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A PAGE FROM THE DARTMOUTH STORY

Homecoming Bonfire

First held on September 17th, 1895, Dartmouth Night was originally introduced by President William Jewett Tucker as a celebration for alumni. More than 125 years later, Dartmouth Night during Homecoming Weekend—headlined by a colossal bonfire—has evolved into an iconic tradition that sees thousands of alumni return to campus to celebrate their alma mater.

The first Homecoming bonfire was built by students in the nineteenth century to celebrate a sports victory but has since morphed into a symbol of welcome for students new to the Dartmouth family. In preparation for its lighting, first-year students help build a towering bonfire structure in the center of the Green, inscribing their names and initials into the wood. As a finishing touch, they crown their creation with giant wooden numerals of their class year.

When the bonfire is lit just after dusk on Dartmouth Night, alumni and older students cheer while first-years take a celebratory lap around the blazing structure—embracing the warm glow of both the bonfire and the community surrounding them. As the reflection of the flames slowly fades in the windows of Dartmouth Hall and Baker-Berry Library, Dartmouth’s newest students know they’ve found home. —Chukwuka Odigbo ’25

Produced by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions of Dartmouth College Writing/Editing: Thurston-Lighty, Ltd. Design: Hecht/Horton Partners

Note: The officers of the College believe that the information contained herein is accurate as of the date of publication, and they know of no significant changes to be made at the College in the near future. However, Dartmouth reserves the right to make, from time to time, such changes in its operations, programs, and activities as the Trustees, faculty, and officers consider appropriate and in the best interests of the Dartmouth community. Equal Opportunity: Dartmouth is committed to the principle of equal opportunity for all its students, faculty, staff, and applicants for admission and employment. For that reason, Dartmouth prohibits any form of discrimination against any person on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, national origin, citizenship, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other legally protected status in the administration of and access to the College’s programs and activities, and in conditions of admission and employment. Dartmouth adheres to all applicable state and federal equal opportunity laws and regulations.

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