Academic events and traditions

Academic events and traditions

Aalto University Graduation Party celebration in 2018. Photo by Aalto University / Heli Sorjonen

Academic events and traditions

Universities globally have a thousand-year-old tradition of academic events to create a rhythm and structure for studies, examinations, and celebrations. At Aalto University, academic events annually commence with the opening of the academic year on Aalto Day One in early September. The celebration continues with milestones, such as the Tenured Professors' Installation Talks and public defences of doctoral theses. Finally, in mid-June, the academic year concludes with Ceremony Week, featuring celebrations like Honorary Doctors' Talks and Ceremonial Conferments of doctoral degrees.

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Kauppakorkeakoulun promootiokulkue 2022
Press releases, University Published:

The School of Business’s Ceremonial Conferment of degrees will bring festive atmosphere to the streets of Töölö in May

A dignified celebration is held every five years. The public can watch the spectacular conferment procession in Töölö on the afternoon of Friday 22 May
Merkuriuksen airuen pyyntötilaisuus, Ritvalan perhe
University Published:

Kristian Ritvala is the Spirit of Mercury of the School of Business Ceremonial Conferment 2026

The task of the Spirit of Mercury begins with conducting the weaving of the laurels and ends at the Herring Luncheon, where he delivers a speech to the promovendi
Graduates in dark suits and top hats at a ceremony, facing a blue-lit stage with many flags.
Awards and Recognition Published:

Seven new honorary doctors in technology at Aalto University in 2026

The ceremonial conferment takes place on university campus in June.
tohtorinhattu, Kauppakorkeakoulu
University Published:

The School of Business will confer ten Honorary Doctors at its May 2026 Ceremonial Conferment – this prestigious celebration is held every five years

The first Ceremonial Conferment of the School of Business was held in 1946, so the 17th Ceremonial Conferment of the School of Business will take place in spring 2026
Aalto University Graduation Party, photo by Heli Sorjonen
Aalto University Graduation Party in June 2018. Photo by Aalto University / Heli Sorjonen
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