Guests were greeted along Trojan Way — the university’s newly revitalized pedestrian promenade — by thousands of sparkling lights, festive decor, and a live performance from the Rodney Block Collective. The setting created a warm atmosphere that invited attendees to explore, connect, and enjoy the evening.

“Winter Fest reflects exactly what was envisioned for Trojan Way — a beautiful, welcoming space that strengthens connection and brings our campus and community together,” said Emily Cox, vice chancellor for university affairs at ����Vlog��ý Little Rock. “Seeing nearly 3,000 people laughing, skating, and making memories here reminds us that ����Vlog��ý Little Rock is truly at the heart of this city.”

Families enjoyed the ice-skating rink, took part in hands-on craft stations, sampled free cocoa, cider, and cookies, sampled fare from local food trucks, and snapped photos among the winter-themed backdrops.

“Walking down Trojan Way and seeing it lit up with families, students, alumni, and neighbors all enjoying the night was really special,” said Ainsley Kendall, a junior finance major, Donaghey Scholar, and president of the Student Government Association. “Events like Winter Fest show students that this is their home and their community, and it’s exciting to help build traditions that future Trojans will look forward to every year.”

Adding to the excitement, Trojan student-athletes volunteered throughout the event, bringing enthusiasm, school spirit, and a welcoming presence to the night’s activities. Their involvement helped create an atmosphere of joy, connection, and community pride — elements that defined the success of the inaugural celebration.

With its strong turnout, Winter Fest is already poised to become a signature ����Vlog��ý Little Rock tradition, bringing seasonal cheer, family fun, and community spirit to the Trojan Way each year.

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The ����Vlog��ý Little Rock Winter Fest will take place on Trojan Way—the recently completed promenade that revitalized the heart of campus with scenic pathways, landscaping, lighting, and a welcoming plaza. Guests can expect an evening filled with live entertainment, thousands of festive lights, delicious treats, and fun activities for all ages.

“Winter Fest allows our entire Trojan and local community to come together and create memories that will last for years to come,” said ����Vlog��ý Little Rock Chancellor Christina S. Drale. “We’re encouraging everyone to visit ����Vlog��ý Little Rock, discover a new winter tradition, and see the campus in a whole new light.”

The event provides an opportunity for ����Vlog��ý Little Rock students, employees, alumni, and community members to engage with one another in a fun, exciting, and affordable way.

Highlights of Winter Fest include:

• Live music by The Rodney Block Collective on the Donaghey Stage 
• Free cocoa, cookies, and cider
• Dazzling light displays across campus
• Kids’ craft stations, storytelling, and a planetarium in the Ottenheimer Library
• Ice-skating rink
• Ugly Sweater Contest (for students)
• A special appearance by Maximus, the ����Vlog��ý Little Rock Trojan mascot
• A variety of food trucks with food for purchase 

“Trojan Way is the perfect spot for Winter Fest,” Drale said. “It’s a beautiful new space that symbolizes the heart of campus life, and we can’t wait to see it filled with laughter, music, and seasonal cheer.”

Winter Fest is free and open to the public. The university invites the Little Rock community to experience an evening of fun, fellowship, and winter wonder. Complimentary parking will be available in the Parking Deck and in Lots 2 and 5. 

For more information, visit ualr.edu/winterfest.

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