The 5 Fairfield Traditions You Absolutely Must Not Deny Yourself

The 5 Fairfield Traditions You Absolutely Must Not Deny Yourself

We obviously pride ourselves on the core values of being #JesuitEducated. But Stag Pride also comes from the traditions we share, and whether it's the middle of September or the beginning of Spring, we've got time-honored pastimes that you'll absolutely want to be part of when you're making memories as a student at Fairfield University.

1.  Have a presidential ball.


The President's Ball—commonly known as Pres Ball—is *amazing.* Each September, the President of Fairfield University welcomes students to the lawn of our famous Bellarmine Hall (sometimes whimsically referred to as Hogwarts) for a glamorous night in Stag Country. Don your finest threads, grab your friends, and be prepared to dance the night away.

2.  Experience the Red Sea Madness.


Red Sea Madness is one of our newest traditions, one night every fall semester when we combine sports, Stag Pride, and an awesome concert that makes the crowd go wild. Whether the almost 2,000 students who swarm Alumni Hall gather to cheer on the men's and women's basketball teams, enjoy top-notch grub from great local food trucks, or go, well, mad for musical guests like DNCE, T-Pain and more, we know they end the evening even more pumped to be part of Stag Country.

3.  Light the lights.


The Annual Tree Lighting happens every year at the beginning of December, and if you're in town, you won't want to miss out. It includes holiday wishes from the University President, Christmas carols being sung by two choirs, and folks dressed up...in their Christmas best, ugly sweaters and all. It's one of Fairfield's most talked about, most popular traditions, and it's not just us saying so: In 2017, it was a highlight of Christmas Eve with Fairfield University, the Christmas Eve television event that aired nationwide on CBS.

4.  Have a (clam) jam session.


It's the springtime celebration Stags alumni remember, the last hoorah of the semester that students now can't wait to attend, and the end-of-year tradition that future generations of Stags will be enjoying for years to come. It's Clam Jam! The long-standing event brings students together at the Fairfield beach for sand, sun, food and friends—and one more afternoon to dance away their cares before finals arrive.   

5.  And enjoy a whole week of senior (year) moments.


As the year winds down in the spring and it’s about time to say goodbye to our seniors, the university holds a week long celebration of events, culminating friendship, service, and reflection of the Fairfield experience one last time. From one last dance at the Commencement Ball to ziplining at the amazing local Adventure Park, this week runs the gamut in pure fun.

Last Modified: 10-16-2023 11:09 AM

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