community Christmas Carol Sing-a-Long!

The event will be hosted once again at New Covenant Church, and on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m.

If you have been to any of the ones in the past, I am sure you will remember the pure enjoyment of gathering together and lifting voices to celebrate the songs associated with the Christmas season of joy.

How about a little “White Christmas,” a perennial favorite that was popularized by the great Bing Crosby?

Or, maybe a few refrains of “God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen.”

For the kids in all of us, we will be singing such standards as “Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman.”

We might even segue into “Up On The Housetop” and then into the ubiquitous “Jingle Bells.”

Not all of the songs are slanted toward the younger sect, though. As usual, I have arranged the songsheets into three distinct sections: Children’s, Popular and Sacred.

Speaking of song sheets, this year will see the introduction of an updated version. We shortened some pieces so we could add in some favorites that you have been asking for. Ginga MacLaughlin played a big part by revising the sheets, and we can’t thank her enough for her efforts.

So let’s examine the popular section.

Here we will find such wonderful songs as “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” Another one is “Winter Wonderland,” sure to bring a smile to anyone singing along with it.

How about a little “Jingle Bell Rock?” Or perhaps one of the most endearing songs of the season, “The Christmas Song,” written and performed by Mel Tormé.

When we move into the Sacred section, our attention becomes more focused on the true reason for our Christmas celebration: the Birth of Jesus.

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” is a powerfully written carol, every bit as wonderful as the beautiful message of “Joy To The World.”

We will unite our voices as we sing “Angels We Have Heard on High” and rejoice at the message of “Silent Night.”

These and many more are all just waiting to be sung — sung by a chorus of voices, all having a good time in fellowship and praise. And who knows? There might be a few surprises in store!

There is no admission to this event. I would encourage you, if you are capable of doing so, to bring a donation for our local Stewpot, preferably in the form of dry or canned goods. I assure you that it will be used and greatly appreciated!

So get those vocal cords loosened up! Make a notation on your calendar! Bring a friend or two with you! Encourage your children or grandchildren to attend with you! I think you will be glad you did.

Make those plans for Dec. 10, 6 p.m., at New Covenant Church.

I truly hope to see and hear you there!

Burnley Cook is a Natchez resident.