Mammoth Cave National Park Superintendent Patrick Reed invites all area residents to the 32rd annual Cave Sing, Sunday, December 4, 2011.  Participants should gather in the visitor center at 2:00 p.m. for this free event.

“The Cave Sing began in 1980,” said Reed. “Now, people return year after year, bringing friends and family.  It’s no wonder – music is a tradition in the cave and the smallest notes resound in the large chambers and passageways.  Please join us for yet another memorable afternoon.”

The idea for the Cave Sing dates back to 1883, when residents held a Christmas celebration in Mammoth Cave.  An article about the event stated, “the halls of the cave ring with joyous carols and the laughter of happy children.”

“We are reenacting a part of the great Cave’s history,” said Johnny Merideth, one of the event coordinators.  “Singing carols underground by lantern light – there’s no better way to start the holiday season.”

The schedule follows:

• 1:15 p.m., storytelling at the Mammoth Cave Hotel Rotunda room.
• 2:00 p.m., depart for cave from the visitor center.  Inside the cave, visitors will hear the Lindsey Wilson College Singers and Commonwealth String Quartet, and the Glasgow Brass Quintet.
• 3:30 p.m., complimentary refreshments are served at the Mammoth Cave Hotel and Santa Claus arrives.

“We always like to add a gentle word of caution about going into the cave,” added Merideth.  “Cave Sing requires walking up and down a steep hill and climbing steps.  We recommend that participants dress warmly in layers and wear comfortable shoes or boots.  Even though the cave air stays at a constant 54 degrees Fahrenheit, windchills in the entrance are much cooler.”

Bags, purses, camera bags, strollers, diaper bags, and framed infant carriers are not allowed in the cave.  Be aware that these items need to be stowed in the coin lockers located behind the visitor center, or locked in your vehicle.

For further information, call 270-758-2180.

Please note regarding white-nose syndrome (WNS)  in bats:   While there are no known harmful effects to humans, WNS is responsible for the death of more than a million hibernating bats across the eastern United States since its discovery in 2006.  WNS has not been found in Mammoth Cave to date, however, park staff are taking precautions to minimize the spread of WNS fungus to or from Mammoth Cave.  When participating in the Cave Sing, do not wear clothing or shoes that have been worn in other caves or mines.

All participants in the Cave Sing must walk on bio-security mats immediately following the conclusion of their time inside the cave.