Heinz Memorial Chapel will mark its 85th anniversary with a day-long celebration on Dec. 9, which will include a docent-led tour, group vow renewals and an evening concert.

Ground was broken in 1933 for the chapel, which was designed by the same Philadelphia architect, Charles Klauder, who had worked on the Cathedral of Learning. Heinz Memorial Chapel, built with money from a bequest by H.J. Heinz, was officially dedicated in 1938. Various religious services are held in the chapel, but it does not belong to any denomination.‍

Schedule of festivities on Dec. 9

Heinz Chapel 101 Tour: 9-9:45 a.m. This tour includes the Chapel's history from inception through creation and an overview of its architecture and artisan details. The tour will conclude with an opportunity for guests to view the stonework, woodwork and stained-glass up-close while listening to a song on the magnificent pipe organ. Tours are free to Pitt ID holders and $8 for the public. Tickets can be purchased here.

Visitor hours: 10 a.m.-noon. Free and open to all.

I Do, Take 2: Group Vow Renewal: 1:30-2:30 p.m. The chapel will welcome couples who would like to renew their vows among the stained-glass windows. This event is open to all and includes an officiant-led group vow renewal, music on the pipe organ, time for guests to take photos on their own, plus a sweet treat to take home. Tickets are $25 per couple and additional guest tickets are $10. Tickets can be purchased here.

I Do, Take 2: Enhanced Experience: 4-5:30 p.m. This event includes an officiant-led group vow renewal, personal flowers for each couple, a chance to walk down the aisle, and a portrait taken by Kristen Wynn Photography. The ceremony features music from soprano Jennifer Russell and organist Jon Tyillian. After couples have said “I do,” there will be a toast with sparkling wine or juice and a sweet treat to take home. Tickets are limited and can be purchased here. $150 per couple and $25 for each additional guest. Couples who were married at Heinz Memorial Chapel receive a 10 percent discount on their tickets. Use promo code Vow10.

Concert featuring the Heinz Chapel Choir and organist Jon Tyillian: 8 p.m. The program will celebrate the music that has filled Heinz Chapel for the past 85 years. The Heinz Chapel Choir, under the direction of Susan Rice, join forces with organist Jon Tyillian, assistant organist at Calvary Episcopal Church, and the Reuter pipe organ to present a festival of both sacred and secular music. The choir will begin at the rear of the building and alternate selections with the organist as a grand procession builds. The choir and organ finally meet for the singing of Herbert Howell’s Hymn to Saint Cecilia — an ode to music and its patron saint. Works of Bach, Mulet, Karg-Elert and others also will be performed. Tickets are free for current Pitt students, $10 for Pitt faculty and staff, and $20 for the public. Tickets can be purchased here.