College Night

College Night is the crown jewel of University of Montevallo traditions — and one of the most extraordinary homecoming celebrations in the entire United States. Running continuously since 1919, College Night is officially recognized as a Library of Congress Local Legacy (designated in 2000), a distinction that places it alongside the nation’s most culturally significant community traditions.

Gold vs. Purple

The entire week-long event is structured around a friendly but fierce competition between the university’s two permanent sides: Gold and Purple. Every student, from their first day on campus, is assigned to one side for their entire time at UM. That allegiance runs deep and carries through alumni years.

The Shows

The centerpiece of College Night is the original musical theater productions performed by students from each side. Each side writes, choreographs, directs, and performs a completely original show — no borrowed scripts, no professional assistance. The productions are judged in competition, and the winning side earns the coveted College Night trophy. The level of talent and effort on display year after year consistently astonishes first-time visitors.

Beyond the Shows

College Night week also features:

• Athletic competitions between Gold and Purple sides
• Spirit events and rallies throughout campus
• Alumni homecoming activities
• A parade through town
• The traditional court ceremony

A National Distinction

College Night has been featured on Jeopardy! as a trivia question — a measure of how far its fame has spread beyond Montevallo. Visitors who attend for the first time almost universally describe it as unlike anything they have experienced at any other university.

College Night is typically held in February each year. Check the University of Montevallo website for the exact dates of the current year’s celebration.