Long Island University’s Annual Winnick Mansion Lighting and Holiday at Hillwood

By Mylie Norton, Staff Writer

A tradition like no other at Long Island University (LIU)  brings students out in the frigid cold weather to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. 

The 11th annual lighting of the Winnick Mansion occurred on Dec. 4th and welcomed students with lively Christmas music, hot chocolate, performances from the LIU Dance Team and greetings from staff and Student Government Association members. 

While it was a cold night, students gathered around to watch as the Winnick Mansion lit up with bright lights at 5 p.m. A group countdown began as students awaited the thrill of the lights. 

Senior nursing major, Stella Reshetiloff, shares her memory of being at the Mansion Lighting even before being a student at LIU. 

“I can remember being here my senior year of high school as a recruit on campus and then coming every year since,” she said. 

Following the Mansion Lighting were festivities located in Hillwood Commons to celebrate the start of the holiday season. 

Activities such as ice skating, ornament making and cookie decorating took place for students in Hillwood directly after the Mansion lighting. 

Junior accounting majors Kelly Bianco and Julie Pultorak attended their second Holidays at Hillwood event and shared their favorite memories. 

“I really enjoy making the stuffed animals,” said Bianco.

 “And I really had fun with the cookie decorating activity,” continued Pultorak. 

Along with the festivities, LIU offered food to those students who attended the holiday kick-off event. Meats, pasta, vegetables, and desserts were provided by LIU Dining to the students who attended. 

This event has been a long-standing tradition at LIU and every year students cherish the memories they create. 

“I’m always super excited for this. It was really cold but we had a really great turn out and I know everyone is really happy to be here,” said Reshetiloff. 

From the mansion lighting to cookie decorating, ice skating and holiday hits, this tradition is one that will continue to bring students together and spread holiday cheer.