Islander Lights

Location: Lee Plaza

After sunset, gather in historic Lee Plaza as Dr. Kelly M. Miller, TAMU-CC president, flips the switch to illuminate campus in Islander blue and green—a glowing kickoff to the season ahead.

Visit the petting zoo (you might even spot a llama or two!), enjoy live music and carolers, seasonal snacks, play in bounce houses, take on our obstacle course, or ride the Izzy Express trackless train or—if you’re feeling adventurous—try a turn on our mechanical reindeer outside on Anchor Plaza, the East Lawn, Center for Instruction Courtyard and Hector P. Garcia Plaza.

Location: University Center Rotunda

Visit the Islander Lights Holiday Village in University Center Rotunda to try your hand seasonal crafts, activities, and challenges designed by TAMU-CC Student Organizations and University Departments to showcase their unique specialties and interests. Past activities include ornament making, cookie decorating, and educational challenges. There’s always something exciting brewing at the Chemistry Club booth, and the University Mail Service will help you mail your letters to Santa (North Pole delivery guaranteed).

Location: University Center Tejas Lounge

Located in the University Center Tejas Lounge, the Academic Tree Forest is a collection of 3-foot trees decorated by University Departments to reflect the broad scope of academic majors available at TAMU-CC. Festival attendees decide which tree is the best, and the winning department receives a free catered treat, so be sure to vote for your favorite!

Location: University Center Lonestar Ballroom

Located in the University Center Lonestar Ballroom, the TAMU-CC Islander Lights Arts & Crafts Market hosts dozens of local vendors selling handmade arts, crafts, unique gifts, and much more.

Location: TAMU-CC Performing Arts Center

If you can’t get enough of the Islander Lights festivities, head over to the Performing Arts Center for the annual Sounds of the Season concert. Enjoy performances by TAMU-CC Music Department ensembles and more family fun with activities that include a sing-along and an Ugly Sweater contest. Tickets are FREE for veterans, TAMU-CC faculty/staff, and children under 5, $9.25 for students and children 5 and up, and $14.50 for adults.

Each year, the National Society for Leadership & Success at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi partners with Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots to make sure every child has some holiday cheer.

You can donate by bringing a new toy (no gift wrapping, please) to the Islander Lights event and dropping it off at one of the following locations: Anchor Ballroom Lobby or the drop box in the University Center Rotunda.

You can also order a toy off of the organization’s Amazon Wishlist or make a monetary donation.

Toys and a check will be presented to Marines at the lighting ceremony in Lee Plaza. Please consider donating to this very worthy cause. All proceeds from your donation will benefit local children and families.