The annual event features the official holiday lighting on the student center plaza, along with numerous activities, snacks, giveaways and music. The event is sponsored by Marshall’s Office of University Communications and Student Affairs.
“Herd Holiday has become a favorite annual event for the Marshall family,” said Mallory Jarrell, marketing and branding coordinator at Marshall. “It is a great way to kick off the holiday season on campus and celebrate with our students before the stress of finals kicks in.”
The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with performances by the Marshall University School of Theatre Christmas Carolers and Huntington Dance Theatre. Then, President and Mrs. Gilbert will be on hand to flip the switch to light the Marshall University Christmas Tree.
“Being able to include musical performances is a wonderful addition to the event and helps add to the holiday atmosphere,” Jarrell said.
After the lighting, everyone will move inside the student center for activities, music from Kelley’s Bridge and the Old Main Carolers and snacks – including hot chocolate and s’mores. Other features include holiday ornament painting with the Pottery Place (the first 200 ornaments are free), a holiday photo booth and a Marshall Bookstore fashion show.
The bookstore will remain open for holiday shopping and will offer a free gift with purchase, special offers and giveaways throughout the evening. A lucky Marshall student will also win books for the spring semester, courtesy of the bookstore. Former Marshall football coaches Red Dawson and Bobby Pruett will be hosting book signings in the store throughout the evening.
The Gilberts will host a holiday story time for children beginning at 6:15 p.m. next to the fireplace.
Marshall University student-athletes will be available for autographs and photo opportunities, schedule posters and special giveaways.
Holiday photos with Santa-Marco will be taken throughout the evening. The photos will be available for free downloads beginning Tuesday, Dec. 13.
Guests can meet Marshall international students and learn how the holidays are celebrated in their native countries. Marshall student organizations will take part in a gingerbread house decorating contest, and MU Presidential Ambassadors will be available to assist children in writing their letters to Santa Claus and dropping them in his mailbox.
More information and a full schedule of events can be found at www.marshall.edu/herdholiday.