Mark your calendar for Orange & Black Day

The Class of 2026 was officially welcomed to Princeton, marching through FitzRandolph Gate on Sept. 4.

Photo: Sameer A. Khan/Fotobuddy

For the first time, seven residential college banners were proudly displayed during the ceremonies.

Photo: Sameer A. Khan/Fotobuddy

Students from New College West gathered on Cannon Green before Opening Exercises.

Photo by Denise Applewhite, Office of Communications

Alumni, parents and friends gathered on Nassau Street as the Class of 2026 marched near FitzRandolph Gate.

Photo by Denise Applewhite, Office of Communications

Alumni and friends handed out proud pennants to the Class of 2026.

Photo: Sameer A. Khan/Fotobuddy

New students marched together, grouped by their residential college.  

The Princeton University Band trumpeted the arrival of the Class of 2026.

Alumni from multiple decades lined the Pre-rade route, wearing their Princeton colors. 

This banner introduced the Class of 2026 to the competitive Tiger spirit.

Alumni wearing orange and black welcomed the new students to the Princeton community.

Other Princeton undergraduates turned out to cheer for the Class of 2026.

After the Pre-rade, students mingled near Blair Arch.

Photo: Sameer A. Khan/Fotobuddy

Tom Swift ’76, representing the first-years’ grandparent class, explained the special bond between the classes of 1976 and 2026.

Gary King ’79 led the Class of 2026 in their first Locomotive cheer.

The Class of 2026 sang ‘Old Nassau’ together on the steps of Blair Arch.