Spring on Campus

As we crawl into the depths of winter this December, we can take comfort in envisioning that tiny glimmer of hope at the end of all the slush, wind, snow and cold…Spring! That joyous season of relief when everyone eagerly strips off coats mitts and hats faster than you can say “temperatures above freezing.”

A sign of rebirth, new life and a fresh start, there is a lot to celebrate during Spring. Many Canadian universities have jumped into the spirit of the season by hosting events and festivals that emulate its buoyant, cheerful nature.

Brock University Spring Festival of the Arts (credit: Brock University)

Brock University’s Spring Festival of the Arts is hosted by the Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine & Performing Arts. The annual event celebrates the multidisciplinary work of students, faculty and university partners. Taking place in venues across the Niagara Region throughout March and April, the Spring Festival encourages audiences to take in musical, dance and theatrical performances and visit a diverse array of visual arts exhibitions.

The University of Saskatchewan partakes in a similarly celebratory festival of arts. The Spring Festival of New Plays is organized by the Saskatchewan Playwrights’ Centre, and the University is an active partner in its development. Active since 1983, the Spring Festival attracts directors from across the country to work with local playwrights and actors (including U of Saskatchewan students) through intensive workshops and culminating performances. Hosted between the City, local residents and U of Saskatchewan, this event is a great model for University-community engagement through its collaborative celebration of local talent.

Spring Festival Gala at McMaster (credit: McMaster University)

President greets attendees (credit: McMaster University)

McMaster University uses the season to celebrate the diversity of its campus population. The Spring Festival Gala is organized by the Confucius Institute at McMaster, in partnership with the Chinese Students and Scholars Association and Mohawk University Chinese Student Union. Traditional dance, martial arts and musical performers celebrate the changing of seasons by entertaining students, faculty, staff and community attendees at the April event.

What kinds of events do you think YorkU could organize to celebrate Spring?