GAG Day: Emery’s Exciting Tradition

Each year, Emery’s upper school students gather in the Becker Theater for their typical Friday ceremonies. As the usual announcements draw to a close and students eagerly anticipate their snack break, an unexpected twist takes place. The lights dim, strobe lights fill the room, and the familiar image of Mr. Dow’s famed Great Aunt Gertrude flashes across the screen. A wave of excitement ripples through the crowd as students and faculty realize it’s GAG Day. Screams of elation fill the room while friends hug and cheer, and the stage curtains open to reveal a band to continue the celebrations.

GAG Day, or Great Aunt Gertrude Day, is one of Emery’s most cherished traditions, a surprise event that has become an iconic part of the upper school students’ school year. Held annually during the second semester, GAG Day provides a break from academics to celebrate an unexpected schoolwide half-day. This tradition has been part of the Emery experience since the school opened in 2001, when Emery’s Head of School, Mr. Stuart J. Dow, introduced the quirky idea of a surprise early dismissal day.

Emery’s upper-school students cheer as GAG Day celebrations commence. (Photo courtesy of lawsciencegram on Instagram)

GAG Day remains unknown to both students and teachers until the day itself and is kept under lock and key to maximize unpredictability. While it’s uncertain whether the infamous Great Aunt Gertrude truly exists, she has become a symbol of fun and community, with the day still beloved by all. “It’s probably one of my favorite Emery traditions,” says sophomore Madison Rose. “The excitement every Friday going into [opening ceremonies] and hoping it’s GAG Day is so much fun.”

This year’s unexpected celebration occurred during Emery’s National Caretakers Day video, which featured cameos from Dr. Christopher Teel and Mr. Dow himself. As the video concluded, Great Aunt Gertrude’s face flashed across the screen, accompanied by the title “Gag Day 2025.” After the initial excitement, the celebrations included entertaining live music and delicious challah bread, furthering the upper school’s enthusiasm. “This year was my first ever GAG Day, and it definitely didn’t disappoint,” says freshman Ryan Berger. “Everyone was hyped up and it felt like a big community moment, I can’t wait for next year.”

Whether or not the legendary Great Aunt Gertrude is real, GAG Day brings energy, celebration, and a sense of togetherness that Emery students and faculty look forward to each year