The annual Trinity Christmas tree lighting ceremony was scheduled for yesterday evening, welcoming a large crowd as early as five pm in Front Square. The tradition is a staple of the Dublin holiday season, now entering its fourteenth year of celebration. This past year, the festive evening was delayed multiple days due the Dublin riots. So on the chilly evening of December 2nd, students and staff alike waited with baited breath for a hopeful redemption of last year’s setback. Regrettably the audience were sorely mistaken.
The 35-foot Norway Spruce towered over the crowd as more spectators filtered in to grab free mulled wine and mince pies from the Buttery. The excitement radiated as the Trinity Choir gathered in position for a welcoming series of holiday songs. As they kicked off their entertainment, the crowd gathered closer to the tree, awaiting the fateful tap on the microphone from Provost Linda Doyle. She welcomed the crowd, sharing her gratitude for the Estates and Facilities team and Trinity VDP’s T-Club, who were present to help switch the lights on for the ceremony.
By the closing statements of her quick speech, the anticipation built up to an entirely new level. Phones were raised in the air, readying to capture the cinematic moment. Spectators began to crane their necks even more to get a glimpse of the festive sight. Provost Doyle initiated a countdown. Phones were held up even higher, videos commenced. Three…two..one…the tree was still pitch black. On cue, a disappointed groan erupted from the audience. But this was just a fluke, right? Unfortunately sorely mistaken once again.
Another countdown was initiated. Spectators attempted to laugh off the first debacle. Three…two…one…not a single flicker of light. Cue the disappointed groan yet again. The crowd quickly grew antsy and chatter spread as the choir began another series of songs. Provost Doyle grabbed the microphone yet again, announcing that they needed about fifteen minutes to fix this technical difficulty. Whether it was to go get a coffee or head back to the Ussher to study we’ll never know, but a sea of spectators left Front Square following the announcement. The crowd that remained seemed more determined than ever to make this evening the holiday spectacular they had hoped for.
Following fifteen more minutes of patience, the Trinity Belles serenaded the crowd with a few of their own holiday song renditions. The energy seemed to be revamped. It seemed like the moment was just around the corner. Provost Doyle took to the microphone once again. This time, she announced a definite end to the evening. The official tree lighting ceremony will have to take place on December 3rd at five pm, as it’s unfortunately unable to be completed at this time. The most disappointed groan of all responded back to her saddening statement.
“It’s an absolute disgrace that they wouldn’t even turn on the Christmas lights, [especially] after they raised our fees,” shared a student who wished to remain anonymous. As the crowd dissipated, students were left wondering if they’ll ever have their envisioned study break while witnessing the iconic tree lighting. “Trinity is giving the grinch,” said Brídín Ní Fhearraigh-Joyce, editor of The University Times.
