Top party schools in every state
Using 2023 data released by Niche, Stacker compiled a list of colleges and universities with the best party scene in each state and Washington D.C.
Top party schools in every state
Many schools tout their high average GPAs, beautiful campuses or competitive admission rates. However, few can boast a rich campus social life as a distinguishing feature. While academic rigor is arguably one of the most important facets of college life, four years of all work and no play can take a tremendous toll on some students. In fact, taking regular breaks from work has been shown to boost productivity (within good reason, of course).
Using 2018 data collected from Niche, Stacker’s list reveals colleges with the best party scene in each state. Stacker’s ranking for each school’s party scene is based on access to nightlife, athletic culture, Greek life, and student polling data. For each school, Stacker also included the “party scene grade,” national party scene rank, location, acceptance rate, and net price (average annual cost for a student to attend, after financial aid). Our list is alphabetical, and starts from Alabama to Wyoming.
See which school in your state was ranked highest for its ability to play hard (and in some cases, work hard as well).
Wyoming: University of Wyoming
Wyoming: University of Wyoming
Party scene grade: B+
National party scene rank: 396
Location: Laramie, WY
Acceptance rate: 95%
Net price: $13,155
During the weekend, the University of Wyoming has parties that range from house bashes to large-scale frat parties. Students get especially rowdy around homecoming, Halloween, and finals week.
Wisconsin: University of Wisconsin
Wisconsin: University of Wisconsin
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 13
Location: Madison, WI
Acceptance rate: 53%
Net price: $15,874
The University of Wisconsin has a special Halloween tradition in the form of Freak Fest. Students buy tickets and gather on Madison’s State Street for the area’s largest Halloween party and music festival.
West Virginia: West Virginia University
West Virginia: West Virginia University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 6
Location: Morgantown, WV
Acceptance rate: 76%
Net price: $10,814
Students are welcomed to the West Virginia University campus each fall with FallFest, a large gathering over five days where people can enjoy concerts, film marathons, and dance parties.
Washington: Washington State University
Washington: Washington State University
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 82
Location: Pullman, WA
Acceptance rate: 72%
Net price: $17,815
At Washington State University, Halloween is such a big social event that it has turned into “Halloweek,” where students dress up in different costumes every day and prolong the holiday as long as they can.
Virginia: University of Virginia
Virginia: University of Virginia
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 25
Location: Charlottesville, VA
Acceptance rate: 30%
Net price: $15,945
At the University of Virginia, Foxfield Races reigns king of all celebrations. The bi-annual event features students breaking out their preppiest attire and partying before the horse races at the Spring Foxfield Race Meet.
Vermont: Champlain College
Vermont: Champlain College
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 151
Location: Burlington, VT
Acceptance rate: 70%
Net price: $38,370
Champlain College students enjoy to party hardest during a school-sponsored event called the “Winter Snowball Dance,” as well as during the end of finals when classes are over for the school year.
Utah: University of Utah
Utah: University of Utah
Party scene grade: A-
National party scene rank: 245
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Acceptance rate: 76%
Net price: $11,322
University of Utah’s Crimson Nights bring students together during the first week of school. Students host parties, participate in school-sponsored activities, and get free food. Students also tend to party before the big rivalry football game against Brigham Young University, dubbed the “Holy War.”
Texas: University of Texas - Austin
Texas: University of Texas - Austin
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 7
Location: Austin, TX
Acceptance rate: 40%
Net price: $16,010
During RoundUp weekend, Greek fraternities and sororities at the University of Texas - Austin host the biggest parties and performers at their houses. Students can also delight in crawfish boils per Southern tradition.
Tennessee: Vanderbilt University
Tennessee: Vanderbilt University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 30
Location: Nashville, TN
Acceptance rate: 11%
Net price: $23,150
Every spring since 1971, Vanderbilt University’s Rites of Spring has rallied students together for fun and star-studded slates of musical performances. Gucci Mane, DNCE, and Cheat Codes made appearances this year.
South Dakota: University of South Dakota
South Dakota: University of South Dakota
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 29
Location: Columbia, SC
Acceptance rate: 68%
Net price: $19,913
Besides Greek Life, pride at University of South Dakota is showcased during the weeklong campus tradition, Dakota Days. Students participate in a parade and many night parties during D-Days (also known among students as Hate State Week — a dig against their rivals at South Dakota State University).
South Carolina: University of South Carolina
South Carolina: University of South Carolina
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 29
Location: Columbia, SC
Acceptance rate: 68%
Net price: $19,913
Ahead of the University of South Carolina versus Clemson rivalry football game, students at the University of South Carolina gather for Tiger Burn, a rally and party where students set a giant Clemson tiger ablaze.
