Griffmas: A Canisius Tradition

By: Andrew Nowel, Sports Layout Editor

As Christmas approaches and snow is in the air, Griffmas brings jolly and cheer to all who are near. Griffmas is an annual tradition that includes song, community and family. Before Canisius takes a break for the winter, the Canisius tradition of Griffmas ends the long semester in a festive way.

Hundreds of students lined the halls of Dugan, waiting for a cup of hot chocolate while talking to their friends. Outside of Dugan, the tree sits decorated with ornaments while the snow falls softly, creating a gentle layer across the quad. Once everyone had their hot chocolate, they shuffle out to the tree, but before it’s lit, the CresenDON’Ts begin their Christmas carols. After being introduced by Kaitlin Pusateri, president of the DON’Ts, they began their first song, led by sophomore Matt Morcelle – “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” The group sang five songs and Morcelle says it’s a great thing to be a part of. “As a student-run club, being able to sing for everyone, it brings everyone together and it’s awesome,” said Morcelle. After Canisius president Steve K. Stoute wished the Griffs a happy holiday season, the tree was lit and Christmas began on campus.

From seniors to freshmen, Griffmas is an experience that lifts their spirits at the end of the fall semester. Maggie Donner, a senior education major at Canisius, loves the community and family vibe that Griffmas brings to Canisius– “Griffmas is one of my favorite traditions we do here at Canisius because I think it brings us all together. The tree lighting is something special to Canisius because not a lot of schools have something like that. Being a senior, it’s sad that it’s my last Griffmas, but it’s great to see people and the weather is amazing for it,” said Donner. Mikayla Boyd, the editor-in-chief of The Griffin, added that Griffmas shows the spirit of what Canisius is about. “To me, this is the embodiment of Canisius and its Jesuit values. It’s great to see the Canisius community,” said Boyd. Even freshmen have learned the importance of Christmas at Canisius through Griffmas. “I love the snow and I find this very nostalgic, similar to the bonfire at the beginning of the school year,” said Sienna Stepien, a freshman at Canisius.

Analee DeGlopper, president of the United Student Association (USA), saw how the entire community came together to celebrate the special night. DeGlopper and the rest of USA are working to continue this tradition along with other traditions that they look to pass on to future classes. “I think Griffmas is a great tradition to continue every year and it’s nice to see the large turnout that we get for it. It’s a nice way for students to come together to see their friends before Reading Day and just be able to relax before finals,” said DeGlopper.

With a week left in the semester, the Griffs prepare to finish strong. For some, it’ll be the final time they leave Canisius and get ready for the next chapter of their lives. For others, January is on the horizon with another semester of classes, but it won’t be without the Christmas spirit that lies in our hearts. The Griffin wishes everyone a very Happy Griffmas and we’ll see you in 2026!

The Griffin staff at the tree lighting via Analee DeGlopper