Visit the church after dark a few days before Christmas and carolers of a different kind will resound.

From Samoan carols and the hand-clapping, feet-stomping traditional dance fa'ataupati to traditional Methodist carols and carols with a twist, there is not a person in the room who doesn't join in or sing along when the Samoan Methodist Youth Group choir gets together for rehearsals.

Song and dance is very much a part of Samoan culture and portrays important messages. The choir was busy perfecting its routines earlier this week before heading to Sydney for tonight's Samoan Methodist church Christmas celebrations.

You'll usually find the Samoan choir caroling around Canberra on Christmas Eve, but tonight is a special occasion - a time to get together with Samoans from around Australia and celebrate their culture, religion, family and Christmas.

Choir member Shane Mapusua said, ''It helps us feel like we're back at home by being together. The night is also about showcasing the talents of younger generations of Samoans.''

Vice-president of the youth group Katie Fonoti said a traditional Samoan Christmas was about spending time with family.

''But church is first and foremost - where we dance, sing and perform and pray,'' she said.

Afterwards, family, both immediate and extended, gathers for a feast of pork, beef, chicken and other specialty dishes.