Experience St. John’s University’s Winter Carnival: A Week of Holiday Festivities in New York

Published on December 11, 2025

As the cold weather sets in and finals week approaches, St. John’s University in New York brought festive cheer to campus with the 2025 Winter Carnival. The carnival, which kicked off on December 1, featured a week of lively events that ran until December 8. The week was filled with holiday celebrations, including a tree lighting ceremony, fireworks display, and several social events that brought together students, alumni, faculty, and visitors to enjoy the start of the holiday season.

One of the standout moments of the Winter Carnival was the tree lighting and firework show on the Great Lawn on December 8, which marked the culmination of the festive week. The event was a highly anticipated moment for the St. John’s community, offering a chance for students and their families to come together and enjoy the magic of the holiday season.

Festive Kickoff at the Christmas Social

The Winter Carnival officially began on December 1 with the Christmas Social event held at the D’Angelo Center (DAC) coffee house. This event, hosted by the Interfraternity Council, provided a cozy and festive atmosphere for students and faculty to gather and kick off the holiday season. Guests enjoyed warm drinks, festive snacks, and the opportunity to connect with friends and colleagues before the hustle and bustle of finals week began.

The Christmas Social was the first of many events throughout the week, offering students a break from their studies and a chance to immerse themselves in the spirit of the season. The event was designed to foster a sense of community and holiday cheer among the St. John’s family, with many attendees participating in holiday-themed games and activities while enjoying the festive environment.

Rock the Red: A Celebration of School Spirit

Following the Christmas Social, the carnival continued with the Rock the Red event, hosted by Campus Activities in the DAC living room. This event celebrated school spirit and St. John’s pride, with students coming together for a fun-filled evening of music, dancing, and celebration. The event was an opportunity for students to take a break from the stresses of academic life and celebrate the holiday season with their peers.

Rock the Red featured live performances, holiday-themed decorations, and opportunities to engage with various student organizations on campus. The event was designed not only to celebrate the holiday season but also to reinforce the sense of community and connection at St. John’s. The lively atmosphere and vibrant energy made it one of the highlights of the Winter Carnival week.

Tree Lighting and Firework Show: A Magical Finale

The grand finale of the Winter Carnival took place on December 8 with the highly anticipated tree lighting ceremony and firework show on the Great Lawn. Students, faculty, alumni, and visitors gathered to witness the lighting of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, marking the official start of the holiday season on campus. The tree lighting ceremony was followed by a spectacular firework display, lighting up the night sky and adding to the festive ambiance of the evening.

The tree lighting and fireworks were a symbol of the holiday spirit and the strong sense of community at St. John’s. The event was attended by hundreds of people, all gathered to celebrate the season together and create lasting memories. It was a perfect way to end a week of festivities and holiday cheer, providing a sense of warmth and togetherness as the campus prepared for the holiday break.

Bringing the St. John’s Community Together

The 2025 Winter Carnival at St. John’s University was more than just a series of festive events; it was a chance for the entire university community to come together and celebrate the holiday season. The carnival provided a break from the pressures of finals week and gave students, alumni, and faculty an opportunity to reconnect and create lasting memories.

For visitors and prospective students, the Winter Carnival also showcased the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere at St. John’s University. The events offered a unique glimpse into the campus culture and the sense of community that defines the university. It’s an event that not only celebrates the holidays but also highlights the spirit of unity and pride that exists at St. John’s.

Tourism and Campus Events: A Destination for Holiday Travelers

While the Winter Carnival is primarily an event for the St. John’s community, it also plays a role in promoting the university as a destination for tourism, particularly during the holiday season. Located in the heart of New York City, St. John’s University is easily accessible for tourists looking to explore the city during the holidays. The campus, with its festive events, offers a unique experience for visitors, whether they are family members attending the carnival, prospective students, or New York residents looking for a fun way to enjoy the holiday season.

The Winter Carnival is just one example of how St. John’s University integrates campus events with the city’s tourism offerings. New York City itself is known for its world-famous holiday attractions, including ice skating at Rockefeller Center, holiday markets, and vibrant Christmas displays. The St. John’s Winter Carnival complements the city’s offerings, providing visitors with a chance to experience the warmth and spirit of a university campus during the holiday season.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Tradition and Community

The St. John’s University Winter Carnival 2025 was a festive success, bringing holiday cheer to students, faculty, alumni, and visitors alike. From the Christmas Social to the grand tree lighting and firework show, the event provided an opportunity for the university community to come together and celebrate the holiday season. As the university prepares for the upcoming holiday break, the Winter Carnival will remain a cherished tradition, marking the start of the holiday season at St. John’s.