story and photos by Brittany Ransom
bransom@thecitywire.com
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. The school celebrated the start of the holiday season on Tuesday (Nov. 25) evening by hosting its annual Campus Lighting Ceremony.
Hundreds of visitors made their way to UAFS to enjoy the holiday festivities and see the grounds transform with thousands of glowing lights. Hosted between the women and men's basketball games, the ceremony took place on the campus green, with the school's Bell Tower in the backdrop.
Miss UAFS 2013 Emily McCollom kicked off the evening by welcoming the crowd and introducing Chancellor Paul Beran. During the short program, visitors heard a number of carols sung by local performers. Members of the Academy of the Arts, a children's visual and performing arts program offered through the university, also took part in the festivities, singing several upbeat Christmas tunes for the crowd.
Homecoming Queen Annsley Garner and King Tony Jones led the countdown to the lights. The audience cheered as the campus lit up for the first time of the season.
Following the flipping of the switch, visitors were given the chance to roam throughout the grounds while enjoying hot chocolate. Guests also enjoyed a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and some elves from the North Pole. Many of the characters took time to snap photos with the children in attendance and talk with them about their Christmas wish lists.
This year's display includes several holiday scenes, including a traditional Christmas candlestick, prancing reindeer, and gift boxes topped with red bows. The school's signature UAFS blue Christmas tree stands in the center of the green, leading up to the bell tower. Lights are located throughout the center of campus, as well as along the perimeter facing Waldron Avenue. The lights will remain on display until the start of the new year.