Avon's Most Beloved Holiday Tradition: A Student's Perspective
1. The Meal
While sit-down meals at Avon are a part of the regular weekly schedule, this one is special. The first course at Boar's Head is french onion soup. This soup has always been one of my favorite dishes served at school and is a great way to start the meal. This is followed by the main course of steak, potatoes, veggies, and fresh bread with an array of beverages. (A year-end feast fit for an all-boys school fur sure!) Finally, of course, dessert is served, featuring the festive figgy pudding. This is always met with much enthusiasm after a group singing of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."
2. The Entertainment
While the meal is commencing, there are activities and time-honored traditions happening all around. First, the senior class puts on a play that includes a candle-lit procession, boar-bearing men in robes, jesters, and so much more. The most exciting part of Boar's Head occurs during the Mummers’ Play, when the tale of St. George slaying a dragon is enacted on stage, always eliciting a roar from the crowd of boys. The play lasts the duration of the meal and serves as entertainment for the students.
Between courses, however, the Refectory comes alive with the festive songs performed by the school’s elite choir: The Riddlers. This singing group delivers a captivating musical backdrop for the magical evening, blending traditional holiday tunes with melodies similar to those sung in a knight's castle long ago. Of course the entire community is asked to join in frequently, creating a warm and joyous atmosphere.
3. The Community
One of the great things about Boar's Head is that the whole community gets involved. The freshmen act as waiters, serving food and clearing plates. The Parents of Avon volunteers get involved and help the seniors dress up in their costumes and organize the props needed for the show. Something very special at Boar's Head is the part played by the youngest members of our community: the faculty children. These youngsters dress up as angels and shepherds and participate in the senior play's nativity scene. It is apparent that this is a very special night for them, and the effort and care put in to produce such an amazing festival truly takes the entire village of Avon Old Farms, which makes it all the better.
Key Takeaway: The Boar's Head Festival tradition brings our entire community together, strengthening the Brotherhood and leaving everyone with good memories going into winter break. It is more than just a dinner or a play, it is a celebration and a time to enjoy the amazing community Avon has to offer.
About the Author
BEN BRESLAV, Class of 2025
Day Student from Simsbury, CT
Football & Lacrosse Player