Who doesn't love the spring? The sun is shining, the birds are outside chirping, the grass is getting greener, flowers are blooming, and the ducks are back in the duck pond. Every spring, Assumption College hosts Duck Day, a day in which the beloved ducks return to the pond on campus after the winter. This tradition is loved by students and faculty alike, and it is something everyone always looks forward to.
Duck Day was just a few days ago. The sun was out, and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. It was the perfect day to head down to the duck pond to enjoy the celebration. Rounding the corner to the pond, it's hard miss all the festivities. Around 350 children from neighboring schools attend Duck Day. There are fun, kids' songs playing over the loud speakers. Children are running around, excitedly awaiting the arrival of the ducks. Some of the children wear duck hats which is especially adorable. They are eager to meet Assumption's mascot, Pierre, But, they are even more excited to meet the person dressed up as a duck. They run up to him and high five or hug him, or even take a picture with him.
Cookies and cupcakes are provided for the students, those in elementary school and those in college alike. As the crowd grows, so does the anticipation. The geese swim around the pond, confused as to why so many people are invading their space. Soon enough though, the event begins. After a few opening remarks made by students and even the President of the college, the time has come.Everyone begins counting down, starting at 10. Phones in hand, ready to capture the moment everyone, is poised and ready for the count down to reach one and for the ducks to be released.
"3...2...1.." and the cages are opened and out come the ducks. They waddle and make their way down the red carpet into the pond, acting like the celebrities that they are. Everyone cheers. Spring has officially arrived on campus, and with the return of the ducks to the pond, that means there is not much time left in the semester; we are in our final, home stretch.
I love this weird, quirky tradition. I look forward to attending Duck Day every year. I love seeing how the entire Assumption community, along with those from surrounding communities, come together for this one special day. My favorite place on campus is the duck pond. I love going there to study or just to hangout. It's so peaceful and relaxing. And, I especially love going when the ducks are in the pond because it's always a nice distraction to watch them swim around.
If you go to Assumption College and have not yet been to a Duck Day, you should definitely add it to your Assumption bucket list because it is one special tradition that you should experience at least once.