Rhode Island: Providence College
Rhode Island: Providence College
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 51
Location: Providence, RI
Acceptance rate: 55%
Net price: $35,238
Providence, Rhode Island may be home to an Ivy League school, but it also is home to Providence College, which holds the title of the best party-scene in the smallest state. Students get especially rowdy at Golf Party, a day when students dress in their finest pastels and flood Eaton Street for all-day celebrations.
Pennsylvania: Penn State
Pennsylvania: Penn State
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 8
Location: University Park, PA
Acceptance rate: 56%
Net price: $25,055
Though football is usually cause for celebration at Penn State, the school also loves to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the form of "State Patty’s." Students flock to local bars and downtown State College to day-drink.
Oregon: University of Oregon
Oregon: University of Oregon
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 68
Location: Eugene, OR
Acceptance rate: 78%
Net price: $15,355
Partying in the Pacific Northwest is done best at the University of Oregon, where students rally around Civil War, the aptly named football game against rival Ohio State University. Students also participate in Whistler College Weekend, a popular Canadian ski trip.
Oklahoma: University of Oklahoma
Oklahoma: University of Oklahoma
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 72
Location: Norman, OK
Acceptance rate: 71%
Net price: $17,966
At the University of Oklahoma, school spirit runs strong, with Greek life and football dominating the social scenes. Students start festivities early with “Thirsty Thursdays” before their weekends even start.
Ohio: Miami University
Ohio: Miami University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 3
Location: Oxford, OH
Acceptance rate: 65%
Net price: $20,186
With off-campus houses named Booze Barn, Tequila Mockingbird, and Menace to Sobriety, you can guess that Miami University in Ohio’s party culture is strong. This school’s biggest party is Green Beer Day, where students drink beer they dye green all day before spring break.
North Dakota: North Dakota State University
North Dakota: North Dakota State University
Party scene grade: A-
National party scene rank: 170
Location: Fargo, ND
Acceptance rate: 93%
Net price: $14,581
Movies and TV shows weren’t the only thing that put Fargo, North Dakota, on the map. North Dakota State University’s party scene is the best in the state, with football and homecoming as the main focal points.
North Carolina: East Carolina University
North Carolina: East Carolina University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 23
Location: Greenville, NC
Acceptance rate: 70%
Net price: $12,817
East Carolina University throws down most nights of the week, but the Pirates especially love to party around Halloween and homecoming.
New York: Syracuse University
New York: Syracuse University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 27
Location: Syracuse, NY
Acceptance rate: 52%
Net price: $31,823
The biggest annual student party at New York’s Syracuse University is Mayfest, a giant outdoor concert held in the spring. In the fall, Syracuse rings in the new school year with Juice Jam, another large concert.
New Mexico: University of New Mexico
New Mexico: University of New Mexico
Party scene grade: B
National party scene rank: 443
Location: Albuquerque, NM
Acceptance rate: 58%
Net price: $11,230
At the heart of the celebrations at the University of New Mexico is the Red Rally, held before the Lobos football versus NMSU Aggies rivalry football game. Students gather to burn the 25-foot tall Aggie, dance to musical performances, and cheer on their team.
New Jersey: Rutgers University
New Jersey: Rutgers University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 46
Location: New Brunswick, NJ
Acceptance rate: 57%
Net price: $15,614
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Rutgers University’s Rutgers Day is an event in which students can enjoy hundreds of free performances, crafts, art shows, and other activities.
New Hampshire: Keene State College
New Hampshire: Keene State College
Party scene grade: A-
National party scene rank: 209
Location: Keene, NH
Acceptance rate: 83%
Net price: $18,647
The hallmark event of the year at Keene State is undoubtedly Pumpkin Fest, during which the small town broke world records for the most lit jack-o’-lanterns in one place. But the partying at Keene State became so out-of-hand that the festival had to be cancelled in 2014. It’s now back, on a smaller scale, for students and Keene residents to enjoy.
Nevada: University of Nevada - Reno
Nevada: University of Nevada - Reno
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 115
Location: Reno, NV
Acceptance rate: 83%
Net price: $15,022
When the University of Nevada - Reno goes up against the University of Nevada - Las Vegas for their annual football showdown, parties erupt all around campus. Despite their athletic record, the Wolf Pack shows up to flaunt their school spirit.
Nebraska: University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Nebraska: University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 83
Location: Lincoln, NE
Acceptance rate: 75%
Net price: $16,462
The University of Nebraska - Lincoln gets most excited about football games, Halloween, and their homecoming parade. However, students can find some celebration or another throughout the week.
Montana: University of Montana
Montana: University of Montana
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 146
Location: Missoula, MT
Acceptance rate: 92%
Net price: $13,894
A special event that distinguishes the University of Montana is Foresters’ Ball, a tradition held in the first week of February. According to the official event site, “the gymnasium is converted into a turn of the century logging town complete with a saloon, general store, jail, chapel, chow hall, and museum.” All proceeds go to scholarships for students.
