My Favorite DePaul Traditions Ranked

A collage showcasing DePaul University traditions, including rubber ducks, ice cream in a DePaul-branded bowl, a holiday-themed mug, and various DePaul-themed T-shirts against the backdrop of the DePaul University College of Business sign.

Today I am going to tell you about my top 5 all time favorite DePaul traditions and events.

1. DePaul Duck Day

Now if you haven’t already heard, the Loop every quarter does a Duck Day. I may have already dedicated a whole article to it, so clearly it is number one. It ‘s just as it sounds. You pick a rubber duck out of a fake pool of water and the number on the bottom correlates to a specific prize. The best part though, is you get to keep the duck!

A smiling student holding a pink rubber duck, with a row of themed rubber ducks in front, including designs resembling a cupcake, unicorn, and sprinkled donut.<br />

A hand holding a clear glass mug with a DePaul-themed holiday design featuring reindeer, trees, and geometric patterns in blue and red.

2. Ugly Sweater Mug

While DePaul’s ugly sweaters have a huge fest, there are also ugly sweater mugs that are definitely easier to get in the Loop! Plus there is always hot cocoa, crafts and games to be had too. As an avid tea drinker I love my mug.

3. Ice Cream Social

The Ice Cream Social is a great way to kick off spring quarter on both campuses. This event had to be third place because honestly I have a giant sweet tooth. This is always fun, and it’s a great time to meet up with friends, find out how spring break went and enjoy some calm before the quarter kicks into full gear.

A hand holding a DePaul University branded ice cream bowl shaped like a waffle cone, filled with ice cream, chocolate syrup, and a cherry.

Sienna and friend sitting behind a table full of stationery.

4. Flea Market

I love a good flea market and DePaul’s Activity Board hosts one every quarter. There is always a good mix of vendors, from vintage clothing, thrifted pieces, jewelry, artists and even screen printing. The best thing is students can even be vendors. Check out the photo of me from last year! Not only are you supporting local Chicago businesses, but your fellow students as well.

5. Free T-Shirts

Now technically this is not an event, but I have to admit by the end of your time at DePaul I’m sure you will have a collection of t-shirts. Almost every major event has a t-shirt and even some of the not so major ones. My top favs are the Driehaus one and my 125 anniversary shirt. You will not be short of DePaul merch.

I love the big events like Fest and Ugly Sweater Party, but some of these other events are just as great. It’s what makes DePaul so special and this is not even half of it.