Key takeaways
- College campus holiday traditions can vary widely, from concerts to massive light displays.
- Many schools incorporate charity or community services into festivities.
- Some events celebrate cultural or religious heritage, adding a unique charm.
- Students of all majors participate in performances and events.
- Visiting these colleges during the holidays offers a festive, community-driven experience.
The holiday season can bring magic to college campuses. Some schools go beyond decorating and concerts, creating traditions that students and the public can enjoy. From dazzling light displays to community service events, these celebrations capture the true spirit of the season. Plus, they offer a warm send-off before winter break. Whether you’re a student, alumnus, or visitor, these festive moments can make campus life shine a little brighter.
Here are 10 colleges where holiday cheer is truly unforgettable.
1. Roberts Wesleyan College — Christmas Gala
Flickr user Henry Huey (note: RWC not pictured)
- Location: Rochester, NY
- Total students: 1,572
Robert Wesleyan College rings in the season with its annual Christmas Gala. It features performances from student ensembles in brass, strings, jazz, and vocals.
Guests walk through the Davison Art Gallery before a festive reception, creating an atmosphere of art and joy. Best of all, ticket proceeds support music student scholarships. It’s a great way to spread generosity with holiday cheer.
2. University of Redlands — Feast of Lights
Flickr user Till Westermayer
- Location: Redlands, CA
- Total students: 3,137
The Feast of Lights celebrates the biblical Christmas story through choral music, spoken word, and theatrical reenactments. Each performance ends with a Ceremony of Candles, filling the chapel with a warm, golden glow. The university also encourages guests to bring non-perishable food donations, turning the celebration into a feast of giving.
3. University of the Incarnate Word – Light the Way
Flickr user Little Christmas
- Location: San Antonio, TX
- Total students: 7,163
Each November, UIW’s campus lights up with nearly one million twinkling lights and dazzling fireworks to kick off the holidays. Families enjoy visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrive by horse-drawn carriage, along with festive music and food. This event also supports local children through toy donations to the Elf Louise Toy Collection.
4. Purdue University – Purdue Christmas Show
Flickr user Georgios Michalogiorgakis
- Location: West Lafayette, IN
- Total students: 57,211
For more than 90 years, the Purdue Christmas Show has brought students and alumni together for a spectacular musical performance. The elaborate sets and uplifting songs are produced entirely by students from all majors. This makes it a campus highlight, and audiences of all ages are invited to see the celebration.
6. Seton Hall University – Christmas at the Hall
Flickr user Prayitno
- Location: South Orange, NJ
- Total students: 9,579
Seton Hall’s 60-foot Norway Spruce lights up with more than 43,000 bulbs during the annual tree lighting ceremony. Students, faculty, and visitors gather for caroling, cocoa, and toy drives that brighten the community. The celebration continues with “12 Acts of Christmas Kindness,” a beloved student-led tradition that spreads goodwill across campus.
6. Pacific Lutheran University – Scandinavian Culture Center Events
Flickr user poppy
- Location: South Tacoma, WA
- Total students: 2,790
PLU embraces its Nordic heritage through three winter traditions: the Norwegian candlelight service, the Sankta Lucia Fest, and the Nordic Christmas Fest. Students perform songs and readings in Norwegian and Swedish while the community enjoys traditional foods and crafts. Each event reflects a deep appreciation for culture, faith, and togetherness.
7. Elon University — Holiday Choral Concert
- Location: Elon, NC
- Total students: 7,257
Elon’s annual Holiday Choral Concert features student ensembles performing both classic carols and modern arrangements. The uplifting event brings students, faculty, and families together to celebrate the season through song. Proceeds often support local charities. This event blends musical talent and the spirit of giving.
8. William and Mary — Yule Log Ceremony
- Location: Williamsburg, VA
- Total students: 9,862
One of the college’s most cherished traditions, the Yule Log Ceremony gathers the campus for carols, readings, and reflections around a roaring bonfire. Students toss sprigs of holly into the fire to symbolize letting go of worries from the past year. It’s a perfect mix of history, warmth, and community spirit.
9. Middlebury College — Winter Carnival
- Location: Middlebury, VT
- Total students: 2,817
Middlebury celebrates winter with a campus-wide festival featuring ice skating, live music, and themed performances. Students and locals gather for hot cocoa, cozy bonfires, and snowy fun. The event highlights Vermont’s seasonal charm while fostering community between campus and town.
10. Oberlin College — Walkin’ in a Winter Oberlin
- Location: Oberlin, OH
- Total students: 2,960
Oberlin College teams up with the City of Oberlin and local groups for Walkin’ in a Winter Oberlin. This cheerful downtown celebration is filled with lights, music, and community fun.
Visitors can enjoy a tree lighting, holiday parade, ice sculptures, and festive treats. The Allen Memorial Art Museum also joins in with special holiday art events and performances.
Enjoy the holiday season and find the perfect fit
College campuses come alive this time of year. Many of them offer festive traditions that bring students and communities together in celebration and giving. From dazzling lights to cozy concerts and cultural ceremonies, these experiences can make campus life unforgettable.
Looking for a college that’s the right fit for you? Use College Raptor’s FREE College Match tool to explore schools that match your goals, interests, and budget. Finding the perfect college match can make this season feel bright.
