Rollins College Eagerly Awaits Annual Fox Day Tradition

Students speculate on when President Barnett will announce the surprise day off from classes.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:35am

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of students relaxing on a grassy lawn, surrounded by blurred greenery and warm, golden light, conveying a sense of carefree joy and relaxation.The annual Fox Day celebration at Rollins College offers students a much-needed respite from the rigors of academic life, allowing them to enjoy the beautiful campus and each other's company.Winter Park Today

With the spring semester winding down, students at Rollins College are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the annual Fox Day tradition. Established in 1956 by former President Hugh McKean, Fox Day is a surprise day off from classes when the college president announces the cancellation of classes and encourages students to enjoy the beautiful weather. This year, as Brooke Barnett begins her tenure as Rollins' president, the campus community is curious to see which day she will choose to continue the longstanding tradition.

Why it matters

Fox Day is a beloved and highly anticipated tradition at Rollins College that provides students with a much-needed break from the rigors of academic life. The mystery and excitement surrounding the surprise announcement has become an integral part of the campus culture, fostering a sense of community and school spirit.

The details

Students have been speculating on when Fox Day will fall this year, with the most popular guesses being April 8, April 14, and April 16. Some students have opted for broader predictions, such as guessing a Wednesday or hoping it will come after the annual Lip Sync event on April 10. Last year, President Cornwall's final Fox Day fell on Monday, April 7, which may explain why many students are eyeing the early weeks of April.

  • Fox Day was established by former Rollins College President Hugh McKean on May 17, 1956.
  • President Brooke Barnett's inaugural Fox Day will be announced this spring.

The players

Hugh McKean

Former president of Rollins College who established the Fox Day tradition in 1956.

Brooke Barnett

The current president of Rollins College, who will be announcing the 2026 Fox Day.

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What they’re saying

“My favorite memory is immediately calling all of my friends, running to the statue, and getting a donut.”

— Samantah Goudey, Class of 2027

“For Fox Day, I'm hoping to go to the beach and spend the day swimming.”

— Ella Tamashasky, Class of 2029

“My favorite memory is making a plush fox for my younger cousin every year and watching her get super excited when I give it to her. She's more excited about Fox Day than I am!”

— Zoe Vanderstelt, Class of 2026

“My favorite memory is the joy I felt from opening an email at 6 a.m., announcing that it was Fox Day! I commute an hour and a half, so this is always a joy.”

— Yanyce Long, Class of 2026

What’s next

The Rollins community will eagerly await President Barnett's announcement of the 2026 Fox Day, which is expected to come in the early weeks of April.

The takeaway

Fox Day is a beloved and long-standing tradition at Rollins College that provides students with a much-needed break and a sense of community. As President Barnett takes the helm, the campus is excited to see how she will continue this cherished annual event.