If asked to assemble a list of things that made them proud to live in Raleigh, lots of longtime Raleigh residents would note the Ringers. Founded in 1990, the Raleigh Ringers are an internationally acclaimed community handbell choir. While their "community" tag and list of day jobs suggest this is not a professional outfit, their lush playing and impressive accomplishments paint a different picture. They tour often, have issued five albums and are renowned for their ability to transform nonhandbell tunes, particularly from popular music, into intriguing new compositions.
Still, handbells will always be associated with winter celebrations, and by that token, the Ringers' most anticipated event is their holiday show. The pageantry of the performance and their creative takes on traditional favorites make the event a state treasure. The Ringers perform Saturday at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. —Jordan Lawrence