The Twelfth Night festival presented each January at Christ Lutheran Church, 13th and Hamilton Streets, Allentown, is a highlight of the holiday season.

This past year, the 31st annual festival was performed to a sold-out house.

Families often participate in the performance together.

One local couple from the Parkland area who look forward to participating in Twelfth Night is Patrick and Carol Powers.

Carol was the Lady of the Swan. Patrick was referred to as the "star" as he held the Star of the East.

Four members of the Lea family from Salisbury Township all took part in Twelfth Night.

Father Victor was Casper, one of the three kings. Wife Susan was the Peacock Lady-in-Waiting.

Son Luke portrayed a king's page, and daughter Alexandra was the Christkind.

Pastor Maritza Dolich from Walnutport and Pastor William Maxon, from Lower Macungie, also took part in this liturgical drama. They were available to give an encouraging word or a prayer.

Pastor Maxon and his wife Linda portrayed Martin and Katie Luther.

The costumes wereremarkable.

Emily Vincent, a Parkland resident, was the costume coordinator. She had a fine group of church members who helped repair, iron and fit the costumes and make last minute adjustments.

John Sechler was the director. Donald Albright was the music director and conductor.

Karl DeBoeser was the choir master. Jance Muchman served as casting director and Susie Black, of Salisbury Township, was the stage manager.

Some 250 church members take part in the festival, including those who take care of the lighting, sound, props, feeding of the group between performances and the orchestra and choir.

All 250 were fed a delicious homemade meal with a variety of desserts.

The tradition of the Twelfth Night pageant began with church member, Eleanor D. Kramp, who had the inspiration and foresight to see what the festival could become and is a continuing memorial to her.

To order tickets for the 2014 performance, call the church before August to be added to the list.