Students welcomed the holidays at the university’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, despite a few technical difficulties.
After a few speeches, a showing from the university’s Philomel choir and a visit from Santa Claus himself, the stage was set to light the tree; however, students were surprised when the tree remained unlit after a five-second countdown.
Laughter from students and faculty ensued, and after another countdown, the tree was still dark.
Viewers started to get nervous as Santa grabbed the power cable and tried to plug it in himself, still to no avail.
After a few awkward moments, the tree was finally lit, and the community cheered in a moment of togetherness and holiday joy.
Meg Garcia, a senior at the university, shared their experience: “I wasn’t able to go last year because it conflicted with rehearsal, but I’m really glad I got to go my first year, my sophomore year, and I’m glad that I got to see it my senior year.”
Despite technical difficulties, students were still happy to see the community gather and the tree light up once again.
“[I]t made it funny that it didn’t go on. I don’t think I’ve ever seen it go on the first time correctly, but it always makes it fun … I think it just adds to the joy,” Garcia said.
Alayna Blanchard, a junior who has attended every Tree Lighting Ceremony every year she’s been at the university, was another speaker at this year’s event.
“[The ceremony] was a really great experience because in my first year and my second year I saw the speakers on the stage, and I was like, ‘Oh, wow, that’s really cool that they allow students to do that,’ and now I get to do it,” said Blanchard. “I wish the tree lighting could have gone a little better, a little smoother, but you know what? It was really funny, and the crowd took it really well.”
University President Jared Tice spoke on his first Tree Lighting Ceremony experience: “We have a massive Christmas tree. I actually got to put the star on top of it last week. They took me up in the cherry picker, and it was a really great event … I think these moments allow us a moment to pause, reflect, and when we have that sort of clarity, we realize what really matters most, which during the holiday season, is trying to be with your family, your friends and [taking] care of your community.”
The Chimes also sat down for an exclusive interview with Mr. Santa Claus himself.
“I love coming to Capital. It’s been an awesome time … In truth, I did go to Capital at one point,” said Claus. “I have a family member here as well, so you have to figure out who that is … we’re getting some french fries right now with our little one.”
This holiday season and the university events that come with it, represent a sense of gathering that brings families, friends and communities together in a way that reminds people of the importance of being together.
