University of Minnesota Winter Light Show

Don’t expect a commonplace school science project from the University of Minnesota’s engineering students. The Civil Engineering Building Plaza is currently wrapped with more than 100,000 LED lights and laser projections, creating a holiday light show that will dazzle spectators multiple times during the first two weekends in December (Dec. 5, 6 & 11-13). The show highlights the creative and technical feats the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) undergraduate community can produce. It lasts about 20 minutes and is synchronized to music, some of which was written and recorded by undergraduate students as well.

The plaza’s circular layout provides for a 360-degree sensory experience. Features like an 8-foot 3D snowman sign, 22-foot glittering tree, and, of course, a massive ‘M’ that glows to show school spirit, makes this a holiday event the whole family can enjoy. In between each show, audience members can test out their engineering skills by tinkering with the lights via an interactive push box. The show premieres this Friday at 5:30 p.m., with a pre-party a half an hour before the show at neighboring Rapson Hall, complete with free hot chocolate and student entertainment.

Sponsored by CenterPoint Energy and CSE and presented by the University of Minnesota Tesla Works student group, the event is sure to take your mind off December’s chilly conditions. Put on your warmest maroon and gold hat and journey to campus this holiday season.