Founded in 1935, our traditions are deeply embedded in our ethos. Whether it’s gathering every Thursday to join in song, waltzing around in a turkey costume, or experiencing nature on a group camping trip, coming together as a vibrant community of dynamic individuals is what drives our school culture. Here are some of the ways this camaraderie unfolds.
Harvest Festival
Every fall, we come together to celebrate with food, music, crafts, games and good cheer. The event includes bounce houses, face painting, games, and more. Alumni, parents, the local community and friends of the school are all welcome.
Long Fall
Developing an appreciation for nature while fostering a bond as part of a community is baked into our culture, and every year we kick off that sentiment with Long Fall. After students arrive on campus and move into their rooms, we immediately pack up and head out in small groups for a four-day, three-night camping expedition away from school. Trip opportunities include a variety of options such as kayaking, bicycling, backpacking, day hiking, rock climbing, canoeing, and more.
March of the Turkeys
When Putney was founded in 1935, travel was inconvenient, so students celebrated Thanksgiving at school. The annual celebration featured colored paddles to announce each course and a “March of the Turkeys” dance performed by the faculty. The ritual faded when the roads improved, but we have revived the party. Students, teachers, staff, friends, local parents, and others sing, eat, listen, and just have a grand time all the way around.
Snowball
Every February students don formal attire (or not) and hit the dance floor. Featuring a DJ, photo booth, colorful lighting and winter-themed festivities, it’s a favorite event among students.
Spring Carnival
When the weather starts to warm up, we celebrate with hot dogs, cotton candy, face painting, carnival games, a dunk tank, and tons of fun with friends.
Spring Social Dance
We end of the year with a fun dance outside to say goodbye to friends, faculty and staff before the summer starts.
Sing
Our community comes together every Thursday to join in song. From madrigals to sacred choruses to sea shanties, folk tunes from around the world and songs of social protest, sing has been a central part of our educational program, and powerful way to use our voice to speak out against injustice and hardship, empower ourselves, and celebrate our humanity.
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