For some the best part of the holidays is the music. Whether it's "Silent Night" or "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," celebrating Christmas just isn't the same without traditional hymns. At Monte Vista Chapel, however, the holidays mean rocking out to The Katinas.

"It's an annual tradition for them to come play for us each Christmas," said Patti Allen, MVC communications and women's ministries coordinator.

The Contemporary Christian music group The Katinas is made up of five brothers who hail from American Samoa. The family group has been recording music for over 20 years and just released its 10th English language album, "Collage."

“I say this with the utmost humility, I know that it’s been nothing short of God’s grace that we’re actually still together and doing this full time. It’s actually pretty mind-boggling,” bass player James states on the group's website. “We’ve seen so many things come and go in 21 years, and yet, some days, it all feels like it was just yesterday.”

Monte Vista Chapel will be hosting The Katinas at a free concert beginning 6 p.m. Friday. The group will play a mix of traditional Christmas songs, as well as original music. The concert is open to the public and seats are available on a first come, first served basis. An offering for the Turlock Gospel Mission will be taken during the concert.

Two days after rockin' to the sounds of The Katinas, Monte Vista Chapel will hold another holiday tradition. The church's choir and full orchestra will perform during Sunday Advent Services, at 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday. Both the concert and Advent Services are open to all. Monte Vista Chapel is located at 1619 E. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock.

The First United Methodist Church  of Turlock will rejoice in the season with voices raised in worship during the "Let the Whole World Sing" Christmas Cantata, set for 7 p.m. Saturday.

People from more than 150 countries celebrate the birth of Jesus.  This concert offers a taste of Christmas from all around the world.  It lifts up a theme of unity in celebration of the birth of Christ.  The congregation will be invited to share in the singing of carols during the concert, and a dramatic reading will emphasize unity and peace during this holy season.  All are welcome to attend.  Child care will be provided.

The First United Methodist Church is located at 1660 Arbor Way, Turlock.

The Modesto Central SDA Church is hosting a gala Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Saturday that features both the Bay Area Men's Choir and a local male group called, "Praise." The evening's musical event also includes the Advent Herald Bell Choir, a brass ensemble, and several acclaimed soloists from the Bay Area.

Admission is free to this Christmas concert, but come early as a full auditorium is expected.

Modesto Central SDA Church is located at 1614 H St., Modesto.