ACU looks forward to its second annual Mingle & Jingle on Dec. 2, which will kick off the holiday season with free hot cocoa, a visit from Santa and a concert by country music star Aaron Watson.

Mingle & Jingle is an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, alumni and the community to join together on ACU’s campus in celebration of the holiday season.

“Mingle & Jingle started in 2012 as entertainment for prospective students and their families after the Admitted Students Reception,” said Amber Gilbert Bunton, production coordinator for Creative Services.

It’s free of charge and includes the Christmas movie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” an opportunity to visit with Santa and a concert with Aaron Watson.

There were no troubles having Aaron Watson, (’00) perform again at this year’s Mingle & Jingle. Bunton said that Watson hopes to make this a yearly tradition for him and his band.

“He loves ACU and loves contributing to the community,” said Bunton.

There are hopes that this event will also become an ACU and Abilene tradition.

“This is a fun, laid back event that gets everyone in the Christmas spirit,” said Bunton.

“We had an exceptional turn-out last year and hope to have even more in attendance this year,” said Jennifer Ellison, director of University Events.

Departments across campus are contributing to this event.

“All we ask is that families bring a toy donation for Love and Care Ministries,” said Ellison.

Ellison said that this year they’re pleased to have the ACU Choir performing several Christmas selections as well as closing the evening with Aaron Watson on stage.

“The University Chorale will sing and join Aaron for the last song, ‘Silent Night,'” said Bunton.

Bunton also said that ACU Enactus is inviting local nonprofits to set up tables and provide info about their organizations.

The celebration will be held on the front lawn of the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.