Missouri: University of Missouri
Missouri: University of Missouri
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 33
Location: Columbia, MO
Acceptance rate: 75%
Net price: $16,317
Partying at Mizzou starts early, with Syllabus Week kicking off the debauchery on campus. This is the time in which classes first start, so teachers usually hand out syllabuses for the semester and end class early. Homecoming is also a popular time to get rowdy at the Columbia, Missouri school.
Mississippi: University of Mississippi
Mississippi: University of Mississippi
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 15
Location: University, MS
Acceptance rate: 78%
Net price: $14,678
The University of Mississippi tops the state in its ability to party, and also is 15th among schools around the country. Football season in the fall is when the party scene really lights up.
Minnesota: University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Minnesota: University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 70
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Acceptance rate: 44%
Net price: $16,242
Every year, students look forward to the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities’ Spring Jam, a festival complete with musical performers, food and, carnival rides. This year, rapper Lil’ Yachty is slated to perform.
Michigan: Michigan State University
Michigan: Michigan State University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 20
Location: East Lansing, MI
Acceptance rate: 66%
Net price: $14,970
From Wednesday through Saturday, students can find parties of all kinds and sizes at Michigan State University. Few, however, can rival MSU’s celebrations around their rivalry games against the University of Michigan.
Massachusetts: University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Massachusetts: University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 56
Location: Amherst, MA
Acceptance rate: 60%
Net price: $20,093
The Irish roots of many of those from Massachusetts are celebrated fully during Blarney Blowout, the University of Massachusetts - Amherst’ biggest event of the year. Students spend Blarney celebrating St. Patrick’s Day the weekend before spring break by day-drinking in local bars.
Maryland: University of Maryland - College Park
Maryland: University of Maryland - College Park
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 41
Location: College Park, MD
Acceptance rate: 48%
Net price: $15,757
At the University of Maryland - College Park, there’s a party for almost everyone. Many students participate in the festivities surrounding the Maryland versus Duke University sports games. However, there are also events for the fraternity inclined, like Greek Week, or for the more creatively inclined, such as Art Attack.
Maine: University of Maine
Maine: University of Maine
Party scene grade: B
National party scene rank: 511
Location: Orono, ME
Acceptance rate: 90%
Net price: $15,763
When it comes to the party scene at the University of Maine, giving back is a keyword. The school’s biggest event, Maine Day, includes a barbecue and parade. Maine Day also includes service projects for students, staff, and alumni to participate in.
Louisiana: Tulane University
Louisiana: Tulane University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 1
Location: New Orleans, LA
Acceptance rate: 26%
Net price: $32,515
New Orleans’ Tulane University tops the country as the No.1 party scene among all U.S. schools, according to Niche. Students can find parties almost every day of the week, but no celebration tops that of Mardi Gras, where students join locals for parades, bead-throwing, and King Cake-eating.
Kentucky: University of Kentucky
Kentucky: University of Kentucky
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 105
Location: Lexington, KY
Acceptance rate: 91%
Net price: $17,850
Much like their University of Kansas counterparts, the University of Kentucky Wildcats love to party around basketball season. The team has been in the Final Four 17 times, with its last win in 2015. March Madness on State Street is usually where the festivities are held.
Kansas: University of Kansas
Kansas: University of Kansas
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 24
Location: Lawrence, KS
Acceptance rate: 93%
Net price: $18,014
March Madness holds true for students at the University of Kansas in particular, thanks to the school’s wildly successful basketball team. The team has appeared in the tournament consistently every year for the last three decades, so basketball season usually invites much cause for celebration.
Iowa: University of Iowa
Iowa: University of Iowa
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 4
Location: Iowa City, IA
Acceptance rate: 84%
Net price: $14,161
When the Iowa versus Iowa State football game comes around, students at the University of Iowa take tailgating just as seriously as the sports event itself.
Indiana: Indiana University - Bloomington
Indiana: Indiana University - Bloomington
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 9
Location: Bloomington, IN
Acceptance rate: 79%
Net price: $12,621
Students at Indiana University - Bloomington look forward to the famous "Little 500" every year, in which people compete in relay races on bicycles. It’s a big sporting event that rallies students and even residents of the surrounding area.
Illinois: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Illinois: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 10
Location: Champaign, IL
Acceptance rate: 60%
Net price: $16,683
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign ranks nationally among the top 10 schools with the best party scenes. Students particularly enjoy "Unofficial," (short for “Unofficial St. Patrick’s Day”) a famous Urbana-Champaign party every Friday.
Idaho: University of Idaho
Idaho: University of Idaho
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 120
Location: Moscow, ID
Acceptance rate: 76%
Net price: $14,787
At the University of Idaho, weekly celebrations tend to start on Wednesdays, raging on through the weekend. Homecoming in the fall is the biggest event, and second come certain signature frat parties, like Mardi Gras, Jock Jams, and Beta Rave.
