MSSU to host the inaugural Holiday Happenings celebration

Joplin, Mo – Missouri Southern State University will host the inaugural Holiday Happenings celebration from 2 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, in Billingsly Student Center.

“The campus and community event is a way to celebrate the end of semester and the upcoming holidays,” said Ryan Orcutt, director of student engagement and the Global Leaders program.

“We wanted to create opportunities for members of the community to participate in MSSU traditions,” said Orcutt. “We also have a new tree for Southern Lights, and buildings on campus will be decorated in lights.”

The celebration will include the first Makers Market craft fair, mansion tours, a tree-lighting, carriage rides, and appearances from Santa and Roary. Nomad Coffee and Kings Kettle Corn will be available on campus as well. All events are free and open to the community.

Schedule of events: 

Makers Market Craft Fair: 2 to 9 p.m., Billingsly Student Center. Hand-crafted items will be offered by campus and community members.

Merry Mansion Tours: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Ralph L. Gray Alumni Center. Families will be able to tour the decorated alumni mansion.

Southern Lights: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the Oval. Musical performances will be offered by the MSSU Chamber Choir before the tree-lighting.

Carriage rides: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the Oval.

“A Christmas Story”: 9 p.m., Phelps Theater in BSC.