Three Unions, One Festive Night
On the evening of Tuesday, December 16, the very first Festivus Collectivus brought together members from CCFA, BCGEU, and CUPE for a shared holiday solidarity celebration! Even as an atmospheric river poured relentlessly outside, union members gathered inside the Sherri Bell Hall for a warm, joyful, no-bosses-allowed evening of food, music, and community.
Cookies, Crowns, and Collective Talent
One of the standout highlights of the night was the Festivus Cookie (& Baking) Contest! The entries were nothing short of impressive, and every submission was delicious. The sheer creativity and baking skill on display was a wonderful surprise, made even sweeter because all of the proceeds from purchasing judging tickets went to the Camosun College Student Society Holiday Food Hampers Fund.
This year’s winning entry was Oreo Truffles, prepared by Kylie Schuster, crowning CUPE with the inaugural Festivus Collectivus Baking Royalty title. Runners up were: Bee Sting Bars, prepared by Jesse Scott, and Orange Drop Cookies, prepared by Ashley Neiswender. A shout-out to the other participants who brought amazing (and delicious!) entries as well: Emily Pastor, Hannah Christo, Laura Biggs, Wendy Coldwell, Isabelle Gingras, Jen Guenther, and Lynelle Yutani. Thank you so much, together we raised $384.00!
A Crown Fit for Solidarity
The fabulous Festivus Crown made its debut at the event and quickly stole the show. Created and donated by past Camosun student Aaron Radawetz, the crown will now become a travelling prize, awarded annually and displayed in the union office of the winning entrant. CUPE will proudly host the crown for the coming year, with their members taking all three top spots; they’ve set a high bar for friendly rivalry in years to come.
Warm Drinks, Winter Magic, and Great Company
A big thank-you goes to Aramark for the excellent bar service and snacks, including delicious hot mulled apple cider and festive treats that kept everyone warm. Many thanks also to all of the other people behind the scenes who contributed their time and expertise, including the Camosun print shop staff and the many CCFA, CUPE ,and BCGEU members who lent a hand. Special appreciation also goes to Ruby Su of The Good Party Events, along with the CUPE crew, for the absolutely stunning decorations that transformed Sherri Bell Hall into a beautiful winter holiday scene.
Capturing the Moment
We’re also grateful to the Camosun College Student Society, and especially Tagg Kelt, for bringing, setting up, and packing away the photo booth. The photos captured so much joy & laughter— moments that we hope will be repeated at next year’s Festivus! We’d love to see yours if you’re willing to share. Email your links to ac.ytlucafnusomac@afcc.
Ending the Year in Solidarity
Thank you to everyone from all three unions who braved the heavy rain to join us. Sharing good food and drink, warming up by the digital fireplaces, and celebrating together was a powerful reminder that solidarity is built not just through work and advocacy, but through connection and community. Here’s to the first Festivus Collectivus — and to a new Camosun tradition rooted in solidarity and our collective strength!
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