With the sun setting by 5 p.m., the sight of 3,000 lights on a winter evening can be shocking. For the Lindenwood University community, this means Winterfest is here. Lindenwood’s annual holiday tradition, Winterfest, dates back to 1983 making it a mainstay for the community.

Open to the public, guests will have a chance to carol with Lindenwood’s acapella group, Voices Only, decorate holiday cookies, create holiday crafts, listen to holiday stories read by Mrs. Claus, take family photos in a real sleigh, and tell Santa their Christmas wishes. Guests are invited to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the Salvation Army, and will receive an event t-shirt while supplies last.

Special Events Coordinator Lilli Cheek ’24 is working to put on her first Winterfest as a member of Lindenwood’s staff. “I am so excited to be preparing Winterfest for the community.” A Lindenwood alumna, Cheek recalls fond memories of attending Winterfest as a student and is excited to bring a new perspective to the tradition. “We are bringing in a lot of new attractions this year: an ice rink, alpine slide, cotton candy booth, games vendors, and a live reindeer.”

Director, Alumni Relations Dr. Jen Edler is another Lindenwood alumna who relishes the opportunity to give back to the community. Speaking on the event, Edler says, “Winterfest brings so much joy and warmth to the community. The combination of traditional holiday activities, like photos with Santa and the horse and carriage, along with the cozy atmosphere of hot chocolate and luminaries, really does make it feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie. I’m honored to be part of such a cherished tradition—and I hope you will join us and start sharing these traditions with your family!

Winterfest is located on the heritage side of campus, Sunday, December 1, 2024, 4 - 8 p.m. Further information can be found on the Winterfest site.