National College Colors Day
National College Colors Day is a vibrant celebration where students, alumni, faculty, and fans across the United States show their school spirit by wearing their favorite college or university colors and apparel.
Quick Facts
- When is it: Friday before Labor Day annually
- Tagged as: National celebration of collegiate pride and spirit
- What’s the hashtag: #CollegeColorsDay
- When was it founded: 2004
- Who founded it: College Licensing Company (CLC)
History of College Colors Day
The tradition began as a marketing initiative to promote school spirit and unite college communities nationwide. The day has grown into a beloved celebration that kicks off the college football season and brings together millions of college sports enthusiasts.
Timeline
- 1636: Harvard University establishes as one of the oldest U.S. institutions
- 1902: First College Bowl takes place after Rose Parade
- 1981: CLC signs first licensing agreement with Alabama
- 1986: Boise State installs first non-green stadium field
- 2004: First official College Colors Day celebration
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | August | 29 | Friday |
| 2026 | September | 4 | Friday |
| 2027 | September | 3 | Friday |
| 2028 | September | 1 | Friday |
| 2029 | August | 31 | Friday |
| 2030 | August | 30 | Friday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by wearing their college colors, attending sports events, organizing alumni gatherings, and sharing photos on social media. Many businesses and organizations also participate by allowing employees to wear college apparel.
Fun Facts About College Colors
- Red and white is the most common university color combination
- Some colors have interesting origins, like Tennessee’s orange and white coming from daisies found on campus
- Both Penn State and Syracuse originally used pink in their color schemes
- Vanderbilt’s black and gold represent coal industry success and fortune
Quiz
- What’s the most common college color combination?
- When was College Colors Day founded?
- What day of the week is it always celebrated?
(Answers: Red and white, 2004, Friday)
FAQs
- Can non-alumni participate?
- Yes, anyone can show support for their favorite college
- Should you wear official merchandise?
- Any clothing in school colors is appropriate
- Is it only about football?
- No, it celebrates all aspects of college pride
Related
- Homecoming
- College Football Season
- Spirit Week
- University Foundation Days
- Campus Pride Events
