Oxford and Cambridge, two of the world’s most renowned universities, are famous for their academic prestige—but it’s their unusual and quirky traditions that make these cities truly stand out. From early Christmas celebrations to tortoise races and midnight singing from ancient towers, visitors to these historic cities can enjoy experiences that blend tradition with eccentricity.
One of the more curious events in Cambridge is the renowned May Week, which, contrary to its name, actually takes place in June. Starting on the second Thursday of the month, May Week is a two-week-long celebration filled with grand balls, fireworks, and garden parties. This tradition dates back to the 1880s, when it was moved from May to coincide with the end of the exam period. It continues to be one of the most anticipated events in the Cambridge calendar.
Similarly, in a delightful twist on holiday scheduling, Cambridge students celebrate Christmas on November 25, a month ahead of the traditional festive period. Known as ‘Bridgemas,’ students enjoy turkey dinners and all the typical Christmas trimmings before many head home for the winter break. This event is part of the university’s uniquely structured academic terms, named after saints—Michaelmas, Lent, and Easter—which leave little room for a traditional holiday break.
Oxford, too, is home to a range of unusual events. The Lent Bumps, which take place in March, feature intense rowing races between colleges. The “bumping” aspect refers to the nose-to-tail format of these races, a tradition that dates back to the 1820s. As crews race along the narrow river, it’s not uncommon for them to collide—hence the “bump.”
May Day is another iconic event in Oxford, celebrated on 1 May when students and locals gather at Magdalen Bridge at dawn to hear the Magdalen College Choir sing from the top of the college’s tower. The event is followed by Morris dancing and additional choirs joining the celebration.
Perhaps one of the most peculiar yet beloved traditions in Oxford is the Tortoise Race. Every year, Corpus Christi College hosts the Tortoise Fair, where tortoises from various colleges compete in a thrilling race. This quirky spectacle is a major highlight in Oxford’s summer calendar, drawing visitors to enjoy the festivities and the unique competition.
In addition to these events, the cities offer plenty of opportunities for visitors to stay in college accommodations at affordable prices. Whether you’re staying in modern en-suite rooms at Fitzwilliam College in Cambridge or enjoying the historic surroundings of New College in Oxford, you can experience these iconic institutions from the inside. Universityrooms.com allows visitors to book college rooms throughout the year, providing an authentic and affordable way to experience life at these world-famous universities.
For those planning a visit, whether to catch a rowing race, experience Christmas in November, or witness a tortoise sprint to the finish line, there’s no better time than now to explore the unusual traditions that make Oxford and Cambridge so special.
For more information and to book your stay, visit UniversityRooms.com.
