Holiday Traditions

While last year’s holidays were disrupted by the pandemic, the return of so many beloved traditions was a reminder of what makes the St. Mark’s community so special. Once again, students, teachers, parents, grandparents, and alumni gathered to celebrate the season together.

McDonald’s Week

The signature Junior Class Fundraiser returned to the Preston-Royal McDonald’s for the first time since 2018. Marksmen competed in relay races, table tennis tournaments, and karaoke competitions, while Mr. Owens ’89 ended the week with a bang. The Class of 2023 raised more than $16,000 for Austin Street Center, in addition to meals donated by McDonald’s that the boys distributed at the Austin Street Center.

Grandparents’ Day

More than 500 grandparents and grandfriends joined their Marksmen on campus for Grandparents’ Day. Classes prepared special activities from trivia games to student presentations, and guests enjoyed a glimpse of daily life at 10600 Preston Road.

holiday traditions

Alumni Holiday Luncheon

Marksmen from across generations gathered to celebrate the annual Alumni Holiday Luncheon at Arlington Hall. Alumni Association President Sandy Campbell ’76 welcomed his fellow graduates, saying, “I hope today’s event brings back fond memories and rekindles the holiday spirit we experienced as students.” Senior Ekansh Tambe shared his perspectives as a current student, including his incredible work raising awareness of global issues through photography.

Lessons & Carols

On a beautiful winter evening, the Choir held a candlelit Festival of Lessons & Carols in the St. Mark’s Chapel. Community members, including students, alumni, Trustees, and special guests, read the nine lessons chronicling the Christmas Story, while the Choir and congregation sang nine traditional carols. As always, the evening began with the first verse of “Once in Royal David’s City” performed solo by a fourth-grade chorister.

holiday traditions

All-School Christmas Party

Just before Christmas Break, the entire campus community gathered for a tradition that has come to symbolize St. Mark’s in so many ways. Seniors hoisted their Lower School buddies onto their shoulders (some even two at a time) and processed into the Great Hall. Student Council President Alex Geng ’22 announced the successful completion of the Student Council and Community Service Board Gift Drive, which collected more than 2,500 gifts for local nonprofits. Salvation Army DFW Metroplex Commander Todd Hawks thanked the St. Mark’s community for their generosity: “You are continuing a tradition here, but you’re also creating new traditions and new memories in homes and in families across Dallas. Because of you, hope marches on.”