The significance and history of Hey Day: a beloved Auburn tradition

AUBURN, Ala. – Many traditions make up Auburn University’s rich history, and a community favorite is the annual Hey Day.

Hey Day takes place every October and serves as an opportunity to foster a welcoming and joyful environment. 

One of Auburn’s oldest traditions, Hey Day, dates back to the end of World War II in 1947. Students were returning to campus, some having fought in the war, and morale was low.

In an attempt to reunite the Auburn family and bring joy back to campus, the student body and Student Government Association (SGA) created the day where every student got a name tag and was encouraged to greet others. 

Over the years, Hey Day has grown and evolved. Students, faculty and community members all participate in this beloved event.

Every October, SGA hosts events all around campus, including name tag-making stations and an event on the campus green that includes a catered meal, performances by the Auburn Cheerleaders and many other special guests. 

Amelia Shannon, Director of Hey Day and Creed Day, shared the significance of Hey Day to the school.

“To us, it’s mostly about bringing the community together. We want to encourage Auburn students to interact with each other and create new bonds with people they might not have otherwise talked to,” said Shannon 

“Hey Day is a symbol of the love for our school shared by the Auburn community. Many Auburn residents and alumni come out to celebrate the tradition with us every year,” Shannon added.

As well as being a beloved tradition, Hey Day is also an opportunity for students to create friendships with each other.

Junior Celina Aleman told her story of her favorite Hey Day experience.

“I was at the main event of Hey Day on the campus green and I complimented the shoes of a girl in front of me while we were standing in line to get lunch,” Aleman said.

“We ended up sitting together to eat and really hit it off. She’s become one of my best friends here, and we wouldn’t have met if it weren’t for Hey Day,” added Aleman. 

Traditions like Hey Day enrich the Auburn experience for students and create a welcoming environment on campus.

For more information on the history of Hey Day and how you can get involved, visit SGA’s website.