Seasonal Highlights at UCM Include Jingle on the Quad, Holiday Concert

 

The community is invited to celebrate the holiday season with the University of Central Missouri (UCM) during several free events planned for early December.

On Wednesday, Dec. 4 festivities will begin with the First Lady’s Holiday Concert at 6 p.m. in Hendricks Hall in the Administration Building. This year’s concert is themed “Around the World” and will feature the UCM Choirs and Wind Ensemble performing seasonal selections from countries across the globe. No tickets are required.

Following the concert, everyone is encouraged to head outside for Jingle on the Quad at 7:15 p.m., with a lighting ceremony at 7:30 p.m. hosted by President Roger Best and First Lady Robin Best. Jingle on the Quad has quickly become a beloved holiday tradition for the university and the community, with more lights planned for the 2024 winter season. 

Visitors can enjoy free refreshments, including hot cocoa, hot apple cider and cookies, while taking in the colorful lights and visiting with Mo the Mule, Santa, and Molly, the university’s live mule mascot. The Student Tree Decorating Contest winners will also be announced during the event.

Several other holiday events will take place on campus throughout the week. 

The annual UCM Holiday Market will be open from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3 in the Elliott Student Union Ballrooms. With gift shopping season underway, University students, faculty and staff will offer a variety of items for sale, including gourmet food, arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry and more. Market visitors can also stop by Santa’s workshop for cookie decorating and photos with Santa Claus.

UCM student musicians will keep the spirit going as they perform holiday tunes on Thursday, Dec. 5 in the Union Atrium. The Jazz-Rock Combo will perform at 11 a.m., followed by the Jazz Ensemble 2 at 12:30 p.m. and the Jazz Ensemble 1 at 2 p.m. 

Thursday evening, students can stop by Fun Before Finals from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center for bingo, food, crafts and more.

For more information about holiday music events, visit ucmo.edu/music or email musicoffice@ucmo.edu. For more information about Jingle on the Quad, contact the Office of the President at 660-543-4112. For more information about the Holiday Market, visit the UCM Elliott Student Union Facebook page or contact the Union at 660-543-4052 or esuinfo@ucmo.edu. For more information about Fun Before Finals, contact the Office of Student Activities at 660-543-4007.