The strangest Oxford and Cambridge events visitors shouldn't miss this year

Feb. 13, 2025 - PRLog -- Staying in an Oxford or Cambridge college during the summer has boomed in popularity in recent years. Increasingly, however, visitors are now discovering that it's possible to stay in many of these historic colleges throughout the year. Even better, there are some remarkable (and occasionally downright odd) traditional events taking place during term time that everyone should see.

Lily Smith, a leading tourism expert from Universityrooms.com, says: 'There are many oddities scattered across Oxford and Cambridge universities' calendars. For example, May Week in Cambridge is, contrarily, a two-week celebration that starts on the second Thursday of June. It is marked by grand balls, fireworks and garden parties. Apparently, May Week used to be held in May, before exams started, but was switched to the end of the exam period in 1880.

'Likewise, Christmas happens in November. The short Michaelmas term (Cambridge's three terms are elaborately named Michaelmas, Lent and Easter) ends at the start of December. Cambridge students therefore celebrate "Bridgemas" on the 25th of November. There's turkey, crackers and all the trappings of Christmas, just a month early so students can celebrate with friends they may not see over the actual festive period. Other unmissable events include the cardboard boat race at the end of the Easter term (if the university is able to organise insurance cover this year).

'Not to be outdone, Oxford boasts some equally odd traditions of its own. Coming next month are the Lent Bumps. These are nose-to-tail rowing races that can frequently result in bumps, as their name implies. Teams are sorted at the "Getting On" race on 7 March with the actual races on the 11-15 March.

'May Day is on 1 May and many stay up all night to take part in traditional events. At 6am, hardy students and local residents gather on Magdalen Bridge to hear Magdalen College Choir sing from the top of the college's tower. The centuries-old tradition is followed by Morris dancing and singing by various other choirs.

'Another must-see competition is the summer race between the college tortoises. Every year, Corpus Christi College hosts the Tortoise Fair, with music, food, drink and, of course, the Tortoise Race itself. Several Oxford colleges own tortoises and enter them for the thrilling competition each year.

'Whatever the season (even May week in June!), the innovative service UniversityRooms.com offers singles and doubles with ensuite facilities, on a B&B or self-catering basis. For more information and to book your stay in Cambridge, see: https://www.universityrooms.com/en-GB/city/cambridge/home/ For information on staying in Oxford, see https://www.universityrooms.com/en-GB/city/oxford/home/