As the vibrant hues of autumn fade and the crisp Atlanta air carries a hint of winter’s embrace, Emory University undergoes a magical transformation. The historic Gothic architecture, usually a backdrop for academic rigor and intellectual discourse, becomes adorned with twinkling lights, festive garlands, and the palpable hum of anticipation. For students, faculty, staff, and the wider community, the holiday season at Emory isn’t just a break from studies or work; it’s a cherished collection of traditions, a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and compassionate community. With a calendar brimming with events designed to ignite holiday spirit, encourage connection, and celebrate diversity, Emory truly becomes a winter wonderland where academic excellence meets heartfelt festivity.
The holiday season officially kicks off with one of Emory’s most anticipated and beloved events: the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Held on the iconic Quadrangle, this spectacle draws hundreds, if not thousands, as the magnificent evergreen at the heart of campus bursts into a cascade of shimmering lights. More than just an illumination, it’s a communal gathering that brings together the entire Emory family. Students, bundled in scarves and hats, huddle together with steaming mugs of hot cocoa, while families with young children marvel at the dazzling display. The air is filled with the joyful sound of carols performed by Emory’s renowned a cappella groups and choirs, their voices echoing against the historic buildings. The President of the University often delivers a warm welcome, emphasizing the spirit of unity and goodwill that defines the season. This event isn’t merely about turning on lights; it’s about igniting a collective sense of belonging, signaling the official start of a period dedicated to warmth, connection, and celebration.
Beyond the initial glow of the tree lighting, Emory’s commitment to the arts shines brightly through a series of holiday-themed performances. The Candler Concert Series and the Department of Music orchestrate a dazzling array of events that showcase the immense talent within the university. The annual Lessons and Carols Service held in the majestic Cannon Chapel is a profound and moving experience. Inspired by the King’s College Cambridge tradition, this candlelit service features readings from scripture, interspersed with beautiful anthems and carols performed by the University Chorus, Concert Choir, and various student ensembles. The soaring voices, the hushed reverence of the congregation, and the soft glow of candlelight create an atmosphere of peace and reflection, offering a moment of spiritual grounding amidst the festive rush.
Further enhancing the auditory landscape of the holidays are performances by the Emory Jazz Ensemble, often presenting a lively and sophisticated take on holiday classics, and the Emory Symphony Orchestra, which might offer a more traditional classical program featuring movements from Tchaikovsky’s "Nutcracker Suite" or seasonal works by other renowned composers. Student-led groups, from the lively Wonderful Wednesdays performances on Cox Hall Bridge to more intimate recitals in the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts, contribute to the campus-wide symphony of holiday cheer. These musical events not only provide entertainment but also serve as vital cultural touchstones, enriching the university experience and offering a creative outlet for students and faculty alike.
Of course, no holiday season is complete without indulging in festive culinary delights, and Emory’s dining services rise to the occasion with gusto. Throughout December, Emory Dining transforms its facilities into veritable winter wonderlands. Special holiday-themed meals are served in the dining halls, often featuring traditional roasts, seasonal vegetables, and an array of delectable desserts like gingerbread cookies, Yule logs, and peppermint bark. Students might find themselves participating in gingerbread house decorating competitions, or enjoying "Pajama Parties" in the dining halls where hot chocolate bars and cozy treats abound, offering a much-needed break from the intensity of final exams. These culinary events foster a sense of conviviality, providing spaces where friends can gather, share a meal, and de-stress before the academic year concludes.
The holiday season at Emory is also deeply intertwined with the university’s core value of service and community engagement. The Spirit of Giving permeates the campus, with numerous initiatives designed to support those in need, both within the Emory community and the wider Atlanta area. Various student organizations, administrative departments, and academic units organize toy drives for local children’s charities, food drives for community food banks, and clothing collections for shelters. Programs like "Adopt-a-Family" allow groups to pool resources to provide gifts and necessities for families facing hardship during the holidays. The Emory Cares International Service Day, though not exclusively a holiday event, often has special iterations or smaller departmental efforts during this time, emphasizing that the spirit of giving and volunteering extends beyond a single day, embodying the university’s commitment to social responsibility. These acts of generosity not only make a tangible difference in the lives of others but also instill in students a profound understanding of empathy and civic duty.
Recognizing the immense pressure students face during final exam periods, Emory prioritizes wellness and stress relief during the holidays. The Office of Health Promotion and the Student Counseling Services often collaborate with other departments to host a series of "De-Stress Fest" events. These might include popular activities like visits from therapy dogs on the Quad, providing comfort and cuddles to anxious students. There are often craft sessions where students can engage in low-stakes creative activities like ornament making or card decorating, offering a mindful break from textbooks. Yoga and meditation sessions, hot chocolate and cookie study breaks in libraries, and even impromptu dance parties in common areas are all designed to provide avenues for students to relax, recharge, and maintain their mental well-being before heading home for the break.
Emory’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its holiday programming, which strives to be representative of its multicultural community. While Christian traditions are prominent, the university ensures that other faith traditions and cultural observances are acknowledged and celebrated. The Office of Spiritual and Religious Life often hosts interfaith gatherings, discussions, and events that highlight the unique holiday customs of various religions, including Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Diwali (which often falls earlier in the semester but sets a precedent for inclusive celebration). These events foster understanding, respect, and a sense of belonging for students from all backgrounds, reinforcing the idea that the holiday season is a time for shared joy and mutual appreciation, regardless of one’s beliefs.
Beyond the major campus-wide events, individual departments, schools, and offices host their own holiday celebrations. These smaller, more intimate gatherings, ranging from potluck lunches to "ugly sweater" contests, contribute significantly to the fabric of the Emory community. They provide opportunities for colleagues to connect on a more personal level, fostering camaraderie and strengthening the bonds that underpin the university’s daily operations. Alumni, too, are invited back to campus for various receptions and events, allowing them to reconnect with their alma mater and share in the festive spirit, often bringing their families to experience the traditions they once enjoyed as students.
As the semester draws to a close and students pack their bags for winter break, the campus, while quieter, retains a lingering glow of warmth and shared memories. The holiday events at Emory University are more than just a series of scheduled activities; they are an integral part of the university experience, weaving together tradition, community, and the universal spirit of goodwill. They remind everyone that amidst the pursuit of knowledge and the demands of academic life, there is always room for joy, connection, and the creation of cherished memories that last long after the last string of lights has been taken down. From the grand spectacle of the tree lighting to the quiet reflection of a candlelit service, Emory’s holiday season is a testament to its vibrant community, a time when the university truly lives up to its promise of nurturing not just intellect, but also heart and spirit.
