University of Dubuque Tree Lighting Ceremony to Carry on a Beloved Tradition Manifested Anew

DUBUQUE, Iowa - The University of Dubuque's 28th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 3, 2025, around the new blue spruce tree on Alumni Common, formerly known as the Quad, with a reception following in Blades Hall. The event is open to the public.

"The Tree Lighting Ceremony will carry on a beloved tradition manifested anew, proclaiming the significance of our Christian identity and Mission that continue to propel us faithfully into the future," said Rev. James D. Gunn, DMin, dean of chapel and Edwin B. Lindsay Chaplain.

The first blue spruce Christmas tree on campus was affectionately called "Bruce Spruce" in honor of the person who started the holiday tradition, J. Bruce Meriwether (C'60, DHL'02), former board chair and acting UD president from 1996 to 1998. Then known as Christmas on the Quad, the holiday celebration included the lighting of the Christmas tree and singing carols.

For the 20th anniversary celebration of the tree lighting in 2017, Meriwether noted, "The University Christmas Tree, when planted, was a message to students, the UD family, and the local community of a reaffirmation of our Christian roots and belief in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Its growth over these many years has paralleled the growth of the University and serves as a beacon of hope and love during this holiday season."

This year's Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held around a newly planted blue spruce tree.

"Planted last spring, we will, as part of our annual tree lighting tradition, light the second blue spruce Christmas tree reaffirming our faith commitments and symbolizing the future growth we are invited into together in the University's next chapter," Gunn said.

For those unable to attend in person, the Tree Lighting Ceremony will be streamed live at www.youtube.com/UDBQMedia.