‘Tis the season to be merry and bright as Lamar University teams up with ExxonMobil to spread holiday cheer with the fourth annual Cardinal Lights. This dazzling event invites Southeast Texans to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit by taking a scenic drive through the Lamar University campus, which will be illuminated with thousands of lights and festive decorations. Trees and buildings along Jimmy Simmons Boulevard, Jim Gilligan Way, and the Rolfe Christopher Drive entrance will sparkle with holiday magic.
The celebration kicks off with a lighting ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m., in the courtyard of the Wayne A. Reaud Building at 985 Jim Gilligan Way. This family-friendly event will feature a holiday light display, children’s inflatables, festive activities, hot cocoa, holiday cookies, photos with Santa, and other cheerful attractions. At 6:30 p.m., a fireworks display will light up the sky, adding an extra sparkle to the evening.
“While this is a community event, another primary reason we host this event is for our students,” said LU President Dr. Jaime Taylor. “At the end of the semester, it can be very stressful while studying for exams. Some students are away from home, and we want them to have something to enjoy as they walk around campus at night.”
The lights and decorations will remain up through the end of the year, giving the community ample time to experience the holiday magic. “We want to create a space where community members, faculty, staff, and students can drive through LU’s beautiful campus, see the lights, and feel that holiday cheer,” Taylor added.
Adding to the festivities, Spindletop Boomtown Museum (5550 Jimmy Simmons Blvd.) will present Christmas in Boomtown: City in Lights throughout December. From Dec. 3-29, visitors can step back into 1901 and enjoy beautifully decorated historic buildings. The museum is open from 2-9 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 5-9 p.m. on Sunday.
The holiday fun begins with a kickoff event on Thursday, Dec. 5, from 5-8 p.m., featuring live music, hot chocolate, cider, and an outdoor movie. Bring your friends and family for a festive night filled with seasonal joy.
Make this holiday season unforgettable with Cardinal Lights and the City in Lights at Spindletop Boomtown Museum!