Spectators take in the holiday candle illuminating the side of the Indiana Memorial Union Biddle Hotel and Conference Center. Photo by James Brosher, Indiana University Light Up the Night, the annual event that celebrates the lighting of the candles on the Indiana Memorial Union towers, kicks off the holiday season Nov. 30.

“The union has been using the candles to add a little joy and warmth to the campus and community every winter for 55 years,” IMU Executive Director Hank Walter said. “Since 2019, we’ve turned the ceremonial lighting of the candles into a big celebration.”

Students ice skate on Lauren Robel Plaza during Light Up the Night. Photo by James Brosher, Indiana UniversityLight Up the Night will feature an outdoor skating rink, live entertainment and a winter market outside the IMU. The winter market will feature art, jewelry, apparel and more from vendors like badknees, The Cat’s Closet, Nomie Doodles, Anna Tarner Art and IU Dining.

“Light Up the Night is one of my favorite IU Bloomington traditions, and every year we add more fun to the celebration,” said Teresa Weimann, associate director of the Student Involvement and Leadership Center. “This year we are doubling the winter market vendors, and we have two student groups performing.”

Following the lighting of the candles, performances by the Crimsonettes Dance Team and IU a capella group Resting Pitch Face will keep the holiday spirit going as people shop in the winter market and enjoy a spin on the outdoor skating rink.

The event begins at 7 p.m., with the candle countdown starting at approximately 7:15. The festivities continue until 9 p.m. in the IMU Parking Lot and Circle Drive.