WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., Dec. 2, 2014 — West Liberty University gets into the holiday mood with a first time student event, Winterfest, at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 3.

A 12-foot Christmas tree will be decorated and placed on the stage in the College Union ballroom for the tree lighting ceremony that gets the festival started.

“Student Government wanted to create a new tradition on the Hilltop complete with tree lighting ceremony, carols and Santa. We want to help our students to enjoy the holidays and get into the festive spirit even though they’re away from home,” said Evan Newman, Student Government Association president.

Newman will begin the ceremony with a brief address and introduce University President Robin C. Capehart who will welcome everyone to Winterfest and light the tree.

The West Liberty University Concert Choir also will perform. Students will be invited to take part in cookie decorating, stocking personalization, hot chocolate and snacks.

Topper the Bear also will make an appearance dressed as Santa Claus and the Greek Life clubs are sponsoring a “Toys for Tots” donation box to gather Christmas gifts for area children.

Other Winterfest activities include an ice skating rink with synthetic ice set up in the parking lot between the Union and Arnett Hall and an Inflatable Snow Globe located on the porch of the Union to create a great spot for pictures. Both of these features will be open to students all evening long.

“Everything is designed to create an evening of holiday fun for students as they prepare for final exams and the end of the fall semester,” said Campus Activities Coordinator Kate Billings.

The last day of classes for fall is Dec. 5 and exams take place from Dec. 8 – 12. West Liberty Univesity’s Winter Commencement is Saturday, Dec. 13.

For more information on Winterfest, please contact Billings at 304-336-8580.