ETSU’s holiday celebrations will kick off Tuesday, Nov. 17, with several events, including alumni cookie decorating, Holiday Lights, Bud Frank Cinema movie showings and the opening of the synthetic ice rink.
“I think one of the most special things about Holiday Lights is that it allows us to come together outside of our everyday roles and responsibilities and simply enjoy being part of the ETSU family,” said Jennifer Clements, executive director for the Martin Center and university events. “At a time of year when connection and togetherness mean so much, it’s a wonderful reminder that ETSU is more than a university — it’s a community. It creates memories, builds traditions and gives us all something special to look forward to each year.”
The festivities will start with the ETSU Alumni Cookie Decorating Party from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Innovation Commons on the second floor of Sherrod Library. The event offers family and friends an opportunity to gather before the main ceremony.
The annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony will begin at 5:45 p.m. in Alumni Plaza. President Brian Noland, SGA Executive Vice President Macy Miller and Bucky will light up the campus. The event will also feature live music from ETSU’s Jazz Ensemble, as well as free hot cocoa and cookies.
The Holiday Lights tradition began in 2014 to bring the community together while embracing the holiday spirit. Since then, it has continued to grow.
“This year, we’re adding a little extra holiday magic to campus by expanding the holiday decorations and lights around ETSU’s new Academic Building,” Clements said. “We’re excited to continue growing the celebration and bringing even more holiday cheer to campus for our ETSU family and community to enjoy.”
Following the lights, Bud Frank Cinema will host two free showings of “Mickey’s Christmas Carol” at 6:15 and 7 p.m.
The synthetic ice rink will have its seasonal opening in University Commons that night from 6 to 8 p.m. A DJ will play music, and free snacks and drinks will be available, including cider, hot chocolate, churros, cupcakes and marshmallow roasting.
“One of the things that I think is fun about college is that you get to try things you may never have done before. I think it becomes a very memorable experience when you get to try something new and are just out there trying to do your best and having a good time with people that you enjoy being around,” said Leah Adinolfi, dean of Student Engagement.
After the opening, the rink will be open Wednesday through Friday from 5-9 p.m. and on weekends from 2-7 p.m. Students, faculty and staff can skate free with their ETSU ID. Community members can skate for $5.
