It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas; am I right? Well, I mean, maybe not exactly … but many of us are certainly ready for some holiday cheer. I’m personally just itching to get some decorations up. Maybe a festive wreath, a classy garland, some glittery lights…

All of which got me thinking about the holiday traditions we have here at Elizabethtown College. One of the few things that make the end of the semester bearable is that, as a college community, we really do our best to acknowledge holidays. Even if we can’t be at home celebrating with our families, we still get to gather together and be merry.

One of the most anticipated holiday traditions we have at Etown is the annual tree lighting ceremony. In the past, students and staff have congregated to hear President Strikwerda read a Christmas story and watch as the tree illuminates the Dell. It typically takes place after the Thanksgiving theme dinner, which is an equally cherished celebration at the College. It is set to take place Wednesday, Nov. 19 this year.

However, some of us were shocked to discover that there was no mention of the tree lighting on this month’s OSA calendar. Could it have been a simple mistake, or will it really not happen this year? Rumors began circulating.

As the tree lighting is such a long-standing and beloved event, I found it difficult to believe the rumor. Similar celebrations have been a national staple for at least a century: according to thenationaltree.com, President Calvin Coolidge introduced the tradition at the White House in 1923. And who could forget the one at Rockefeller Center in New York City, which has had a radio/TV broadcasted lighting ceremony since the 1950s?

Though our Etown tree lighting may not be the most flashy or awe-inspiring, it would certainly be missed if it did not take place this year. It’s a chance to be festive and cheery, but even more importantly, it symbolizes peace and fosters a communal bond. I sincerely hope the tradition lives on this year and for generations to come.