One of the University of Virginia’s beloved holiday traditions, Lighting of the Lawn, returns Friday for its 23rd anniversary. This year’s theme is “Lights Up.”
“‘Lights Up’ serves as a moment to reflect on and celebrate our shared experiences, highlighting the ways we uplift each other and the strengths we bring to the University,” Lighting of the Lawn co-chair Chelsea Huffman, a fourth-year student, said. “Every contribution and milestone we achieve shapes our collective UVA story and showcases the enduring light of our community.”
If you plan on attending this year’s event, here’s what you need to know to make the most of the celebration.
Event Logistics
The festivities will span across the Lawn, with food trucks and activities stationed on South Lawn. The event schedule is as follows:
- 6 p.m. Doors open
- 7 p.m. Welcome and performances
- 8:40 p.m. Poem reading
- 8:50 p.m. Singing of the “The Good Old Song”
- 9 p.m. Light show begins
Attendees will pass through metal detectors and bag checks are required. Outside beverages, folding chairs and non-service animals are not permitted. More information about prohibited items can be found on the Lighting of the Lawn website.
Paid parking is available at the Central Grounds Parking Garage, while the Culbreth Parking Garage offers free parking after 5 p.m.
Entrances are located on the sidewalks in front of Garrett Hall and Rouss & Robertson Halls. Attendees requesting ADA-accessible entrances can enter through the west-side gates near Hotel A, Patterson Alley or Garrett Hall.
The Lighting of the Lawn committee recommends guests arrive at least 45 minutes early to allow time for parking and security checks.
A Student-Led Event
Co-chairs Riley McNeill, left, and Chelsea Huffman, right, lead a committee drawn from across undergraduate classes for Lighting of the Lawn. (Photos by Matt Riley, University Communications)
Lighting of the Lawn is a testament to the creativity and dedication of UVA students. While members of Class Council spearhead the event, it draws contributions from across the University. For example, the Department of Drama lends its expertise in lighting design.
Co-chairs Riley McNeill and Huffman have worked for months, overseeing every event detail, from securing food vendors to programming the light displays. Lighting of the Lawn is funded entirely through donations, grants and partnerships with local businesses.
Community Spirit and Tradition
The inaugural Lighting of the Lawn in 2001 was an effort to uplift the UVA community after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Since its inception, the event has grown and evolved while remaining true to its original intention: to create a sense of togetherness during the holiday season.
Today, the event unites students, faculty and community members for an evening of performances, festive treats and lots of light.
Food, Activities and Performances
The evening will feature performances from 27 student organizations. (Photo by Matt Riley, University Communications)
With an hour between the doors opening and the start of performances, guests have plenty of time to enjoy the festivities on South Lawn, including food trucks, a photo booth and live music by the Krispies, a student band performing in front of Old Cabell Hall. Complimentary hot chocolate, apple cider and cookies will be available.
Food options will be plentiful, with food truck offerings including Carpe Donuts, Mexican food from Sombrero’s and kettle corn from It’s Poppin Time.
At 7 p.m., the main stage in front of the Rotunda will come alive as UVA’s cappella groups, dance teams and other student performers showcase their talents. With 27 student organizations represented, the evening will display various talents from around the University.
Fourth-year students are invited to attend an exclusive reception at Pavilion VI, the home of Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer Kenyon Bonner.
First Drone Light Show
The drone light display is funded by President Jim Ryan’s Arts on the Hill program, which supports creative initiatives that bring art and community together at UVA. (Photo by Sky Elements)
For the first time, this year’s Lighting of the Lawn will feature a 12-minute drone light display. Powered by synchronized drones from Sky Elements, the show will feature animations set to music, creating sky-high images above the Rotunda.
Sky Elements, a finalist in the most recent “America’s Got Talent” season, is bringing its expertise to Charlottesville for the community to witness.
