William Peace University has a tradition of officially starting the holiday season in a bright way.
The annual tree lighting ceremony will take place on Wednesday, November 20 on Main Lawn.
The Raleigh community is invited to the downtown campus to attend the event. University President Dr. Lynn Morton will say a few words at 7 p.m. before lighting the 32-foot tree near the campus’ iconic fountain. Attendees are encouraged to gather at 6:45 p.m. and remain afterward for hot chocolate and treats.
A photographer will be available to take pictures of family and friends in front of the tree, printed on-site, free of charge.
“The tree lighting ceremonies in America have been around even before my time, since 1954,” said Elsie Hernandez, Director of Events at William Peace University. “William Peace University created their own in the past 10 years.”
Hernandez added it takes the facilities team three days to set up the tree.
The evening also includes an Alumni Social from 5:30 to 6:50 p.m. Students will take part in a Moravian Love Feast, coordinated by Peace Chaplin Tanner Brown before joining the tree lighting.
“Attending the holiday social is a wonderful opportunity for our alumni to reconnect, celebrate the season, and strengthen the bonds that make our alumni community so special,” said Alumni Board President Taylor Shaw.
There will also be carolers on campus to add extra holiday cheer.
Hernandez talked about the importance of including the Raleigh community.
“We are in the center of this community,” Hernandez said. “People often walk through our campus, whether they are walking their dogs, sitting on our benches, enjoying our landscaping or just jogging because it’s just pretty. The community and the students make the event special. They add that magic.”
