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Traditions Previous | Next The College's treasured traditions are unique
Mount Holyoke's traditions bring the community together for food, song, or, on one day each autumn, for a hike. Our favorites include:  President Creighton and students atop Mt. Holyoke on Mountain Day, 2005Mountain Day, one of the College's oldest traditions, provides an unexpected break from classes on a spectacular autumn day. Many students spend the day enjoying outdoor activities, in particular, hiking to the summit of the actual Mount Holyoke. The pealing of the Mary Lyon Hall bell after the 8 am ring announces to the campus that it's Mountain Day. M & Cs (milk and crackers) is a long-standing College tradition. This snack is provided in all residence halls as a study break and a social event several nights each week. Founder's Day commemorates the founding of the College and falls on the Sunday nearest to November 8, the day in 1837 when the Mount Holyoke Female Seminary first opened. The coolest part of this holiday is gathering at dawn near College founder Mary Lyon's grave and being served ice cream by the College president. Canoe Sing is one of Mount Holyoke's most casual and fun Commencement Weekend traditions. It dates back to 1911, when it was called "Senior Serenade." During Canoe Sing, 12 canoes decorated with lanterns illuminate Upper or Lower Lake while changing formations. At the same time, seniors in canoes and on the shore sing previously rehearsed songs. |
