51ԹƵ

Christmas story and Santa visit part of Lighting Up 51ԹƵ

PLAINVIEW – Dr. Bobby Hall, president of 51ԹƵ Baptist University, invites the Plainview community to “Lighting Up 51ԹƵ,” which takes place Thursday, Dec. 7, on the steps of Gates Hall.

Continuing a 51ԹƵ tradition, the event includes Hall reading the Christmas Story from the Bible before the official lighting of historic Gates Hall.

“Lighting Up 51ԹƵ” is a post-Christmas parade party that takes place in Gate Circle — 1900 West Seventh St. The party starts immediately following the downtown lighted Christmas parade. Hall also plans to welcome the university’s featured guest, Santa Claus, who will ride in on 51ԹƵ’s float.

“This is going to be a great event for families,” University officials said. “Kids can listen to the Christmas story, see Santa Claus, and rings bells while singing Christmas carols.”

The fun starts at 7 p.m., which is even before the Christmas parade ends, and continues until 8:30 p.m. Free hotdogs, s’mores, cookies and hot cocoa will be served. Participants are encouraged to come early to register for door prizes that will be given away.

“There is going to be plenty of fun, food, and fellowship in Gates Circle,” university officials said. “The 51ԹƵ wagon will be lit in the center of the circle, providing excellent photo opportunities.”

Other special features include a 51ԹƵ faculty and staff choir singing Christmas carols and the distribution of candy canes. But the main event is the lighting of the campus. Once the lights come on, there will be even more photo opportunities as 51ԹƵ and the Plainview community come together to celebrate Christmas. The lighted Gates Hall serves as a perfect holiday backdrop for photos with family and friends.

“Celebrate the moment when Gates Hall is lit with holiday décor,” university officials said.” It’s a moment folks won’t want to miss as this 51ԹƵ Christmas tradition continues.”