The Student Activities Board (SAB) at Monmouth University held the first ever Winter Illumination on Friday Nov. 30 on the Residential side of campus.
SAB specializes in the majority of the school’s special events, festivals, and concerts held this event which featured crafts and refreshments.
5678 Dance Club took the stage promptly at 7:15 p.m., and as they were dancing all of the lights turned on.
Emily Loughman, a first year art student said, “It was epic.”
As the lights turned on at the event, Melania Pugliese, a junior biology student, was attending with her girlfriend when she stated, “It was fun and cute. I enjoyed the crafts, stuffing the reindeer was so relaxing and a great way to distress before finals.”
There was an estimated 200-300 students turn out for the evening, along with multiple staff and community members. The overall event as the chairman stated had multiple elements that just all worked well together. The live performances gave students something fresh every three minutes. The cultural organizations that were present were making crafts with participants. According to various attendees, it was a unique way for students to learn more about one another’s celebrations, and try things such as play dreidel, or make your own ornaments.
On top of that, the lights added elegance to the evening. That, along with the hot pretzels and hot chocolate, created a sweet atmosphere and something fun to munch on to keep you toasty. Throughout the night, MU Players performed various numbers, along with Blue Hawk Records and CommWorks.
There was also a community aspect from the cultural organizations. About a dozen free crafts where offered at the event by the Latin American Student Organization, Residential Hall Association, National Council for Negro Women, CRU, Student Government Association, and the Italian Club. It was one of the biggest and brightest celebrations of the year.
Some of the lights will remain on timers for everyone to enjoy until Reading Day. There is even more fun happening next semester. SAB will be hosting three new festival events just like Winter Illumination, along with over a dozen other concerts, comedians, special events, novelties, and more. The performance organizations will also all be showcasing their talents.
The 5678 Dance Club will also be hosting their annual recital showcase, with set pieces, student choreography from award-winning dancers, as well as a Disney Dance Production number. Blue Hawk Records, another Monmouth University Department of Music and Theater club, will be releasing its newest album at the end of the spring semester. There are so many more fun events to experience coming up.
This event brought the Monmouth community together with crafts, performances, and holiday spirit, which was SAB’s intention. The involvement from all the clubs who participated was something special.
Make sure to follow SAB on Instagram @monmouth_sab or on twitter to always be updated with what’s happening on campus.
Also be sure to follow Monmouth University’s Center for the Arts to always be updated with the dozens of live entertainment for students.
PHOTO COURTESY of Dennis Brislin
