PICK OF THE DAY

’Tis the season Handel wrote his “Messiah” for Easter, but its claim to fame is during Christmas. Artistic director Harry Christophers conducts the Handel and Haydn Society’s Period Instrument Orchestra and Chorus in the 159th annual performance of Handel and Haydn Society’s “Messiah” 7:30 p.m. (through Dec. 2; caroling throughout hall one hour before). $20-$78. Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. 617-266-3605. www.handelandhaydn.org