Inaugural Winter Festival Delights College Community with Festive Fun

The Saint Mary’s College campus came alive on the first day of December with holiday spirit as students, faculty, staff, and community members gathered for the first-ever Winter Festival, a joyous celebration that featured a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, an enchanting “glice” skating rink, petting zoo and creative DIY holiday crafts stations.

The Winter Festival, organized by Fiona Corner, Assistant Director of Residential Experience, aimed to bring the college community together and create lasting memories during the holiday season. The event, held on Chapel Lawn, was a resounding success, with participants expressing delight at the festive atmosphere and the array of activities.

As dusk settled over the campus, students and community members gathered around two towering trees of lights and as the countdown illuminated the Chapel area, the hired carolers set the mood with heartwarming carols, creating a magical ambiance that resonated throughout the campus.

A synthetic ice skating rink was set up in the heart of the festival, providing students with the opportunity to glide and twirl on the "ice" under the stars and Saint Mary’s Chapel. Skaters of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, enjoyed the winter activity, creating an infectious sense of camaraderie. The ice skating rink proved to be a hit, with laughter and joy echoing across the campus as skaters embraced the festive spirit.

“I had a really good time—the ice was the highlight of the evening—it was fun and festive!”
—Gabrielle Vine ’27 

For those seeking a more hands-on experience, a DIY holiday crafts station offered a chance to express creativity and craft personalized decorations. From ornament-making to festive cookie and stocking decorating, students immersed themselves in the joy of creating unique holiday keepsakes. The crafts station provided a cozy space for participants to unwind and bond over shared creativity.

The Winter Fest not only brought joy to the campus but also fostered a sense of community spirit and togetherness. Students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with their peers and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

The success of the inaugural Winter Festival has sparked anticipation for future holiday celebrations on campus, with students and faculty already looking forward to making this a cherished tradition at SMC. Fiona and the planning committee extend their deep appreciation for the Board of Trustees, who funded the Winter Fest event, and hopes that Winter Fest will continue to grow and become a beloved tradition for generations of students to come.

SEE MORE: A Gallery of Photos from Winter Fest