Events and Traditions
A Community Built on Shared Experiences.
At UNC Asheville, traditions are more than events; they are shared experiences that bring our community together, create lasting memories, and connect Bulldogs across generations. Whether you’re attending for the first time or carrying on a legacy, campus traditions offer meaningful ways to feel a sense of belonging and celebrate what makes UNC Asheville unique.
Commencement
Commencement
Commencement is a meaningful and time-honored tradition that celebrates the achievements of our graduates and the strength of our community. Held each May and December, this formal academic ceremony marks the moment when students receive their baccalaureate or master’s degrees and officially join the ranks of UNC Asheville alumni.
Rooted in tradition, Commencement includes the conferring of honorary degrees, as well as recognition of outstanding faculty and student achievements. Among these honors is the prestigious Manly Wright Award, presented to the senior with the highest scholarship, who receives their diploma on a silver platter. As graduates process into the ceremony, the alumni bell rings five times, honoring UNC Asheville and its four predecessor institutions, symbolizing the enduring legacy and connection shared across generations. The bell rings again at the ceremony’s close, echoing a sense of accomplishment, pride, and belonging that defines the UNC Asheville experience.
Founders Day
Founders Day
Initiated in the fall of 1997, Founders Day celebrates UNC Asheville’s beginning in September 1927 as Buncombe County Junior College and its entrance into the University of North Carolina system in 1969. It features speakers, dedications, and special events.
Greenfest
Greenfest
Brought to you by the Student Environmental Center, Greenfest is a bi-annual series held at UNC Asheville in the Spring and Fall that celebrates sustainability, students, faculty, and community. Each semester, students choose a theme relevant to current topics in environmental sustainability and partner with community members to plan events in order to generate conversation around environmental issues and engage students in environmental stewardship.
Homecoming
Homecoming
Homecoming is held in the spring to highlight UNC Asheville Bulldog spirit and accomplishments. The three-day celebration includes athletic events, alumni reunions, a dance, a parade, and other festivities commemorating UNC Asheville.
Late Night Exam Breakfast
Late Night Exam Breakfast
During exam week, faculty and staff serve up a big breakfast for weary students in need of a study break and a good, hearty meal. Held late at night in Highsmith Student Union, it’s a popular social event featuring friendly conversation and the ever-popular karaoke.
MLK Day of Service
MLK Day of Service
While the university is closed for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to provide a day of service to the community by helping local organizations.
Rockypalooza
Rockypalooza
Rockypalooza is a night of great food, games, entertainment, and fun for the entire campus community. With a vibrant, festival-like atmosphere where students can relax, have fun, and build meaningful connections with one another, Rockypalooza brings the community together to celebrate school spirit, music, and connection. This signature event features live entertainment, student performances, interactive activities, and opportunities for students to engage with campus organizations.
Turning of the Maples
Turning of the Maples
When the maple trees that line the sidewalks of the Quad turn brilliant colors in mid-October, the University community gathers to celebrate autumn in the mountains with cider, cookies, and live music.
Weeks of Welcome
Weeks of Welcome
Weeks of Welcome (WOW) is an ongoing series of events for new and returning students during the first two weeks of class each fall and spring semester. Students who participate in these events find connections to others, learn about our campus traditions, and gain a sense of pride in the UNC Asheville community. From information sessions to social events, our WOW programs aim to ensure that every student at UNC Asheville feels supported on their academic journey.