Hawaii: University of Hawaii at Manoa
Hawaii: University of Hawaii at Manoa
Party scene grade: B
National party scene rank: 470
Location: Honolulu, HI
Acceptance rate: 85%
Net price: $13,520
Georgia: University of Georgia
Georgia: University of Georgia
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 2
Location: Athens, GA
Acceptance rate: 54%
Net price: $14,956
University of Georgia not only knows how to throw down by Georgia’s standards, but by national standards as well — the Bulldogs are ranked second among all college partiers. The biggest parties revolve around the weekend in which their football team goes head-to-head with the University of Florida Gators.
Florida: Florida State University
Florida: Florida State University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 5
Location: Tallahassee, FL
Acceptance rate: 58%
Net price: $16,506
Florida State University’s social scene revolves mainly around sports — with football game days being the rallying points. Students love to tailgate and party when ESPN College Game Day broadcasts its show at the school, few things get fans in the mood to celebrate than a winning team.
Delaware: University of Delaware
Delaware: University of Delaware
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 35
Location: Newark, DE
Acceptance rate: 70%
Net price: $15,894
Delaware may be one of the smallest states, but its ability to throw a good party shouldn’t be underestimated. The University of Delaware has an A+ party scene grade, thanks to events like St. Patrick’s Day and homecoming weekend.
Connecticut: Yale University
Connecticut: Yale University
Party scene grade: A
National party scene rank: 133
Location: New Haven, CT
Acceptance rate: 6%
Net price: $18,319
Just because it’s an Ivy League school doesn’t mean it doesn’t know how to party. The academically rigorous University is Connecticut’s biggest party school, with flagship events such as Spring Fling, where big-name artists like A$AP Ferg perform. One of the school’s biggest events, the 80’s-themed “Safety Dance,” was even canceled in 2012 because it became too rowdy.
Colorado: University of Colorado - Boulder
Colorado: University of Colorado - Boulder
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 26
Location: Boulder, CO
Acceptance rate: 77%
Net price: $22,727
Students at the University of Colorado - Boulder lean into the holiday spirit, with the biggest parties surrounding St. Patrick’s Day, Halloween and 4/20 (Colorado was the first state to legalize marijuana, after all). The big rivalry football game against the Colorado State Rams, known as the Rocky Mountain Showdown, is also a popular time to let loose.
California: University of Southern California
California: University of Southern California
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 34
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Acceptance rate: 17%
Net price: $32,932
University of Southern California’s proximity to downtown Los Angeles would seem like it would attract students looking to go out, but for the most part, Trojans have enough social events on campus. Besides rallying around football games, students go out Wednesday through Saturday, and tend to stick to the Greek Row, where they throw down at frat parties.
Arkansas: University of Arkansas
Arkansas: University of Arkansas
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 36
Location: Fayetteville, AR
Acceptance rate: 63%
Net price: $15,411
Going out is a regular occurrence at the University of Arkansas, and there tends to be a range of options for students. Most of the biggest parties, like Row Week, happen during the latter half of the week through the weekend around the fraternity houses.
Arizona: Arizona State University
Arizona: Arizona State University
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 40
Location: Tempe, AZ
Acceptance rate: 83%
Net price: $13,007
In 2002, Arizona State University was listed as Playboy’s #1 party school. Though it no longer holds that title, and was — to the chagrin of some students — left off of the Princeton Review’s Top 20 Party Schools list, this Arizona school retains its high marks it terms of its ability to party (and is Niche’s 40th party school in the nation). Students say that they can find parties to go to every day of the week. The largest parties are during Halloween and during rivalry games versus the University of Arizona.
Alaska: University of Alaska Southeast
Alaska: University of Alaska Southeast
Party scene grade: C
National party scene rank: Not nationally ranked
Location: Juneau, AK
Acceptance rate: 49%
Net price: $8,719
Overlooking a lake in Juneau, University of Alaska Southeast’s beautiful campus is the perfect backdrop to let loose. However, when it comes to the national average, Alaska’s schools are relatively low-key partiers. Students in Alaska tend to revolve their social activities around taking advantage of the outdoors (perhaps taking a few beers with them for the campfire).
Alabama: University of Alabama
Alabama: University of Alabama
Party scene grade: A+
National party scene rank: 12
Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
Acceptance rate: 53%
Net price: $20,133
Much of U of A’s social life is wrapped up in its legendary football team. Alabama’s Crimson Tide has won a whopping 17 national championships since 1892, including five in the last decade. Last year, the team only lost once to Auburn, finishing the regular season 11-1.
Top party schools in every state
Many schools tout their high average GPAs, beautiful campuses, or competitive admission rates. However, few can boast a rich campus social life as a truly distinguishing feature. While academic rigor is arguably one of the most important facets of college life, four years of all work and no play can take a tremendous toll on some students. In fact, taking regular breaks from work has been shown to boost productivity—within good reason, of course.
