CAMPUS TRADITIONS
A History You Can Join
Traditions That Bring Lawrentians Together
Lawrence University has produced a variety of traditions that infuse campus life and events throughout the year.
From class colors and The Rock to LUaroo, Lawrence traditions help students find their place in a community that spans generations. These shared experiences connect classmates, alumni, and future Lawrentians, creating memories that last long after graduation.
WINTER CARNIVAL
Cozy and Connected Vibes
Winter Carnival brings Lawrentians together for seasonal fun, campus activities, and community connection during the heart of Winter Term. It is one of the many ways students make Lawrence feel like home, even when the Wisconsin weather is at its coldest.
17 DAYS OF KINDNESS
Small Acts. Strong Community.
Community is a central pillar of the Lawrence experience. 17 Days of Kindness celebrates the generosity, encouragement, and everyday moments of connection that help make Lawrence a welcoming community.
LUaroo
This weekend-long music festival brings Midwest bands and Lawrence student bands to Main Hall Green for one of the year’s favorite campus events.
Lawrence Arch
The Lawrence Arch marks two milestone traditions: welcoming new students as they process to Main Hall and celebrating graduates as they pass through the arch after Commencement.
The Rock
Brought to campus by the Class of 1895, The Rock has been painted, celebrated, and occasionally pulled into campus pranks for generations.
Ormsby Lake
Each winter, Ormsby Green becomes Ormsby Lake, a seasonal spot for skating, broomball, and snowy fun during Winter Term.
Class Colors
Adopted from Milwaukee-Downer College in 1988, class colors encourage unity and give each graduating class a shared Lawrence identity.
Convocations
Each term, Lawrentians gather for Convocation to hear new ideas, ask big questions, and continue the university’s tradition of lifelong learning.
Reunion
Since 1876, Reunion has brought Lawrence and Milwaukee-Downer alumni back to campus to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the Lawrentian community.
Homecoming
Blue and White Homecoming Weekend brings Lawrentians together for Viking pride, campus events, Conservatory performances, the Vikings Tailgate, and football at the Banta Bowl.
Did You Know?
First-Year Studies Has Shaped Lawrentians for 80+ Years
Every first-year student begins with First-Year Studies, a signature Lawrence experience built around shared works, small-group discussion, writing, and big questions across disciplines.
LU Zoo Days
Lawrentians gather on Ormsby Green for games, music, and an afternoon of fun in the sun.
President’s Ball
With live jazz, a DJ, dancing, and great food, the President’s Ball is a Spring Term highlight for many Lawrentians.
Cabaret
Cabaret celebrates the cultural heritage of Lawrence’s international students, who bring perspectives from 34 countries.
Trivia
Teams around the world compete in the Great Midwest Trivia Contest, answering hours of delightfully bizarre questions.
Lunar New Year
This free, family-friendly celebration welcomes the community to mark the Lunar New Year with multicultural activities and performances.
Cultural Expressions
Cultural Expressions closes People of Color Empowerment Week during Black History Month with music, dance, spoken word, and community celebration.
NEWS
Campus Traditions Features and Highlights
Explore recent stories about the traditions, events, and shared experiences that bring Lawrentians together across campus and across generations.
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Lawrence celebrates the Class of 2026 at its 177th Commencement
Read More: Lawrence celebrates the Class of 2026 at its 177th CommencementConfetti flies as Lawrence University graduates celebrate Commencement 2026. (Photo by Danny Damiani Photography)
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Sisu and Saunas: Reflections on the Lawrence Trip to Finland
Read More: Sisu and Saunas: Reflections on the Lawrence Trip to FinlandThe northern lights glow above Finland, illuminating a Lawrence journey filled with curiosity, connection, and wonder.
