Get in the Christmas Spirit! Top 5 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays at Notre Dame
The holiday season at Notre Dame is nothing short of magical. From iconic campus traditions to festive off-campus adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a guide to the top five can’t-miss sights, sounds, and flavors of Christmas at and around Notre Dame.
Take in the (Many) Christmas Sights
When students return from Thanksgiving break, the entire campus is decked out in holiday spirit. From blue and gold trees to garlands galore, it's impossible to forget that Christmas is coming.
One highlight in particular is the gingerbread house at the Morris Inn, created this year by Executive Pastry Chef Sinai Vespie, featuring a replica of the Basilica standing tall in the Morris Inn lobby, complete with stained glass windows.
Savor a Delicious Dinner with Your ND Family
On the last day of fall semester classes, Campus Dining hosts their annual Christmas Dinner in North and South Dining Halls.
Tables are bedecked with white tablecloths and flowered centerpieces, and Santa Claus makes his rounds during the dinner period. Classic holiday dishes and new favorites are served, including prime rib, lobster macaroni and cheese, sweet potato casserole, shrimp cocktail, and more. There is even a full dessert and hot chocolate bar to end on a sweet note!
Catch a Holiday Favorite on the Big Screen
What better way to relieve the stress of finals than with a classic Christmas movie!
The Browning Cinema at the Debartolo Performing Arts Center (DPAC) on campus screens a variety of popular and independent films from around the world throughout the academic year.
During December, many of the features are holiday-themed, with favorites like It’s a Wonderful Life, The Muppet Christmas Carol, and, of course, Elf. Students receive discounted tickets for all events at DPAC, including film screenings.
See Your Friends Perform in a Seasonal Show
In the latter part of the Fall Semester, there are a plethora of concerts and other performances to attend—and you'll be supporting your fellow students.
Don't miss the Department of Music and Notre Dame Chorale in their annual presentation of Handel’s Messiah. The Notre Dame Symphony Orchestra and Glee Club also host their annual Christmas Concert, with all the proceeds from ticket sales going to charity. And a host of other student group performances, from a cappella concerts to dance showcases, fill the rest of the season with holiday spirit.
Explore South Bend for More Christmas Cheer
As if the on-campus offerings were not enough, there is more to be discovered off campus in the greater South Bend area.
Some highlights for students include ice skating downtown at Howard Park and attending holiday shows at the Morris Performing Arts Center. Check out this handy guide to Christmas in the Bend. If you're looking for Christmas in the big city, Chicago is only a 90-minute train trip away, thanks to the South Shore Line at the South Bend Airport.
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