Some of the best traditions at the University of Maryland include rubbing Testudo’s nose before exams, attending football games at SECU Stadium, taking photos on McKeldin Mall, celebrating Maryland Day, going to a basketball game at Xfinity Center and visiting Washington, D.C. with friends. These traditions help students feel connected to campus, build memories and become part of the larger Terp community.
If you’re new to UMD or trying to make the most of your time in College Park, you may be wondering: Which traditions are actually worth doing? What do students look forward to every year? What experiences should I have before graduation?
At Rambler College Park, we know student life is about more than where you live. The places you go, the events you attend and the traditions you take part in all shape your Maryland experience.
In this article, we’ll break down some of the most popular UMD traditions every student should experience, from game-day rituals and campus landmarks to annual events and graduation memories.
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1. Rub Testudo’s Nose Before an Exam
Perhaps the most famous tradition at Maryland revolves around Testudo, UMD’s beloved mascot.
Legend has it that rubbing Testudo’s nose and bringing an offering before an exam brings good luck. During midterms and finals week, you’ll notice students stopping by the statue outside McKeldin Library for one last boost of confidence before heading to class.
Whether you believe in the superstition or not, taking a photo with Testudo is practically a requirement for every Maryland student.
2. Attend a Maryland Football Game at SECU Stadium
Few experiences capture Maryland spirit quite like a football Saturday.
Students spend the day tailgating, gathering with friends and making their way to SECU Stadium to cheer on the Terps. Even if you’re not a huge football fan, the atmosphere is worth experiencing at least once.
During football and basketball games, the student section unfurl giant sections of the Maryland state flag over the crowd. To be underneath it and celebrating with fellow Terps is a feeling like no other.
From the student section chants to game-day traditions, football weekends are a major part of campus culture during the fall semester.
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3. Swim in McKeldin Mall Fountain
The iconic fountain located on McKeldin Mall is one of Maryland’s most recognizable landmarks.
You’ll see students taking photos here throughout the year, from move-in to game days and graduation season. One of the traditions is to take a dip in the fountain after a night out or a game day win.
The fountain has become one of the unofficial symbols of UMD and serves as a backdrop for countless student memories.
4. Experience Maryland Day
Held each spring, Maryland Day is one of the university’s largest annual celebrations.
The event opens campus to students, families, alumni and community members with demonstrations, performances, exhibits and activities happening across campus.
Whether you’re attending your first Maryland Day as a freshman or your last as a senior, it’s a great opportunity to experience the university’s community spirit.
5. Attend the Midnight Mile
Few traditions are as uniquely Maryland as the Midnight Mile. What many college basketball fans know today as Midnight Madness actually traces its roots back to College Park.
In 1971, legendary Maryland men’s basketball coach Charles “Lefty” Driesell invited fans to watch his team run laps around the track after midnight on the first official day of practice. The event eventually became known nationwide as Midnight Madness, but Maryland continues to celebrate its own version through the Midnight Mile.
Held each October at Kehoe Track & Field Complex and Ludwig Field, the event brings together Maryland basketball coaches, student athletes and hundreds of students to run a ceremonial mile and officially kick off basketball season.
Whether you’re a lifelong basketball fan or simply looking to participate in a piece of Maryland history, the Midnight Mile is one tradition every Terp should experience at least once.
6. Participate in Homecoming Week
Homecoming brings together students, alumni and fans for one of the most spirited weeks of the year.
This week often includes pep rallies, student events, athletic competitions, alumni gatherings and of course, the Homecoming football game.
Even students who aren’t heavily involved on campus often find themselves participating in Homecoming festivities.
7. Pull an All-Nighter at McKeldin During Finals
While not necessarily recommended, spending a late night at McKeldin Library during finals week is practically a rite of passage.
As deadlines pile up, and exams approach, the library becomes filled with students reviewing notes, finishing projects and fueling themselves with coffee.
Most students have at least one memorable finals week story by the time they graduate.
Read Next: How to Stay Motivated During Finals as a UMD Student
8. Attend a Maryland Basketball Game
Maryland basketball has long been one of the university’s proudest traditions.
The student section at Xfinity Center is known for its energy, creativity and passion. Whether Maryland is playing a conference rival or a nationally ranked opponent, the atmosphere is electric.
Even students who don’t follow basketball closely often become fans after attending a game in person.
9. Visit Washington, D.C. with Friends
One of Maryland’s most unique advantages is its location.
Few universities can offer students such easy access to the nation’s capital.
During your time at UMD, make sure to take advantage of nearby attractions like:
- The National Mall
- Smithsonian museums
- Georgetown
- Nationals games
- Cherry blossom season
- Monument tours
Many students discover some of their favorite college memories happen off campus during spontaneous trips into D.C.
Read Next: Best Weekend Trips Within Two Hours of College Park
10. Celebrate Graduation with Testudo
The final Maryland tradition comes at the end of your college journey.
As graduation approaches, students often return to the Testudo statue or schedule a photo shoot with the mascot Testudo for one final photo.
It’s a full-circle moment. The same statue you visited during move-in week and finals season becomes part of your graduation celebration.
For many terps, it’s the perfect way to mark the end of an unforgettable chapter.
Traditions help define the college experience. They create memories, build community and connect students across generations.
At the University of Maryland, some traditions are decades old while others are simply experiences students share year after year. Whether you’re cheering at SECU Stadium, rubbing Testudo’s nose before an exam or enjoying a sunny afternoon on McKeldin Mall, these moments help make Maryland feel like home.
So as you plan your next semester, consider adding a few of these traditions to your UMD bucket list. Four years go by faster than you think.
If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to our leasing team at Rambler College Park North or Rambler College Park South. We would be happy to help you transition into your new home away from home.
Allison
Allison is a Property Marketing Intern for Rambler College Park. She's a student at the University of Maryland, majoring in Marketing and Management. Her favorite drink to order is a vanilla iced latte!
Published On: October 16, 2026
Last Updated On: October 16, 2026
