Click on Classical this Weekend: lutefisk, carols and hoops

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Your vote can help determine the playlist for Carol with Classical MPR on Friday, Dec. 19 (Alexandra Beier/Getty Images)

As the holidays approach, here are some must-see stories on our website to enhance your seasonal cheer:

Get a first-timer's look at the St. Olaf Christmas Festival

A couple weeks ago, my colleague Alison Young interviewed a couple of women for whom the St. Olaf Christmas Festival has always been part of their lives. But what about for those who've never been there? Digital producer Jay Gabler recently attended the St. Olaf Christmas Festival for the first time in his life, and he shared his thoughts about the experience. If you've never attended, perhaps this may inspire you to try it next year.

Vote for your favorite Christmas carols

We're trying something new this year: next Friday, Dec. 19, we're airing a new, live, holiday special called Carol with Classical MPR in which The Singers will perform beloved carols during a radio broadcast, and we want you to sing along. But before then, we want your input as to which are your favorite carols. Visit this page to cast your vote for your favorite seasonal songs. Feel free to vote early and often.

Read about a different type of December ritual

My colleague Bill Morelock wrote a wonderful essay this week in which he describes a different December ritual that's nothing to do with holly or jolly: Bill writes about basketball. More specifically, Bill describes his experience as a high school and college player, and how a particular basketball scrimmage in the 1970s remains an important touchstone for him to this day. It's a thoughtful reflection and I encourage you to read it.

And don't forget — for a charming musical vignette, watch how Farmer Derek Klingenberg uses "Jingle Bells' to encourage his cows to come home.

Have a great weekend!