ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA – North Carolina Wesleyan University will host its 16th annual Lighting of Wesleyan on Friday, November 19 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. This free community event includes a live nativity, Christmas carols, hayrides, Christmas inflatables, a meet-and-greet with Santa, hot beverages, concessions and a 12-foot tree.

Take a stroll through the College commons and enjoy a large collection of Christmas lights, inflatables and luminaries that line the campus sidewalks. Hayrides will begin and end at the clock in the center of campus. Guests will have an opportunity to be dropped off at the front of campus to view the lit, 12-foot Christmas tree and wander through the front lawn luminaries and Christmas inflatables. On the Southern Bank Green, behind the Braswell Administration Building, there will be a live manger scene and performances of Christmas favorites by The Wesleyan Singers. In addition, Will Plyler ’21, will perform several songs and will be promoting his new Christmas album, Once Upon a Silent Night. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase by women’s soccer and volleyball to help support their athletic programs. Also, be sure to stick around for a surprise visit as Santa and his elf make their grand entrance on a fire truck. Other characters will be mingling with the crowd as well.

“Last year’s Lighting of Wesleyan had to be altered due to COVID-19 and was a drive-through-only event. This year, we’re excited to have the community back on campus to enjoy the festivities and help us usher in the holiday season,” stated Suzanne Brackett, Senior Vice President of Administration.

This family-friendly event is open to children of all ages. Come out and experience NC Wesleyan’s beautiful campus while kicking off the Christmas season!