Pageant Field, located across from Lower Lake, has been used for many different activities over the years. In the early twentieth century, the field was used for organized athletics, such as baseball and soccer matches. During winter months, the field was used for skiing and sledding. (16).

Both current as well as former students have specific memories of Pageant Field, because of its picturesque location on campus. The view up towards Mary Lyon’s is obscured by Gettell Amphitheatre, the location of Mount Holyoke’s annual convocation, which was built in 1961. While the Eliot House and the art building have been added to the campus, the majority of the Field remains open, and preserved.

Pageant Field is named for the tradition most associated with this space. The annual May Day Pageant was held every spring from 1908-1949 on this field. May Day encouraged students to enjoy spring weather, theatre, and each other. The field provided a beautiful open space where students put on plays, danced around a maypole, and celebrated the end of another school year.

Memories of watching the sunset from Pageant Field are common, and students continue to enjoy this large open field today.

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