Holiday cheer comes to UNM campus with Hanging of the Greens

The University of New Mexico welcomes students, families and alumni back to campus for its annual Hanging of the Greens on Friday, Dec. 5, at 5:30 p.m. The long-standing tradition is one of UNM's most beloved holiday events, drawing hundreds to campus for an evening lit by thousands of luminarias.

Attendees can start the night with hot chocolate and biscochitos before joining Santa and Mrs. Claus, Lobo Louie and Lucy, and a team of elves for caroling across campus. The group will make its way to University House, where they will present UNM President Garnett Stokes with a holiday wreath.

As the procession moves through campus, visitors will take in the glow of luminarias lining sidewalks, courtyards and historic buildings - an annual hallmark that transforms UNM into a warm, orange-lit scene for the holidays.

After the wreath presentation, carolers will continue to Hodgin Hall Alumni Center for the President's Posole Reception, held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The reception is free and open to the community.

Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped children's book to place under the tree at Hodgin Hall. All donated books will support young patients at UNM Children's Hospital.

The Hanging of the Greens dates back to the 1930s, when Lena C. Clauve, a former UNM student and dean of women, helped establish the tradition. Students originally gathered greenery from the Sandia Mountains to decorate what is now the Student Union Building. Over the decades, the celebration has grown into one of the university's signature winter events.

Additionally, on Friday, Dec. 5, the UNM Bookstores hosts its annual holiday sale featuring special pricing, live performances and seasonal activities. Hanging of the Greens attendees can stop by and shop and receive 50% off featured items, including select holiday-themed Lobo apparel and gifts; 30% off regularly-priced UNM clothing and gifts; 25% off all Hydro Flask products; and 20% off holiday themes cards, gift wrap, toys and books.

Two live performances will take place at the Central Campus Bookstore. Something Major, UNM's premier a cappella ensemble, will perform from noon to 1 p.m. The New Mexico Women's Chorus, a community chorus dedicated to creating an inclusive musical space for women and gender-fluid singers, will take the stage from 5 to 6 p.m.

A complimentary gift-wrapping station will be available in the Central Campus Bookstore lobby, along with free holiday treats and additional in-store surprises. At 6 p.m., the UNM community will gather in front of the Central Campus Bookstore for the official start of the Hanging of the Greens ceremony.

Lobos can expect a night of light, music and community as this year's Hanging of the Greens ushers in the holiday season.

For more information visit unmevents.unm.edu