NSU kicks off holiday season with Lights On ceremony and Northeastern Noël concert

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Northeastern State University will kick off the holiday season with its annual Lights On ceremony at Seminary Hall, followed by the newly rebranded Northeastern Noël holiday concert.

Lights On begins at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 2, 2025, in front of Seminary Hall on NSU’s Tahlequah campus. The ceremony will be co-hosted by NSU First Lady Sara Gunhus-Hanley and Tahlequah Mayor Suzanne Myers.

“This event kicks off the holiday season by bringing together the campus community and the local Tahlequah community,” Dr. Robyn Pursley, NSU assistant dean for the College of Liberal Arts, said. “It’s a great combination of campus and community partners working toward a common goal. We encourage families to stay until the end of the evening so children can visit Santa, receive a commemorative ornament and enjoy a special holiday surprise.”

After the Lights On ceremony, guests are invited to continue the celebration at the Northeastern Noël concert at 7 p.m. in the NSU Center for the Performing Arts.

The rebranded Northeastern Noël concert builds on the longstanding tradition formerly known as Good Yule. The updated name reflects NSU’s commitment to strengthening connections among students, faculty, staff and the broader Tahlequah community while embracing the spirit of the season.

Northeastern Noël will showcase major NSU Department of Music ensembles, student and faculty soloists and a festive audience sing-along.

“Renaming our annual holiday concert to ‘Northeastern Noël’ helps us more clearly connect the event to the university and the region we serve,” Dr. Justin Kroll, assistant professor of music, said. “Music brings people together, especially during the holidays.”

NSU President Rodney Hanley noted the celebration highlights the university’s focus on community, tradition and belonging. “These events reflect the heart of NSU — creating meaningful experiences that unite our campus with the communities we serve,” he said.

The concert is open to the public. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students. NSU students with a valid ID receive free entry.

For more information, contact Kroll at 918-444-2721 or visit nsumusic.com. Tickets may be purchased at nsumusic.ludus.com.

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