Our Traditions
Duquesne University annual traditions connect us to our past, present, and future on the Bluff. They are living expressions of the Spiritan mission that guides our strength in relationships and community. Each of these shared experiences tie us together and inspire the next generation of Dukes.
Fall Traditions
Orientation
Orientation is your official welcome into a community that values connection, purpose, and spirit – it's where we roll out the red (and blue) carpet for our newest Dukes. What sets it apart? It’s designed and executed almost entirely by students, for students. Orientation Leaders—upper-level student mentors—guide new Dukes through a dynamic week of engagement and information to help them build friendships, feel at home on the Bluff and prepare for their journey ahead. And the excitement doesn’t stop there—students can earn Burgh Bucks by showing up and getting involved, then cash them in at week’s end for a shot at major prizes in the always-popular Burgh Buck Auction.
Heritage Week
Held each year during the week of October 1st, Heritage Week hosts several events including the Feast of Spiritan Founder Claude des Places, the University Birthday celebration, and Duq Community Days. Other events throughout the week celebrate our roots as a school that started above a bakery for the children of immigrants. Events vary in time and type to engage faculty, staff, and students in celebrating and learning about our Catholic, Spiritan heritage. Students have opportunities to lean into our institutional commitment to service – through hands-on service projects, learning about community partners and service opportunities, and engaging in philanthropy.
Homecoming & Spirit Week
Each fall, as the leaves turn and school pride soars, the Duquesne University community brings together students, families, alumni, faculty, and staff for one of its most vibrant and heartwarming traditions – Homecoming! This weekend-long celebration is a highlight of the year—a joyful blend of school spirit and fall festivities.
Fall Carnival
What began as a stage for variety shows by Greek organizations has grown into one of Duquesne University’s most beloved autumn traditions: the Fall Carnival—a campus-wide celebration that blends the charm of a fall festival with the energy and creativity of our student community. Each year, the Fall Carnival brings students, faculty, and friends together for a cozy, joy-filled evening of seasonal fun, shared memories and lively performances under the crisp autumn sky.
Cram Cooper
There's no better way to start the basketball season—than with one of Duquesne University’s most high-energy traditions. This exciting event brings students together to pack the UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse in a powerful show of school spirit and support for the Duquesne Dukes. It’s the perfect welcome-back celebration and a thrilling kickoff to another season of Duquesne basketball.
Night of Lights
Night of Lights is Duquesne’s official kickoff to the holiday season on the Bluff. The entire University community is invited to this annual celebration, featuring a photo booth, Christmas carols, carriage rides, Santa’s workshop (sponsored by our student organizations), and the lighting of our campus. After the lighting, all are invited to join in a special Christmas feast in the Union Ballroom.
Christmas Ball
Each December, as the semester winds down and the spirit of the season fills the air, Duquesne University students come together for one of the most anticipated and cherished traditions of the year: the Christmas Ball. An evening of elegance, laughter, and lasting memories, the Christmas Ball is a formal celebration where students trade textbooks for their dancing shoes, and gather to mark the close of the fall semester in true Duquesne style.
Spring Traditions
Founders Week
Each year, Duquesne University pauses to celebrate the people and principles that gave rise to our mission through Founders Week—a cherished tradition that honors our Spiritan founders and the enduring ideals that continue to shape the Duquesne experience. Throughout the week, the campus community comes together for a variety of events, reflections, and celebrations that highlight the Spiritan values of service, faith, justice, and education—values that are woven into every aspect of life at Duquesne.
Epic Bingo
Each year, students pack the room and bring the energy for one of Duquesne University's most beloved and high-spirited events. Epic Bingo is exactly what it sounds like—10 thrilling rounds of bingo, hundreds of students, and prizes that live up to the name.
Festival on the Bluff
As the academic year winds down and spring fills the air, Duquesne University closes the semester with one final, unforgettable tradition: Festival on the Bluff—our very own end-of-year music festival and celebration of all we’ve accomplished together. Set against the iconic backdrop of the Pittsburgh skyline, this high-energy event brings students together for an evening of live music, food, games, and celebration right in the heart of campus.
Ring Blessing
More than a piece of jewelry, the Duquesne ring represents the values, relationships, and transformative experiences formed on the Bluff. During Ring Blessing, students come together in an intimate, reverent setting to honor that legacy—committing to carry the spirit of Duquesne into the world with integrity, leadership and compassion.
Late-Night Breakfast
Hosted just before the start of exams, Late Night Breakfast offers students a chance to take a break from studying and enjoy a delicious breakfast served late into the night. Faculty and staff join in the fun, flipping pancakes, serving eggs, and sharing smiles as they support students during this busy time of year. In addition to a hearty meal, the event features stress-relief activities, games, music, and giveaways designed to help students recharge and connect with friends before hitting the books.