Traditions

Expedition Week has become one of the most eagerly anticipated experiences of the academic year at Woodberry Forest School. During this special week, students step away from the classroom and embrace the spirit of adventure, exploration, and personal growth. With bags packed and excitement high, boys board vans and buses bound for destinations that challenge them physically, intellectually, and emotionally. Whether hiking rugged trails, engaging in service projects, or exploring cultural landmarks, each expedition is designed to foster resilience, teamwork, and curiosity. These immersive experiences not only broaden students’ perspectives but also strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that define life at Woodberry. To learn more about expedition week click here.

The annual football game between Woodberry Forest School and Episcopal High School is one of the oldest and most storied high school rivalries in the South, dating back to 1901. This fierce yet friendly competition has captivated generations of students, players, alumni, and parents from both boarding schools, becoming a defining tradition that unites the Woodberry community across time and geography. Known simply as “The Game,” it is more than just a contest on the field—it’s a celebration of school pride, sportsmanship, and enduring legacy. In the days leading up to kickoff, students gather around a spirited bonfire, igniting their enthusiasm and rallying together in anticipation. The energy is palpable as the entire campus comes alive with orange and black, and the bonds of brotherhood grow even stronger through shared tradition and collective excitement.

Each year, Woodberry Forest School proudly welcomes alumni back to campus for Reunion Weekend, a cherished tradition that celebrates lifelong connections and the enduring spirit of The Forest. This special event offers graduates the opportunity to reconnect with classmates, reminisce about their time at Woodberry, and forge new memories in the place that helped shape them. The weekend is filled with engaging activities, from casual gatherings and class-specific events to shared meals featuring exceptional food and drinks. One of the highlights is the annual golf tournament, where friendly competition and laughter unfold on the fairways, bringing together alumni of all ages. Whether swapping stories under the stars or walking familiar paths across campus, Reunion Weekend is a vibrant celebration of community, tradition, and the bonds that last a lifetime.

Twice each year, Woodberry Forest School students trade textbooks for tuxedos as they take part in two of the most anticipated social events of the academic calendar: the Winter Semi-Formal and the Spring Formal. These evenings offer a welcome break from the rigors of academic life, allowing boys to celebrate in style alongside their dates and classmates. Students gather for an elegant evening filled with music, dancing, and camaraderie. The events are thoughtfully planned to provide students with opportunities to practice social etiquette, build confidence, and enjoy the shared experience of celebration. Whether under twinkling winter lights or amidst the blooms of spring, these formals are more than dances, they are cherished milestones in the Woodberry journey, where lifelong memories are made.

The winter holiday season at Woodberry Forest School is a time of joyful celebration, meaningful tradition, and strong community spirit. As the campus transforms with the sights and sounds of the season, students immerse themselves in cherished customs passed down through generations. Among the most beloved are the chapel greening, where boys adorn St. Andrew’s Chapel with festive greenery, and the candlelight service, a serene gathering that brings the school community together in reflection. Dormitories come alive with holiday cheer as students decorate their living spaces, fostering camaraderie and creativity. These moments, whether solemn or spirited, offer students the chance to pause, connect, and contribute to the shared life of The Forest. The season is not only busy, but deeply enriching, as boys experience the warmth of tradition and the joy of belonging.