CBC Newfoundland Morning

As Christmas approaches, many of us enjoy listening to music while we decorate the tree, bake cookies, or drive to visit family. The Once released their Christmas album in 2012, which has since become a beloved part of many holiday traditions. CBC's Bernice Hillier invited Geraldine Hollett of The Once for a discussion about the music of the season and their song "Cause It's Christmas."

After 24 days of prying open the doors to advent calendars, children, you've finally made it. Tonight's the night that Santa Claus will leave the North Pole and bring gifts to all the boys and girls, with the help of his trusted team of reindeer. Five year old Hannah Rice from Happy Valley-Goose Bay tells us about her Christmas excitement and plans.

This time of year brings back memories of Christmases gone by. I think most of us reflect on holiday seasons that were simpler, but somehow better. Singer/songwriter Shirley Montague has written some original songs that talk about her childhood in Labrador. They were released on her Christmas album, "Trapper's Christmas," in 1988.

Christmas is coming a little early for children in Forteau. Every year, on December 24th, Santa Claus halts his sleigh at the Forteau Community Centre. He carries with him a bag of gifts to give to every child age 12 and under. The "Christmas Tree" has been a tradition in Forteau for more than 50 years. It's currently organized by the local Anglican and United Church Women, who are Santa's helpers for the big event. Phyllis Roberts and Joan Hancock are long-time volunteers.

Christmas music is everywhere this time of year. But we don't always think of the stories behind the songs.

CBC's Bernice Hillier has been having some chats with songwriters and performers about the Christmas tunes they've written and performed. She spoke with Allan Byrne about "Northern Glory, Labrador Trapper Song."

Music and the holiday season just seem to go together, and so it's always been. And part of this province's heritage is recorded in song, thanks to the band Simani. It's hard to imagine a Christmas without hearing the Mummer's Song. Bud Davidge shares the history behind Any Mummers Allowed in?

Some of us stick to tradition when it comes to music this time of year. If we had a Bing Crosby or a Kenny and Dolly album in our home, those are the songs of Christmas for us. But it's always refreshing when someone pulls out a tune or two that is a bit of a surprise. Since about 2003, Allison Crowe has been doing Tidings concerts nearly every December. They're a mix of holiday favorites with some originals, along with some covers.

Christmas Day is almost here; for many people, a big part of the day is Christmas dinner. And, for most of us, Christmas dinner means turkey. That means it's a busy season for turkey farmers like David Kennedy, who owns Kennedy Farm in Freshwater. He gave us insight into the industry at this time of year.

It’s not often you see people going door to door dressed as Mummers anymore, especially not kids. But J.J Curling Elementary is doing its best at keeping the tradition alive. Fifth grade teacher Elaine Kearney takes her class to Mountain View retirement home every year where they put on a show dressed as Mummers. CBC’s Amy Feehan stopped by to find out more. 

A woman in Corner Brook received an award recently from the government for her lifelong volunteering. But that’s not why her story is remarkable. Agnes Brake was first diagnosed with cancer in her 30s. When she defeated one cancer…another took hold of her body. Brake is still facing cancer, at 84 years old. But she has been helping others for longer. And she says…it’s what keeps her spirit strong. The CBC's Leila Beaudoin spoke with her.