WORCESTER, MA (December 11, 2015)—Assumption College has been named to the  45 Best College Holiday Events list released by Best College Reviews, a ranking service for American colleges and universities. Colleges and universities on this list were recognized for the number of “community events, concerts, campus lighting and parties that are often free of charge and high quality and can add to the joy of the season.” As an institution deeply rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, Assumption offers an array of holiday programs in order to celebrate the season with the community, as well as a number of opportunities for the College to give back to those in need.

Kicking off the holiday festivities at Assumption is the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, which took place this year on Monday, December 7. The event featured special performances and caroling led by Assumption's own Chorale and Voce groups, as well as hot chocolate and Christmas cookies. New this year, the Student Government Association (SGA) and the Office of Student Affairs teamed up to sponsor sleigh rides around campus in a horse-drawn carriage. After the lighting, many students then enjoyed the Assumption Band Christmas Concert in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit.

Students celebrated the last day of classes on Wednesday, December 9 with the very popular Christmas in Charlie's event.  Each of the major six student organizations offered some holiday cheer to students, faculty, and staff with tables filled with Christmas foods, novelties, or special ways to benefit others in need this Christmas season.  Activities included airbrush art, cookie decorating, and make-your-own stockings and ornaments. In the early evening, students are invited to the annual buffet reception with College President Francesco C. Cesareo, Ph.D. Later, the community was invited to the annual Festival of Lessons and Carols.  This service of scripture and song originated in 19th century England and has become a cherished holiday tradition at Assumption.  This year’s Festival of Lessons and Carols featured readings in various languages and music from diverse cultures read by members of the Assumption community, and music by the Chapel Choir, Chapel Instrumentalists, Wind Ensemble, and guest musicians.

Assumption’s capped off its week of Christmas celebrations with the highly anticipated Midnight Breakfast on Thursday, December 10, which is always held the night before final exams begin. Hundreds of students flocked to Taylor Dining Hall for a free breakfast served by some of Assumption's finest staff and administrators.

Assumption alumni are also included in the fun. Every year, alumni and their families are invited to enjoy breakfast with Santa. In addition to breakfast, President Cesareo reads the children The Night Before Christmas. Attendees also participate in creative activities, and have their photo taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

In addition to these holiday concerts and gatherings, the College gives back to the community—a cornerstone of its mission—through a variety of annual efforts. Each year, Assumption holds a coat drive for Worcester Public School students; a giving tree in which individuals donate presents to kids involved in the MA Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Children and the Guild of St. Agnes; and a school supplies collection that benefits a local elementary school. Assumption’s Public Safety team held its 17^th Annual Tickets for Tots event this tear, in which members of the Assumption community can donate a toy (which goes to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program) or money in exchange for forgiveness of a parking violation; the money raised goes to the Santa Telegram Fund (which helps buy toys for children in need in Central Massachusetts).  The College also hosted a blood drive on December 10, one of the several held throughout the year on Campus.