Valparaiso University to Host Annual Tree Lighting Tuesday, Dec. 3

Valparaiso University’s 10th annual Tree Lighting on Tuesday, Dec. 3, offers an opportunity for community members to take a picture with Santa, enjoy caroling and refreshments and watch as the tree is lit.

Santa will visit the Harre Union’s Grand Lounge before and after the Tree Lighting, 4:30–6 p.m. New this year, the University’s sustainability office will host a Holiday Market in the Harre Union during the Tree Lighting, offering holiday-themed goods from local, sustainable vendors.

The Jingle Jog, a 1-, 2-, or 3- mile run through campus, will be held before the tree lighting. Participants are asked to bring three nonperishable food items or $5 as their registration fee, and all donations will go to local charitable organizations. Registration begins at 3:45 p.m. in the Harre Union Chapel View Lounge, and pre-registration is available online.

Activities will take place 5–6:30 p.m., with the official lighting at 6:15 p.m., followed by sing-along carols and fireworks.

Following the Tree Lighting, the free holiday pops concert Julefest features the Valparaiso Community/University Band and the Luce Concert Band, conducted by Jeffrey S. Doebler. The concert begins at 7 p.m. in the Chapel of the Resurrection. Refreshments will also be available in the Chapel following the Tree Lighting and before the concert.