We are proud of our beloved campus traditions, many of which take place on an annual basis. These customs and habits create a strong connection to the physical campus for all who spend time here.

Activities Fair

This event happens every semester and provides a platform for you to discover WashU’s diverse student groups.

All Student Theatre

This features a play performed by students from different majors on Beaumont Pavilion every Spring.

Art Prom

Every spring, the Art Council hosts a creative “formal” dance.

Black Anthology

This student production celebrates African-American history and culture, and educates our community.

Brookings Hall

Don’t step on the seal at Brookings Hall! Rumor has it that those who step on the seal won’t graduate on time.

Carnaval

This event celebrates Latin American cultures through dance, music, and skits.

Chamber Concert Music Series

This music series is hosted monthly by the Danforth University Center and the Department of Music in the Goldberg Formal Lounge.

Cheap Lunch

Lunch is held every Wednesday throughout the academic year by EnCouncil. For a small price, you get pizza and all-you-can-eat chips and cookies.

Convocation

Your official academic welcome to the university.

Diwali

This event features an annual sold-out performance celebrating the Indian Festival of Lights.

DUC N’ Donuts

The first Friday of every month, stop by the Danforth University Center from 9-11 a.m. (or until donuts are gone) for free donuts and coffee and a chance to learn about the month’s events in the DUC. 

El Mercado

This open-air market hosted by the Association of Latin American Students features music, dancing, and international foods. It raises money for RAICES, a nonprofit at the border that provides legal support to recent immigrants.

Dance Marathon

12 hours of non-stop dancing that benefits the Children’s Miracle Network

First 40

This is a series of programming that happens throughout the first 40 days of classes. You’ll get to participate in wide-ranging social and cultural events, including a performance by the St. Louis Symphony on the South 40.

First Day

This important day celebrates the first day of classes at the Underpass. You’ll get quick snacks and free school supplies, and even have a picture taken to send home!

Game Day Tailgate

A great opportunity for you to come out and support your fellow student athletes. There will be free food, a DJ, a bouncy house, and more! Watch WashU Cheerleading and the Bear Nation Varsity Band perform and take pictures with the WashU Bear mascot. 

Lunar New Year Festival

LNYF is a popular performance celebrating Asian cultures.

Moonlight Breakfast

This free breakfast happens during reading week every semester. Faculty and staff help serve it as you enjoy a late-night study break.

Relay for Life

This event features 12-hour team walking that benefits the American Cancer Society.

Residential College Olympics

Res College Olympics is an annual competition between Residential Colleges in a slew of fun events such as basketball, dodgeball, and tug-of-war.

Safe Trick or Treat

This event invites St. Louis community members to the South 40 to provide a safe, fun Halloween experience with trick or treating, crafts, and games.

SPB Comedy Show

A bi-annual comedy show organized by the Student Programming Board.

Spirit of Korea

This event, which is co-hosted by the Korean International Students Society, is composed of performances and interactive activities lasting from late afternoon into the night.

ThurtenE Carnival

Thurtene Carnival is the nation’s oldest and largest student-sponsored fair. Proceeds benefit charity and it is attended by thousands every April.

Tuesday Tea

This event features free scones and a selection of teas every Tuesday from 3pm – 5pm at Tisch Commons in the Danforth University Center.

Underpass

This area is the walkway between the South 40 residential area and Danforth Campus. Student groups often paint the walls of the passageway to advertise news and upcoming events.

Vertigo

This fun dance party is sponsored by EnCouncil.

Student Perspective

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WUSTock

Put on by the Congress of the South 40, WUSTock is a concert organized by students, for students every spring.