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Frederick's most historic worship sites will open their doors to the public at 4 p.m. Monday for the 23nd annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship.

Twelve of Frederick's most notable historic churches and one synagogue invite the public to join them in celebrating their heritage and holiday customs until 9 p.m.

This year, the event is being held on the Monday following Christmas. to allow participating sites to hold regular services throughout the weekend.

Church spires that highlight the Frederick skyline have become a symbol of Frederick's distinguished heritage and beauty. Three centuries of American architecture and history envelop holiday décor and provide the perfect setting for joyful celebrations and camaraderie.

Outside luminaries will attract visitors to the sites, where they will enjoy tours, interpretations, and seasonal music performed by vocalists, piano, and organ, with some sites offering complimentary beverages and light refreshments.

Congregational members will act as hosts to greet visitors and answer questions about the history of the churches.

The tour includes the following worship sites: All Saints' Episcopal Church; Asbury United Methodist Church; Beth Sholom Synagogue; Calvary United Methodist Church; Centennial Memorial United Methodist Church; Evangelical Lutheran Church; Evangelical Reformed Church; First Church of Christ, Scientist; Frederick Presbyterian Church; Grace United Church of Christ; St. John's Catholic Church; and Trinity Chapel.

A sampling of events include bell-chime demonstrations at Trinity Chapel; a Christmas Putz (Nativity scene) at Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ; the Tri-State Harp Ensemble at Calvary United Methodist Church from 4–7 p.m.; Frederick Judaism, a 10-minute presentation with questions and answers, and a Torah display at Beth Sholom Synagogue; One God, One Voice from 5–6 p.m. at Grace United Church of Christ, and again at Centennial Memorial United Methodist Church after 6:30 p.m.; and a a Q&A regarding Christian Science at at First Church of Christ, Scientist.

Organ, instrumental and soloist seasonal music can also be heard at various locations throughout the evening.

A complimentary copy of the brochure with map and program descriptions are available at the Frederick Visitors Center, 19 E. Church St., Frederick.

For more information, call 301-600-4047. Visit www.FrederickTourism.org.