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Traditions

Emma Willard School’s unique, 200-year history is proudly honored through our traditions. These cherished events bind together generations of Emma students, and are the shared memories that last between friends for a lifetime.

The experience of receiving your Emma ring, stepping on to the Senior Triangle for the first time, and making your entrance on the Revels stage are defining moments for many of our girls. Other traditions that mark special moments throughout the year include Eventide, Sophomore Tree Decorating, Peanuts and Shells, May Day, Principal’s Play Day, Ring Dinner, Senior Tea, Senior Retreat, Baccalaureate, and more.

History Brings Tradition

What makes Emma special is the true sense of belonging to something bigger than oneself. Beloved time-honored traditions create feelings of anticipation, excitement, and community. Friendships are forged and lifelong connections are made that educate our students far beyond the classroom.

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A Favorite Night of the Year: Apollo 2025
several performers wearing a myriad of costumes performing, in the center a dancer does a split holding an umbrella dressed as a bottle of mustard.

Last Friday evening our campus was treated to the annual Apollo talent show organized by the Black Latinx Student Union (BLSU). The event is a chance for members of the community to show off their talents, share food, and enjoy an evening of fun!

An Emma Willard Tradition: What's the Deal with May Day?
a maypole with ribbons in the middle of a spring green grass lawn with a stone gothic building behind it and people sitting along the grass.

May Day at Emma Willard School is a traditional spring celebration featuring an intricate maypole dance by the 9th grade class, and the appearance of the senior May Queen and court. As one of the many traditions at Emma Willard School, May Day has gone through changes over the decades. 

One of 360: Sophia C. ’28
A student sitting in front of a birthday cake with family smiling at the camera. The cake has a candle that says "14"

In this month’s One of 360 we hear from Sophia C. ’28, a ninth-grade boarding South River, NJ. Hear from Sophia, in her own words about her first year Emma so far, family, a passion for dance, photography, and more!

Never Boo-ring: Emmaween 2024
students in various costumes smile at the camera as they walk to class

Halloween at Emma Willard School, fondly known as "Emmaween," brought the gothic campus to life with costumes, decorations, and spooky activities. Festivities kicked off sometimes in September with decorations in the Sage stairwells: animatronic clowns, skeletons, witches, and all manner of ghouls graced the halls.