Colleges and universities across America faced many changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including significant impacts on students' social lives. According to a June 2021 report from the National Center for Education Statistics, an astounding 84% of undergraduates had some, if not all, of their courses shifted to remote learning in the spring of 2020. When students returned to campus for in-person instruction, social distancing and quarantines continued to affect the typical collegiate social scene. But now that pandemic-related restrictions have largely eased, students are ready to party again.
Using data released by Niche in December 2022, Stacker compiled a list revealing the colleges and universities with the best party scene in each state and Washington D.C. Factors in this 2023 ranking are access to nightlife, athletic culture, and Greek life, as well as student polling data. For each school, Stacker also included the national party scene rank, location, acceptance rate, and net price (average annual cost for a student to attend, after financial aid). States are listed in alphabetical order.
See which school in your state was ranked highest for its ability to play hard (and in some cases, work hard as well).
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Alabama: The University of Alabama
- National party scene rank: #4
- Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
- Acceptance rate: 80%
- Net price: $20,518
The best parties at the University of Alabama are built on two pillars: Greek life and Alabama Crimson Tide football. Tailgating is a popular game day activity and UA has boasted the largest fraternity and sorority memberships in the U.S. since 2011.
Alaska: University of Alaska Southeast
- National party scene rank: #775
- Location: Juneau, AK
- Acceptance rate: 64%
- Net price: $10,506
Overlooking a lake in Juneau, University of Alaska Southeast's beautiful campus is the perfect backdrop to let loose. However, when it comes to the national average, Alaska's schools are relatively low-key partiers. Students in Alaska tend to revolve their social activities around taking advantage of the outdoors (perhaps taking a few beers with them for the campfire).
Arizona: University of Arizona
- National party scene rank: #42
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Net price: $15,620
According to a poll of University of Arizona students, football games against rival Arizona State University generate the biggest annual bashes. A close second is the school's huge pool parties, which are so legendary they're the reason former NFL player Rob Gronkowski decided to attend this university.
Arkansas: University of Arkansas
- National party scene rank: #60
- Location: Fayetteville, AR
- Acceptance rate: 78%
- Net price: $16,759
Going out is a regular occurrence at the University of Arkansas, and there tends to be a range of options for students. Most of the biggest parties, like Row Week, happen during the latter half of the week through the weekend around the fraternity houses.
California: University of California - Santa Barbara
- National party scene rank: #1
- Location: Santa Barbara, CA
- Acceptance rate: 37%
- Net price: $17,223
The University of California's Santa Barbara campus, located on the beautiful California coast, promotes having a good time year-round. However, two annual celebrations make this university stand out as the best party school in America: Deltopia, a wild spring break street party, and Halloween, where both the community and school offer long lists of events.
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Colorado: University of Colorado - Boulder
- National party scene rank: #25
- Location: Boulder, CO
- Acceptance rate: 84%
- Net price: $21,198
St. Patrick's Day and Halloween are two huge party holidays at the University of Colorado - Boulder. For over 10 years, marijuana has been legalized for recreational use in the state, so it's no surprise students also love to celebrate the unofficial cannabis holiday known as 4/20.
Connecticut: Yale University
- National party scene rank: #67
- Location: New Haven, CT
- Acceptance rate: 7%
- Net price: $17,511
Just because it's an Ivy League school doesn't mean it doesn't know how to party. The academically rigorous university is Connecticut's biggest party school, with flagship events such as Spring Fling, where big-name artists like A$AP Ferg perform. One of the school's biggest events, the 80s-themed "Safety Dance," was even canceled in 2012 because it became too rowdy.
Delaware: University of Delaware
- National party scene rank: #30
- Location: Newark, DE
- Acceptance rate: 66%
- Net price: $19,747
Delaware may be one of the smallest states, but its ability to throw a good party shouldn't be underestimated. The University of Delaware has an A+ party scene grade, thanks to events like St. Patrick's Day, UDance, and homecoming weekend.
Florida: Florida State University
- National party scene rank: #3
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Acceptance rate: 32%
- Net price: $12,815
Florida State University's social scene revolves mainly around Greek life and sports—with football game days being the rallying points. Students love to tailgate and party when ESPN College Game Day broadcasts its show at the school.
Georgia: University of Georgia
- National party scene rank: #7
- Location: Athens, GA
- Acceptance rate: 48%
- Net price: $16,580
University of Georgia not only knows how to throw down by Georgia's standards, but by national standards as well. The biggest parties revolve around the weekends in which the Bulldogs go head-to-head with rivals such as the University of Florida Gators.
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Hawaii: University of Hawaii at Manoa
- National party scene rank: #482
- Location: Honolulu, HI
- Acceptance rate: 84%
- Net price: $15,193
Parties aren't what they used to be at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where annual Floatopia parties—imagine an ocean full of people in floaties—and Pro Bowl parties were all the rage. The Pro Bowl hasn't been played in Hawaii since 2016, but the school hosted a fun welcome-back foam party in fall 2022 and nearly one-fifth of UH Manoa students polled say there are many party options throughout the week.
