When it comes to holiday rituals, you're probably not going to believe what Santa told me.

He said, "Y'know, Rick, if it ever came down to it — it had to be one or the other way — I'd rather the Coast Guard Band perform their annual Holiday Concerts than me fly around the world delivering toys to kids."

"Wait! Whoa, Santa, I'm not sure you're thinking this through!" I said. "Are the Coasties holiday show excellent and creatively curated? Yes. But —"

"I know!" the Claus Man broke in excitedly. "Have you seen the programs for Sunday's shows?"

We both looked at a poster advertising the two distinct concerts, both taking place in Leamy Hall on the campus of the United States Coast Guard. The 2 p.m. matinee, aimed at families, includes performances of "Troika," "March of the Toys," "Eighth Candle," "Pas de Deux" from "The Nutcracker, a recitation of "The Night Before Christmas," Edwin Goldman's "Christmas March," and a finale of "Sleigh Bells" with onstage support from the children of band members.

The 7 p.m. evening performance features the lovely voice of Musician 1st Class Megan Weikleenget on a litany of seasonal hits including "I'll Be Home for Christmas," "Deck the Halls," "O Holy Night," "My Favorite Things" and more.

"You're right, Claus," I admitted. "This is pretty great."

U.S. Coast Guard Band Annual Holiday Concerts, 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday, Leamy Hall, United States Coast Guard Academy, 15 Mohegan Ave., New London; free; (860) 701-6826.