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Traditions
Traditions
Year-round
Wearing Gold on Fridays
Students, faculty and staff wear gold every Friday as an expression of Sun Devil spirit and pride.
Game Day – Inferno
The Inferno, ASU’s student section, turns up the heat at our athletic events. A sea of gold, students stay on their feet cheering on the Sun Devils until the game is over.
Fall
ASU Welcome
The Sun Devil experience begins with ASU Welcome. Through a variety of free and engaging events, students will meet new people, connect to the university and find ways to get involved on campus.
Whitewash “A” Mountain
Every year since the early 1930s, students hike “A” Mountain to whitewash the coveted letter, indicating the beginning of another school year.
Homecoming Parade
In celebration of ASU life and culture, hundreds of student organizations and community businesses launch floats in the parade through downtown Tempe.
Lantern Walk
Honoring a century-old tradition, Sun Devils carry lanterns to the top of “A” mountain on the night before Homecoming to hear speakers and enjoy community, spirit and Sun Devil pride.
Territorial Cup
Honoring the football rivalry between Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, the winner of the game receives the nation’s oldest rivalry trophy — the Territorial Cup, which refers to when Arizona was a U.S. territory.
Devils on Mill
Sun Devils of all ages enjoy food, games, giveaways and more during this official, pre-football-game block party.
Spring
Devils in Disguise
A 17-year tradition, Devils in Disguise is the largest student-led day of service at ASU, with clubs and organizations hosting a variety of service projects throughout the community.
The History and Evolution of Sparky
School mascots change and evolve to capture the spirit, pride and tradition of the institution. Before Sparky, ASU’s mascot was a bulldog from 1922 to 1946. Originally designed as a logo by artist and former Disney® employee Berk Anthony in the late 1940s, Sparky made his debut as a mascot in 1951. His costume was created and portrayed by ASU student Dick Jacobs, who performed stunts that may be considered dangerous today. After a few costume updates to keep with the times, today’s beloved Sparky the Sun Devil is recognized across the country and can be seen stomping the opposing team’s bus before each football game and performing a push-up for every point scored after a touchdown.
