MONMOUTH, Ore. – Western Oregon University is proud to host the 56th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, a beloved event that brings joy and unity to campus and the community. This year’s ceremony promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend. The lighting of the magnificent 123-foot sequoia tree will mark the beginning of the holiday season, creating a magical atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of the season.

The event will commence Friday, Dec. 1, at 5:30 p.m. with a cocoa and cider alumni networking event, followed by the festive holiday parade, starting at the Monmouth Library and culminating on Western’s campus, in front of the sequoia tree for the tree lighting at 6 p.m. Students, faculty, staff, community members, and the public are all invited to participate in the celebration.

Western’s President Peters emphasized in a recent OregonLive article that the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is a testament to Western’s commitment to community engagement. It serves as a reminder of the university’s dedication to being a community-focused institution that welcomes and celebrates everyone. The ceremony allows individuals to come together, connect, and celebrate each other in the season’s true spirit.

The celebration will feature a range of activities, including a holiday parade, the lighting of the tree, photo opportunities with Santa, and cookie decorating. These activities have become cherished traditions that create lasting memories for all. 

Schedule of Events:

Friday, December 1st

Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting!

5:30 p.m.: Cocoa and Cider sponsored by Alumni Relations next to the Sequoia tree

Free WOU swag will be given away on a first-come-first-serve basis.

6 p.m.: Holiday Light Parade and WOU’s Annual Tree Lighting

Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season on WOU’s campus with their 55th annual tree lighting and light parade! Enjoy Cocoa and Cider sponsored by Alumni relations next to the Sequoia tree while listening to guest speakers, celebrating essay contest winners, and watching the magnificent Tree lighting.

7:30 – 9 p.m.: Holiday Activities in the Werner University Center

Visit Santa in the Werner University Center! And while you’re there hang out and enjoy more holiday activities including holiday cookie decorating, buy Mexican Hot Chocolate and Pan Dulce from WOU’s own Kappa Delta Chi, and more!

7:30 – 9 p.m.: Walk through the “Julio Marin Aleman that audacity of identity + color” in Cannon Gallery in Campbell Hall

More information about the 56th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony.

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About Western Oregon UniversityWestern Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction.  Together we succeed.