Idaho: University of Idaho
- National party scene rank: #145
- Location: Moscow, ID
- Acceptance rate: 74%
- Net price: $14,929
At the University of Idaho, weekly celebrations tend to start on Wednesdays, raging on through the weekend. Homecoming in the fall is the biggest event, and second come certain signature frat parties, like Mardi Gras, Jock Jams, and Beta Rave.
Illinois: University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
- National party scene rank: #10
- Location: Urbana, IL
- Acceptance rate: 63%
- Net price: $13,517
Although students report plenty of parties on any given week, the University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign is known for one annual event in particular: Unofficial. For over 20 years, this has been UIUC's unofficial St. Patrick's Day celebration, as the real holiday typically falls over spring break when undergrads are away from campus. Students celebrate Unofficial by wearing green, hosting tons of parties, and hitting up local bars.
Indiana: Indiana University - Bloomington
- National party scene rank: #16
- Location: Bloomington, IN
- Acceptance rate: 80%
- Net price: $13,191
Students at Indiana University - Bloomington look forward to the famous "Little 500" every year, in which people compete in relay races on bicycles. It's a big sporting event that rallies students and even residents of the surrounding area.
Iowa: University of Iowa
- National party scene rank: #17
- Location: Iowa City, IA
- Acceptance rate: 84%
- Net price: $17,452
When the Iowa versus Iowa State football game comes around, students at the University of Iowa take tailgating just as seriously as the sports event itself.
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Kansas: University of Kansas
- National party scene rank: #36
- Location: Lawrence, KS
- Acceptance rate: 91%
- Net price: $20,054
March Madness holds true for students at the University of Kansas in particular, thanks to the school's wildly successful basketball team. The team has appeared in the tournament consistently every year for the last 32 years, so basketball season usually invites much cause for celebration.
Kentucky: University of Kentucky
- National party scene rank: #79
- Location: Lexington, KY
- Acceptance rate: 96%
- Net price: $19,831
Much like their University of Kansas counterparts, University of Kentucky Wildcats fans love to party around basketball season. The team has been in the Final Four 17 times, with its last win in 2015. March Madness on State Street is usually where the festivities are held.
Louisiana: Tulane University
- National party scene rank: #2
- Location: New Orleans, LA
- Acceptance rate: 11%
- Net price: $47,413
Tulane University students can find parties almost every day of the week, but no celebration tops that of Mardi Gras, where students join locals for parades, bead-throwing, and King Cake-eating.
Maine: University of Maine
- National party scene rank: #166
- Location: Orono, ME
- Acceptance rate: 92%
- Net price: $16,365
When it comes to the party scene at the University of Maine, giving back is key. The school's biggest event, Maine Day, includes a barbecue and parade. Maine Day also includes service projects for students, staff, and alumni to participate in.
Maryland: Morgan State University
- National party scene rank: #59
- Location: Baltimore, MD
- Acceptance rate: 74%
- Net price: $16,651
The most popular parties at Morgan State University center around celebrating the school itself. In the fall, Homecoming Week is chock full of events like pep rallies, parades, a Homecoming Gala, and the homecoming football game. In the spring, I Love Morgan Week recognizes student achievements with fun celebrations like concerts and carnivals.
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Massachusetts: University of Massachusetts - Amherst
- National party scene rank: #45
- Location: Amherst, MA
- Acceptance rate: 65%
- Net price: $22,505
The University of Massachusetts - Amherst is best known for The Blarney Blowout, a weekend of epic house parties all across town in early celebration of St. Patrick's Day. Halloween weekend, or "Halloweekend," also brings a full slate of campus-sponsored events. Campus dining halls even host a lobster dinner for students to take advantage of before heading out to party.
Michigan: Michigan State University
- National party scene rank: #20
- Location: East Lansing, MI
- Acceptance rate: 76%
- Net price: $16,655
From Wednesday through Saturday, students can find parties of all kinds and sizes at Michigan State University. Few, however, can rival MSU's celebrations around their games against rival University of Michigan.
Minnesota: University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
- National party scene rank: #56
- Location: Minneapolis, MN
- Acceptance rate: 70%
- Net price: $17,729
For over 100 years, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities students and alumni have enjoyed a week's worth of parties and activities during Homecoming. Spring Jam is also a popular one-day campus-sponsored event offering music, rides, food, and fun for students and the surrounding community.
Mississippi: University of Mississippi
- National party scene rank: #13
- Location: University , MS
- Acceptance rate: 88%
- Net price: $13,540
Students at the University of Mississippi love their varsity sports teams and nearly half of those polled say football season brings the best parties. Greek life is also popular at Ole Miss, especially when the weather turns warm and fraternities throw spring parties with themes like Woodstock and Groundhog Day.
