York College of Pennsylvania Winter Fest 2025: Experience Global Campus Traditions
2025 Winter Fest Overview
The campus will light up with excitement on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., as York College of Pennsylvania invites students, faculty, and community members to celebrate its annual Winter Fest. The event will be held across the main campus, with a central check‑in point in the Student Union Lobby. It is a free gathering that encourages exploration of seasonal traditions from around the globe, all while promoting community, creativity, and connection.
Event Schedule & Highlights
- 6:00 p.m. – President Thomas Burns will “flip the switch,” igniting a campus‑wide light display.
- 6:15 p.m. – Students receive event bags with glowsticks, food truck tickets, and giveaway vouchers at the Student Union.
- 6:30–9:00 p.m. – Interactive tables, food trucks, photo ops, and fire pits remain open for the evening.
Each table represents a distinct winter celebration—from the traditional Christmas markets of Europe to the vibrant Holi festivals in India—and encourages hands‑on participation.
Global Celebration Theme
Curated by Rev. Lisa Hair, M.Div., the theme “The Great Celebrations Race” seeks to showcase how winter traditions unite and differ worldwide. Students visit each themed station to learn a cultural fact, try a craft, or sample a local flavor, all while earning a chance to enter a special prize drawing.
Campus Zones and Activities
York College has segmented the event into several “zones” to ensure a smooth flow and maximize engagement:
- Student Union Lobby (Check‑In & Distribution) – Here the first impression is set; attendees collect bags, lights, and an overview brochure.
- Library (Official Giveaway Ticketing) – A dedicated space for ticketed giveaways.
- Outdoor Fire Pits – Fire pits scattered across campus promote a communal feel; s’mores await.
- Photo Booths – Strategically placed lighting corners provide glow‑up spots to capture memories.
Food & Refreshments
Three food trucks will serve the student community, offering a blend of comfort food and international treats. Availability is limited to invited attendees holding a valid event ticket. Some highlights include:
- Warm soups, grilled cheese, and hot beverages for a cozy start.
- Ethnic specialties—from Korean kimchi to Latin American tamales—aligned with the global theme.
- Seasonal desserts such as gingerbread men and spiced apple cider.
Crafts and Cultural Exploration
Every station includes a craft component, allowing participants to make small souvenirs that reflect their chosen culture. These activities range from wreath making, lantern assembly, and paper snowflake folding to creating origami paper boats celebrating the theme of travel and exchange.
Photo Opportunities and Warmth
Illumination is a key element. Students can strike poses beside the campus light displays or around the curated fire pits, capturing the warmth of community. The lights are projected across buildings, turning the campus into an illuminated gallery.
How to Get Involved
Student Participation
Participation is open to all York College students. The event’s design encourages stepping outside routine classroom life and engaging with peers in a relaxed environment. If you’re not enrolled, contact the student life office for guest passes.
Volunteer Opportunities
Student volunteers are needed for table setup, ticket distribution, and clean‑up. Interested individuals can sign up via the campus volunteer portal or directly with Student Life. Volunteering offers an excellent chance to network with student leaders and staff.
Planning Ahead
Transportation & Timing
Because the activity is spread across campus, plan your route early. The Student Union serves as the main hub, and additional zones are within a short walking distance. Arrive by 5:45 p.m. to secure an event bag.
Event Bags & Materials
Each attendee receives a durable bag with glowsticks, a food truck ticket, a giveaway voucher, and a copy of the event schedule. Bags are designed for easy reuse during the festive season.
Final Thoughts
Winter Fest 2025 is more than a holiday celebration; it’s an invitation to experience the diversity of winter festivities, forge new friendships, and reflect on shared values of community and celebration. The campus lights, crafts, and food trucks converge to create a vibrant mosaic of tradition and modernity.
Whether you’re a returning student, a freshman, or an alumnus wishing to reconnect, you’ll find something to enjoy. Mark your calendar, invite your friends, and take the opportunity to broaden your cultural perspective while embracing campus traditions.
Have questions or want to register as a volunteer? Contact Student Life today.
Remember: If you’re still deciding where to pursue higher education, consider how York College’s strong sense of community and cultural programming can enrich your college experience. Submit your application today and start preparing for a rewarding academic journey.
For more community events, stay tuned to the York College news page and follow the college on social media: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Happy holidays, Spartans!
