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Mount Holyoke College was named after the nearby peak, so it’s only fitting that the College’s first tradition was a hike to the summit. Founder Mary Lyon — a firm believer in the need for students to get exercise and fresh air — instituted the spontaneous day off in spring 1838, just a few months after the doors first opened. With few exceptions, Mount Holyoke has celebrated Mountain Day every year since. Classes and other obligations are cancelled. Students are invited to balance their intellectual pursuits with outdoor activities, which typically involves climbing to the Summit House atop Mt. Holyoke. At the top, ice cream is served to the intrepid hikers, who emerge from either a heavily wooded trail or a paved road to the top.

The speculation about Mountain Day begins as soon as Convocation is over — or sooner. The actual day is a deep secret. It can be announced at any time, and typically happens in the first few weeks of the fall semester.

It all starts with the ringing and swinging of the College’s bell. As the bell peals 100 times beginning at 7 am, bedroom doors in residence halls are pounded on, an announcement is posted on the College homepage and an email goes out from the president. Messages are posted over social media channels — hashtag #MtnDayMHC — and within moments, the world knows.