When putting together Christmas shows, comedian Patrick Ledwell and musician Mark Haines enjoy blending tradition with the new. They hope going to one of their performances is like unpacking a box of holiday ornaments. There’ll be timeless favourites you’re so happy to see back, alongside just-unwrapped pieces, reflecting brightly on all the latest trends.

This year’s yuletide shows promise a laughter-filled tour through the sights and sounds of the season, with music, comedy, and storytelling.

Mark Haines will delight audiences with his multi-instrumental talents, on fiddle, guitar, and piano. Patrick Ledwell is whipping up a fresh batch of holiday merriment, including tips on how to Christmas shop on Kijiji, and how to sing carols when you don’t actually know the words.

“We’re already hard at work on surprises for the holiday edition,” adds Ledwell. “I’ve been in touch with lounge singer Terry Velour, by calling his number at the back of the Sears Wishbook. He’s booked to be there.”

“A Trailside Christmas” plays three nights from December 9 to 11, at the Trailside Music Hall at 155 Kent St. in downtown Charlottetown. Tickets are $30 (plus taxes and fees). They can be purchased on-line by visiting the Trailside website at www.trailside.ca, or by calling Back Alley Discs at 902-367-3311.

“I get happy jitters when it’s time to get out the Christmas show again,” says Haines. “Be sure we’ll be shining up the fiddle for some favourites, adding an electric twist to the classics, and rendering something completely new.”

So start checking your list twice, and mark in a night for a Christmas show with Ledwell and Haines, in the venue nearest you. They’ll have everything wrapped and ready to leave you with more spirit than when you arrived through the doors.