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Longtime and emerging traditions are connecting generations of Spiders in old and new ways. Above, surrounded by early 20th-century buildings, Spiders celebrated in 21st-century style at Spider Drop 2021. The highlight of the massive dance party, which was launched two years ago, is an illuminated Spider that falls down Boatwright Tower like the Times Square ball on New Year's Eve. The countdown symbolically kicks off the new academic year.

Other traditions return throughout the academic year — from Proclamation and Investiture ceremonies for Westhampton and Richmond colleges to the new Spider Walk for first-years (a reverse of the route they will take for commencement) and the signing of class banners. Shortly, the wreaths will go up on Boatwright Tower to mark the holidays and signal (alas) that finals are upon us.