Academic events and traditions

Aalto Day One

Aalto University celebrates Aalto Day One, the opening of the academic year on the first Tuesday of September. The opening day is full of programme for the all the members and partners of the Aalto community.
Aalto Day One 2024 procession. Photo: Aalto University / Mikko Raskinen

Aalto Day One – opening of the academic year 

Aalto University celebrates Aalto Day One, the opening of the academic year on the first Tuesday of September. The opening day is full of programme for the all the members and partners of the Aalto community. By Aalto tradition opening ceremony of the academic year begins at 13.15, which can be followed on-site and online. A reception is held after the ceremony.  

By tradition the opening ceremony at Aalto University begins with a professors’ procession. Celebrations continue with speeches by the President of the university and the Chair of the board of the Student Union (AYY) sharing our joint direction for the upcoming academic year. In the ceremony Aalto community is also greeted by the government, and the newly appointed Aalto Distinguished Professor with their Aalto Talk. The ceremony is hosted by Aalto students, and is also the occasion where we hand out the Aalto Awards.

Students in overalls playing tug-of-war at Aalto Day One 2024. Photo: Pinja Valja

The day reaches its pinnacle when the traditional Aalto Party with its inspiring programme kicks at Alvar Aalto park. By each beginning of the academic year the festival-like event gives one the opportunity to see old friends and make new ones while enjoying the music and party atmosphere with all Aaltonians.

Watch the past opening ceremonies on Aalto's YouTube channel 

In the years 2020–2022, the Aalto Day One was only organised online as a live broadcast from the campus.

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