Alabama State University illuminated its campus with holiday spirit during its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The event, held on November 7, drew students, faculty, and the surrounding Montgomery community together for an evening filled with joy, music, and festive treats. As a cherished ASU tradition, this year’s celebration marked a vibrant start to the holiday season with performances, community bonding, and a sense of warmth that united everyone in attendance.

The Mighty Marching Hornets Sensational Stingettes, Honey Bees, and Ladies of Distinction graced the Academic Mall alongside the Marching Hornets, bringing holiday classics to life with a powerful, rhythmic twist that only those performers could deliver. Adding a special vocal touch, the University Choir Chamber Singers joined forces with Montgomery’s George Washington Carver High School Chamber Choir to deliver moving renditions of holiday favorites, leaving the audience captivated by the harmony of young voices.

The festivities didn’t end with the performances. Guests were treated to steaming cups of hot chocolate and the chance to toast marshmallows for s’mores, adding a cozy touch that created an intimate, family-friendly atmosphere. The lighting of the Christmas tree was the grand finale, symbolizing unity and hope as everyone watched it illuminate the night sky.

Eric Lewis, a senior and member of the Carver Chamber Choir from G.W. Carver High School, reflected on the experience.

“Seeing the community come together, being able to perform, hearing the music, seeing the lighting of the tree, and being part of all the different activities going on—it’s such a great experience to be part of,” he shared.

Junior finance major Devian Stallworth,  expressed her appreciation for the holiday atmosphere.

“Honestly, the festivities, just being around my friends, my classmates, and seeing the tree, it’s really bringing me into the holiday spirit early. Having s’mores, hot chocolate, and just seeing the lights overall is putting me in the holiday mood,” he said.

Miles Lowe, an senior studying communications and a member of the royal court, was thrilled to be involved.

“It means a lot to be out here. It’s a ritual. This is my first time ever being in it, and this year I’m part of the royal court, so I have a little role in it. I like the vibe that it’s giving off,” he shared with a smile.

Aarin Carver, the 85th Miss ASU and a senior dance major, was proud to bring greetings to the attendees.

“Tonight I am serving as the 85th Miss Alabama State University,” Carver said. “I brought greetings and a breath of fresh air, letting students know that we are here for them, their home away from home experience here at Alabama State University. We’re celebrating joy, we’re celebrating faith, and we’re celebrating the great things God has done for us at Alabama State University. And most importantly, we’re celebrating the holidays.”