At top, Boys’ and Girls’ Club and Children’s School gather on the Amphitheater stage during the Old First Night celebration for Chautauqua’s 151st birthday Aug. 5, 2025.
CODY ENGLANDER
Staff Writer
“On ‘Old First Night’, frank appeal is made for the future, while the memories of the past are made vivid,” read a 1908 article from The Chautauquan Daily about the celebration.
The first Tuesday of every August marks the birthday celeberation of Chautauqua Institution. This year, Chautauqua celebrates its 152nd year, known as “Old First Night.” Originally, early August marked the first night of the Summer Season, hence the celebration in August.
Chautauquans hold up white handkerchiefs during the Drooping of the Lilies.
An array of festivities will take place today, beginning with music from Thursday Morning Brass at 6 p.m. in the Amphitheater, followed by Vespers and the Drooping of the Lilies — also known as the Chautauqua Salute, a tradition dating back to 1877 that honors Chautauquans who have died.
The jubilation continues with intergenerational participation, including activities with the Children’s School and the Boys’ and Girls’ Club. The day of celebration concludes with a rendition of “Happy Birthday” played on the Massey Memorial Organ.
Even though Old First Night has been an annual birthday for Chautauqua Institution since 1876, the original exercises were devoted to Sunday school.
“Although the original program was held in Miller Park in 1874, it was two years later that, in celebrating Old First Night, suggestions were made and accepted that it be made into a birthday party celebration,” read an article from the Daily in 1947, preceding the 74th annual celebration. “With nostalgic thoughts cloaked with fond memories of the original Old First Night, of Chautauqua loyalty and spirit never to be relegated to the past, earnest and purposeful Chautauquans will gather tonight to recapture the original vision of the founders.”
Children’s School students wish Chautauqua a happy birthday.
The celebration has in part become synonymous with the Institution itself, having gained notoriety from past U.S. presidents.
“It is a pleasure to send my warmest greetings to all in attendance at Chautauqua’s Old First Night,” read a letter from Jimmy Carter to Chautauqua in 1978, in honor of the Institution’s birthday. “This occasion marks the center’s one hundred and fifth season as a uniquely American institution which has done much to advance our nation’s educational and cultural life. The Institution’s superb work has earned it a major place in our own nation’s history and renown and esteem throughout the world. Although I am not able to be with you tonight, I am proud of the contributions your organization has made to our country and wish you the best in continuing its fine tradition.”