Missouri: University of Missouri
- National party scene rank: #53
- Location: Columbia, MO
- Acceptance rate: 82%
- Net price: $16,930
Partying at Mizzou starts early, with Syllabus Week kicking off the debauchery on campus. This is the time in which classes first start, so teachers usually hand out syllabuses for the semester and end class early. Homecoming is also a popular time to get rowdy.
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Montana: Montana State University
- National party scene rank: #254
- Location: Bozeman, MT
- Acceptance rate: 81%
- Net price: $17,656
The annual football game against rival University of Montana—known to students as Cat-Griz based on the school mascots—tops the list of best Montana State University parties. With the school's location in the northern Rocky Mountains, it's also no surprise students love to hit the slopes—perhaps have a beverage to warm them up afterwards.
Nebraska: University of Nebraska - Lincoln
- National party scene rank: #116
- Location: Lincoln, NE
- Acceptance rate: 78%
- Net price: $17,341
The University of Nebraska - Lincoln gets most excited about football games, Halloween, and their homecoming parade. However, students can find some celebration or another throughout the week.
Nevada: University of Nevada - Reno
- National party scene rank: #163
- Location: Reno, NV
- Acceptance rate: 87%
- Net price: $16,359
When the University of Nevada - Reno goes up against the University of Nevada - Las Vegas for their annual football showdown, parties erupt all around campus. Despite the fact that UNLV had kept possession of the Fremont Cannon for several straight years, the Reno Wolf Pack still shows up to flaunt their school spirit.
New Hampshire: University of New Hampshire
- National party scene rank: #129
- Location: Durham, NH
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Net price: $24,847
Despite past concerns about students taking things too far and appropriating Mexican culture, nearly half of University of New Hampshire students surveyed report Cinco de Mayo remains the biggest party of the year. Varsity sports are also popular on campus, making homecoming another top annual event.
New Jersey: Rutgers University–New Brunswick
- National party scene rank: #24
- Location: Piscataway, NJ
- Acceptance rate: 67%
- Net price: $17,835
Like many other schools, students at Rutgers party hard on football game days and Halloween. Rutgers Day, a celebration highlighting university accomplishments, also tops the school's list of best parties. This event occurs annually on the last day of April and includes food, live music, and many other exhibits.
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New Mexico: New Mexico State University
- National party scene rank: #250
- Location: Las Cruces, NM
- Acceptance rate: 63%
- Net price: $11,467
Students at New Mexico State University love to cheer on their Aggies. On football game days—especially those against rivals University of New Mexico and University of Texas at El Paso—tailgating is the most popular way to party.
New York: Syracuse University
- National party scene rank: #8
- Location: Syracuse, NY
- Acceptance rate: 69%
- Net price: $47,177
The biggest annual student party at New York's Syracuse University is Mayfest, a giant outdoor concert held in the spring. In the fall, Syracuse rings in the new school year with Juice Jam, another large concert.
North Carolina: North Carolina A&T State University
- National party scene rank: #47
- Location: Greensboro, NC
- Acceptance rate: 57%
- Net price: $9,541
Homecoming is huge for North Carolina A&T State University students, with a packed calendar making it the best party of the year. Along with the typical pep rallies and football game, Homecoming Week offers events like step shows, concerts, a fashion show, and the "Gym Jam," a massive party held in the school's basketball arena.
North Dakota: University of North Dakota
- National party scene rank: #119
- Location: Grand Forks, ND
- Acceptance rate: 87%
- Net price: $16,780
Hockey is a popular sport at UND and big game days make for great parties. Students cheer on their Fighting Hawks against rival team the Minnesota Gophers and get really amped when the team makes the Frozen Four, the annual NCAA men's hockey semifinals.
Ohio: Ohio University
- National party scene rank: #14
- Location: Athens, OH
- Acceptance rate: 87%
- Net price: $23,307
Fest Season at Ohio University is a spring party tradition over multiple weekends. Beginning early in the morning and lasting all day, the events range from house parties to street parties such as High Fest and Congo Fest. Sadly, the huge concert lineup known as #Fest (The Number Fest) was shuttered in 2020.
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Oklahoma: University of Oklahoma
- National party scene rank: #33
- Location: Norman, OK
- Acceptance rate: 83%
- Net price: $21,836
At the University of Oklahoma, school spirit runs strong, with Greek life and football dominating the social scenes. Students start festivities early with "Thirsty Thursdays" before their weekends even start.
Oregon: University of Oregon
- National party scene rank: #80
- Location: Eugene, OR
- Acceptance rate: 84%
- Net price: $17,646
Partying in the Pacific Northwest is done best at the University of Oregon, where students rally around Civil War, the aptly named football game against rival Ohio State University. Students also participate in Whistler College Weekend, a popular Canadian ski trip.
