Saint Leo University Kicks Off Holiday Season with Christmas Celebration, Concerts on December 3

WHAT/WHEN: Saint Leo University invites the public to its annual Christmas Celebration on Wednesday, December 3. The free event features two Christmas concerts, a festive Christmas Village, campus lighting, and other family-friendly activities.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS (with locations):
Christmas Concerts
4 p.m. | Benedictine Sisters of Florida’s Holy Name Monastery, 12138 Wichers Road, St. Leo, FL 33574 (across County Road 52 from the university). The concerts feature choral and instrumental performances by the Saint Leo University Music Program.
7 p.m. | Saint Leo Abbey Church, 33601 County Road 52, Saint Leo, FL 33574. The second concert also includes a sing-along, starting after a candlelight walk across campus to the Abbey.

Christmas Village
5-7 p.m. | Saint Leo University Student Activities Building loggias and clock tower courtyard, 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo, FL 33574. Co-sponsored by the town of St. Leo and Orlando Health, the Christmas Village includes local vendors, food, activities, and special guests from the North Pole.

Campus Lighting and Manger Blessing
5:45 p.m. | Saint Leo University walkway by the lion statue, 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo, FL 33574. This is the annual blessing of the university’s Nativity scene and the official lighting of the campus for the Christmas season.

Ugly Sweater Contest
6 p.m. | Saint Leo University clock tower, 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo, FL 33574.

Christmas Carols and Candlelight Walk to the Saint Leo Abbey
6:45 p.m. | Meet at the clock tower, 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo, FL 33574.

Parking: Free parking is available in surface lots and the campus parking garage.

STORY/VISUAL OPPORTUNITIES: Reporters and photographers can capture choirs and musicians performing holiday music, seasonal decorations, illuminated campus shots at dusk, families enjoying activities, and interviews with Saint Leo organizers.

MEDIA CONTACT: Reporters or photographers planning to attend or schedule interviews should contact Audra Butler, communications manager, at audra.butler@saintleo.edu or (813) 690-0690 in advance of the event.

ABOUT SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY: Founded in 1889, Saint Leo University is a leading Catholic Benedictine institution serving learners of all backgrounds with a commitment to excellence, community, and respect. Learn more at saintleo.edu.