December is underway, the campus Christmas trees are lit, the Gingerbread Lattes are flowing, so it's time to feel festive and get the office decs up (if that’s your thing)! 

Here’s a round-up of what’s happening on campus this month to get you into the holiday spirit: 

Monday, 2 December: Traditional Carol Service 

Head to the Meeting House chapel for the annual rousing carol service from 6.30pm to 7.15pm with the Chaplaincy team and the Chamber Choir. 

Festive refreshments will be available from 5pm and there will be a collection for the Meeting House Pantry, which supports students on campus who are struggling from hardship. 

Don’t forget to take a look at our sustainable planted Christmas tree just across from the Meeting House whilst you’re there! 

Wednesday and Thursday, 4 & 5 December: Join our Traditional Christmas Dinners 

Tuck in to turkey and all the trimmings from Counter 2 in Eat Central at lunchtime. Find out more about our catering partner’s festive offerings in this article. 

Wednesday, 11 December: Winter Solstice Ceremony & Celebration 

Pagan Chaplain Erin Johanson will lead this celebration from 2.30pm to 3pm in the Meeting House chapel. 

Thursday, 12 December: Christmas Lunch – all welcome 

For £15.95, you can enjoy a two-course Christmas lunch in the Conference Centre at lunchtime – email cateringservices@compass-group.co.uk for more information and to book. 

There are treats and festive menu glow-ups all month, so head over to SussexUni Food to what’s on offer! 

Thursday, 12 December: Cosmic Explosions - 2024 Sussex Astronomy Christmas Lecture 

Join Professor Stephen Wilkins from 5pm until 6.45pm for a fascinating look at all the reasons why stars can actually explode, releasing vast amounts of energy and creating and dispersing elements essential for life on Earth - including humans!  

Showcasing images from the James Webb Space Telescope and other state-of-the-art observatories, this family-friendly talk is suitable for ages 8+, making it a perfect addition to your Christmas season! 

Friday, 13 December: Start of the Christmas break for students 

The spring term begins on Monday, 8 January – see you in 2025! 

Working on campus over the Winter break? Check out the festive season opening times for SussexUni Food outlets. 

Friday, 20 December: Last working day before Christmas 

Monday, 23 December: Extra minimum service day 

Don’t forget that staff have been awarded an additional Minimum Service Day on Monday 23 December 2024 in recognition of everyone’s hard work and dedication during a busy and challenging year.