The annual Lighting of the Commons is open to the public and includes free photos with Santa, a holiday market and cost-friendly Christmas dinner

Oklahoma Christian University (OC) kicks off the holiday season on Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 6 p.m., with Lighting of the Commons, a community event celebrating the start of Christmas on campus. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

“The Lighting of the Commons is one of our most cherished traditions at OC, complete with beautiful lights, fireworks, a delicious Christmas dinner, sleigh rides and more.” said Vice President for Admissions at OC, Amy Roberts. “Each year, students, staff, alumni and families gather to usher in the holiday season and share in the spirit of the season. It’s a special night on campus!”

An impressive fireworks display helps “light” skies above the Lawson Commons at 7 p.m. as thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the campus.

During the evening, guests can also enjoy a Christmas dinner, featuring Prime Rib carving stations, favorite holiday dishes and desserts at The Branch on campus. UDining provides dinner and begins serving at 5 p.m. Dinner is $12.75 for guests, $9 for Oklahoma Christian alumni and $6.25 for children 10 and under.

The evening also includes free photos with Santa, a holiday market offering local and student-made specialty items and free sleigh rides around campus. Guests may purchase hot chocolate in a limited-edition collectible holiday mug to commemorate the event for $7.

Lighting of the Commons will take place in OC’s Lawson Commons. For more information, visit www.oc.edu/events.