Pennsylvania: Penn State
- National party scene rank: #12
- Location: University Park, PA
- Acceptance rate: 56%
- Net price: $26,151
Though football is usually cause for celebration at Penn State, the school also loves to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in the form of State Patty's, where students flock to local bars to day-drink.
Rhode Island: Providence College
- National party scene rank: #111
- Location: Providence, RI
- Acceptance rate: 54%
- Net price: $37,284
Providence may be home to an Ivy League school (that would be Brown University), but it's also home to Providence College, which holds the title of the best party-scene in the smallest state. Students get especially rowdy at Golf Party, a day when students dress in their finest pastels and flood Eaton Street for all-day celebrations.
South Carolina: University of South Carolina
- National party scene rank: #26
- Location: Columbia, SC
- Acceptance rate: 68%
- Net price: $21,784
Ahead of the Gamecocks' annual game against rival Clemson, students at the University of South Carolina gather for Tiger Burn, a rally and party where students set a giant Clemson tiger ablaze.
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South Dakota: University of South Dakota
- National party scene rank: #130
- Location: Vermillion, SD
- Acceptance rate: 91%
- Net price: $18,480
Besides Greek Life, pride at University of South Dakota is showcased during the weeklong campus tradition, Dakota Days. Students participate in a parade and many night parties during D-Days (also known among students as Hate State Week—a dig against their rivals at South Dakota State University).
Tennessee: Vanderbilt University
- National party scene rank: #31
- Location: Nashville, TN
- Acceptance rate: 12%
- Net price: $25,804
Every spring since 1971, Vanderbilt University's Rites of Spring has rallied students together for fun and star-studded slates of musical performances from some of the top artists in rock, indie, hip hop, and rap.
Texas: University of Texas - Austin
- National party scene rank: #21
- Location: Austin, TX
- Acceptance rate: 32%
- Net price: $16,892
During RoundUp weekend, Greek fraternities and sororities at the University of Texas - Austin host the biggest parties and performers at their houses. Students can also delight in crawfish boils per Southern tradition.
Utah: University of Utah
- National party scene rank: #240
- Location: Salt Lake City, UT
- Acceptance rate: 79%
- Net price: $12,881
University of Utah's Crimson Nights bring students together during the first week of school. Students host parties, participate in school-sponsored activities, and get free food. Students also tend to party before the big football game against Brigham Young University, dubbed the "Holy War."
Vermont: University of Vermont
- National party scene rank: #195
- Location: Burlington, VT
- Acceptance rate: 71%
- Net price: $20,235
Students at the University of Vermont have a unique way of celebrating the semester's end: the Naked Bike Ride. On the night before final exams begin, students gather to take off their clothes and cycle around campus. Equally as popular, many students gather on the Redstone Campus at 4:20 p.m. on April 20 to celebrate the unofficial marijuana holiday by—you guessed it—smoking together.
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Virginia: University of Virginia
- National party scene rank: #23
- Location: Charlottesville, VA
- Acceptance rate: 23%
- Net price: $19,043
At the University of Virginia, Foxfield Races reigns king of all celebrations. The bi-annual event features students breaking out their preppiest attire and partying before the horse races at Foxfield get underway.
Washington D.C.: Howard University
- National party scene rank: #5
- Location: Washington D.C.
- Acceptance rate: 39%
- Net price: $23,233
Over 60% of students surveyed say Howard University has plenty of options for those looking to party Wednesday through Saturday. Homecoming is hands down the most popular time of year for parties at Howard. The university fills the week's schedule with fun events ranging from bar crawls and block parties to step shows and a day of service.
Washington: Washington State University
- National party scene rank: #41
- Location: Pullman, WA
- Acceptance rate: 80%
- Net price: $17,931
At Washington State University, Halloween is such a big social event that it has turned into "Halloweek," where students dress up in different costumes every day and prolong the holiday as long as they can.
West Virginia: West Virginia University
- National party scene rank: #11
- Location: Morgantown, WV
- Acceptance rate: 84%
- Net price: $13,087
Students are welcomed to the West Virginia University campus each fall with FallFest, a large gathering where people can enjoy concerts, film marathons, and dance parties.
Wisconsin: University of Wisconsin - Madison
- National party scene rank: #6
- Location: Madison, WI
- Acceptance rate: 57%
- Net price: $14,030
The University of Wisconsin has a special Halloween tradition in the form of Freak Fest. Students buy tickets and gather on Madison's State Street for the area's largest Halloween party and music festival. Unfortunately, the pandemic shut down the fest in 2020, 2021, and 2022, and it's future is in jeopardy.
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Wyoming: University of Wyoming
- National party scene rank: #245
- Location: Laramie, WY
- Acceptance rate: 94%
- Net price: $12,224
During the weekend, the University of Wyoming has parties that range from house bashes to large-scale frat parties. Students get especially rowdy around homecoming, Halloween, and finals week.
Each school was given a “party scene grade,” which is based on access to nightlife, athletic culture, Greek life, and student polling data.