Gaudies

Photographs taken at the September 2011 Gaudy . 

Photographer: Ralph Williamson

 Gaudy Dates and Information

One of the most tangible representations of the lifelong link between the House and its members is the tradition of Gaudy hospitality. Gaudy dates are necessarily linked to Term weeks and are normally held on Thursdays in late June and late September/early October. The Governing Body customarily confirms the arrangements, including the date, about six months in advance of the event and invitations are posted around two months ahead. For example invitations for the 2013 Summer Gaudy will be posed at the end of April. It is, of course, important that you keep the House informed of any change of address. Any old member who is considering advance travel plans is urged to check with the Steward before making firm commitments. The college hopes to welcome as many old members as possible and therefore, as you may know, this is not an occasion to which it is possible to invite spouses, partners, or other family members. It is hoped to adhere to the following schedule, which is based on year of first matriculating as a member of the House: 

With your invitation you will be sent a letter confirming the details for the occasion, including parking arrangements. A booking form will also be enclosed. On the form you will be able to advise us of any special dietary or accessibility needs, whether you would like overnight accommodation or a gown hired. There will also be space to note any seating requests.

The Gaudy programme is normally as follows:

Thursday

6.00 p.m. Prayers in the Cathedral
6.50 p.m. Speech in Blue Boar Lecture Theatre
7.30 p.m. Pre-dinner Drinks
8.00 p.m. Dinner in Hall

Friday

8.15 to 9.30 a.m. Gaudy Breakfast in Hall
9.00 to midday     Refreshments available
10.00 a.m.            Walking tours

There will be a display of archival material, related to your year of matriculation, in the Upper Library.

Dress code: Dinner Jacket – Decorations. Gowns are worn and may be hired through the Steward’s Secretary for the occasion. Members normally wear the gown of their current Oxford degree status. Hoods are not worn.

Charges: the only charges are for the hire of a gown and for a room overnight, if required.

For further information, please contact the Steward's Assistant at helen.camunas-lopez@chch.ox.ac.uk.