The first-ever Winter Carnival at Eaglebrook opened in 1925, 101 years ago. It allowed parents and relatives to see the progress their children were making academically, athletically, and holistically in their most formative years. Parents got their first glimpse of the campus, especially the ski hill, where a ski jump competition was held almost every year. Surprisingly, Eaglebrook’s Winter Carnival is one of the oldest forms of a New England carnival held in the winter. Only Dartmouth College’s Winter Carnival is older, making Eaglebrook’s the second-oldest of its kind. 101 years later, in 2026, Winter Carnival is still the joyous and informative celebration for Eaglebrook students, fully engaged in the winter spirit.
Winter Carnival will officially kick off on January 30th, 2026. The day will begin with a Morning Assembly from the Student Council’s vice president, Marcus Fraser ’26. Last year, TK Lee ’25 talked to the community about the meaning of success and what success has meant for his family. Eaglebrook is more than excited to hear what Marcus has to say to the community at large.
After Assembly, students will move into classes with their parents and relatives. Although much shorter than regular classes, students will have the opportunity to showcase what they have learned so far and to share the uniquely Eaglebrook learning experience with their families. After lunch at Gibbs Dining Hall, the music department, including the Band, Jazz Band, and Chorus will host a performance for all guests in the Assembly Area. After all the audience members have exited, the real fun begins.
Each dorm competes on the Halsted Flats for the Winter Carnival Cup. From a three-legged race to a Klondike race, students will have the chance to compete in various activities and games. Last year, we had to relocate the Winter Carnival Games to Gates Quad due to unfavorable weather conditions. We are more than eager to compete for the Cup in the admittedly more hilly Halsted Flats.
The evening ends in seriousness and peace, however. The evening of the 30th will mark the start of the Secondary School Application Process for our Fifth Formers, who will be beginning their journey in the Assembly Area for a meeting with Mr. Fay and Ms. Martyn. The Evening of the Arts will soon follow, featuring highlighted performances from the music and theater departments, including the Winter Play. The Evening of the Arts at Winter Carnival excites me the most; it is when the whole school, both students and parents, gets together to enjoy a night of good music and theater. What a treat!
On the 31st, Parent Teacher Conferences will be held for most of the morning. Then, athletic events will commence for most of the evening, with games and practices for all students. What is also exciting about Saturday afternoon is that our famous Easton Ski Hill will be open to everyone: students, guests, and even alumni.
After all athletic commitments have ended, students will be allowed to depart the campus with their families. Winter Carnival is officially over!
Winter Carnival may end on January 31st, but students will be more than energized with the winter spirit once they return to campus on February 2nd.