TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — As the holiday season approaches, Troy University kicked off the holiday season with its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

As the tree was brought to life, the atmosphere transformed into a warm celebration of tradition, community, and Trojan spirit.

The ceremony brought a magical start to the beginning of the season as families, students, faculty gathered for one of Troy’s long standing traditions.

“I love the Christmas season it means family and tradition,” said Miss Troy University Anna Grace Tucker. “I love the traditions that Troy has here with the tree lighting and to be able to be a part of it was really special.”

This year’s tree lighting featured live performances, a snow machine, winter-time treats and appearances from Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., First Lady Janice Hawkins, and T-Roy. The increased production value comes as Troy works to revamp its All Ways Real, Always Troy brand.

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Throughout the night, students were recognized and applauded for their contributions to the big event.

“It is such a sweet honor and I am really grateful for the opportunity and never thought that It would be something on this scale so it is really sweet to be able to do it,” Fleischmann told TrojanVision.

The ceremony served as a reminder to students the importance of love,tradition,and holiday cheer.

“I think that the Christmas time is a time that everybody gets to celebrate things that they love and people that they love,” said student Jessica Fleischmann.

“Enjoy your time during Christmas break with your family, and the traditions that you have with your family,” Tucker said. “I know that I am excited to go back and talk to my family about the school year and what Troy means to me.”

The University hopes to continue this tradition and already has plans set in motion for next year’s big celebration.