Hastings College’s Traditions Committee kicked off the Christmas season with its annual Lighting of Campus on December 3. HC students and staff along with Hastings community members gathered at the French Memorial Chapel for an evening filled with festive cheers. Daisy, the campus’s certified therapy dog, Santa Claus and Bosco all participated in the celebration. 

The event started with Christmas caroling sung by the Choral Union setting the festive tone for the evening. A saxophone duet was followed by a raffle drawing then an event where participants who wore Christmas pajamas or an ugly Christmas sweater could win a prize.

HC President Dr. Rich Lloyd then invited students and children on the Chapel stage for Christmas storytelling. Paige Willcoxon, a member of the Traditions Committee from Elkhorn, Neb.,  said “My favorite part of the event is when Dr. Rich Loyd reads to the students because we get to be kids again, it also makes him so much more personable to HC.” 

The event concluded outside for the countdown to thousands of twinkly lights lighting up the center of campus. 

Creel Weber, a sophomore from Hemingford, Neb., said, “My favorite part about the Lighting of Campus was how everyone came together to see the lights.” 

Attendees could also enjoy photos with Santa along with Christmas cookies and hot chocolate provided by the Traditions Committee.

Norah Stewart, first year student from Lincoln Neb., said “I loved the activities at the event. It really helped the community and members on campus get in the Christmas spirit.”

The Lighting of Campus is a cherished tradition where community members and students at HC come together to celebrate the spirit of the season while also enjoying snacks and other seasonal activities. Along with the lights, this event offers a chance for everyone to come together and create lasting memories for the holiday season.