Johnian Society Day 2026

The Johnian Society warmly invites you to Johnian Society Day, which will take place in College over two days this year. Friday 18 September kicks off with a demonstration of the new Harrison & Harrison Ltd organ in Chapel, followed by welcome drinks and a formal dinner in Hall.

On Saturday 19 September we are offering complimentary sessions throughout the day.

The event brings together alumni of all generations to foster friendships and connections with one another. It may be of interest that the Cambridge University Alumni Festival will also take place over the weekend of 18–20 September, offering a wide range of additional activities and sessions while you are in Cambridge. Those may be booked through the link above.

On Saturday morning, you can take a guided tour of the College gardens and attend an exclusive talk with our new Development Director, Glen Whitehead. Glen will share insights on the priorities and ambitions of the College for coming years, and discuss the extraordinary impact of alumni on College life. 

In the afternoon, we will enjoy a fascinating talk by Mark Wells (1981), who will bring to life the myths and legends that have shaped Cambridge through the centuries.

While lunch is not included, the Buttery and Café will be open throughout the day, offering a range of refreshments and light meals for purchase.

A limited supply of accommodation is available. Book on the College website using this code: JOHSOC26

Programme

Friday 18 September

6.15-6.45pm: Demonstration of the new organ by our Choir Director, Chris Gray – Chapel (complimentary)

7-7.35pm: Drinks reception – Central Hall, Old Divinity School

7.45pm: Dinner – Hall

Midnight: Bar closes

Saturday 19 September

(All Saturday activities are complimentary)

9.30am-1pm: Garden tours
*Please note there are limited spaces on the garden tours, and they will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. We will also provide self-guided garden tour brochures.

10.45-11.45am: Hear from our new Development Director, Glen Whitehead – Main Lecture Theatre, Old Divinity School

1-2pm: Lunch break (Brunch may be purchased in the Buttery)

2-3pm: ‘Cambridge Myths and Legends’ with Mark Wells – Main Lecture Theatre, Old Divinity School

3-4pm: Tea and coffee – Central Hall, Old Divinity School

4pm: End of event

6pm: (if you’d like to extend your stay) Evensong sung by the Rodolfus Choir – Chapel

Please register for the sessions you are interested in using the booking form below.