The University is preparing for its annual “Lighting of the Lawn” on Thursday, December 5. Taking place on the Lawn, Lighting of the Lawn brings together the entire UVA community including students, faculty, and Charlottesville residents for a night of festivities. The main event is the switching on of several thousand lights that decorate the Rotunda and the columns of the Lawn.
The Lighting of the Lawn is one of UVA’s more recent traditions. This year marks the University’s 13th annual lighting, the first being introduced in 2001. Following the September 11th terrorist attacks, fourth-year trustees wanted to plan an event that would gather the UVA community in a time of reflection and appreciation for life, family, and friends. Today, the Lighting of the Lawn is still a way to bring together thousands of people to celebrate the holiday season among friends.
In commemoration of the original purpose of Lighting of the Lawn, this year’s raised funds will go to the nonprofit organization, Wounded Warriors Project. The Wounded Warriors Project provides support, services, and programs for active or veteran military service members who have been mentally or physically injured serving on or after the Sept 11th terrorist attacks. This year’s Lighting of the Lawn’s participation with Wounded Warriors Project is a noble reminder of the reason the University started this tradition.
From 7 pm to 10 pm on Thursday, the University will join to continue this beloved tradition. In keeping with tradition, this year’s Lighting of the Lawn will have performances from a capella groups, “festive drinks and snacks”, a reading of the Fourth Year Poem, and all leading to the main feature of the awe-inspiring illuminating of the lights.