The holidays are shining a little brighter for children of all ages who attended the annual Lander University Holiday Spectacular and Tree Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday (Nov. 18).
One of the area’s first celebrations of the season, the event featured visits with Santa, sweet treats, a holiday maze, photo opportunities and classic carnival fun, including a carousel, flying swing rides and a Ferris wheel.
Friendly competition added to the excitement as students, staff and campus organizations showcased their creativity in Christmas tree decorating, gingerbread house building and holiday banner designs.
Lander public health students created angels from tissues for a “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Flu Season” tree, while one University office found the Muppets to be an inspiration for an “Oscar the Grouch” tree, complete with Muppet nativity scene. The Grinch and Cindy Lou Who were stars of a gingerbread house, while a gingerbread village featured Santa and his reindeer, along with Lander’s mascots, Mr. and Ms. Bearcat.
At the time of writing, no official announcement had been made on the winners of any of the competitions. However, it is the opinion of the author that the Muppet Christmas Tree was the best.
The highlight of the evening was the Christmas Tree Lighting, led by Lander President Richard Cosentino and First Lady Jessie Cosentino, assisted by University students.
Together, the sights, sounds and flavors created a joyful start to the holiday season at Lander – and an evening of fun before final exams and commencement ceremonies in December.
Holiday Spectacular 2025 by University Marketing & Communications