Christmas Traditions
Christmas is a time filled with tradition here at PLU. During the month of December, many celebrations take place throughout campus! Remind your student to participate in these fun activities and, if you are ever around campus, stop by one of these events yourself.
The season begins with the “Lighting of Red Square”, this year on December 2, when the campus community gathers around the 30-foot Christmas tree while President Loren Anderson flips the switch to light the tree and kick off Christmas at PLU. The decorations hold a very special meaning as well; each star represents a donation made to the Common Hope Organization in Antigua, Guatemala and the Tacoma Rescue Mission. Please contact
Campus Ministry at 253-535-7464 or
cmin@plu.edu for more information.
Students can prepare themselves for the Christmas celebrations by attending the parties organized in every hall at the end of the semester in what has become, over the years, a PLU tradition. During a short break from studying, students celebrate with food, fun and friendship while getting ready for the holiday season in their home away from home!
Christmas would not be the same without the PLU Christmas concerts where the talented members of the
Choir of the West,
University Chorale and the
University Symphony Orchestra will present joyous anthems, processionals, carols and narration. Concerts in Seattle, Portland and Tacoma are scheduled between December 5 and 11. For a complete list of concerts and to find out more information on how to purchase a ticket please visit the
website. Also, University Singers and University Chamber Singers will perform on Dec. 3 in the Sound of Christmas concert.
Another very important tradition, and a testimony to the connection of the school to its Scandinavian heritage, is the celebration of Sankta Lucia on December 4. A ceremony that honors lights, faith and sacrifice takes place and a female student is extended the title of Lucia and the honor of presiding over the celebrations. The Christian celebration of Sankta Lucia was born in Italy, spread to Scandinavia during the 1700 and 1800s and was first brought to PLU in 1951.
Pacific Lutheran University would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas!
