A flurry of activities are set to take place for Daemen students, alumni, faculty, and staff during the university’s annual “Winterfest” celebration, slated to run from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2 on the Amherst campus.
The Daemen Traditions Committee and Campus Activities Team are gearing up to transform the Wick Center into a “winter wonderland,” said Nathan Flintjer, assistant director of Student Activities.
“This event is an opportunity for our students to relax and have fun together before heading into finals to finish out the semester,” said Flintjer. “Our goal is to bring the Daemen community together to lift each other’s spirits.”
Festivities will kick off at 6 p.m. with the annual tree lighting outside of the Wick Center.
Following the ceremony, an ice sculpting artist will create a piece live, and attendees can take a ride around campus on a horse drawn carriage.
They can then make their way inside the Wick Center to warm up with a cup of hot cocoa, while listening to live acoustic music.
Cookie decorating stations and a free photo booth will also be available with interactive props.
“We are even planning to offer a ‘puppy relax room’ where students can enjoy the company of dogs and unwind together,” said Flintjer.
Upstairs, the Wick Social Room will feature a mechanical reindeer to ride and an indoor ice rink with skates available to borrow.
Additionally, creative arts and crafts stations, as well as campus club and organization tables, will be set up throughout the room. Attendees will also have the opportunity to donate to charities at the event leading into the holiday season.
To close out the evening’s festivities, students can try their hand at Bingo from 8-9 p.m.
“Winterfest is a great opportunity for students to meet new people outside of those they know from their classes,” said Flintjer. “Through the many activities offered during the evening, we hope to help build new bonds and a greater sense of community among our students.”
First ‘Snow Ball’ Coincides with 75th Anniversary
New this year, Daemen will hold a formal “Snow Ball” event for students from 7-10 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, at Creekside Banquet Facility in celebration of the institution’s 75th anniversary.
The evening will include dinner and dancing, with free transportation to and from the event.
“This event is something students have asked for over the years,” said Flintjer. “A big part of our job is to listen to their feedback and offer current events they will enjoy. The response from students has already been very positive and we predict it will be a well-attended event.”
Students can RSVP to both Winterfest and the Snow Ball via the Daemen Connect App.