Winthrop University Alumni Association

The tradition of lighting the tree has looked different over the years as the tradition has grown and evolved with the times. Originally, a decorated Christmas tree in Main Building (now Tillman Hall) was lit to usher in the Christmas season. In 1935, the Christmas tree lighting was moved to the Southern magnolia tree on front campus, which was selected as the 2010 Heritage Tree by Trees SC for the great community spirit the tree evokes. In 1969 the annual tree lighting became an official event, and it continues as part of the City of Rock Hill’s ChristmasVille. Today, the flagpole at the fountain is now lit to celebrate the season to ensure the health and sustainability of the Southern Magnolia. This festive tradition will be held on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 at 6 p.m. on the Tillman Hall Front Lawn.