Barnard Greek Games

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The Barnard Greek Games are a long-standing tradition at Barnard College in New York City, affiliated with Columbia University. They began in 1903 when the classes of 1905 and 1906 challenged each other to a friendly athletic contest. The games continued until 1968, when Columbia University protests led to a pause. They were revived in 1989 for Barnard’s centennial celebrations. Originally for freshmen and sophomores, the games later grew to include all students.

The games are modeled on ancient Greek sports, using costumes, sets, and ceremonies. Traditional events include reciting Greek poetry, dancing, hoop rolling, chariot racing, and a torch race. Other events have included lawn tennis, field hockey, and capture the flag.

Before 1968, men were not allowed to watch. Columbia men once tried to spy on the games by using a tunnel between campuses.