Connecticut College has many time-honored events and traditions that bring the College community together and create lasting memories.

Batch Blast

Taking place in August for first-year students, and funded by an anonymous gift in honor of Esther Batchelder '19, the Batch Blast often includes picnics, comedy acts, hypnotists, improv groups, open mics and other social events.

Camel Mascot

Connecticut College athletes became "Camels" in 1969, when the College went co-ed. Mike Shinault, a former Navy officer, volunteered to coach the new men's basketball team and the players demanded a mascot. Shinault recalled a team named the "Camels" during his Navy days in Pakistan and suggested it to the team. It was a hit and has come to represent Connecticut College student athletes of all sports. Called "a proud new symbol of Camel athletics," the new camel mascot was unveiled on Founders Day, 2010.

Commencement

A true community celebration of achievement, on the College Green, with featured student and guest speakers. A traditional picnic luncheon follows for all who attend. There are several Commencement traditions.

Convocation

Literally a "calling together" of the College community, Convocation celebrates the formal opening of the academic year, welcomes new students to the College and recognizes the new senior class and the incoming first-years. The ceremony highlights some of the College's most important values: academic excellence, the Honor Code and the importance of community. Immediately following Convocation, the campus community gathers for an all-campus picnic.

Fall Weekend

Show your parents, family and friends the sights on campus, take them to a soccer game on Harkness Green, and introduce them to your roommate(s). Meet alumni who return to enjoy the festivities. See the Fall Weekend website.

Festivus

Taking its name from a well known Seinfeld episode, Festivus is Connecticut College's annual non-denominational holiday party. Each residence house hosts its own Festivus party, all culminating in a Festivus dance in the College Center at Crozier-Williams, known as "Cro."

Floralia

A day-long student spring festival in May. There are bands and lots of dancing in the Shain Library Amphitheater. It's one of the best parties of the year!

Founders Day

The College's birthday, Founders Day, is celebrated on April 5, the date in 1911 on which the College’s original charter was signed by the Connecticut Secretary of State. (The Connecticut State Assembly approved the charter on April 4 to Thames College. The name was changed a few months later to Connecticut College for Women.) The College celebrated its Centennial on April 5, 2011.

Harvestfest

An outdoor carnival/festival with food and entertainment, usually held in conjunction with Fall Weekend.

Lily Pad

As part of Senior Week traditions, the senior class uses the Outdoor Theater in the Arboretum in mid-May to stage a semi-formal dance called “Lilypad.”

Moonlight Breakfast

This annual late-night study break serves as a festive close of the first semester and signifies the start of final exams. A traditional breakfast is served by campus administrators as a way to wish the Camels well on their upcoming exams.

Signing of the Honor Code Pledge

During Orientation, the honor system is thoroughly explained to new students. When students matriculate, they pledge to adhere to the Connecticut College Honor Code by formally signing the Connecticut College matriculation pledge.

Signing of the Shared Governance Covenant

Connecticut College students, faculty, staff and administrators are committed to a system of governance in which the perspectives of all groups are considered in the institution's decision-making process. Each year, to reaffirm the commitment, the Shared Governance Covenant is signed by the President of the College, the Student Government Association President and the chairs of the faculty and staff representative bodies.

Student Activities Fair

If you want to become involved in a club, organization or campus activity, visit the Student Activities Fair held in Cro in early September to learn about all the things to do on campus - and in the community.

Volunteer Fair

More than 30 community service agencies gather in Cro at the beginning of the semester. Learn more about opportunities to become involved in the local community.