#16 Opinion (Local Issue)

 Celebration of Lights

SAU has hosted the 41st annual celebration of lights in Magnolia AR. The Southern Arkansas University SAU Celebration of Lights is a cherished annual tradition in Magnolia, Arkansas, marking the holiday season with festive events and activities. The event allows for many events for the communities well as college students to get involved on campus and get in the Christmas spirit. 

The Christmas festivities start with a Christmas parade starting at the Magnolia Courthouse and proceeding all the way to SAU. Following the parade, the SAU Celebration of Lights continues with the Overstreet Lighting led by SAU President Dr. Bruno Hicks, the announcement of parade winners, and the lighting of the Bell Tower in the Mall Area, bringing the community together for a festive finale​. 

Below is a list of events happening at the SAU celebration of lights.

• Family Christmas Movie: “Merry Madagascar”: Foundation Hall  |  3, 5, and 7 p.m.
• Personalized Snow Globes: Reynolds Center | 3-7 p.m.
• Ferris Wheel and Train Rides: Mall Area  |  4-8 p.m.
• Magnolia Christmas Parade: “Bright Lights, Magnolia Nights”  |  5:30-6:30 p.m.
• Storytime with Mrs. Claus: Magale Library  |  5, 6, and 7 p.m.
• RHA Overstreet Lighting: Overstreet Hall | 6:30 p.m.
• Lighting of the Bell Tower: Mall Area | Immediately following Overstreet Lighting
• Photos with Santa: Reynolds Center  |  6-8 p.m.
• Buffet Dinner: Reynolds Center, Grand Hall  | 6-8 p.m.

Having events like these in Magnolia is very important. For us being a college town we have nothing to do. With the celebration of lights not only does it give things for the students off SAU something to do but is also a highlight for the community. The parade draws in a lot of community involvement as well as the multiple events happening on campus. I think the events like these are what keeps SAU on the map as well as keeping Magnolia a tight nit community. Things like the celebration of lights is an event many individuals look forward to every year.