Cedarville University welcomed the Christmas season with music, cocoa and the glow of a 32-foot-tall tree at its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 13, at 7:30 p.m. The cherished tradition included the campus family and local residents along the Stevens Student Center lakeside plaza for an evening of Christmas carols, cookies and hot cocoa — all leading up to the much-anticipated moment when the tree comes to life in a dazzling display of lights.
Student Voices Take Center Stage
For the first time, Cedarville students from the competitive public speaking (forensics) delivered the evening’s message, offering a thoughtful reflection on the season’s meaning. A choir of 11 student vocalists and a pianist led carols, including “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “Joy to the World.” The event highlights Cedarville’s commitment to community, collaboration and Christ-centered celebration.
“The moment the countdown begins is absolutely electric,” said Cecily Holliday, communications manager in Cedarville’s Advancement division. “You can feel a collective ripple through the crowd as everyone joins in unison for the countdown. Once the tree is lit, you just see all the beaming smiles and cheering. I encourage people to take a step back and look around to see the vibrant joy and happiness that fills the space and atmosphere.”
Honoring the Meaning Behind the Tradition
The evening not only celebrated tradition but also emphasizes the deeper meaning of Christmas — the birth of Jesus Christ, who came to bring hope and salvation to the world.
“Starting the season this way helps our community keep an eternal perspective and carry that sense of joy, purpose and gratitude throughout the holidays,” said Holliday.
Cedarville’s annual tree lighting offers more than festive fun. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the true message of Christmas. As the lights sparkle and carols fill the air, the university’s mission to reflect Christ’s light shines brighter than ever.
About Cedarville University
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian?institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation’s top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at?cedarville.edu.?