History of Mayfest
The idea of heralding spring at Scholastica with a festival has a long tradition. The early years saw the all-woman school give homage to Mother Mary as May is the month of Mary, honor nine women with various ideals to be emulated, and the weaving of the standards of a Maypole where the seniors passed the ribbons to the juniors symbolically representing the passing of the torch.

Click here to see a video of the 1956 weaving of the standards.

The more modern festivities begin with Father F. X. Shea, the first male president. Every year of his presidency from 1971-74, he had a smelt fry at his house on Park Point. No one knew when this would occur as it depended on the fish and the weather, so a flag flown in front of Somers Hall would advertise the upcoming event.

Mayfest as we know it started in 1977. Originally it had a variety of events take place under a big tent some of which like Casino Night continue to this day. Others such as Cow Pie Bingo (yes, a real cow and you anxiously wait to see if she does a number on your square) and humongo boxing have gone by the wayside.

The early years of Mayfest were also a way for the students to earn money for the College for such projects as renovating the Little Theatre. In fact, the Library has some furniture that was donated by the students from Mayfest 1979. The very first Mayfest raised $1,300 and was given to the College's Adventure Campaign.

Other notable dates include the first Reif Run on April 27, 1979, commemorating the opening of the Reif Center. The race started at the corner of Arlington and Arrowhead and ended at the Reif, with Paul Stein being the first CSS person completing the 2.3 mile course in 12:39.

Finally, Ooze ball started in 1991 back when the big parking lot was still dirt. Here's to spring and tradition!