Middlebury College Ski Down Graduation Processional
A Tradition Like No Other
At Middlebury College, graduation isn’t just about walking across a stage—it’s about skiing down a mountain. The Ski Down Graduation Processional at Middlebury Snowbowl is one of the most unique and beloved traditions in collegiate history, blending the school’s deep-rooted connection to winter sports with the excitement and pageantry of commencement.
A Tradition That Defines Middlebury
For decades, Middlebury graduates have celebrated their achievements by taking one final, unforgettable run down the slopes of the Snowbowl. Dressed in caps, gowns, and sometimes creative costumes, graduates make their way down the mountain in a joyous processional, cheered on by family, friends, and fellow students.
This tradition reflects Middlebury’s adventurous spirit, outdoor culture, and the close-knit bond between the college and its home in the Green Mountains. Unlike any other graduation event in the country, the Ski Down represents both an ending and a beginning—one last exhilarating ride as a student before embarking on the next chapter.
A Community Celebration
Each year, hundreds of spectators gather at the Snowbowl to witness this special moment, creating an electric atmosphere filled with cheers, laughter, and a true sense of camaraderie. Graduates descend in waves, some gliding gracefully, others making playful turns, all united in the shared experience of a tradition that only Middlebury can claim.
Beyond its uniqueness, the Ski Down is a testament to Middlebury’s deep connection to skiing and the outdoors. As one of the few colleges in the country that owns and operates its own ski area, Middlebury has long fostered a community where winter sports are woven into student life. The Snowbowl is not just a mountain—it’s a home for generations of Middlebury students.
Join Us for This Year’s Ski Down
The next Ski Down Graduation Processional is set for Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Middlebury Snowbowl. Whether you’re a graduate making your final run, a family member cheering from the sidelines, or a visitor looking to witness this one-of-a-kind tradition, we invite you to join us for this extraordinary celebration.
For those planning to visit, please note that the Sheehan Lift will be closed from 11:45 AM to 1 PM to accommodate the event, but the Worth Mountain Chair will remain open for public skiing. Parking is limited, so we encourage the use of the TVT shuttle from town or carpooling to help ease congestion.
For those who can’t attend in person, the event will be live-streamed here.
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