Caroline Muniz ‘23

Features Editor

On December 1st, 2022, the holiday season officially began with Holy Cross’ annual tree lighting ceremony! The Purple Key Society (PKS) was able to host this event in which the Christmas Tree was officially blessed and the ceremonial lighting of the tree occured. Students were able to gather and celebrate the start of the holidays as a community. According to PKS, this year’s tree lighting ceremony was the highest attended on record! 

The night was kicked off with greetings from the masters of ceremonies and members of the PKS Charlie Doern ‘23 and Jake Lupo ‘23. They were able to express their appreciation to everyone who helped to make this event possible, as well as the students for continuing to celebrate this tradition. “PKS was really glad to be able to continue this tradition, it was great to see many of the school’s music groups turn out and provide amazing performances,” said Doern. 

During the event, students were able to treat themselves to hot chocolate and cookies, a warm break from both the brisk December weather as well as looming finals. “This year we partnered with HC Dining to provide double the refreshments in years past so as many people as possible were able to grab some if wanted,” said Lupo. 

The Good Time Marching Band was a highlight of the night, keeping the Christmas spirit throughout the entirety of the event. The first musical performance of the night was by the acapella group, Fools on the Hill, with their rendition of “Christmas, (Baby Please Come Home).” They were followed by Off the Record, who continued the joyous occasion with their version of “White Christmas.” Lastly, The Delilahs ended the acapella performances with “White Winter Hymnal.”

After these performances, the Campus Activities Board (CAB) made a special announcement of the other holiday celebrations that took place during Winter Weekend such as the holiday market, Frost Fest weekend, holiday bingo, and more!

In honor of World AIDS Day on December 1st, e-board members of the annual Dance Marathon were able to raise awareness of the issue. Every year they hold a dance marathon to raise money for the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS foundation to support children and families living with HIV/AIDS. 

The musical performances then continued with a performance by the Chamber Singers and they filled the streets with beautiful melodies of Christmas songs. They sang, “Angels We Have Heard on High” and “Carol of the Bells.” 

Fr. Timothy O’Brien, S.J., ’09, associate vice president for mission, conducted the blessing of the tree and the nativity scene with a thoughtful speech and a series of prayers in which he encapsulated everything that the holidays on the hill are about. “Let us remember to be those lights for others,” said O’Brien. After a countdown from ten, Lindon Lane was lit up with the warm glow of the Christmas lights, marking the finale of a wonderful evening of joy.

The Purple Key Society gives special thanks to Purple Key Advisor Cailtin, Fr. O’Brien and Holy Cross Dining Services for all they did to continue this tradition!