The ancient streets of St Andrews witnessed a spectacular whiteout on Monday as hundreds of university freshers transformed the historic town into a frothy battleground for the annual Raisin Monday celebrations. What began as a centuries-old tradition of academic mentorship evolved into an all-out shaving foam war, with students creating mountains of bubbles in St Salvator's Quadrangle.
A St Andrews Spectacle
The chaotic scenes saw first-year students, dressed in increasingly creative and often embarrassing costumes assigned by their academic 'parents', armed with cans of shaving foam for what has become one of the university's most anticipated – and messy – traditions. The air thickened with foam as students chased each other across the cobblestones, their laughter echoing between the medieval buildings.
Ancient Roots Meet Modern Mayhem
This foam-filled frenzy has its origins in a much more dignified custom dating back over 600 years. The tradition began with senior students acting as 'academic parents' to guide newcomers through university life. In return for this mentorship, freshers would traditionally present their 'parents' with a pound of raisins – hence the name 'Raisin Monday'.
Today, the raisin gift has been replaced by increasingly elaborate and humorous offerings, while the foam fight has become the highlight of the day's festivities. The event serves as both a rite of passage and an icebreaker for students beginning their university journey.
Campus Transformed
By midday, the entire quadrangle resembled a winter wonderland, if winter were made of shaving cream rather than snow. Students emerged from the chaos coated head-to-toe in foam, their costume details barely visible beneath the thick white layer. University staff monitored the proceedings with watchful eyes, ensuring the tradition remained spirited but safe.
"It's absolutely mad, but it's what makes St Andrews special," one second-year student, herself a veteran of previous Raisin Monday battles, commented as she watched the spectacle unfold. "There's nothing quite like it at any other university."
Tradition with a Twist
While the foam fight may seem like pure chaos to outsiders, it represents an important bonding experience for students. The elaborate costumes – often themed and meticulously planned by academic 'parents' – break down social barriers and create lasting memories during those crucial first weeks of university life.
The university maintains a delicate balance, allowing the tradition to thrive while ensuring it doesn't spiral out of control. The result is a unique spectacle that continues to define the St Andrews experience for generations of students.
