Kick off winter break the Lobo way when The University of New Mexico campus comes aglow with over 14,000 luminarias at the annual “Hanging of the Greens.”

The UNM Mortar Board National Senior Honor Society invites the entire community to attend the University’s oldest student tradition on Friday, Dec. 2. Get there early to enjoy free hot chocolate and biscochitos. Caroling will begin between 5:45 and 6 p.m. in small groups outside the UNM Bookstore.

The caroling route will make its way first to University House for the presentation of a holiday wreath to President Robert Frank and his wife, Janet. Caroling ends at Hodgin Hall for the President’s Reception and a special lighting of the “U” statue beginning at 6:30 p.m.


Hanging of the Greens-2014

“Hanging of the Greens” has been a UNM tradition since Lena C. Clauve, former UNM student and UNM Dean of Women, began it in the 1930s. The tradition began with students driving to the Sandia Mountains, where they would gather greenery, which they used to decorate the Student Union Building.

The Mortar Board now provides student organizations with the sand, bags and candles to construct luminarias, which are set in walkways, doorways, rooftops and walls across campus.                                              

Earlier that day, the UNM Bookstores are celebrating the holiday season with a Shiny Happy Holidays event. Come and save 30 percent on imprinted Lobowear, gift items and supplies, as well as 25 percent off all calendars and planners, holiday books, plush, cards and giftwrap. Plus, during each “Shiny Happy Hour” that day, select items (to be announced on Facebook) will be 50 percent off.

This annual holiday sales event also includes complimentary refreshments provided by Satellite Coffee, photos with Lobo Louie, live music from the Lobo Men’s Choir and more.

For more information on the Hanging of the Greens, contact Andrea Marquez at the Student Activities Center at 277-4706.