Move over casual Friday. Cherry On Thursdays are here this fall to foster connections and celebrate Owl pride across the Temple University community and beyond.  

Starting on Aug. 28, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to wear their cherry and white or Temple logo gear every Thursday during the 2025–2026 academic year. Whether it is a favorite T-shirt, button-down, hat or scarf, Thursdays are a chance for Owls to show their school spirit as part of this revitalized tradition.  

“We are excited to relaunch Cherry On to celebrate tradition and Temple pride in a more intentional way,” said Deanne DeCrescenzo, associate dean of students and one of the co-leaders of the Cherry On Working Group, spearheading the new initiative. “School spirit days were traditionally held on Fridays, but by shifting to Thursdays, we hope to cultivate an even stronger sense of belonging among students, faculty, staff and our extended Temple family.” 

For the last several months, the working group—led by Student Leadership and Engagement with partners from across the university—has been meeting regularly to identify ways to promote a stronger sense of pride and school spirit across the campus community. One of the recommendations from the group is launching the Cherry On initiative and holding events throughout the semester to bring faculty, staff and students together.

Members of the Temple community will be invited to pep rallies and to display their Owl pride at two larger-scale events each semester, featuring appearances by the Spirit Squad, Hooter, giveaways and more. 

Fall semester events: 

Weeks of Welcome: Thursday, Aug. 28, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Bell Tower 
Homecoming and Family Weekend: Thursday, Oct. 9, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., Bell Tower  

Additional fall pep rally dates and spring semester events will be announced later this year. 

Temple is widely recognized for its official cherry and white color palette. According to Owl Athletics, Temple was the first school in the nation to formally use cherry as one of its colors, estimated to have occurred by 1888.  

In honor of Cherry On Thursdays, Cherry On merchandise will now have its own section in the new bookstore in Paley Hall for those interested in adding new gear to their wardrobes. 

Family members, alumni and members of Temple’s extended family on the university’s other campuses are encouraged to participate and follow Temple’s digital platforms to stay informed. 

“Cherry On will have a digital presence to keep our communities engaged,” said Barbara Perlman, director of student leadership and engagement and co-leader of the Cherry On Working Group. “We’re looking forward to engaging with Temple Owls near and far through this initiative. Our goal is to infuse Temple pride across our communities to celebrate our school spirit and shared identity.” 

“Cherry On is a chance to nurture connections and to inspire our students to carry Temple pride and tradition with them no matter where they are!” said DeCrescenzo.