University of St. Thomas is set to shine this season with its beloved annual tradition, Deck the Mall, from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5 on the Academic Mall. The annual tradition brings joy and merriment as our community anticipates the coming of Jesus Christ at Christmas.
Students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members are invited to kick off the holiday season with an evening filled with cheer and campus-wide festivities. The celebration begins with a Christmas tree lighting led by UST President Dr. Sinda Vanderpool, joined by Mr. and Ms. UST, America Martinez and Herman Pio Herder-Conde. Then, the tree will be blessed by Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry the Reverend Eduardo Rivera, CSB ’14, MDiv ’20.
Eveleny Plata, assistant director of Student Leadership & Engagement, said Deck the Mall always reminds her just how special and strong our UST community truly is.
“I love seeing past and current Celts come together to share the season of Advent — generations connected through the mission of UST, where faith and reason guide us, and the spirit of community continues no matter where we are,” she said. “It’s our time to come home and reconnect. Whether it’s alumni returning with their families or new students experiencing the tradition for the first time, it’s a beautiful reminder that we are one family.”
After the tree is lit, the night transforms into a winter wonderland featuring camel rides, a petting zoo and even a patch of snow for building snowmen. Guests can capture memories at the snow globe photo booth, create custom photo ornaments, and enjoy hands-on crafts like DIY marble ornaments, gingerbread houses and festive slime.
Benedict Nguyen, MTS, JCL, JD, D.Min (ABD), assistant vice president for Student Affairs / Dean of Students, said Deck the Mall is one of the standout events of the University and a highlight for the year.
“It brings together so many of the elements that make UST such a strong community – students, alumni, faculty, administrators, family and friends,” he said. “It is also a such a great celebration of our Catholic faith orienting ourselves in anticipation of the celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. And hey, let’s face it – where else in South Texas do you get a chance to play in real snow and ride a camel? I can’t wait for it each year!”
Visitors can sip hot cocoa and munch on cookies while watching holiday screenings like “Olaf’s Once Upon a Snowman” or “Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas” in Jones Hall.
Be captivated by dynamic performances throughout the evening, featuring the UST Spirit Team; joyful Christmas carols sung by Vessels, Campus Ministry’s praise and worship team; holiday tunes played by the UST Jazz Band; and vibrant cultural showcases including tinikling, a traditional Filipino dance and a religious folk dance by the Matachines San Jeronimo honoring the Virgin of Guadalupe. The celebration will also include a heartwarming nativity skit presented by St. Ambrose Youth Ministry.
Children can meet good ole St. Nick and Mrs. Claus, get festive temporary tattoos, send letters to the North Pole or test their balance on a mechanical reindeer! Meanwhile, student clubs will host fundraising booths offering delicious treats, and you can cast your vote for your favorites in the Christmas Tree Decorating Contest inside Malloy Hall.
With music, lights and laughter filling the air, Deck the Mall promises to be a night of community, joy and the true spirit of Christmas at UST.