Aaron Blake
It’s Christmas in July, and from the looks of things, Bristol is on Santa’s nice list.
Following the sold-out success of 2025’s, “A Very Bristol Christmas,” Aaron Blake, King University artist in residence, is bringing twice the holiday cheer to the Paramount Center for the Arts, Bristol, Tennessee, this December with two distinctive concert experiences. Blake, an internationally acclaimed tenor who regularly performs with The Metropolitan Opera and leading opera companies around the world, returns with the audience favorite “A Very Bristol Christmas.”
The community-centered concert showcases the remarkable musical talent of the Tri-Cities region through a festive blend of holiday classics, seasonal favorites and contemporary surprises. New for 2026 is “Aaron Blake & Friends: A Very Bristol Christmas Cabaret,” an intimate evening featuring regional and national artists. Designed as a companion to the community concert, the cabaret highlights vocal artistry, live musicianship and the sense of warmth and connection that makes holiday music so memorable.
“Live music creates a powerful sense of connection for everyone in the room,” Blake said. “Whether you’re on stage or in the audience, it’s an incredible energy to experience, and I can’t wait to share these two joyful evenings with guest artists, family and friends.”
“Aaron Blake & Friends: A Very Bristol Christmas Cabaret” takes place Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m., followed by “A Very Bristol Christmas 2026” Friday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m. The roster of guest artists joining Blake feature familiar favorites as well as new performers, with names to be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets for both events are on sale starting mid-July through the Paramount Center box office and range from $15 to $45. Because the 2025 concert sold out weeks in advance, early ticket purchases are encouraged.
A portion of the proceeds benefit the King Fund for Scholarships & Programs. Patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets only through the Paramount Center box office, as tickets offered through third-party websites may not be authentic.
“Aaron continues to be an extraordinary ambassador for the arts and arts education,” said Matt Roberts, provost at King. “His ability to cultivate talent, create exceptional musical experiences and connect us all through music has become an important part of our cultural landscape, and we’re grateful for his presence at King and in Bristol.”
