Check These Out

Whether you enjoy spending time on or off campus, there is no shortage of things to do—ever. With vibrant, artistic host communities like Boston, Medford, and Somerville, your weekends will never be boring. Here are a few of the annual events that we patiently await each year!

SPRING

Parade of Nations March: Hosted by the International Center and International Club, this annual spring show has been going on for over three decades. It’s a fun, vibrant, colorful cultural extravaganza filled with live dance and music performances from all over the world. You don’t want to miss it!

Opening Day The first week in April: If you’re going to college in Massachusetts, the Red Sox are going to become a key element of your life. Whether you are a ride-or-die Red Sox fan or not, the excitement and energy of Opening Day is felt by all as the gates open and excited patrons are welcomed back into Fenway Park. Grab some snacks and cheer on a victory for the Red Sox!

Patriot’s Day/Boston Marathon The 3rd Monday in April: This Massachusetts-centric holiday is all about capturing “The Spirit of America” in style! Get a group to participate in the Boston Marathon and run through Tufts’ most urban host community. If running isn’t your speed, sit back and relax with some friends on Prez Lawn and enjoy the sights and smells of Tufts’ greenery in the springtime.

Jumbo Days April: As you weigh your college decision, you have the opportunity to see what being a Jumbo is all about. Now that you’ve been invited to become a unique part of the Tufts community, you have the chance to truly see yourself on the Hill. Meet students, try out the most amazing food from Tufts Dining Services, and—most importantly—learn about all that Tufts has to offer!

Spring Fling April: Since 1980, Tufts students have come together immediately before final exams on Prez Lawn for the Spring Fling concert. In recent years, the winner of Tufts’ “Battle of the Bands” competition has opened the concert. There are thirty years of bands, big and small! Recent performers have included Kesha, Tinashe, Shaggy, Princess Nokia, Childish Gambino, and Dutch Rebel.

SUMMER/FALL

Apple Picking Late August/Early September: With dozens of nearby orchards to choose from, picking apples is a must-do annual event. With the many local and family-owned orchards near Tufts, it is no wonder that this is a favorite New England fall activity. So, grab some friends, grab some reusable tote bags, and get picking!

Orientation Week Early September: For incoming first-year and transfer students, this week will be a formal yet exciting introduction to life at Tufts. Finding friends, getting free merchandise, and making memories are guaranteed.

Homecoming Weekend October: Homecoming is the time where alumni and current students come together at the dear ol’ Brown and Blue. Whether you want to jam out at the Homecoming Concert, eat a bunch of free food, or attend the Homecoming game, there is so much to do and see during Homecoming Weekend.

FALL/WINTER

The Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker Late November-December: A classic story told through dance, the Boston Ballet is sure to delight every audience member with its annual performance of The Nutcracker. Located in the artistic heart of Boston at the Citizens Bank Opera House, the curtain will surely rise on a beautiful production.

Boston Science Fiction Film Festival February: Located in the heart of Davis Square (a quick, 5-minute walk from downhill), the Somerville Theatre hosts an annual event dedicated to the ever-popular genre of Sci-Fi. If you are a film and media studies major, this annual event is NOT one to be missed!