Humanities building at LVC

Traditions & History

Founded in 1866, Lebanon Valley College guides students to lifelong success through exceptional undergraduate and graduate programs delivered in a practical, supportive environment.

We’re proud of our history and enjoy celebrating our traditions with our Flying Dutchmen, old and new.

Dear Old LVC

Read the Lebanon Valley College Alma Mater, written by Max F. Lehman, Class of 1907 and Earle A. Spessard, Class of 1911.

LVC Alma Mater
LVC sports pennant reading "Go Valley"

Homecoming at The Valley

Each fall, we are excited to welcome our LVC alumni, students, families, and friends to campus for a fun-filled Homecoming weekend.

Come Home to The Valley
LVC graduate accepts diploma at commencement

Commencement

A Celebration of Graduates

We look forward to celebrating the success of our graduating students each year during our Commencement celebrations.

Commencement weekend events include:

  • Baccalaureate
  • Graduate and Family Reception
  • Undergraduate Ceremony
  • Graduate Ceremony
All About Commencement
Choir sings while holding candles

Christmas at The Valley

Christmas at the Valley is a long-standing holiday tradition at Lebanon Valley College. Hear the story from the people who started Christmas at The Valley 60+ years ago.

President MacLaren serves pie during Thanksgiving dinner for students

Thanksgiving Dinner

One of The Valley’s most popular traditions, this sit-down, family-style dinner is served by faculty, staff, and administrators—and even our president.

Students sign up for the meal and enjoy time with friends before heading home for the holiday break.

Football, cheerleaders, and students March to Kreiderheim to ask for the day off.

March to Kreiderheim

Lebanon Valley College students celebrate the football team’s win over rival Albright by marching to the President’s house to request an extra day off for Thanksgiving break, as per tradition.

The Flying Dutchmen football team, Pride of The Valley Marching Band, and cheerleaders lead the march of students to Kreiderheim.

Frank Aftosmes, known as "Hot Dog Frank"

Hot Dog Frank Day

“Hot Dog” Frank Aftosmes

One of the great traditions in LVC athletics is Hot Dog Frank Day, held annually during basketball season. Named in honor of late Annville businessman and LVC supporter Frank Aftosmes, Hot Dog Frank Day is popular among fans, who receive free hot dogs during the game.

The athletic department also honors an individual at halftime of the men’s game with the Hot Dog Frank Athletic Service Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to LVC athletics with the same enthusiasm that Aftosmes had. The award has been presented annually by his children since 1986.

Aftosmes passed away just hours before his beloved men’s basketball team won the 1994 NCAA National Championship, but in memory of his support, a statue of Aftosmes stands in LVC’s Peace Garden, and a national championship ring is on his right hand.

Learn More About Hot Dog Frank