New Year's in November: A Graceland Tradition

By: Caitlyn Valero

As we enter the fall season, the air fills with energy, color, and a sense of tradition. One of the most unique and beloved traditions at Graceland University, is “New Year’s in November.” This celebration brings the entire campus community together long before the actual calendar flips. Since classes aren’t in session on December 31^st, students created their own version of New Year’s Eve, and through out the years it has grown into one of the most anticipated events on campus.

Each year comes with a brand-new theme. Last year, the campus transformed into New York City, filled with bright lights and big city glamour. This year, students journey back in time with a Medieval theme, complete with castle inspired decorations, deep Jerel tone colors, and outfits that range from elegant gowns to fun creative costumes, the anticipation leading up to the New Year’s in November is almost as exciting as the event itself, with students planning their outfits, talking about the theme, and wondering what surprises are going to be in store.

Students Dustin Robinson, Addison Cole, Sada Rawson, Sydney Morgan, Kenzie Wheeler, and Reece Toner, posing for a photo at New Year's in November in 2024. Photo credits to Graceland Marketing,

New Year’s in November always delivers an incredible atmosphere. Multicolored lights fill up the room, decorations wrap every wall, and photo booths capture every laugh, pose, and memory. A DJ sets the mood with a playlist that keeps everyone dancing for hours. Students' faculty and staff all join in on the fun, it’s one of the few nights of the year when everyone dresses up, taking a break from sweatpants and backpacks and trading them in for beautiful dresses, sharp suits, and themed accessories.

Sodexo also steps up with their game everything year, providing a fancy spread that feels far from ordinary Commons food. Tables are lined with appetizers, deserts, and festive non-alcoholic drinks that add to the New Year’s Eve vibe. Weather you come for the food, the dancing, the photos or just to hang out with friends there is something for everyone the enjoy,

From a student protective, New Year in November is more than just a dance, it is a chance to celebrate and share. Many describe it as a “formal, but fun” event. A night where everyone can relax, laugh, and enjoy being together, before the semester gets too stressful. It is a moment that reminds us how special Graceland traditions really are, and how lucky we can be apart of them.

New Year’s in November is a night filled with excitement, creativity and connection. We have to thank COSA for setting up this event, as it’s a tradition that continues to bring Graceland to life each fall. It sets up the start of a new year in the most Graceland way possible.