Out of Darkness: A Celebration of Light

I call you out of darkness into light E Tenebris in Lucem Voco

Out of Darkness brings the McDaniel College campus community together in unity to celebrate our campus history, learn from one another, uplift our cultural organizations, share our differing religious and cultural traditions, usher in the winter holiday season, and have fun together as a community.

As each student engages with our educational experience, they expand their worldview and knowledge, becoming more enlightened. This deeply personal journey is reflected in the college's motto, E Tenebris in Lucem Voco, which means, "I call you out of darkness into light."

Around Campus

As you explore the “Out of Darkness: A Celebration of Light” event, more than 25,000 lights and over 700 luminaries will be lighting up campus, providing a beautiful and inspiring backdrop for fun and fellowship (and great photo ops!).

Special light-filled spots include the walkway beneath McDaniel’s historic zelkova trees; the light tunnel along the Western Maryland Railway train route; the senior luminaries celebrating our graduating seniors in Memorial Plaza; and, of course, the majestic trees flanking the entrance of Hoover Library.

Honoring the history of McDaniel College, previously named Western Maryland College (in reference to the Western Maryland Railway), you’ll take a past-to-present journey, learning about important moments in the college’s story. Generously sponsored by the President’s Office, be sure to grab a warm drink before your ride.

Listen: Holiday Train History

By college historian, Dr. James E. Lightner '59

COOKIES AND MILK

HOOVER LIBRARY, FRONT ENTRANCE

What’s a visit to Santa without cookies and milk? Generously sponsored by AVI, warm chocolate chip cookies and cold milk will top off your visit with Green Terror Santa.

FIRE AND ICE

HOOVER LIBRARY GARDEN PATIO

Celebrate the beauty of fire and ice! Get a photo with this year’s ice sculpture and shine brightly by lighting a sparkler at the sparkler station.

FIREPIT AND S’MORES STATION

MEMORIAL PLAZA

Relax and enjoy the beauty of the evening beside a warm firepit. Peppermint bark s’mores are yours for the making as a sweet treat.

FOUNTAIN OF WISHES WITH CIRCLE OF GREEN AND GOLD

FOUNTAIN AT McTEER-ZEPP PLAZA

Join the Circle of Green and Gold student organization in reflecting on your wish for the New Year! Write it down and release it by floating a lantern in the fountain at McTeer-Zepp Plaza.

HOLIDAY CARDS FOR OUR MILITARY

NEXT TO MEMORIAL PLAZA

Generously sponsored by the Green Terror Battalion, send a personalized expression of respect, caring, and gratitude to military service members, bringing them the warmth of the season.

PHOTO WITH GREEN TERROR SANTA

HOOVER LIBRARY, FRONT ENTRANCE

Get your photo with Green Terror Santa!

SENIOR LUMINARY PICKUP

MEMORIAL PLAZA (SENIORS ONLY)

Seniors, pick up your name label and place it on the luminary of your choice in the special Memorial Plaza luminary section recognizing the Class of 2026.

WESTERN MARYLAND RAILWAY TRAIN RIDE

OUTSIDE McDANIEL HALL

Take a ride on the Western Maryland Railway train. Along the route, you’ll enjoy a short history of the college narrated by college historian Dr. James E. Lightner ’59.

MAKE-AND-TAKE: HOLIDAY GIFT EDITION

BIG BAKER (INSIDE)

Generously sponsored by the Office of Student Engagement, choose from four different gift items that you can make and take to give to friends and loved ones.

INDOOR SNOWBALL FIGHT

BIG BAKER (INSIDE)

Enter the arena — if you dare! Challenge your friends to an epic indoor snowball fight!

WREATH-MAKING

BIG BAKER (INSIDE)

Make a wreath to decorate your office or res hall door! Generously sponsored by the Human Resources Department, you’ll have a beautiful holiday decoration to take home with you.

HOLIDAY CUPCAKE DECORATING

BIG BAKER (INSIDE)

Join AVI’s pastry team and and decorate holiday cupcakes.

CELEBRATE JOY

LAWN IN FRONT OF FORLINES

Share your holiday JOY with friends and loved ones with a meaningful and joy-filled photo opportunity.

PENGUIN ISLAND AND POLAR BEAR GLACIER

LAWN IN FRONT OF MERRITT

Spend some time with Antarctic friends and don't forget to snap a photo.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes: Jesus: Light of the World

Step into a space that embodies the essence of hope and enlightenment. Our "Light of the World" booth explores the profound significance of Jesus as a guiding light in our lives. Spin the wheel to discover Bible passages that highlight His teachings, the impact of His love, and the joy He brings during this festive season. Join us in celebrating the light that overcomes darkness, with activities, giveaways and uplifting messages for all ages. Illuminate your holiday spirit with us!

Hispano Latinx Alliance: The Three Kings

Explore this booth to learn the difference in Hispanic culture have when it comes to the winter holiday seasons and the meaning behind Dia de los Reyes, or Three Kings Day. The culmination of the holiday season for many Hispanic families, you’ll learn the story and history behind Three Kings Day and how it is prepared for and celebrated. Don’t forget to enjoy a taste of a traditional Rosca de Reyes, or Three Kings cake, when you stop by.

International Perspectives: Winter Stories & Songs

Visit this booth to celebrate how communities around the world honor the winter season. You’ll learn about myths, folktales, and carols from different countries, highlighting the diverse ways people find warmth and meaning in the colder months. You’ll explore these shared themes of warmth, togetherness, and renewal across diverse customs while also having the chance to reflect on and share your own traditions. Together, these stories and customs will create a communal space of cultural exchange and connection.

Levels of Excellence: Handling Holiday Stress with Confidence

This booth will focus on inspiration, confidence, and mental well-being during challenging times, especially throughout the holiday season. Participate in an interactive wall where you can share uplifting messages about resilience and positivity, symbolizing hope and community strength. Learn self-care tips and take home resources on healthy coping strategies to help you get through the holiday season.

Muslim Student Association: Eid

This booth brings light, warmth, and cultural understanding by sharing the meaning and traditions of Eid. Visitors can participate in a “Wall of Gratitude,” writing what they are thankful for and placing it on a crescent moon display, representing spiritual renewal and community connection. Small individually packaged dates and candies, symbolizing the breaking of the fast at the end of Ramadan, will also be offered.

InterVarsity Christian Fellowship: Christmas

Stop by this booth for a moment of reflection about darkness and light in your own life. As you consider, you will also have the opportunity to think about others, identifying ways you can serve your community. You’ll learn about Jesus’ sacrifice and how this can inform being a “light” of kindness to others.