Some autumn traditions come with pumpkins. Others come with footballs. At the U.S. Naval Academy, some of the best come with pipes, drums, soaring voices—and one very impressive organ.
From October's colorful days to December's holiday celebrations, music provides a soundtrack for the season on the Yard. The 2026 calendar brings gospel, classical music, Halloween theatrics, jazz, Celtic traditions, and beloved Christmas favorites to some of the Academy's most memorable venues.
So if you're looking for a day trip to Annapolis, MD, fall events in Annapolis, or just searching for something different to experience, listen up. There's plenty to hear this season.
Some of the Academy's most memorable traditions happen every day.
Here's a quick look at the music coming to the Yard from October through December. Ticketed events can be purchased through the USNA MWF Ticket Office here; free events are noted below.
|
Date |
Performance |
Time |
Location |
Tickets |
|
Oct. 16 |
USNA Gospel Choir Fall Concert |
7:00 p.m. |
Mahan Hall |
Tickets Required |
|
Oct. 18 |
Chapel Organ Concert |
3:00 p.m. |
USNA Chapel |
Free |
|
Oct. 30 |
Halloween/All Saints' Day Concert |
7:00 & 10:00 p.m. |
USNA Chapel |
Tickets Required |
|
Oct. 31 |
Halloween/All Saints' Day Concert |
7:00 p.m. |
USNA Chapel |
Tickets Required |
|
Nov. 13 |
Midshipmen Instrumental Ensembles Concert |
7:00 p.m. |
USNA Chapel |
Tickets Required |
|
Dec. 2 |
Trident Brass Holiday Concert |
7:00 p.m. |
Mahan Hall |
Tickets Required |
|
Dec. 4 |
Pipes & Drums Fall Concert |
7:00 p.m. |
Mahan Hall |
Tickets Required |
|
Dec. 5 |
Handel's Messiah |
7:00 p.m. |
USNA Chapel |
Tickets Required |
|
Dec. 6 |
Handel's Messiah |
3:00 p.m. |
USNA Chapel |
Tickets Required |
|
Dec. 13 |
Brigade Christmas Carols |
7:00 p.m. |
USNA Chapel |
Free |
Start your musical tour on Friday, October 16th at 7:00 p.m., when the USNA Gospel Choir takes over Mahan Hall for its Fall Concert.
The full-length performance features the Gospel Choir alongside special guest artists for an evening filled with energy and uplifting music.
The choir brings together midshipmen who share both musical talent and a passion for gospel music. It's also a wonderful reminder of just how many interests and abilities exist within the Brigade.
Related: Club Spotlight: The USNA Gospel Choir
Two days later, the mood shifts from spirited vocals to one of the Academy's most extraordinary instruments.
On Sunday, October 18th at 3:00 p.m., Naval Academy Organist and Director of Chapel Music, Monte Maxwell, presents an organ recital in the USNA Chapel, joined by special guest artists from the National Guild of Organists.
The combination of the Chapel's architecture, acoustics, and magnificent 15,688 pipe organ makes this an experience that goes far beyond simply listening to music.
Even better? This performance is free, with no tickets required.
If you're searching for fun Annapolis happenings—or an experience with a decidedly Navy twist, this is about as unique as it gets.
The annual All Saints' Day/Halloween Concert returns for three magnificent performances: Friday, October 30th at 7:00 and 10:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 31st at 7:00 p.m.
Led by Monte Maxwell, this enormously popular Chapel production combines music with lighting, drama, dance, special effects, and the soaring talents of the midshipmen. The program spans multiple genres and includes the famously eerie Toccata and Fugue in D Minor.
It's musical. It's theatrical. It's like nothing else around. And it has drawn record-breaking crowds for good reason.
Related: Frightfully Good: The USNA Halloween All Saints’ Day Organ Concert
Next up is the Instrumental Ensembles Concert on Friday, November 13th at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel.
The performance showcases the impressive range of instrumental talent within the Brigade, with midshipmen performing as soloists and in both small and large ensembles.
Expect everything from string and wind ensembles to the Mariachi Marineros.
Remember, these musicians are simultaneously managing the Academy's demanding academic, military, athletic, and leadership requirements. That makes the level of musicianship on display even more remarkable.
Related: USNA Club Spotlight: The USNA Orchestra Transports Us
By December, Annapolis fall events begin giving way to holiday magic.
On Wednesday, December 2nd at 7:00 p.m., Trident Brass brings its Holiday Jazz Concert to Mahan Hall.
The Academy describes the evening as a fun-filled holiday performance by its "swingin', rockin'" jazz band, joined by special guests.
If traditional holiday music isn't quite your tempo, this might be your concert.
Related: Trident Brass: Bringing Groove to the Yard
On Friday, December 4th at 7:00 p.m., the Pipes and Drums take over Mahan Hall for their Fall Concert.
Expect the stirring sound of bagpipes and drums along with Highland dancers, Celtic instruments, and a few surprises.
The Naval Academy's Pipes and Drums have an unmistakable sound and presence, and this concert gives them the spotlight. It's an especially fitting way to bridge the Academy's autumn traditions with the patriotic and celebratory feeling of the holidays.
Related: Commissioning Week: The Drum and Bugle Corps and Pipes and Drums
One of USNA's great musical traditions and Annapolis happenings returns for its 79th year on Saturday, December 5th at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 6th at 3:00 p.m.
Inside the Naval Academy Chapel, the USNA Glee Club joins a professional orchestra and world-class soloists for selections from Handel's Messiah, conducted by Director of Musical Activities, Dr. Aaron Smith.
This elegant performance has even been broadcast on public television stations nationwide.
For anyone experiencing Annapolis during the holidays, it's difficult to imagine a more beautiful setting—or soundtrack—for the season.
Related: Handel’s Messiah: Making History at the USNA
Finally, you don't have to be a midshipman musician to make some music of your own.
On Sunday, December 13th at 7:00 p.m., Monte Maxwell leads Brigade Christmas Carols in the Chapel.
Bring a list of your favorite carols and, as the Academy puts it, get ready to sing your heart out.
The event is free and requires no tickets—just your voice.
It's a wonderfully communal way to close out a season of music on the Yard.
Turn any of these performances into a full Annapolis outing. Take an official USNA tour, stop for steamy coffee at 1845 Coffee, enjoy a delicious meal on the Yard, or pick up unique Navy gifts at the USNA Gift Shop.
Your visit does more than make a memorable day.
Revenue from NABSD tours, dining, shopping, and services helps support extracurricular programs for the Brigade, including music, theater, cultural arts, and club sports. These opportunities build creativity, teamwork, leadership, and camaraderie among the future U.S. Navy and Marine Corps officers who call the Yard home.
From Halloween chills to Christmas carols, the Yard has a spectacular season lined up—and you're invited to be a part of it.