Charter Day, the anniversary of Pennsylvania governor Francis R. Shunk signing the charter to establish what was then the University of Lewisburg, was yesterday, Feb. 5. To commemorate 180 years of the University (which became Bucknell in 1886), the Spirit and Tradition Student Committee planned a series of charter-theme events for students to participate in. The charter, on display at Bertrand Library, was available for a selfie. A bison balloon was constructed and displayed on the ground floor of the ELC. A Bucknell puff pop mix, a sweet treat themed for the occasion, was available on the uphill side of the ELC to students as a midday snack. To top it all off, the Bison Statue Freeze Competition was held outside the KLARC, with the winner taking home a $400 prize. 

The festive weekend will continue with the annual Ice Festival on Feb. 7. Downtown Lewisburg will kick the day off bright and early with the Frosty 5k at 9:30 a.m. — registration for the 5k will open same-day at the Campus Theatre at 8 a.m. At 2:30 p.m., the much-anticipated Polar Bear Plunge will take place (signup required). The plunger who attends with the most Bucknell spirit will receive a blue-and-orange plunger trophy. 

3:30 p.m. will see the kickoff of the 6th St. Block Party. Student performers will keep the crowds entertained as they enjoy free food from 3 different food trucks, s’mores, drinks from Bull Run and Hungry Run and the ambiance of ice sculptures lining Market Street. The first 300 students to arrive will receive a free beanie. 

At 7 p.m., the Campus Theatre will have a free showing of “Cool Runnings” and an a cappella performance. Needless to say, despite the chill in the air, all the Festival has to offer will be well worth the visit!