A large paper lantern under construction for the Burning of the Clocks parade

A spread of Iranian foods at the Yalda event

Sussex students at the Burning of the Clocks parade

As a Student Engagement and Enhancement Connector, I had the pleasure of helping run three Winter social events over our recent break. I would like to share how they went for all those who are curious and those who might be interested in coming to future events this year! It was a delightful and rewarding experience, filled with lively conversations, shared stories, and the joy of celebrating diverse cultural traditions with fellow students.

Here are my highlights:

Winter Social Art Project and Christmas Stockings

On the 12 December, the Meeting House on campus transformed into a creative winter wonderland. The spotlight was on the collaborative art project, where students worked together in helping two talented artists decorate massive sneaker-shaped lanterns for Brighton’s iconic "Burning the Clocks" parade.

The fun continued with a 'Fill a Stocking' table. This was a delightful corner where students could collect a range of festive gifts in a tote bag. Fluffy hot water bottles, cosy mugs, notebooks and other heartwarming items were all free to take and everyone received them graciously. Meanwhile, the room was sprinkled with board games to play - the game ‘Uno’ was particularly popular!

And of course, what truly completed the event was the feast of yummy Christmas snacks and hot drinks to enjoy together, all while our favourite Christmas tunes played softly in the background.

Winter Social and Yalda Celebration

The second event, on the 19 December, was a heartfelt celebration of Yalda, the Iranian winter solstice festival, blended with festive British traditions. Again hosted in the Meeting House, the space was adorned with traditional Iranian decorations; colourful rugs, glowing candles, and heaps of pomegranates and watermelons, symbolising the hope and light of Yalda night. Some Iranian music played and even a spontaneous time of joyful dancing was shared among some students.

SussexUniFood catered a beautiful spread of hot drinks and treats, including  gingerbread Rudolph biscuits and marbled forest-fruit brownies.

To reflect and relax, there was a card-writing table, where students wrote heartfelt notes and cards to loved ones or those in need of extra cheer during the holidays.

Then, as the night unfolded, we gathered around a bonfire at Roots! Here students recited poetry. Some shared personal creations, while others drew inspiration from Iranian poets like Hafez.

The Grand Finale: Burning the Clocks Parade

The crowning jewel of the winter socials was our participation in Brighton’s Burning the Clocks parade on  21 December. This citywide event celebrates the winter solstice with handmade lanterns, live music, and a fiery finale on the beach. A group of Sussex students, including myself, proudly joined the parade, carrying two giant sneaker-shaped lanterns we’d helped decorate earlier in the week. We marched through Brighton’s streets adorned with fairy lights, dancing to the rhythms of live marching bands. Carrying the banner, 'Sussex Welcomes Students Seeking Sanctuary,' demonstrated loving support for refugee students and reflected the university's strong ethos of inclusivity. The night concluded on the beach with a huge bonfire and a spectacular fireworks display that we watched together in awe.

To everyone who participated in our Winter social events, I hope these moments continue to bring a smile to your face. Thank you for sharing in these fun memories with me and the rest of the team!

To keep up-to-date with future events, please regularly visit the Events page on the Student Hub, and keep an eye on your emails from the University.

Allegra studies Business and Management (with Study Year Abroad). She enjoys long walks and having dinner with friends.