At Point Loma Nazarene University, traditions aren’t just events — they’re the heartbeat of our campus, bringing students together in unforgettable ways.
From Homecoming Weekend to being a part of The Green Sea, the lively spirit of PLNU traditions and the excitement of creating new ones make our community a place where deep connections and lifelong friendships are born.
Whether you’re an incoming student or a current student wanting to get more involved, below are six traditions that shape the PLNU student experience.
Welcome Week and the Sand Ceremony
Welcome Week at PLNU is the ultimate introduction to PLNU student life, offering new students a week of thoughtfully curated experiences that foster a deeper connection to the community. The week kicks off with the support of family and friends on move-in day and ends with our traditional student integration, the Sand Ceremony.
During this tradition, each student pours a vial of sand — that was collected by PLNU’s ASB and president at local beaches — into a communal tank, symbolizing their entry into the PLNU community. When they graduate, they receive a vial of sand from that same tank, a lasting reminder of their shared journey.
Welcome Week closes with the on-campus Lomaland fair for new and returning students to kick off the semester in style.
Flex Farmers Market
Every semester, the Flex Apartments transform into a vibrant marketplace where PLNU students sell their handcrafted sea glass jewelry, vintage thrift treasures, artwork, and more. The Flex Farmers Market is a cherished element of the PLNU student experience, providing a fun and social space for promoting personal businesses, hanging out with friends, and meeting new people. With student led-bands jamming out and food trucks on-site, it’s an ideal way to spend a Saturday. Those interested in becoming vendors can learn more through contacting the Office of Student Life and Formation.
Spring Formal
Life at Loma is full of memorable moments, and the Spring Formal is one of the standout PLNU events that students look forward to each year. Hosted by PLNU’s Associated Student Body (ASB), this event is your chance to dress up, embrace the evening’s theme, and dance the night away.
Each year, the Spring Formal boasts a unique theme that sets the tone for the night. From the glittering elegance of “Bling by Spring” at the Bahia Resort Hotel to the enchanting ambiance of “A Starry Night” at the Natural History Museum in Balboa Park, the event’s locations are as diverse and exciting as the themes themselves. With delicious food, refreshing beverages, and a DJ spinning tunes, the dance floor becomes the perfect place to showcase your best moves and create memories with friends.
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking for a fun night out, the Spring Formal is an exceptionally exciting part of the PLNU experience, adding a touch of glamor and joy to undergrad life at PLNU.
______
Who are you called to be?
Pursue your purpose at PLNU.
______
Homecoming Weekend
Homecoming is one of PLNU’s traditions that brings students, alumni, and faculty together each spring to celebrate their shared connection to the university. This event, which has been a cornerstone of the PLNU experience since the university’s early days, is a vibrant mix of tradition, competition, and community.
The festivities kick off with the Homecoming Chapel in Brown Chapel, where both current students and alumni are recognized and celebrated. The energy continues with the annual “We Are Loma 5k” on the university’s scenic track and soccer field, offering participants the chance to either race or stroll while taking in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Throughout the weekend, the campus buzzes with activity, including an alumni dinner and lively Loma Live concert at the Greek Amphitheatre, featuring a guest artist each year. The Homecoming Marketplace, similar to the Flex Farmers Market, showcases the creativity of alumni and student vendors, offering everything from baked goods and homemade art to fresh flowers. Historically, this event has been rounded out with live music, carnival games, bounce houses, and tailgate-style meals, making it a fun-filled experience for all.
Of course, no Homecoming would be complete without some Sea Lion pride! PLNU’s men’s and women’s basketball teams typically have games during the weekend, giving everyone a perfect reason to don their green and gold and join The Green Sea in cheering on the home teams at Golden Gym.
The Green Sea
The Green Sea is PLNU’s passionate student cheering section, showing up in green and gold to support the Sea Lions at every game and match. Led by the Green Sea Hooligans, this group was created to boost school spirit and bridge the gap between athletics and the student body when PLNU joined the NCAA in 2011. Whether it’s volleyball, basketball, or any other sport, the Green Sea is always there, cheering on their classmates and connecting with fellow fans. To join, simply wear your green and gold, find the student section, and start cheering!
Sunset Clips Classic
Named one of the 10 Best Surf Colleges in America by the American Surf Magazine and just a short walk from Sunset Cliffs Park, PLNU is a year-long paradise for surfers and ocean enthusiasts. The university’s surf culture runs deep, with the PLNU Surf Club consistently dominating at the National Interscholastic College Surf Championships and other major competitions.
But you don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy the waves. If you’re more interested in capturing the action on film than catching a wave yourself, the Sunset Clips Classics is a must-see PLNU event. Held each spring, this event showcases surf videos created by students who team up to film and edit their oceanic adventures. The true spirit of the event is all about building community and celebrating a shared passion for the surf and sea.
To learn more about the event, check out their Instagram at @sunsetclipsclassic and check out the 10 best surf spots near PLNU.
Become a part of PLNU’s student experience
College life isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s about engaging with traditions and finding where you belong. If you’re curious whether PLNU is the place for you, check out our undergraduate website or get in touch with a counselor today.