:: Traditions

Housing & Residence Life

Academic Achievement Banquet
Since 1998, the university's high-achieving resident population has been honored at the annual Academic Achievement Banquet held during the spring semester. The banquet celebrates the academic successes of students who reside on campus. This invitation-only event honors students who achieve a semester GPA of 3.75 or higher.

Midnight Madness Pre-Party
The Midnight Madness Pre-Party begins in Presidents Park and ends with a torch walk to the Patriot Center, where hundreds gather to kick-off the official start of the basketball season. During the pre-party, students paint their faces and spray their hair yellow and green. The torch carrier then leads the group from Presidents Park to the Patriot Center for the ceremonial beginning of Midnight Madness.

Opening
As summer break winds down, the Fairfax Campus becomes abuzz with activity as the resident population moves in. The official move-in kick-off is referred to as "Opening, " and is marked with a carnival-like atmosphere that features munchies for new students and their families, a barbeque, and scores of student volunteers who help move the freshmen in.

Parkapalooza
Parkapalooza takes place in Presidents Park during the spring Open House. Activities include volleyball and basketball tournaments, arts and crafts, root beer float making, and a Battle of the Bands. The Battle of the Bands features bands comprised of Mason students.