A Thanksgiving Tradition Returns as CSU Celebrates Annual VIKESgiving

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, bringing with it cherished traditions, family gatherings and opportunities to give thanks.

But there’s another tradition happening right here at CSU and it’s one that brings the campus community together: VIKESgiving.

The annual event will take place Thursday, Nov. 19, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Viking Marketplace. Students can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal, with vegan and vegetarian options available. 

Students with meal plans can use one meal swipe for admission and an available guest swipe for visitors. Admission for those without meal plans is $13 for CSU students, $15 for nonstudents and $10 for children 12 and younger.

Executive Dining Director Amanda Casely said this year’s VIKESgiving will feature two exciting additions: a Coca-Cola dirty soda bar and a hot chocolate bar, adding a festive twist to the Thanksgiving celebration.

Bringing the CSU Community Together

Casely encourages the entire campus community to join the celebration, noting that bringing people together and seeing volunteers give their time to serve students is what makes VIKESgiving so special at CSU. 

“Every year, faculty and staff members volunteer their time to help serve guests alongside the Viking Food Co. team making it a true campus-wide effort,” she said.

For junior Helaina Rucinski, VIKESgiving is a highlight that helps her push through the end of the semester and has become somewhat of a tradition of her own.

She begins preparing a week in advance, coordinating with friends to arrive early and beat the crowds while saving room for her favorite dishes. However, Rucinski said it is not the ham or warm apple pie that makes the event special, but the sense of family and community that Viking Marketplace creates. 

“It feels like you’re attending a nostalgic Thanksgiving dinner at your grandma’s house,” said Rucinski. “Every staff member is very kind and in the VIKESgiving spirit which gives it the feeling that you’re celebrating the holiday at home.”

For international students, traveling home during the holiday season may not be an option, as it is for some other students. Casely said she and her staff do their best to encourage international students to attend VIKESgiving, giving them an opportunity to experience Thanksgiving traditions and enjoy the company of friends and their CSU family. 

“We hope the event offers a sense of comfort, connection and belonging”, said Casely. “We want to remind students that even when they are away from home, they have a second home here at Cleveland State University”.

Giving Back

As an opportunity to bring the CSU community together, the Lift Up Vikes! Food Pantry is collecting donations at VIKESgiving to support campus community members experiencing food insecurity this holiday season. Students are encouraged to donate nonperishable food items, unopened hygiene products or household items. 

Those who donate will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a prize.

In addition, the Lift Up Vikes! Food Pantry is partnering with the CSU Police Department , Young Alumni Council  and CSU Alumni Association  for its annual food drive. Running Nov. 9-13, the food drive invites each college and department across campus to host collection tables at their respective locations.

The department who collects the most items will be awarded the Lift Up Vikes! Food Drive Trophy during a reception Nov. 18 at Berkman Hall.