Sometimes it feels like the saying is more along the lines of “‘Tis the season for papers, projects, and finals,” but that stuff won’t get us down at Cairn! Whenever you’re feeling a little like Scrooge, there is plenty to do on campus to get you back in the Christmas spirit. From  Student Life’s trip to Peddler’s Village last Saturday, to the all-day Christmas celebration on Friday, December 7, there is something for even the biggest Grinch on campus.

For the artistic student, Cairn can help you decorate! SVAS is hosting a torch-blown glass ornament workshop. Sign up in the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences if you are interested in making glass ornaments, which are great for gifts or for beginning your own collection of Christmas decorations. Sessions will be held on Tuesday December 4, and Saturday December 8. Do be aware that there is a $13 fee to cover all materials. Then on Friday, December 7, there will be a gingerbread making contest after chapel. This is a great time to get creative and competitive in your Christmas celebration.

For the musically-inclined student, there are multiple opportunities on Friday, December 7 to get in the Christmas spirit and to support your fellow student body. First, join in on caroling in the lounges at 1:00, but if that isn’t enough, come out to one of the two Christmas at Cairn concerts at 4:00 or 8:00. Both feature the same repertoire by orchestra, jazz ensemble, wind ensemble, chorale, gospel choir, chamber singers, and handbell choir. After all, “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear” (courtesy of everyone’s favorite elf). Be aware that you do have to get a ticket for the concert, completely FREE for students!

For the hungry student that just needs some good comfort food, Cairn is there for your stress-eating needs. Student Life knows it’s a busy time of year with too much work and too little sleep, so they are providing some caffeine and sugar. Hang out with Student life and pick up some free coffee and a doughnut at 8:00 Friday morning. Later that night, Pioneer is providing a quality Christmas dinner, so be sure to get in line early for a table.

For every student in between, there are several events that cannot be put into any one category. Many students on campus look forward to the Christmas chapel all semester, complete with aptly themed message and songs. Much of the Christmas celebration culminates at 6:00 with Starry Night, conveniently timed between the two Christmas at Cairn concerts. The whole Cairn community comes together for carriage rides, hot chocolate on the walkway, and many more festivities, perfect for getting in the Christmas spirit. To finish off the night, come to the Resident Hall’s after-party at 10:00. Since classes will be over at that point, celebrate with a late night and come together for sake of the Christmas spirit.

This Christmas season, let’s gather as a university to share some holiday cheer but ultimately remember the reason for that cheer. In the midst of all these festivities, let’s remember that Jesus is our joy, and let’s come together to celebrate His birth above all. I, for one, am thankful that Cairn does such a wonderful job of celebrating the Christmas holiday as well as celebrating Christ.