Christmas Tree Lighting 2024

We are excited to announce our annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, December 6. Our theme this year is God So Loved from John 3:16-21.

Celebrate the joy of Christmas with a program filled with music, alumni guests, and the love of God revealed in Jesus Christ, the incarnate Messiah. Hear a message from Dr. Barry Corey, enjoy Christmas treats and of course, experience our traditional Southern California snow.

This year, we are excited to provide American Sign Language interpretation for the duration of the program.

Arrive early and join the Biola community for the All Hall Holiday Tour! From 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., embark on a festive journey to explore and vote for your preferred Christmas tree creatively decorated by students in their residence halls. The adventure begins at the Fireplace Pavilion, where you'll be given a tour passport and a map. Revel in the joy of touring the festively adorned halls, immersing yourself in the Christmas spirit that blankets the campus. While only students are eligible for prizes, everyone is welcome to cast their vote and relish in the enchanting tour. Don't miss out on this merry celebration with over 50 Christmas trees to admire!

If you’re interested in learning more about Biola, the Admissions Team is hosting a Very Biola Christmas for prospective students with campus tours, dinner at Café Biola and more! This is a free event that starts at 2:30 p.m., registration is required.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU? FAQ!

Will the event be live-streamed?

Yes! Visit the Biola Youtube Channel to find the link which will be posted a few days before the event. Live captions are available at https://www.biola.edu/captions.

Where do I park?

Parking is FREE for this event. The designated parking for guests is in Parking Structure S which is between the track and baseball fields (#22) on the Biola Interactive Campus Map. Download the Biola University App to easily find campus information and services on your mobile device.

How early can I find a seat on the lawn?

Seating will open at 6 p.m. As you enter Metzger Lawn through the designated entrances near the library, you will receive a commemorative Biola Christmas Tree Lighting button and a candle to light later during the ceremony. There will be chairs available on the Calvary Chapel half of Metzger Lawn with the Library half of the lawn designated for standing room only.

Will there be ADA seating?

Yes, please let an usher know if you need ADA seating; they will be happy to assist you.

What should I bring?

Plan to check the local weather so you can be comfortable as you await the Southern California Snow!

How long is the Christmas Tree Lighting program?

The program lasts about an hour.

If I bought tickets for the Alumni Dinner at Café Biola, when and where would I check in?

Check-in will start at 5 p.m. at the entrance of Café Biola where we’ll be ready to welcome you! The registration table will close at 6:45 p.m. Please note that the program will begin promptly at 7 p.m.

What if I didn’t purchase dinner tickets ahead of time?

No worries! You can still join friends and family for dinner at Café Biola by purchasing tickets at the regular dinner price or you can check out one of the other eateries on campus. On Campus Dining Locations

Will there be other treats available to purchase?

Yes! Bon Appetit will have a Snack Booth between the Library and the Bell Tower where you can avail yourself of hot beverages, baked goods, or a cup of soup!

Will the Biola Campus Store be open?

Yes! You can shop to your heart’s content until 7 p.m. and take advantage of their 25% off one regular-priced item. This promo will run between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on the day of the event. Biola Campus Store

Will there be a toy drive?

Yes, our Student Missionary Union will be collecting Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes.  The boxes will be collected at their booth in front of the Biola Library.  

Will there be any other gatherings after the ceremony?

Yes! There will be a festive gathering of Crowell School of Business alumni, faculty, mentors and their families. Check out their Jingle & Mingle event page for more details!