Christmas time at Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is a magical time filled with light, love, and, most importantly, Jesus. On Monday, December 1, PBA officially marked the start of the Christmas season with their annual Christmas tree lighting.
Students, alumni, faculty, and members of the community gathered on the Baxter Green and watched as the campus came alive with an abundance of music, lights, food, and fun.
Joy in the Small Things
Rows of twinkling Christmas and palm trees greeted guests. Delightful smells drew them to tables full of holiday treats, where guests could snag a hot chocolate with their favorite toppings or exercise their creativity at the cookie decorating station.
Children danced in the fake snow that fell upon the lawn. Sailfish Jack even joined the children for a bit of frolicking, without the frost bite.
Attendees also had the opportunity to board a train for a chance to tour the decorated campus. The train took passengers on a scenic route around campus and under glowing Christmas arches and twinkling lights.
From ugly Christmas sweaters to Santa bears, attendees came dressed in their Christmas best. The ones with the most memorable outfits were awarded a Sailfish Swag bag.
Dogs were not to be left out of the fun as many came sporting their Christmas PJs and sweaters.
Many friend groups and families took advantage of the free photo booth available for those who wished to freeze the magical moment. Christmas props were available to add additional holiday cheer.
The Season Begins
Amidst the crowd and echoes of laughter, a peaceful sound wafted through the air as the PBA choir began to sing beloved carols. This soft music marked the beginning of the tree lighting ceremony.
University President Dr. Debra A. Schwinn reminded the audience of the reason for the season by reading the Christmas story from Luke 2:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.”
After reading the story, Schwinn invited the choir to join in a verse of “Silent Night.” The audience joined in, and the atmosphere over the Baxter Green shifted to one of worship as everyone took a moment to reflect on the coming of Jesus Christ.
After the song, event hosts led the audience in a countdown and at “One!” a large tree adorning the stage sprung to life, shining brightly for all to see.
The festivities continued throughout the night. Although the Christmas tree lighting has passed, at PBA, the Christmas season has only just begun.
Watch the highlights of the Christmas Tree Lighting.
