Traditions Commission Presents 2017 Winter Carnival: ‘Alice in Wonderland’

Syracuse University’s Traditions Commission is continuing its tradition of fun and warmth at the annual Winter Carnival, Feb. 21-25. This year’s theme is “Alice in Wonderland”—a fantastical adventure series featuring a chili cook-off, trivia night, laser tag and much more.

“Winter Carnival is such an entertaining week filled with different events that get students out of their rooms and brighten their moods during the semester,” says Megan Wilcox, a junior in the College of Visual and Performing Arts and member of the Traditions Commission. “It is a great way to make new friends, eat delicious food, and even serves as an opportunity for bonding within student organizations.”

Winter Carnival is a tradition that dates back to 1933. Once a holiday before the onset of exams, it was a means to escape the cold and bring excitement to the winter months. Today, Winter Carnival offers outdoor and indoor activities, and has included activities like human dog sled races, concerts, chili cook-offs, snow sculptures and events in collaboration with Orange After Dark.

“My favorite event is Trivia Night—lots of laughter, healthy competition and awesome prizes,” says Wilcox.

Of the many events throughout the years, the chili cook-off has been the clear favorite. Students, faculty and staff continue the tradition this year by showcasing their favorite chili recipes.

The complete lineup of Winter Carnival events this year includes:

Tuesday, Feb. 21

• Winter Carnival Days, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Schine Atrium. Giveaways, free stuff, food and fun.
• Trivia Night sponsored by Traditions Commission, 8 p.m., Schine 304. Free. Get your team of two-to-four people together to win great prizes and eat snacks.

Wednesday, Feb. 22

• Winter Carnival Days, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Schine Atrium. Giveaways, free stuff, food and fun.

Thursday, Feb. 23

• Chili Cook-off, 11 a.m., Huntington Beard Crouse Hall patio. Free chili tasting until it’s gone!
• Cozy Cappella, presented by the A Cappella Council, 8:30 p.m., Goldstein Auditorium, Schine Student Center. Free tickets available at the Schine Box Office. Free hot chocolate and cookies.

Friday, Feb. 24

• University Union and Traditions Commission present Bandersnatch Concert featuring Russ, 8 p.m., Goldstein Auditorium, Schine Student Center. Tickets $5 with SU I.D., $10 without, available at the Schine Box Office.
• Traditions Commission and Orange After Dark present: Glow in the Dark Late Night Skate Night, 9 p.m.–midnight, Tennity Ice Pavilion on South Campus. Free skate rental and entry, hot chocolate and giveaways.

Saturday, Feb. 25

• Traditions Commission and Orange After Dark present: Laser Tag, 8 p.m.–midnight, Goldstein Auditorium, Schine Student Center. Free. Play a few rounds of Laser Tag. While you wait, watch “Alice in Wonderland” and grab free food (while it lasts) in Schine 304.

The Traditions Commission is a longstanding student organization helping maintain traditions on campus. Its mission is to continue the traditions of Syracuse University and instill new traditions for all students to enjoy.

For more information, email the Traditions Commission or tweet @SUtraditions.