02 Dec 2024 ASU-Beebe’s Community Tree Lighting and market begin at 4 p.m. today
BEEBE — Arkansas State University-Beebe invites the public to join in an evening of holiday cheer at the ASU-Beebe Community Tree Lighting event today, Dec. 3. This family-friendly event will be held at The Grove on the Beebe campus, located at 1000 Iowa Street, and is free and open to the public.
The festivities kick off at 2 p.m. with a special pottery sale featuring handmade gingerbread houses and ornaments crafted at the Makers Day events earlier this fall. All proceeds from the sale will support the Student Emergency Hope Fund, providing a wonderful opportunity to purchase holiday gifts while helping students in need.
“The ASU-Beebe Community Tree Lighting has become a cherished tradition, bringing together families, friends and neighbors to celebrate the spirit of the season,” said Andrea Cole, associate vice chancellor of Institutional Advancement. “It’s a time for us to come together as a community, enjoy the holiday magic and create memories that we can carry forward year after year.”
Beginning at 4 p.m., attendees can enjoy an array of holiday activities, including hot cocoa, cider, cookies and a chance to take photos with Santa Claus. Craft tables will be available for children and families to create their own holiday ornaments and decorations.
The ASU-Beebe music department will add to the festive atmosphere with holiday-themed performances. The Symphonic Band will perform at 4 p.m., followed by a performance from the Singers and Chamber Singers at 5 p.m.
At 5:30 p.m., the highlight of the evening will take place as the beautiful Leyland Cypress Christmas tree is illuminated with blue and white lights. Dr. Jennifer Methvin, ASU-Beebe chancellor, will share a festive story, and the traditional bells will ring as the honorary tree lighter(s) for 2024 will light the tree, bringing the community together to celebrate the start of the holiday season.
At 5:45 p.m., the Studio 360 dancers will perform, leading up to a special screening of “The Muppet Christmas Carol” at 6 p.m. This beloved 1992 film, directed by Brian Henson and starring Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge, brings Charles Dickens’ classic tale to life with a Muppet twist.
Throughout the event, the ASU-Beebe John Deere program will offer hayrides around the campus, adding a touch of country charm to the holiday festivities.
The ASU-Beebe Community Tree Lighting event offers a perfect way for families, friends, and community members to come together and celebrate the holiday spirit. The event will take place in The Grove, located behind State Hall on the Beebe campus.
